Software Review:
Quicken XG

Quicken XG
Publisher Intuit Canada

Well, it's that time of year again. Intuit Canada has released its "re-engineered" version of personal finance software Quicken. Seeing as how this is one of the leading financial software products on the market, Intuit has to make changes to increase sales each year. What's new this time around, and more importantly is it worth your money?

First off, Quicken has a new set of features intended to make the program easier to use. You are brought into the program through a Guided Setup Wizard, a standard for most new software, it's a nice touch but nothing really special. From there you are given the option of personalizing the program for you, this includes an intuitive interface. While I appreciated these aspects I was never able to figure out how to download information from my bank into Quicken. A problem I have never had with my current financial software.

The personal financial management features remain pretty much the same with two new features allowing you to download U.S. accounts and pay your bills online. As I was unable to download my information from my bank I was never able to use these features.

Small business owners may find value in the section specifically for them. Be forewarned though, there is nothing new to offer you here, and only the business finances snapshot has been updated.

Where Quicken falters is with it's continued cross marketing. In an effort to keep you in the program Intuit has set up partnerships with companies offering specialized services such as accepting credit card payments and buying business insurance. As a small business owner on a limited budget you can surely do better than the rates that these partners offer with your own initiative.

Quicken XG is a nice to have piece of software. However, if you are happy with your previous copy or another brand name there is no reason to run out and buy this latest version.