A recent Wall Street blog post pooh-poohing Microsoft’s 0% financing for Dynamics accounting software left out one key point: Those not qualifying for 0% may still find themselves a sweet deal.

The post notes, “If free money in the middle of a credit crisis sounds too good to be true, that’s because it probably is. Only qualified customers will get 0% financing and, as a Microsoft spokeswoman tells us, ‘the guidelines are pretty stringent.’”

Even if sweet interest rates aren’t in the offing, there are still the Economic Stimulus Act incentives that effectively can reduce the purchase price by double digits.

But, here’s the most important point of all: While we all want to save money in a down economy, it’s important to get the accounting software that will serve your needs—deal or no deal.

If your buying decision for any accounting system software ultimately hinges on the type of deal you can negotiate, you’re buying it for the wrong reasons. Accounting software is too important to a company’s continued operation to be evaluated on the “sweetness of low price.”

That said, there are deals to be found on Microsoft Dynamics® GP and SL accounting software. Just like everyone else, Microsoft is trying to move product. As the WSJ blog added, “…this is just a hook to get people to consider buying software at a time when they might otherwise delay purchases.”

Before comparing prices, incentives and perks, first vet accounting software to qualify potential accounting solutions for your company’s immediate and future needs. Once you’ve identified one or more accounting solutions that can meet your needs, then—and only then—see what kind of deal you can negotiate.

Making the wrong accounting software decision inevitably will cost your company much more than any savings effected by sweet financing or other inducements. Those costs, ultimately, will make that sweet price turn sour.

Score a win-win: First and foremost, decide to buy software that will best serve your needs. Then, and only then, negotiate your best deal.

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