1. Compliancy: It’s not a great feeling having the IRS look over your shoulder, threatening the life of your business. No body wants to cut corners or fudge numbers when it comes to your finances, but sometimes you just don’t have access to the information you need. Microsoft Dynamics ERP software ensures you have tracking capabilities and audit trails so you’re never put in a bad situation. You can trust the numbers and have confidence that the IRS won’t find discrepancies.
2. Accurate Financial Positioning: Not knowing where you stand financially can put numerous halts on business. This makes it difficult to make informed business decisions that affect the sustainability of your company. Microsoft Dynamics ERP software helps you see where you stand with easy-to-read and easy-to-analyze dashboards and Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reports. You’ll no longer be making “Best Guesses” about your business, thus putting you ahead of the competition.
3. Reducing Accounting Overhead: Most companies don’t realize the overhead they acquire within their accounting department because of manual procedures. They figure that’s how it’s always been done and it seems to be working. Many companies are realizing that Microsoft Dynamics ERP cuts down unnecessary overhead because it automates daily accounting tasks and integrates with third party software. It would be wise to run a “what if” scenario of how ERP software can actually save you money, just by cutting back resources.

Every business needs a tool to help manage their finances. This can vary from Excel Spreadsheets to an advanced ERP system such as Microsoft Dynamics ERP, but whatever your situation, make sure you have your financial management in check. If you have questions on how Microsoft Dynamics ERP can help you, contact us at Sikich.

By Sikich, Microsoft Dynamics ERP Partner based out of Missouri

Three Reasons Why ERP Software is a Must for Financial Management is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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A recent survey reported on by ComputerWorld suggests that some employees who have used complicated ERP systems are even willing to switch jobs just to get away from them. Others take less drastic but still damaging approaches, such as opting for Excel spreadsheets or even free cloud-based spreadsheet apps rather than using their overwhelmingly complicated ERP systems.

The truth is, many of these workers are not just being rebellious. Plenty of them truly do not understand how to use their ERP software, nor do they see the benefits. For the executives who hired them, it is a bit disturbing, especially considering how much money they have invested in ERP. It also creates risk when employees are working outside of the established system.

Far too many employees also develop elaborate workarounds to cope with ERP systems that are inadequate and incapable of doing the tasks that need work. These workarounds often cost organizations time and money that could be better spent.

For an ERP system to be effective, usability must be a primary concern. An ERP system with a multitude of flashy tech features does users little good if it is too complicated for them to use. On the other hand, ERP that is familiar to employees who use applications like Excel, makes training easier and provides users with proven usability to keep them engaged.

Microsoft Dynamics ERP products are easy to learn and easy to use – because they look and feel like Microsoft products you use every day. Plus Dynamics ERP products have the tightest integration to Microsoft Office (including Excel) so your workers can still use the applications they love.

Don’t take our word for it, check out our case study of an Avon, Connecticut based professional services company using Microsoft Dynamics GP. Their controller said, “When we hire someone new, I don’t make Dynamics GP experience a pre-requisite because it’s so easy to learn; we can just train the right person. It’s intuitive and user friendly.”

Don’t lose your best employees because of complicated ERP software. Choose Microsoft Dynamics GP.

By CAL Business Solutions, Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner in Connecticut

Study Suggests Younger Execs Would Rather Quit Than Work With Complicated ERP Software is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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 ERP software is used mostly for financial or supply chain management. Because it manages these important parts of your business, it’s the obvious choice to help your company go green. Business intelligence available within your ERP software gives you the insight needed to make decisions that will help you go green.

 Let’s say you’re trying to decide where to cut corners. How can you make an accurate decision without insight into your sales and operations? With ERP software, you can see if one product or services sells better than the rest, helping you optimize on that profitability. You can also take a look internally to see what kind of issues each of your departments run into on a daily basis. If you can proactively eliminate obstacles by just running some analysis, the more sustainable your operations become and the better chance your company has at going green.

 If you house hardcopy files of your financial documents, it takes up space in your office and it’s extremely difficult to manage or even find information. ERP software helps you keep this financial information on your computer in a safe and secure place. It’s also much easier to file, manage, and track to ensure compliance. While increasing your efficiency, you are saving the trees without the need to print loads and loads of paper.

 Whether you want to attain a greener workplace or simply just do more with less in the New Year, Microsoft Dynamics GP may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Contact us here at Cargas Systems for more information.

 By Julie Fuller with Cargas Systems, Delaware Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner

Leverage Business Intelligence with Microsoft Dynamics GP for a Greener Workplace is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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When software (or software based) products are sold the sale is often a combination of related items.  One example of this is the sale of software plus maintenance.   These are normally sold as two separate line items but are inextricably related to each other; so they constitute a multi-element sale.   Another example is an online subscription that includes setup as well as ongoing service.  A multi-element sale is, simply, the sale of multiple related items to a customer.

Okay, so lots of companies are affected – what’s the big deal?  The issue is that the EITF and the FASB have recently issued guidance that many companies have not yet adopted, and their auditors are starting to call that to their attention.   We’re seeing – and hearing about – significant amounts of pain at companies who have not yet analyzed their various sales arrangements and taken steps to ensure correct revenue recognition for such multiple-deliverable arrangements. 

Tensoft can help.   In addition to Tensoft Revenue Cycle Management (RCM), a suite of products that brings together the specific revenue recognition, recurring billing, and contract management functionality that today’s technology companies need, we offer an optional Compliance Module.  Integrated with Microsoft Dynamics, the determined rules are applied based on sales transactions, the appropriate method, and the independent revenue valuation for each item.   With fully auditable processes and reports,   Tensoft RCM is the only solution of its kind that has passed the rigorous Certified for Microsoft Dynamics (CfMD) testing process. 

For additional information about this topic, you may want to review the recorded webcasts in Tensoft’s Resource Center (www.tensoft.com/resources), including “EITF 08-1 and the Relative Selling Price Method for Multiple Element Arrangements.”  This webcast was presented live on 9/20/11.  Tensoft regularly hosts webcasts that are eligible for CPE credit, and is an accredited member of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors.

by Tensoft

Multiple Element Revenue Arrangements: Compliance with Microsoft Dynamics is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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As a Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner with dual Gold competencies in ERP and CRM based out of Michigan , we bring in specialized add-on applications to help organizations in need of more functionality. Integrity Data is one of those vendors. They help to develop, market, and support solutions that extend the capabilities of the Microsoft Dynamics GP (Formerly Great Plains) Payroll and HR Modules. Their products are extremely easy to install and implement. In fact, it takes as little as 15 minutes to install some products. This fast turnaround time is a huge perk for our clients and gets them up and running fast.

Here’s a look at some of the functionality available with Integrity Data and Microsoft Dynamics GP:

1. Negative Payroll Transactions- To make a data entry adjustment in Microsoft Dynamics GP, it takes about 10-15 steps. So let’s say you accidentally gave an employee 8 hours of vacation time, but it should only be 4. With this Negative Payroll add-on from Integrity Data, it’s only one step to make the necessary change. The tool automatically consolidates the steps into one and saves your company time from the manual re-entry process.
2. Enhanced Retirement Plans - Most companies offer a regular 401k investment plan. Microsoft Dynamics GP covers this type of plan right out of the box. However, the enhanced retirement plans product from Integrity Data takes it one step beyond the basics for those companies who offer more than just one investment plan. For example, some companies offer a regular 401k plan and a Roth 401k Plan, as well as a catch up plan for employees over 50 years old. Integrity Data’s solution makes sure the correct codes are checked with legal limits and accurately tracked and reported on.
3. Employee E-mail Suite - Direct deposit in Microsoft Dynamics GP is a great benefit for employees. Instead of waiting for the physical check, your employees can be at ease knowing their paycheck has been processed and sent to the bank for payment. This great product from Integrity Data streamlines communications with direct deposit employees even more by automatically emailing remittances as an encrypted PDF.
4. Paycheck ‘What if’ Calculator- Sooner or later, one or many of your employees will need to change dependents or deductions on their W4. This ‘What if’ calculator allows you to calculate how much a check would be with these changes, without running payroll every time. Employees can make a sound decision on how much it will affect their take home pay if they do in fact make the change.
5. Comprehensive Leave Manager- Microsoft Dynamics GP Payroll out of the box accrues and tracks both vacation and sick time (two buckets). This is enough for most organizations, but some companies want to track vacation time, sick time, personal time, FMLA, maternity leave, etc. The comprehensive leave manager from Integrity Data helps track different types of leave codes.
6. Mid Pay Period Rate Changes- If your company wants to implement a raise for an employee in the middle of a pay period, this tool from Integrity Data will adjust pay accordingly depending on the effective date of the raise.

These tools from Integrity Data increase the flexibility that’s sometimes needed in your organization. They seamlessly work with Microsoft Dynamics GP to help you save time, meet the needs of your employees and run a successful business.

To learn more about Integrity Data and the extensions they provide for Microsoft Dynamics GP, please email us about our upcoming Integrity Data webinar at andreed@tmgroupinc.com. Or call 888.482.2864 for more information.

By The TM Group, Michigan  Dual Gold Certified Microsoft Dynamics ERP and CRM Partner for Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics SL, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Microsoft Dynamics CRM and SharePoint

Extension of Microsoft Dynamics GP Payroll Functionality with Integrity Data Products Makes for Happy Employees and Payroll Managers is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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Silicon Valley software revenue recognition expert Jeffrey Werner will be teaching two information- packed 3.5 hour on-line training courses on Thursday, November 10 and Thursday, November 17, sponsored by Tensoft.  Keep up with the latest regulatory changes, right from your desk, and earn CPE credits!

Course Description:     

November 10, 2011: 

• Introduction and Agenda
• General Principles of Revenue Recognition 
• Software Revenue Recognition (Residual Method)
• Multiple Element Arrangements
• VSOE
• Software, Services, and Contract Accounting (part 1) 

November 17, 2011: 

• Review of General Principles and Multiple Element Arrangements
• Software, Services and Contract Accounting (part 2)
• EITF 08-1 Multiple Deliverable Revenue Arrangements (Relative Selling Price Method)
• EITF 09-3 Certain Revenue Arrangements that Include Software Elements
• Software as a Service (SaaS)
• FASB / IASB Revenue Project
• License, Support and Services Issues 

To Register:  To register, please click on the appropriate link below and follow the instructions there.  Upon receipt of payment, we will forward GoToWebinar access information for each class selected. 

Sign up for just one (1) day >>   

Date:11/10 OR 11/17

Start: 9:00 AM PST 

Length: 3.5 hours ea.  

Cost:$169/course 

Sign up for both (2) courses >>   

Date: 11/10 & 11/17 

Start: 9:00 AM PST 

Length: 3.5 hours ea.  

Cost: $249/for both  

CPE Information: Earn up to 7 CPE Credits (both days), or 3.5 CPE Credits for 1 day

Prerequisites:  General accounting background

Program Level: Beginner-Intermediate 

Delivery Method: Group-Internet 

Advanced Preparation Needed: None

Contact Information: For more information regarding the event, including complaint and program cancellation policies, please contact our offices at (888) 450- 4030 ext. 406, or e-mail info@tensoft.com.  

Tensoft is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.learningmarket.org. 

Learning Objectives:

 After completing both courses you will be able to: 

1) Define the four general principles of revenue recognition;

 2) List the steps to separate, allocate and recognize revenue for multiple element arrangements;

 3) Apply the Residual Method of revenue recognition for software multiple element arrangements;

 4) Apply the Relative Selling Price Method of revenue recognition for non-software multiple element arrangements;

 5) Define VSOE and how it is used in multiple element transactions;

 6) Define ESP and how it is used in the relative selling price method;

 7) Define and apply the percentage of completion, completed contract, and zero margin methods of accounting for contracts;

 8) Understand the scope and timing of the FASB IASB Revenue Recognition. 

If you have any questions about this course or about Tensoft’s solutions and services, please don’t hesitate to contact Caprice Murray at (408) 876-4886, caprice@tensoft.com. 

Software Revenue Recognition Training: Online Course is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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1. Do Your Research. Do an internet search for reviews on the software you are considering.    I’m sure you already do that for those flat screen TVs, laptops, cars, etc. There is a tremendous amount of information out there on the products available to businesses.  It is a disservice to yourself to not take advantage of it.
2. Visit the Company’s Web Site.  Read the white papers and visit the links on the site. If an organization is noted in a white paper or if the company lists their clients on their website, make a call. I can’t guarantee the clients will be receptive to talk to you about the company, but it’s worth a shot. Of course, always be respectful of people’s time.
3. Ask Your Suppliers What Software Applications They Use.  That type of feedback is invaluable. You already have a relationship with them – ask what system they use for financials, distribution, etc.
4. Limit the Number of ERP Systems Considered.
   I’ve run into organizations that will evaluate up to 10 different packages!  That’s a hard process to manage and to keep track of the nuanced differences between each one.  I recommend you limit your search to no more than 4.
5. Don’t Just Focus On Features And Functionality.
   Let’s face it; if you are looking for an ERP package all of the competing products handle GL, receivables, and payables in an efficient manner.
   The same can be said for order processing and other customer-related activities. I’m not suggesting that you ignore functionality, but also focus on
   the software company.  How stable are they? Will they be around for the long term? How much do they invest in R&D? How often are there new releases?
6.  Create A Needs Document.  I find that a number of organizations either do not have a written document of requirements or it was slapped together
   without any input from key people.  I’m not saying that you should create a formal RFP, but having a requirements check list will help you keep on track with your discussions with the salesperson. Sharing that document with the salesperson is also very valuable since it helps with understanding your needs and opens the door to greater discovery.

The vendor understands that selecting a new software package is a bet-your-business decision. The vendor’s goal is to implement a system that exceeds your requirements and expected business outcomes. Therefore, these goals must be crystal clear in the minds of both the customer and the vendor.

Please read my full article on how to find the right ERP solution for you.  If you are located in Arizona or the surrounding area, contact Sherwood Systems at (877) 943-9696 for assistance in determining how Microsoft Dynamics GP can help your organization.

By Sherwood Systems – Arizona Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner

Six Ways to Prepare for a Call With an ERP/Accounting Software Provider is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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 One of our clients was really struggling with their payroll processes because their lead accountant had to manually update employee information and didn’t always have the most up-to-date or accurate data. This caused confusion for both employer and employee. The accountant was also giving out paper copies for payroll, so he had to print out all the earnings statements and hand deliver them to over 100 employees at the firm. This was extremely time-consuming: printing the documents, stuffing envelopes, and ensuring they got to the proper person. It was also a large waste of paper resources. The time it took to deliver also made it impossible to deliver timely information, as it ran the risk of becoming outdated.

 We are a Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner with dual Gold competencies in ERP and CRM based out of Michigan with many large payroll clients and wanted to help this client streamline this time-consuming and manual process. We work closely with an independent solution provider called Greenshades. They provide a payroll service hook that runs on top of Microsoft Dynamics® GP. This payroll service hook includes two functionalities that are really helping our client out:

• Payroll Tax Service: This service runs on top of Microsoft Dynamics GP and makes payroll taxes quick and painless. This service files all returns, calculates optimal deposit schedules, and transfers payments directly from accounts. This makes payroll extremely easy for our client. It even creates reminders for the payroll administrator to go into the payroll center to process paychecks. Employees can also access their paycheck information as well as W2 data at year end.
• Employee Portal: The employee portal makes it possible for employees to update their information online. It’s a hosted website that displays paystubs and W-2s and allows self-service timesheets, profile changes, and more. Employees can edit and request a change. Once that request is approved, that change is automatically flowed over to Microsoft Dynamics GP, eliminating the need for additional data entry and creating real-time functionality for earning statements.

These engines streamline payroll processes for the employer as well as for their employees. The product is quickly paying for itself in time and resource savings. It also ensures they are compliant in their tax regulations and adds the peace of mind they were missing before. It’s now easy to make changes, access updated and real-time payroll data, and keep private information secure within their system.

 If you’re interested in learning more about Microsoft Dynamics GP and the many add-on solutions available, please contact us at The TM Group. We will also be spotlighting Greenshades’ add-on solutions for Microsoft Dynamics GP at our upcoming Microsoft Dynamics Conference called Vision 2011.  Vision 2011 takes place on October 11, 2011 at the Michigan State University (MSU) Management Education Center in Troy, Michigan.  It is open to organizations running Microsoft Dynamics or considering new ERP or CRM solutions and provides an excellent in-depth view of Microsoft Dynamics.  No cost to attend, but reservations are required. For more information, call Andree Dolan at 888.482.2864 or email andreed@tmgroupinc.com .

 By The TM Group, Michigan  Dual Gold Certified Microsoft Dynamics ERP and CRM Partner for Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics SL, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Microsoft Dynamics CRM and SharePoint

Are You Fed Up With Managing Your Employee Tax Payments? Don’t Give Up! Streamline Payroll with Microsoft Dynamics GP and Greenshades is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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If you’re a business just starting to research ERP, it might be good to start with the history of ERP Software and how the technology evolved.

ERP had its early beginnings from MRP or Materials Requirement Planning, which integrated additional data specific to employee and financial information into the scope and planning. It then changed to Manufacturing Resource Planning primarily due to industry interest before it morphed into what we know today as ERP – a solution that streamlines internal and external operational processes to improve efficiency and profitability across the entire business.

Enter cloud technologies, specifically Cloud ERP, and now a company has the ability to achieve greater ROI by improving operational efficiency, being more competitive in the market and proactively planning for their growth and greater profitability. For small and medium businesses, Cloud ERP may be a more viable solution, delivering greater ROI.

Improved Operational Efficiency
It’s widely known that ERP Software is designed to increase visibility and transparency across every department. And that certain industries will have specific initiatives relevant to industry drivers. Move to the Cloud and you now have your ERP on demand creating access to services from anywhere the internet is available. This allows for greater collaboration between employees, regardless of where they are located, improved visibility and a clearer picture of financials across multiple departments. And having the ability to react quickly to business opportunities as they arise will only improve overall performance and agility.

Be More Competitive
An additional benefit associated with ERP Software is the capacity for a company to gain greater competitive advantage and remain resilient. To be exact, a company’s ability to meet the demanding needs of the market faster than the competition distinguishes its value proposition from the rest and allows it to remain ahead of the competition. Many believe this is the single most important aspect of staying competitive.

Cloud ERP adds further to the value proposition by bringing fluidity to the business – allowing an organization to adopt new technology without disrupting business or having to add additional resources, while adding the ability to better manage cash flow. This is especially important for small and medium business owners that can benefit from:

• No upfront monetary investment
• Moving CAPEX expense to OPEX
• Locking in a price structure that fits their budgets

Proactively Plan for Growth and Prosperity
The ability to plan for growth and prosperity may be the most highly regarded ERP benefit of all as companies have the opportunity to modify strategy for cost control, forecast for the short and long term, plan for the future and be in control of their own prosperity.

Cloud ERP takes it a step further by adding “scalable” options when you need and in a pay as you go model; utilizing smart technology to better manage operational capability; integrating the cloud footprint (across every department) to deliver innovative best practices; and taking the first step to alter your financial model in a positive way.

Now that you know what ERP Software can offer and the advantages of Cloud ERP, evaluate the best option for your company. By better understanding the internal details of your business, you will have more proactive options to improve the bottom line, plan your technology infrastructure and invest in the right resources needed to grow.

For more information on ERP in the cloud, visit www.smbsuite.com.

What ERP Software Can Do for Small and Medium Businesses and How Cloud ERP Can Return Greater ROI is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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Samples of videos include “Keeping Report Writer in Synch with Word Templates”, “Adding  the Developer Tab in Microsoft Word” and “Security Tips for Word Documents within Dynamics”.  They range from 2 to 7 minutes and some include tips that can be used in the Office products along with the Dynamics products.  I have been told they will continue to add videos in the future as they have already seen a positive response from users.

Be sure your ERP Business Partner is keeping you up-to-date on the information and offerings from your software vendor.  Contact Collins Computing for the latest pricing, proven successful implementations, and genuine expert support for your ERP needs.

By Abra Lynne Gilman, Collins Computing, Gold Certified Microsoft Partner

Microsoft Dynamics Videos: Better Than 1,000 Words! is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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