Software programs designed for general business tasks encompass a broad range of functions within an office, from operating systems to project management software. They apply to the major functions of any office, and as a result can provide a productivity boost. Specific applications include programs for:

Accounting/Financial Software - Helps you keep your own business accounts, and may include tools for tax preparation, online banking, and emailing invoices.

Business Plan/business_software - Helps create standard business plans and legal forms.

CBT programs Streamlines employee training efforts by allowing them to train on their own time with the help of CD-ROMs.

Contact Manager/Organizers Organizes your contacts and schedule.

Database - Aggregates data and helps in contact management.

Optical Character Recognition Applications - Turns your paper forms into electronic documents.

Office Suite Combines word processing/spreadsheet/presentation/email programs under one umbrella package.

Operating Systems - Desktop - The brain of any computer - enables programs to run and work together.

PDA Applications - Help you get more out of your Personal Digital Assistants.

Project Management Coordinates multiple aspects of a large project from start to finish.

Spreadsheet - Tracks monthly sales, annual budgets, or the weekly football pool.

Voice Recognition - Accepts oral dictation.

Word Processing - Allows you to type up business documents and anything else involving putting words on paper.