Microsoft launches new accountancy software

Information technology firm Microsoft has launched a new retail version of its accountancy software package.

Dubbed Microsoft Office Accounting 2008, the retail release follows the online launch of the software, which became available to customers in November 2007.

The software is available with a number of different features, including the ability to share data with Microsoft Outlook and cash flow forecasting functionality.

Integration with eBay is also possible.

"The response we've had to the Office Accounting launch has been outstanding," said Gareth Arnold, head of Microsoft Office Accounting.

"Since November, nearly 40,000 users have downloaded the product and we've received some great feedback about it, particularly around its ease of use."

The new suite is available in a number of software versions, including Office Accounting Standard and Office Accounting Professional Plus.

A 12-month subscription to the company's payroll service is also available with the suite, according to PC Retail.