ERP Software Blog » hosted accounting software

Why Investment in Process Improvement Means Faster ROI on ERP Software in the Cloud

Gary Francart, KTL Solutions — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:51:55 +0000

Cloud talk is everywhere. And, the cost benefit of moving to the cloud gets the bulk of attention in almost every conversation. But, for companies thinking about moving their ERP to the cloud, there is another, very important, benefit that they can realize. Investment in process improvement instead of hardware during an ERP implementation means a faster return on your investment.

ERP is all about productivity improvement

According to a recent research report, most small and mid-size businesses undertake an ERP implementation to replace manual systems that are holding back employee productivity. With a cloud ERP solution, no time is wasted on the hardware and support technology.

Business process review to match requirements with functionality and apply best practices to improve performance comes first. Employees can log onto software immediately to get familiar with the feel and functionality. The time between choosing the new system and reaping the productivity rewards is measured in days, not months.

Productivity gains through familiar tools

When you choose a Microsoft-based cloud financial management system, like Microsoft Dynamics GP or Acumatica, your employees continue to use familiar tools. With the familiar user interface and integration with Microsoft’s Office helps employees feel comfortable working with the new software.

With your financial management solution in the cloud, employees and managers can access the information they need when they need it. Regional office managers can view GL sub-accounts for their regions. Investors can stay informed through dashboards. Temporary workers can be granted secure access for a few hours or days. All employees can submit expense reports.

Keeps workers productive in the field

With conventional ERP implementations, training for workers in remote locations is often difficult and slow. Remote workers feel isolated from the implementation efforts unless they travel to the main office. With cloud ERP, remote workers have the tools they need from the start to feel connected and productive.

If you have been holding back on an ERP solution because of concerns about the productivity interruption to your business, think about cloud. Let’s talk about how you can build for the future without compromising the present. Call Gary gfrancart@ktlsolutions.com or 866-960-0001.

by KTL Solutions

Why Investment in Process Improvement Means Faster ROI on ERP Software in the Cloud is a post from: ERP Software Blog

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“Release Your Data from its Earthly Bounds, and Let it Soar to the Cloud”

Cloudster, RoseASP — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 03:22:44 +0000

Who writes this junk? Well, I do. It’s certainly not classic prose, and I think it’s too long to fit on a fortune cookie message. But it’s definitely trendy. And guess what, many are still reluctant to maintain their accounting data on a remote server, out there somewhere, easily accessible via the Internet. Here are a few reasons why those who are reluctant might reconsider. These are standard features of a good application hosting environment:

Standard IT system security procedures ensure that user access is dynamically controlled and managed
The transmission of data between the server and the user incorporates 128 bit encryption to protect the data as it moves back and forth
Security related patches and service packs for operating systems and related software are routinely applied in a timely manner
Physical security to the hosted servers is tight and administered by an objective third party
Data backups are performed on a daily basis and become part of a standard disaster recovery plan
Data centers are regularly audited to ensure that they are compliant to SAS-70 standards

Still think it’s safer to have your data in the office next to you? A few years ago we picked up a new client, and their primary reason for making a move to the cloud was that in the prior weeks, someone had broken into their office and stolen their server. End of story.

By RoseASP, a major provider of hosted Dynamics solutions.

“Release Your Data from its Earthly Bounds, and Let it Soar to the Cloud” is a post from: ERP Software Blog

Surprising Momentum from Companies in Bankruptcy

Cloudster, RoseASP — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:43:56 +0000

We have seen a surprising increase in business from companies that are operating under the protection of the U.S. bankruptcy code. This seems like a paradox, but what we’re hearing from our new clients is the following:

Subscription pricing allows for a minimal upfront investment in business systems
Hosted business systems require no additional systems management personnel
Subscription pricing and hosting requires no long term commitment
A solid mid-range ERP system can be a good replacement for a huge tier-1 system
Flexibility, flexibility, flexibility

If a big change in your business is causing you to take a fresh look at how you invest in, and use business systems, you should take a good look at a mid-range ERP system offered in a hosted environment with subscription pricing.

By RoseASP, a major provider of hosted Dynamics solutions.

Surprising Momentum from Companies in Bankruptcy is a post from: ERP Software Blog

Hosted ERP System Benefits

Cloudster, RoseASP — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 00:35:45 +0000

As we talk to people about hosting their ERP systems in the cloud, these are some of the benefits we find people are most interested in:

Pay for what you use – With a subscription based licensing model, end users only pays for the number of user licenses they are utilizing each month.
Lower and predictable costs – Generally hosting and licensing fees are known in advance and can be easily forecasted.
Shift from “capex” to “opex” – The end users’ investment in their ERP systems moves from a capital expenditure to a regular operating expense.
Accelerated time to value – The return on an ERP investment occurs more quickly.
No patching – Service packs and software patches are applied by the hosting company with little worry from the end users.
Faster Deployment – Hosting companies generally have dozens of similarly deployed systems already in place, so getting a new system up and running is easy to do for them.
Robust and multi-layered security – The depth and breadth of security utilized in an off-premise hosting environment is typically better than on-premise environments.
Reliability and fault tolerance – Typical service level agreements demand higher levels of availability and system integrity.
Latest software for users – Hosted ERP systems are generally upgraded on a regular basis in conjunction with software developer releases; making the most up-to-date software available to end users.
Anywhere access – Hosted ERP systems can be easily and securely accessed through the Internet, anywhere the end users might be.
Scalability – ERP systems in a hosted environment can be dynamically scaled to meet demand and deliver acceptable performance levels.

Our clients continue to realize benefits from a hosted ERP solution.

By RoseASP, a major provider of hosted Dynamics solutions.

Hosted ERP System Benefits is a post from: ERP Software Blog

To Host or Not to Host, That is the Question – Learn the Benefits of Hosting and What It Can Bring to Your Organization

RSM McGladrey, Inc. — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:32:10 +0000

RSM McGladrey is a SAS 70 – Level II compliant hosting provider for Microsoft Dynamics Business Solutions (GP & SL), Microsoft Dynamics CRM, and Microsoft Office SharePoint. With this level of compliance, you can be confident your applications and data are safe.

Our hosting services include a superior backup system, security and file management system. These controls are mandatory in order to meet the certification requirements to maintain Microsoft’s Gold Certified Partnership. Hosting your applications allows you to focus your resources on building your business and not on significant IT investments.

Here are some things you should consider when choosing your application deployment platform:

Small Upfront Investment – Lower the cost of ownership by reducing fixed costs and overall expenditures for hardware, applications and administration. Save thousands in upfront costs and have the ability to utilize applications which may not be otherwise affordable to install and run.
Predictable Monthly Costs – Hosting Services allows a business to better control the total cost of technology ownership.
Faster Time to Market – Hosting Services already has the equipment, applications and expertise in house so applications can be rolled out within weeks instead of months
Focus on Core Competencies – Focus your staff on the core business, not on administering a complex IT network internally. Our certified professionals manage the critical data – helping to ensure business systems run securely and smoothly.
Available Resources – No need to compete for hard-to-find and expensive-to-retain IT personnel. McGladrey’s Hosting Services has certified professionals available.
Growth Potential – You grow – we grow! Hosting Services can easily increase user capacity by adding additional infrastructure on demand. Ability to rapidly implement upgrades or customizations in response to business growth or change.
Reduced Security Risk – Hosting Services meets or exceeds industry standards by taking every precaution, including disaster recovery planning and annual third-party security inspections. RSM McGladrey’s Hosting Services is SAS 70 Type II compliant by a third-party auditor.

RSM McGladrey can host your purchased Microsoft Dynamics solution or rent you a solution in a secure environment.

By Michelle Olson, RSM McGladrey, Inc. - Microsoft Dynamics Hosting Partner, NY Metro Microsoft Dynamics Partner

To Host or Not to Host, That is the Question – Learn the Benefits of Hosting and What It Can Bring to Your Organization is a post from: ERP Software Blog

Putting SaaS to Work in Your Business

SMBSuite — Wed, 26 May 2010 20:33:06 +0000

Everyone can recall horror stories about mishaps that occur when workers aren’t on the same page, collaborating effectively to keep business running smoothly and productively. But, should collaboration break down the consequences can be serious.

Efficient collaboration is rarely simple and it can take many forms. Some needs are internally focused, for instance, keeping employees current on corporate policies and procedures. Others require collaboration with external constituents, such as partners, suppliers, or customers. Some needs are short term, as when people need to come together to manage a project, while other requirements are ongoing, like when groups need to access, share, and update documents, databases, calendars, and directories. And, businesses may need to collaborate within one physical location, or with others at numerous locations around the world.

Because effective internal and external collaboration is vital to a successful business, larger businesses build or buy collaboration solutions that are managed in-house. While this model may work for some, these solutions rarely meet the needs of smaller businesses that often lack the resources necessary to deploy, manage, and maintain them. The costs involved, for example, from upfront licenses, hardware, and integration expenses, to ongoing expenses for maintenance, upgrades, and support are often prohibitive for most small business owners.

Software-as-a-Service – The Small Business Alternative

SaaS allows businesses to subscribe to software over the Web and pay for it on a monthly basis. The services can be accessed online from anywhere with an Internet connection, so remote and mobile workers can always be connected to the home office. Furthermore, because the solutions are hosted, many of the upgrades and maintenance requirements can be automated – a big benefit for small businesses with limited IT resources.

Compared with a traditional licensed software model, software-as-a-service offers businesses many distinct advantages that are quickly driving adoption:

Rapid Deployment: Rather than taking months to implement, businesses can be using the solution in a matter of minutes.
Less Expensive and More Predictable Costs: Companies pay a set monthly or annual subscription fee, typically based on the number of users. In addition to drastically reducing upfront hardware and software purchases, SaaS also eliminates the need for specialized IT talent, and reduces ongoing costs for maintenance, upgrades, and support.
Faster ROI: By reducing deployment time as well as initial and ongoing capital investments and staffing costs, small business customers can reduce risk and achieve a faster return on investment.
Low or No Risk Trials: Business can test-drive online services over the Internet, enabling a small business to try the application and see if it fits their needs before making a broader commitment.
Ease-of-Use: Web-based applications use familiar Web interfaces that are easy for administrators and users to navigate, resulting in higher user adoption and reduced training costs.
More Responsive Service and Support: Using a “one-to-many” model, SaaS providers can more easily support, manage and upgrade their solutions. They can see how customers use their services in real-time, get live feedback and fix problems once – for all the customers’ benefit.

The benefits of SaaS become even more apparent for applications specific to collaboration. Because users can access the service via any Web browser, access is not dependent on using a specific personal computer or mobile device. All users can access information anytime, from different locations and desktops. And because the solutions are scalable and expandable, businesses can start collaborating right away, and then fine-tune processes and functionality as they learn what works and what doesn’t.

So, where is the hidden opportunity? It is in the ability for your small and medium business to gain the power and functionality of collaborative technologies without the risk and costs normally associated with such solutions.

By NextCorp, Ltd., Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner for Texas

Putting SaaS to Work in Your Business is a post from: ERP Software Blog

An Offer You Can’t Refuse: Three Microsoft Dynamics GP Users For $1

Jeff Pyden, OmniVue — Fri, 07 May 2010 22:22:54 +0000

As the economy begins to shift into recovery mode, the mindset of smart companies is also changing. Instead of focusing on cost cutting and basic efficiencies, businesses are exploring ways to increase productivity and create value. Most IT budgets have taken a hit during the past few years, which has made it difficult to upgrade internal systems and stay on top of emerging technologies – things that are essential to doing business. Microsoft is making it easier for your company to meet these challenges by offering three Microsoft Dynamics GP user licenses for just $1.

Many companies have delayed the transition to a new ERP system because of either budget constraints or lack of resources, but those excuses won’t work anymore – especially since (drum roll please) OmniVue will host it for you. Yes, really. The hosted model of Dynamics GP is ideal for a growing business that doesn’t yet have the resources to maintain an in-house solution. You can own the software without the hassle of purchasing or maintaining hardware to support it. Plus, OmniVue will sweeten the deal for you by offering an additional 25% discount on monthly hosting services. Really.

If your company is considering a new ERP or financial system, now is the time to take advantage of some serious cost savings. This could be the best $1 you ever spent.

By OmniVue - Georgia Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner

An Offer You Can’t Refuse: Three Microsoft Dynamics GP Users For $1 is a post from: ERP Software Blog

Four Reasons We’re Ready For Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010

Sherry L. Berg, CPA, Avastone Technologies LLC — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 20:01:46 +0000

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010, expected to release this May, has been highly anticipated and most of us in the GP world are more than ready for its advanced capabilities. We’re eager for more “sneak peeks” of what this new version can actually do. In addition to functionalities to address specific needs around financial, human resources, payroll, and operation management it sounds like there’s new, enhanced integration to other Microsoft products like Microsoft Word, Excel, and SharePoint…let’s find out more!

As you may have noticed there is a plethora of information out there, but for those of us who like it short and simple, here are four main reasons your company will undoubtedly benefit from this upgrade:

Speeds up overall planning for your daily routine and annual business plans. GP10 is able to offer a clear route to deeper analysis with role-based, personalized dashboards and KPIs that include charts, graphs, and gauges that allow access directly to Microsoft Dynamics GP.
Performs advanced analytics, such as what-if scenarios and predictive modeling and forecasting, in Excel by connecting built-in SQL Server data mining tools with Microsoft Dynamics GP ensuring a higher ROI for your company- less risk and more gain.
Reduces steps for routine tasks with enhanced workflow, including new workflows, integrated with Microsoft SharePoint workflow for on boarding employees, vendor approvals, and others.
Integration with other Microsoft Products, such as Microsoft Word, Excel and SharePoint. You will have the ability to create customized forms and templates for your invoices or purchase orders within Microsoft Word that will be integrated with your GP system. It also extends integration into Microsoft Outlook, giving you the ability to send direct e-mails from more locations as a list, batch or single transaction.

If you want more information on how the release of Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 can help your organization, please contact us. We’re a team of experts that can help make these awesome four benefits (and of course more) a reality to you and your company.

Anderson, Tackman & Company’s Accounting Software Consulting Group (ATCO) is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner specializing in Microsoft Dynamics® solutions including Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Microsoft Retail Management System (RMS/POS).

By Sherry L. Berg, CPA & Suruchi Taneja, MBA/MIS, Anderson, Tackman & Co, PLC, a Wisconsin Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner.

Four Reasons We’re Ready For Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 is a post from: ERP Software Blog

5 Reasons To Consider Microsoft Dynamics GP On Demand Vs. NetSuite

Jeff Pyden, OmniVue — Tue, 26 May 2009 20:25:22 +0000

First, you’re probably saying to yourself, “How can they even compare Microsoft Dynamics with NetSuite it’s apples and oranges? NetSuite is a SaaS (Software as a Service) application and Microsoft Dynamics GP isn’t.” But that’s only partly true, while NetSuite is strictly a SaaS application, Microsoft Dynamics GP can be configured either on-premise or on-demand-expertly hosted by a Microsoft Partner. So let’s start our comparison right there.

Reason #1 – NetSuite SaaS Only versus On-Premise and On-Demand with Microsoft GP
Microsoft Dynamics GP offers flexibility in deployment models, hosted (on-demand), on-premise and even a hybrid of both. With a GP deployment you can change as your company or business needs change. For instance, if you’re a start-up or small business, an on-demand Microsoft Dynamics GP solution is ideal. You can pay a low monthly fee to license the software, and access it via the internet without having to buy any hardware or software, maintain cash flow. Then, as your business grows and you add users, it may make sense to establish an IT environment, add IT resources to your staff and bring the accounting solution in house. You can’t do that with NetSuite.

Reason #2 – Familiar and Role-tailored Experience
Most business people today spend a good deal of their time within the Microsoft Office applications whether it’s Excel, Word or the biggie, Outlook. The interface for Microsoft Dynamics GP was modeled to look and feel like the Microsoft Office tools we use every day. Additionally Dynamics GP offers an industry role-tailored interface for a task-centric experience. This adds up to ease of use with minimized training time and costs as users easily adapt to the familiar structure. You don’t get that with NetSuite.

Reason #3 – Total Cost of Ownership and ROI
According to information from Forrester and Nucleus Research, 87% of Dynamics GP small and mid-sized business customers achieved positive ROI from their deployment with an average payback time of 21 months. In contrast, NetSuite fees and add-on module costs can exceed the Microsoft Dynamics GP maintenance fee per user, adding up to higher overall TCO.

Reason #4 – R & D, Stability and Experience
Microsoft invests around $5 billion dollars a year in research and development as part of their commitment to their customers’ long term success. This investment along with 25 years of experience helps support almost 39,000 Microsoft Dynamics GP customers worldwide. And with over 2300 certified solution partners, compared to NetSuite’s estimated 150 resellers, you have no trouble finding a partner to deliver a successful GP implementation. You don’t get that with NetSuite.

Reason #5 – Functionality and Adaptability
CPA Technology Advisor’s review of high-end accounting systems gave Microsoft Dynamics GP a 5 out of 5 stars rating and labeled it as “an adaptive solution with a broad set of functionality” which crosses financials, supply chain, manufacturing, project, payroll human resources and business intelligence with built in functionality specific to the manufacturing, distribution, retail, service, healthcare, public sector and not-for-profit industries. A report from the Accounting Library states that 84% of Microsoft Dynamics GP overall customer needs were met. The same report states that only 31% of NetSuite customers basic features needs were met.

If you’re considering a SaaS application for your accounting solution because of the upside associated with a monthly subscription, ease of implementation and hassle-free IT, look at Microsoft Dynamics GP on-demand and you’ll also get the flexibility to move on-premise, the familiarity of Microsoft Office and a low total cost of ownership.

by OmniVue Business Solutions – Georgia Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner

5 Reasons To Consider Microsoft Dynamics GP On Demand Vs. NetSuite is a post from: ERP Software Blog

ERP Software Blog » hosted accounting software

Why Investment in Process Improvement Means Faster ROI on ERP Software in the Cloud

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“Release Your Data from its Earthly Bounds, and Let it Soar to the Cloud”

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