It was well accepted by the masses because Excel was easier to use and allowed for more calculating options. Several years later, Microsoft presented competition with Excel. While the software was innovative, those unfamiliar or disinterested in computers were resistant to adopting Lotus’ cumbersome-looking sheets. Lotus 1-2-3 was among the very first programs (1983). In the early 80s, spreadsheet programs exploded in popularity due to innovations in computer-assisted reporting. The affinity for Excel dates back to the 1980s. So, let’s begin answering the question from the origins of spreadsheet software. However, as we’ll cover below, there’s reason to consider switching to a more comprehensive bookkeeping software, such as QuickBooks. Depending on the breadth of your service or line of products, you could get by using Excel. Regardless of what software or accounting tool is used, there is a unified agreement that you need something to keep track of small business finances.
