REGULAR readers will doubtless be aware that I am a Macintosh man through and through, and eschew the Machiavellian workings of that corporation in Seattle and its boss William Gates esq.

But Microsoft has come up with some new software which uses the power of the internet to put your financial things in order, and I was duty-bound to investigate. I gave it to Kai Van Farnhill, one of the web designers here at the Telegraph's Digital Media Department, and this is what he thought:

"Microsoft Money 2001

"What do you get for your Money? Well you get a very useful, well thought out application. "Installation is painless as long as you appreciate Internet explorer 5.5 being installed on to your system, which is the backbone of the whole application. Once installed you are guided through the setup so make sure you have available details of your finances! All information is gathered by simple formed sections and is relatively painless.

"A good point is the fact that areas of the application can be prioritised, so if you are not concerned with stock and shares Money leaves the section tucked away in the options.

"The display is professional and information clearly displayed. Information can easily be updated, as Money is compatible with a number of Online Banking Facilities.

"What I like about Money is that you are in control -- you can go as advanced as you have time to do so. Time is a factor. To be completely 'accurate' Money does require daily maintenance and checking so the usefulness of Money to the 'everyday' person maybe limited.

"Money 2001 is a superb upgrade from it's predecessor and if you feel you have the need for an application to keep track of your finances you couldn't go far wrong with this one."

Kai is from Darwen, likes Microsoft and doesn't like Macintosh Computers. He's a bit strange, and I remain unconvinced that these facts are unrelated. If you are a major multinational software company who want to have your products reviewed on these hallowed pages, send your software to me. Preferably Mac compatible, and preferably games. Ta.

www.microsoft.com/uk/