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The open source community offers a wide array of options to assist you, whether you’re tracking your personal bank accounts, managing your small business, setting up an online shop or monitoring finances for a large enterprise.
Like much of the software industry, financial software is in the midst of great change. While many consumers and companies still use traditional software that they have installed on their PCs and/or servers, many are turning to cloud-based solutions. In addition, many users are looking for solutions that include mobile capabilities.
The same trends hold true within the open source community. Many open source financial applications are also now available for use in the cloud, and a growing number can be accessed from mobile devices. The cloud has been particularly good for open source projects because it gives them a viable way to earn money from their code, and it also appeals to end users who like the low monthly prices and the ability to access their data from any device.
This month, we’ve updated our list of open source software that can replace proprietary financial applications, and not surprisingly the list includes quite a few entries that are available for use in the cloud. As always, if you know of additional projects that you think should be on our list, please make a note in the comments section below.
For more, check out our ultimate open source software list.
Accounting
Replaces QuickBooks, Sage 50
Web-based Imperium offers customer relationship management (CRM), work orders, invoicing and accounting capabilities, and it integrates with Google services, including Calendar and Gmail. Check out the online demo to see it in action. Operating System: OS Independent
Replaces QuickBooks, Sage 50
Designed for small businesses, this Web-based accounting system also includes some ERP functions like item and inventory tracking. It’s available on an SaaS basis, and there is a list of partners on the site who offer related services. Operating System: OS Independent
3. GnuCash
Replaces Quicken Home and Business
This flexible accounting package tracks your small business finances with double-entry accounting, and it can also track your personal finances, including your investment accounts. It also now comes with an Android app. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X, Android
4. LedgerSMB
Replaces QuickBooks, Sage 50
Downloaded more than 57,000 times, this small business accounting package also incorporates some basic ERP and CRM functionality. Several third-party vendors offer commercial support and consulting. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
5. osFinancials
Replaces QuickBooks, Sage 50
This accounting solution offers invoices, customizable reports, stock control, point-of-sale capabilities and much more. Because it’s developed by a team in the Netherlands, much of the documentation and support is in Dutch, but English is also available. Operating System: Windows, Linux
6. TurboCASH
Replaces QuickBooks, Sage 50
This accounting software invites comparison to QuickBooks and Sage. Features include multi-user support, customizable invoices, point-of-sale capabilities, multi-country and multi-company support, XML import/export and more. Operating System: Windows
Billing and Invoicing
7. Argentum
Replaces FreshBooks, Bill.com
Web-based Argentum tracks clients and billable hours, as well as generating invoices for you each month. Installation assistance, commercial support and a hosted version are also available. Operating System: OS Independent
8. jBilling
Replaces FreshBooks, Bill.com
Downloaded more than 120,000 times, jBilling claims to be “world’s leading open source enterprise billing solution.” It’s particularly good for subscription-based billing, and notable customers include Deutsche Telecom, Constant Contact and Rackspace. In addition to the free version, paid support and services are available. Operating System: OS Independent
Replaces FreshBooks, Bill.com
Popular with small companies and non-profits, this browser-based invoicing system aims to be easy to use. Host it yourself for free or contact one of the third-party hosting providers listed on the site. Operating System: OS Independent
10. Siwapp
Replaces FreshBooks, Bill.com
This invoicing app tries to be simple, straightforward, comfortable, useful, pretty, flexible, productivity-oriented, secure, supported and usable anywhere. Plenty of screenshots and a demo are posted on the site so that you can see how it works before you download it. Operating System: OS Independent
E-Commerce
Replaces Big Commerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
This Java-based e-commerce platform boasts a low total cost of ownership, multi-channel support and powerful features like content targeting, catalog management and more. It’s available with either an open source community license or a commercial license; to download the source code, see the developer site. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
12. Fishop.NET
Replaces Big Commerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
This “no-frills” solution boasts easy installation and customization capabilities. It’s available on an SaaS basis. Operating System: Windows
13. Interchange
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
This older e-commerce platform has been around since 1995. The site features a “hall of fame” displaying various web stores powered by Interchange, as well as a list of third-party partners that will provide commercial support and services. Operating system: Linux, OS X
14. Magento
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
This award-winning shopping cart solution aims to be “feature-rich and user-friendly.” Noteworthy capabilties include integrated product ratings and reviews, unlimited categories and products, multi-language and multi-currency support, automatic image resize and more. Commercial support is available from partners in numerous countries. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
15. nopCommerce
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
Based on Microsoft technologies, this Windows-only ecommerce solution includes both front-end and back-end capabilities. “Premium” support is available, and the site also lists third-party partners who offer hosting services. Operating System: Windows
16. Order Portal
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
Part of a complete Web Business Suite, Order Portal is designed to meet the ecommerce needs of manufacturers, value-added distributors and rental companies. The full suite adds CRM, data migration and real-time reporting capabilities. Operating System: Linux
17. osCommerce
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
More than 260,000 merchants use this popular ecommerce software, and it boasts more than 7,000 add-ons, offering maximum flexibility. Support is available through third-party partners. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
18. OXID
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
OXID claims numerous European online retailers as users, including the Mercedes-Benz used parts site. The project owners also offer paid support and services. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
19. PrestaShop
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
Downloaded more than 2.6 million times, this popular app promises that you can use it to start setting up your own online store in just minutes. Optional paid support and a hosted version called “PrestaBox” are also available. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
20. Spree
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
Used by Second Life, Wayne Gretzky Estates, Coupon Trade and many other sites, Spree claims to be “the world’s most flexible e-commerce platform.” In addition to the free community version, it comes in Standard and Premium editions, which offer the same features but add paid support. Operating System: OS Independent
21. Tomato Cart
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
Designed to be mobile-friendly, Tomato Cart claims to be one of the most innovative open source e-commerce systems available. Key features include an RIA-based administration panel, search engine optimization, Web analytics, a content management system and a built-in email system. Paid support is available, as is third-party hosting. Operating System: Windows, Linux
22. Zen Cart
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
This ecommerce solution was designed to make things easy for small business owners who are new to selling online. Extensive video and text documentation are available through the site, and it also provides links to service providers for payment processing, hosting and other related services. Operating System: Windows, Linux
23. ZenMagick
Replaces BigCommerce, Volusion, Yahoo Merchant, NetSuite Ecommerce
A fork of Zen Cart, ZenMagick offers a clean, uncluttered administrative interface, free shipping and billing modules, built-in Ajax support and more. Commercial support is available through Mixed Matter. Operating System: OS Independent
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
24. ADempiere ERP Business Suite
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
Forked from Compiere (see below), ADempiere is a community-focused ERP suite that adds customer relationship management (CRM) and point-of-sale (POS) features. It handles sales, purchasing, manufacturing management, material management, finance, human resources, project management and more. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
25. Apache OFBiz
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
This Apache project calls itself an “enterprise automation” solution. In addition to ERP capabilities, it offers customer relationship management, e-commerce, supply chain management, manufacturing resources planning, maintenance management system/enterprise asset management, point-of-sale and other abilities. Operating System: OS Independent
26. Compiere ERP + CRM Business Solution
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
Calling itself the “leading Cloud-based, open-source ERP software and customer relationship management (CRM) system,” Compiere claims to be modern, adaptable and affordable. It comes in community and enterprise editions, as well as a cloud version that runs on Amazon Web Services. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
27. Dolibarr ERP/CRM
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
Best for small businesses, freelancers and foundations, Dolibarr can be used on a standalone system or on a server for multi-user access. Several vendors offer cloud-based versions as well. Operating System: OS Independent
28. ERP5
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
In addition to standard ERP features, this app also offers CRM, MRP, SCM and product design management. Commercial support and services are available through third-party partners. Operating System: Linux
29. JFire
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
Java-based JFire aims to be a highly flexible ERP solution and includes a development platform for those who want to customize the software themselves. Paid coaching, consulting and development services are available. Operating System: OS Independent
30. Neogia
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
Designed for small to mid-sized businesses, Neogia offers a modular ERP with tools for tracking finance, e-commerce, manufacturing, sub-contractors, CRM, distribution, facilities, stock and e-commerce. The site includes an online demo so you can see it in action. Operating System: Windows, Linux
31. Openbravo ERP
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
Used by more than 6,000 organizations around the world, Openbravo promises increased productivity, agility and return on investment. The community version is available for download on the website; the Professional Edition, Openbravo for Retail and the many commercial extension modules are available through Openbravo’s retail partners. Operating System: OS Independent
32. Open ERP
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
This very comprehensive ERP solution comes with about a dozen modules, including CRM, accounting, point-of-sale and others, and users can also download more than 700 extension modules. In addition to the free community version, it also comes in a paid on-site enterprise version and a paid cloud version. Operating System: Windows, Linux
33. opentaps
Replaces SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
Opentaps counts Toyota, Honeywell and some other well-known companies among its users. Besides the free, downloadable software, the company also offers paid update services, a professional edition, consulting, training and more. Operating System: Windows, Linux
34. Phreedom
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
This project began life as the Phreebooks accounting suite, but grew into a full-fledged ERP solution with tools for tracking inventory, contacts, shipping and more. Paid support is available on a per-hour basis. Operating System: OS Independent
35. Plazma ERP + CRM
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
Another solution for SMBs, Plazma includes tools for tracking contacts and accounts, sales and projects, orders and invoices, marketing compaigns, phone calls, meetings and document management. The interface is basic but easy to use. Note that it requires a SQL database in order to run. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
xTuple claims to be the “worlds #1 open source ERP software.” It comes in multiple versions that can run on-site or in the cloud; the PostBooks version is the one that’s available as a free download with an open source license. Operating System: Windows, Linux, Unix, OS X
37. ]project-open[
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
More than 5,000 companies in 80 countries use this comprehensive enterprise project management tool. It includes modules for financial management, financial project controlling, project management, human resources, knowledge management, CRM and collaboration. Note that the full software is released under a mixed open source/commercial license. Operating System: OS Independent
38. SQL-Ledger
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
This Web-based ERP solution installs in just minutes and offers a very simple, intuitive interface. It also comes in an enterprise edition that includes technical and development support. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
39. webERP
Replaces NetSuite , Epicor, Sage ERP
Although it can be used by any type of company, webERP is particularly well suited for wholesale, distribution and manufacturing businesses. Commercial support is available through several partners, including some of the main developers working on the project. Operating System: OS Independent
Investment Tracking and Management
40. EclipseTrader
Replaces StockMarketEye, TradeTrakker
EclipseTrader includes real-time quotes, intraday and historical charts, financial news, analysis tools and integrated trading capabilities. Aimed at serious traders, it collects a wealth of information in a single location. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
41. iTrade
Replaces StockMarketEye, TradeTrakker
This app tracks market activity and your portfolio, gets quotes, draws charts, sends alerts and allows you to make some trades. It includes support for international markets, multiple currencies and multiple languages. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
42. JStock
Replaces StockMarketEye, Personal Stock Monitor, TradeTrakker
This Java-based app includes a stock watchlist, portfolio management tools, alerts, filtering, charting, currency exchange and more. It also includes optional cloud storage, and an Android version is in the works. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
43. Premium Markets
Replaces StockMarketEye, TradeTrakker
This investment tracking tool focuses on analysis and trend forecasting. It also offers portfolio management and data charting capabilities. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
Microfinance
44. Mifos
Replaces Loan Performer, Temeno Microfinance & Community Banking
Mifos aims to help microfinance institutions do a better job of providing loans to poor people around the world. It’s a web-based management information system (MIS) that includes “portfolio and transaction management, on-the-fly financial product creation, in-depth client management, integrated social performance measurement, and a reporting engine.” Operating System: OS Independent
45. Octopus
Replaces Loan Performer, Temeno Microfinance & Community Banking
Octopus describes itself as a “next-generation” MIS for microfinance lenders. It comes in Community (free), Professional (paid) and Online (paid) versions. Operating System: Windows
Personal Financial Management
46. Buddi
The “personal budget software for the rest of us,” Buddi aims to help people with very little financial knowledge track their personal finances. It’s not as advanced as Quicken, but it is extremely easy to use. Operating System: OS Independent
47. Grisbi
Replaces Quicken Home and Business
This option can track finances for a small or home-based business in addition to personal finances. At the time of writing, the home page was under construction, but the software download is still available through SourceForge. Operating System: Windows, Linux
48. dsBudget
Replaces Quicken Home and Business
This bare-bones budgeting application helps answer the question, “Where did my money go?” You can install on your local system, on a USB stick or on Dropbox. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
49. HomeBank
HomeBank offers “free, easy, personal accounting for everyone.” The project has been around for eighteen years and includes features like import/export from other financial software, duplicate detection, transactions, budgeting, reports and much more. Operating System: Windows, Linux
50. JGnash
This Java-based personal finance system features double-entry accounting, account reconciliation, PDF report generation, auto-completion, recurring payments, multiple currency support and more. It aims to be easy to use, accurate and flexible. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
51. KMyMoney
Designed for the KDE desktop, KMyMoney attempts to duplicate most of the features you would find in commercial finance software, like Quicken. It’s extremely easy to use and offers an extensive list of capabilities. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
52. Money Manager Ex
Money Manager Ex (a.k.a. MMEX) offers a simple, user-friendly interface that includes “all the basic features that 90% of users would want to see in a personal finance application.” Key capabilities include AES encryption support, budgeting, depreciation tracking, reminders, one-click reporting, cash flow forecasting and more. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
53. Yapbam
Short for “yet another bank account manager,” Yapbam is a Java-based, portable personal finance manager. It now integrates with Dropbox, making it easy to sync your financial information if you use multiple devices. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
Professional Services Automation (PSA)
54. allocPSA
Replaces NetSuite OpenAir, Projector PSA, Q360
PSA software is similar to ERP software, but designed to meet the needs of services businesses, like consultants, IT outsourcers, marketing agencies, engineering firms, etc. This app includes help-desk, sales, time-sheeting, CRM, project tracking and other features, and it comes in the open source version or a fee-based SaaS version. Operating System: OS Independent
Point-of-Sale (POS)
55. Floreant POS
Replaces QuickBooks Point-of-sale, AccuPOS
Designed to meet the unique needs of restaurants, this POS system includes the Denny’s chain among its users. Paid support is available. Operating System: OS Independent
56. LemonPOS
Replaces QuickBooks Point-of-sale, AccuPOS
Based on MySQL, LemonPOS offers multi-user POS capabilities for very small, small and medium-sized businesses. It boasts strong security, and it supports most bar code scanners and receipt printers. Operating System: Linux
57. POSper
Replaces QuickBooks Point-of-sale, AccuPOS
A good option for small businesses and restaurants, POSper integrates with touchscreens and includes a sizeable list of features. The website includes a helpful demo of the app’s backoffice operations. Operating System: OS Independent
58. uniCenta
Replaces QuickBooks Point-of-sale, AccuPOS
Downloaded more than 75,000 times in just two years, this commercial-grade POS system was branched from Openbravo’s POS. Paid support is coming soon, but wasn’t available yet at the time of writing. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
Spreadsheets
59. Gnumeric
Replaces Microsoft Excel, Lotus 1-2-3
Built for the GNOME desktop, Gnumeric can import files from Excel and other spreadsheet applications. It offers a whopping 596 different functions, including 204 that aren’t included in competing software. Operating System: Windows, Linux
60. Calligra Sheets
Replaces Microsoft Excel, Lotus 1-2-3
Sheets is part of the Calligra office suite, which is based on the older KDE KOffice suite. It offers most common spreadsheet capabilities, “but in a much more responsive application.” Operating System: Windows, Linux
61. LibreOffice Calc
Replaces Microsoft Excel, Lotus 1-2-3
Calc, the spreadsheet program in LibreOffice, easily imports data from other spreadsheet or database and performs all of the calculations you would expect. It’s based on the Calc program in OpenOffice.org (see below), with some slight improvements. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
Replaces Microsoft Excel, Lotus 1-2-3
This version of Calc is part of Apache’s OpenOffice.org suite. It offers an intuitive interface and advanced features like wizards, data pilot technology, the intelligent sum button, natural language formulas, a scenario manager and more. Operating System: Windows, Linux, OS X
