HIGH-END/MID-MARKET ACCOUNTINGACCOUNTMATE 7 FOR SQL
AccountMate Software Corp.
This accounting and business management software provides a stable and modifiable accounting solution for the mid-market. It is sold by the module, and the availability of source code makes it modifiable for adaptation to changing business environments. It runs on Microsoft's SQL development engine database. AccountMate also provides a foundation upon which third-party developers can build industry-specific solutions.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 7.
Recent notable enhancements: New Upsell Management module; upgraded Payroll module functionality; tighter integration for CRM to convert sales quotes to sales orders.
Pricing: Compiled modules - $1,500; source code - additional $1,500 per module; System Manager - five users, $7,000.
Maint./support: Annual subscription for updates and upgrades, tech support and online self-paced training.
Training: Online, locally and at headquarters.
Customer contact: (800) 877-8896 ext. 752 or technicalsupport@accountmate.com.
Web site: www.accountmate.com.
COUGAR MOUNTAIN ACCOUNTING
Cougar Mountain Software
Cougar Mountain Software publishes accounting software for small to midsized organizations that offers a full range of fully integrated modules and features. CMS Professional Accounting includes a number of security features that safeguard accounting data and prevent fraud. Employees can be restricted from or granted access to specific screens or functions. Cougar Mountain's software lets users have a three-year fiscal calendar, hundreds of variations on the built-in and customizable reports, and the ability to drill down to source documents.
Year introduced: 1982.
Current version: 11.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to access custom reports from CMS Professional menus; ability to access important reports from customer maintenance screens; new search functionality; drill-down menus; enhanced security settings; purchase order alert when wholesale prices change; new sales tax reports; improved movement reports.
Pricing: Single user - $1,599; four users - $2,799; unlimited - $3,999.
Maint./support: Plans available from Cougar Mountain Software or authorized resellers. Online Customer Service Center, with FAQs, electronic learning, accounting and general business articles; paid support contracts available in increments of two to 20 hours.
Training: Three-day training at Cougar U in Boise, Idaho - $795 per person. On-site - $995 per day, plus expenses (three-day minimum). Online training - $250 to $720.
Customer contact: (800) 388-3038 or sales@cougarmtn.com.
Web site: www.cougarmtn.com.
CYMA IV FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
CYMA Systems Inc.
Accounting software designed expressly for growing midsized organizations, CYMA IV features an easy-to-use interface with custom fields and includes over 300 reports. Available accounting software modules include accounts receivable, accounts payable, bank reconciliation, general ledger, inventory control, job project costing, payroll, purchase order, and sales order. Third-party integrations and specialty CYMA versions (client write-up and nonprofits) are also available, allowing for unique solutions for unique organizations.
Year introduced: 1996.
Current version: 9.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Expanded Job/Project Cost System; Quick Entry capabilities; payroll enhancements like SSN encryption and effective date on employee features (benefits, 401(k), insurance, etc.).
Pricing: Per module - $595. Additional users - $595.
Maint./support: Annual maintenance fee of 18 percent of retail price; includes knowledgebase. Tech support - per incident, $125; annual plans - start at $395. Online update center, embedded eDesk in software with tutorials, FAQs and getting started information.
Training: Manuals and online instructor-led classes; product and training videos; customer training and on-site consulting options.
Customer contact: (800) 292-2962 or info@cyma.com.
Web site: www.cyma.com.
EPICOR ENTERPRISE
Epicor Software Corp.
Epicor Enterprise is an end-to-end suite of industry-specific solutions for the global midmarket, with integrated components for financials, customer relationship management, supply chain and warehouse management, supplier relationship management, and business intelligence.
Year introduced: 1992.
Current version: 7.3.6.
Recent notable enhancements: Epicor Service Connect, a Web Services-based business integration platform, provides central integration point for implementing secure workflow orchestrations; Epicor Portal, a platform for building informational Web parts and sharing them in and outside the organization in a personalized, secured portal environment.
Pricing: Five users - starts at $12,500.
Maint./support: Averages 20 percent of purchase price.
Training: Classroom training, online e-learning and on-site customer education, customized distance learning program.
Customer contact: (800) 999-6995 or info@epicor.com.
Web site: www.epicor.com.
EXACT MACOLA ES
Exact Software
Exact Macola ES (Enterprise Suite) provides a single-source software solution for all of an organization's needs, including manufacturing, distribution and financials. With its native business process management tools, Macola ES enables companies to define business rules and exceptions as an integral part of a daily routine. Macola ES also offers powerful exception management tools.
Year introduced: 2002.
Current version: 370.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Contact vendor.
Training: Contact vendor.
Customer contact: (800) 468-0834 ext. 2650.
Web site: www.exactamerica.com.
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS AX
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0, formerly Microsoft Business Solutions - Axapta, is an integrated business management solution for midmarket companies and divisions of large organizations that operate in the global marketplace. A composite application that allows users to integrate processes and data across multiple systems, its object-oriented, metadata-driven customization model allows organizations to easily extend the application to fit unique business needs. The solution's architecture is designed to evolve with a company, and can scale up or scale down.
Year introduced: 2006.
Current version: 4.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Roles-based activity; ability to create a path from initial trading partner compliance to a radio frequency identification-enabled supply chain; Application Integration Framework lets organizations insert business logic from other vendors' applications.
Pricing: Business Essentials Edition - starts at $2,250 per user. Advanced Management Edition - starts at $3,980 per user. Advanced Management Enterprise option available.
Maint./support: Business Ready Enhancement Plan (includes transition investment credit, investment protection, upgrades, updates, service packs, fixes and regulatory/tax updates, support lifecycle policy).
Training: E-courses, training manuals, courseware extensions and learning plans available.
Customer contact: (800) 456-0025.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/ax.
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS GP
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Dynamics GP 9.0, formerly known as Microsoft Business Solutions - Great Plains, is an integrated, adaptable business management solution that helps executives, managers and staff more easily access information that is meaningful to their specific roles and responsibilities, and gain contextual insight into what key drivers matter to their business.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 9.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Deeper integration with Microsoft Office; access for customer information and ordering through security-enhanced extranet capabilities; addition of 21 role-based user templates; over 160 Web Services interfaces; contextual business intelligence tools; integration with Microsoft CRM.
Pricing: Business Essentials Edition - starts at $2,250 per user. Advanced Management Edition - starts at $3,980 per user. Advanced Management Enterprise option available.
Maint./support: Business Ready Enhancement Plan.
Training: E-courses, training manuals, courseware extensions and learning plans available.
Customer contact: (800) 456-0025.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/gp.
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS NAV
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Dynamics NAV 4.0, formerly Microsoft Business Solutions - Navision, is a customizable business management solution designed for small and midsized companies seeking an integrated solution. Microsoft Dynamics NAV offers benefits in the areas of financial management, supply chain management, business analytics, manufacturing, distribution, customer relationship management, sales and marketing, service management, e-business, and payroll and human resources management.
Year introduced: 2004.
Current version: 4.0 Service Pack 1.
Recent notable enhancements: Code improvements and increased online help availability; inventory costing enhancements; more flexible planning calculations; expanded Microsoft .Net capabilities for developers; improved performance on Microsoft SQL Server; new user interface; Employee Portal (Microsoft SharePoint integration); business analytics; business notifications; manufacturing and costing.
Pricing: Business Essentials Edition - starts at $2,250 per user. Advanced Management Edition - starts at $3,980 per user. Advanced Management Enterprise option available.
Maint./support: Business Ready Enhancement Plan.
Training: E-courses, training manuals, courseware extensions and learning plans available.
Customer contact: (800) 456-0025.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/nav.
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS SL
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Dynamics SL 6.5, formerly Microsoft Business Solutions - Solomon, is a business management solution designed to enable project-, service- and distribution-driven organizations to simplify the user experience while receiving the benefits of a complete business management solution. Microsoft Dynamics SL targets midsized businesses in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 6.5.
Recent notable enhancements: Purchase Requisition and Bank Reconciliation modules; Business Portal functionality; updated portal based on Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services; new functionality for roles in project-driven organizations.
Pricing: Business Essentials Edition - starts at $2,250 per user. Advanced Management Edition - starts at $3,980 per user. Advanced Management Enterprise option available.
Maint./support: Business Ready Enhancement Plan.
Training: E-courses, training manuals, courseware extensions and learning plans available.
Customer contact: (800) 456-0025.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/sl.
QUICKBOOKS ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS 7.0
Intuit Inc.
QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions 7.0, designed for mid-market businesses, is the most powerful product in the QuickBooks family. QuickBooks Enterprise includes all the features in QuickBooks Pro and Premier, plus much more functionality that mid-market businesses need.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 7.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Able to handle 100,000 or more inventory items, customers and vendors; available for up to 20 simultaneous users; inventory and unit of measure enhancements; multi-parcel shipping feature; ability to make merchandise searchable on Google and Google Maps, and automatically transfer inventory information to Google's database; ability to create estimates using different price levels and convert to sales orders and invoices; new Employee Center; improved integration with TrueCommerce EDI.
Pricing: Five-seat license - $3,000; 10 seats - $4,500; 15 seats - $6,000; 20 seats - $7,500.
Maint./support: 24/7 technical support from a dedicated support engineer, product upgrades, custom reporting services, data protection services, interactive training tools and automatic plan renewal included.
Training: Interactive training kit available.
Customer contact: (866) 379-6635.
Web site: www.quickbooksenterprise.com.
SAGE ACCPAC ERP
Sage Software Inc.
Available in three editions (100, 200 and 500), Sage Accpac ERP is a Web-enabled accounting and business management solution that is the foundation for integrated, end-to-end business management applications, including CRM, point of sale, human resources and warehouse management, among others. It can be deployed on premises or hosted online, and can run on both Linux and Microsoft Windows, including the ability to run Linux and Windows clients in parallel against the same database. Sage Accpac ERP also lets users choose from a variety of databases.
Year introduced: 1994.
Current version: 5.4.
Recent notable enhancements: Return materials authorization capabilities; 267 user-requested new features focused on operational efficiency and flexibility; greater data security, including choice of batch or real-time processing defined by user.
Pricing: On-premise - 100, starts at $695 per module. RMA module - starts at $1,500. Hosted pricing - contact vendor.
Maint./support: Annual maintenance available at 18 percent of system cost (for on-premises deployments); includes upgrades and tech support.
Training: On-site through Sage Accpac Certified Consultants and authorized training centers; online via Sage Software University.
Customer contact: (800) 945-8007 or sagesupport1@sage.com.
Web site: www.sageaccpac.com.
SAGE MAS 90 & MAS 200 ERP 4.1
Sage Software Inc.
Sage MAS 90 4.1 is an integrated business management solution that automates core accounting, financial reporting, distribution, manufacturing and e-commerce, and provides business intelligence tools. Sage MAS 90 accommodates distribution and light manufacturing needs with inventory management, shipment processing, bill of materials and work order modules. Sage MAS 90 Extended Solutions provide more industry-specific automation with more than 1,500 features for an extensive variety of businesses. Sage MAS 200 offers all the functionality of Sage MAS 90, but incorporates the benefits of a thin client/server platform.
Year introduced: MAS 90 - 1984; MAS 200 - 1997.
Current version: 4.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Reports in five upgraded modules now presented in Crystal Reports viewer; Save Report Settings feature; integration between Sales Order and Job Cost; enhanced personalization.
Pricing: Starts at $5,700.
Maint./support: Maintenance, phone and e-mail support plans available.
Training: From authorized Sage resellers through Certified Sage Software Education Centers.
Customer contact: (800) 854-3415 or support@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagemas.com.
SAGE MAS 500 ERP 7.0
Sage Software Inc.
Sage MAS 500 7.0 is a business management solution for midmarket companies that automates accounting and financial reporting, project management, distribution, manufacturing and business intelligence. Written in Microsoft Visual Basic, .Net and dedicated to Microsoft SQL Server, it provides scalability and flexibility. It includes warehouse management and wireless handheld features, as well as flexible picking, fulfillment and personalized order entry options. It also has advanced support for handheld devices and inventory tracking within multiple locations.
Year introduced: 1996.
Current version: 7.0.
Recent notable enhancements: New warehouse management module; ability to manually or automatically define a range of serial or lot numbers for inventory transactions; user-defined masking capabilities.
Pricing: Starts at $10,500.
Maint./support: Maintenance, phone and e-mail support plans available.
Training: From authorized Sage resellers through Certified Sage Software Education Centers.
Customer contact: (800) 854-3415 or support@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagemas.com.
SAGE PRO ERP
Sage Software Inc.
Sage Pro ERP is a highly customizable business management solution that features modifiable source code (200 edition), a scalable architecture, choice of operating systems (Microsoft Windows or Linux), and a complete set of optional, integrated manufacturing modules, plus integration with other Sage Software end-to-end business management applications, including CRM, HR and warehouse management, among others.
Year introduced: 1991.
Current version: 7.4.
Recent notable enhancements: New executive dashboard and desktop interface; Return Merchandise Authorization and Request for Quote modules; enhancements to manufacturing-specific modules; enhanced fiscal calendar; new Electronic Funds Transfer capability for payments.
Pricing: 100 - starts at $995 per module/$1,095 per user. 200 - starts at $1,995 per module/$1,095 per user.
Maint./support: Annual maintenance available at 18 percent of system cost; includes upgrades and tech support. Unlimited phone support - $1,500 per product set.
Training: On-site through Sage Pro Certified Consultants and authorized training centers; online available.
Customer contact: (800) 945-8007 or sagesupport1@sage.com.
Web site: www.sageproerp.com/products.
SAP BUSINESS ONE
SAP America Inc.
Aimed at small and midsized businesses, SAP Business One covers the core operations necessary to run successful businesses, including CRM, accounting, budgeting, reporting, sales and distribution, purchasing, and warehouse and partner management. It also has features for e-commerce, banking and human resources
Year introduced: 2003.
Recent notable enhancements: Drag&Relate feature for linking related data; alerts that trigger automatic workflow processes.
Pricing: Sold through resellers; contact vendor.
Maint./support: Through authorized resellers.
Training: Through authorized resellers.
Customer contact: (610) 355-2699.
Web site: www.sap.com/smallbusiness/index.epx.
TRAVERSE
Open Systems Inc.
Open Systems has developed accounting and business applications since 1976. It provides source code and the flexibility to choose from a number of platforms. Traverse was developed entirely with Microsoft technology, and offers advanced reporting capabilities and specialized solutions for nonprofits, manufacturing, distribution, service, retail, EDI and CRM, as well as handheld solutions. There is a Business Edition for companies with up to 12 users, and an Enterprise Edition for companies with larger user counts.
Year introduced: 1994.
Current version: 10.5.
Recent notable enhancements: Over 100 enhancements, including unlimited budgets and forecasts in general ledger; a bill of lading based on standard documents; parameter-driven Landed Cost system.
Pricing: Modules - $1,500 each. Resource Manager - varies based on user count.
Maint./support: Various plans available.
Training: Internet-based, classroom and on-site training available.
Customer contact: (800) 328-2276 or info@osas.com.
Web site: www.osas.com.
TURNINGPOINT
Red Wing Software
TurningPoint accounting and business management software is aimed at companies that need a better way to manage their financials and processes, especially those managing an inventory. TurningPoint is easy to set up and use, and is a modular system that includes offerings for general ledger, accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory, order entry, purchase orders and add-on payroll.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 4.
Recent notable enhancements: CRM software added as a third-party add-on product.
Pricing: Modules - $895 each; Core Financial Suite - $2,495; Inventory Suite (all modules) - $4,495.
Maint./support: Plans include unlimited phone support with guaranteed response times, Web and e-mail support, updates and maintenance.
Training: Courses in Red Wing, Minn., and other locations throughout the U.S.; also available online and on-site. Local training may be available through local resellers.
Customer contact: (800) 732-9464 or sales@redwingsoftware.com.
Web site: www.redwingsoftware.com.
SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING
MICROSOFT OFFICE ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL 2007
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Office Accounting Professional 2007, the successor to Microsoft Office Small Business Accounting, is a financial management tool for small businesses with 25 employees or less. It includes multi-currency support, fixed asset management, support for customization and a full suite of features for enhanced collaboration with accounting professionals. These include a multi-client navigator, online sharing of books, a power journal entry worksheet and wholesale payroll. Users can also share financial data with Outlook with Business Contact Manager, use Excel and Access for deep financial analysis, and integrate with Word for letter writing and templates.
Year introduced: 2006.
Current version: 2.
Recent notable enhancements: Online service integration with eBay, PayPal, Equifax and Microsoft Office Live Web services; Accountant Transfer Wizard; multi-client Accountant View and multi-client payroll processing for accountants; multi-currency support; multi-user access.
Pricing: Trial download available now; available at $149 in early 2007.
Maint./support: Newsgroup and Web-based support, with basic installation, set-up and personal incident support for first 90 days. After, $49.95 per incident.
Training: Microsoft Professional Accountants Network.
Web site: www.ideawins.com or http://office.microsoft.com.
MYOB PREMIER ACCOUNTING SMALL BUSINESS SUITE
MYOB
MYOB Premier Accounting Small Business Suite delivers a suite of productivity software and tools, featuring complete small business management and accounting software. Premier Accounting offers integrated, optional business services, including credit-card processing, direct deposit, vendor payments, payroll forms service and full-service payroll.
Year introduced: 1991.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Synch contact information with Microsoft Outlook; undo bank reconciliation; improved search for recurring transactions; e-mail payment notifications to customers and vendors; import employee payroll details; enhancements to receive inventory functionality; create a purchase order from an existing sales order or quote.
Pricing: $299; workstation licenses - $149; pack of five licenses - $499.
Maint./support: Annual - single user, $249; multi-user, $299. Basic support - $89 per year.
Training: Seminars and training guides available.
Customer contact: (800) 322-6962.
Web site: www.myob-us.com.
PEACHTREE BY SAGE PREMIUM ACCOUNTING 2007
Sage Software Inc.
Peachtree by Sage Premium Accounting 2007 is a comprehensive solution that provides advanced accounting features like progress billing, company consolidations, and serialized inventory. Its multi-user option can improve productivity, while providing screen-level control over who accesses data. More than 140 customizable business reports and financial statements are available, plus Crystal Reports for Peachtree.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: New Business Status Center; new navigation; new list access; new Comparative Budget Spreadsheet Creator; improved integration with Microsoft Office applications.
Pricing: Single user - $499.99; multi-user - $1,099.99. Optional Peachtree Payroll Tax Service - $179.95.
Maint./support: $179 to $299, depending on plan.
Training: Training guides; CD-ROM accounting tutorial; local training through Sage certified consultants.
Customer contact: (800) 228-0068 or sales@peachtree.com.
Web site: www.peachtree.com.
QUICKBOOKS: PREMIER ACCOUNTANT EDITION 2007
Intuit Inc.
With all-in-one bookkeeping, write-up and financial reporting tools, QuickBooks: Premier Accountant Edition 2007 features the new Accountant's Copy to improve the exchange of data and the communication between the client and the accountant. The new Google Marketing Tools and Google Desktop help accountants work with clients. Accountants can toggle between all QuickBooks 2007 editions built into Accountant Edition 2007, so they can quickly answer a client's questions by seeing the same screen as the client. The accountant can open the client's data file, make changes and return the file to the client for them to restore using their own edition of QB 2007.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: New Accountant's Copy; Google Marketing Tools; QuickBooks Time Tracker; Google Desktop.
Pricing: Single user - $399.95; five-user license - $1,499.95.
Maint./support: 30 days of free tech support for new users.
Training: Seminars, Webinars, self-study on-line tutorials.
Customer contact: (888) 320-7276.
Web site: http://accountant.intuit.com.
SAGE BUSINESSWORKS 50 ACCOUNTING 7.0
Sage Software Inc.
Sage BusinessWorks is a modular accounting solution that helps small and midsized businesses increase operating efficiencies through process automation. The solution includes general financial management modules for general ledger, accounts payable and accounts receivable, along with cash management, inventory, order entry, payroll, job costing and utility functions. Sage BusinessWorks also offers more than 200 built-in reports with graphical reporting capabilities, plus integration with other Sage Software applications.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 7.0.
Recent notable enhancements: "Payroll Your Way" payroll function automation; integration with Sage Payroll Services.
Pricing: Four users - starts at $575 per module (includes tech support for first year).
Maint./support: Silver and Gold Plans available.
Training: Through Sage business partners, Certified Sage Software Education Centers and online.
Customer contact: (800) 854-3415 or support@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagesoftware.com.
CLIENT WRITE-UP
CPACLIENT WRITE-UP
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
CPAClient Write-Up combines general ledger, after-the-fact payroll, check entry and financial statement reporting functions into a single, comprehensive write-up system designed to handle clients' most complex needs. Quick quarterly payroll reports are included. Data entry is delegated to the client for those who use Peachtree by Sage, QuickBooks or Sage MAS 90. Budgets can be created for multiple years, entries can be batched together or processed in real time, and two check entry options are available.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 2006.61.03.
Pricing: Starts at $1,850, including a year of maintenance and support.
Maint./support: Annual renewal fee required after first year.
Training: Classroom, regional, Web-based and on-site training options.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: www.cchgroup.com/cpaclientwriteup.
DRAKE CLIENT WRITE-UP
Drake Software
Drake Client Write-Up is an extensive payroll package with basic bookkeeping functions. The payroll portion supports live and after-the-fact payroll for employees and contractors, MICR check printing, e-filing quarterly and yearly employment tax forms, and e-filing Forms W-2 and 1099-MISC. Client Write-Up supports Forms 940, 941, 941SS, 943, 944 and 944SS, as well as all state quarterly unemployment forms. Drake Tax Software customers can print all reports to PDF and store them in Drake's document manager.
Year introduced: 1985.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: MICR check encoding for payroll checks; unlimited bank accounts and unlimited check designs; e-filing for Forms 940, 941, 944, 941SS, W-2 and 1099-MISC; Drake Document Manager integration; all financial reports and most payroll reports automatically stored in TXT and RTF formats; prepares Forms 941SS, 944, 944SS and 943; automatic updates via Web.
Pricing: Free for Drake Tax customers. New - $445; renewal - $200.
Maint./support: One year of maintenance and support included.
Training: Tutorials on CD and online.
Customer contact: (800) 890-9500 or sales@drakesoftware.com.
Web site: www.drakesoftware.com.
EASYACCT
Intuit Inc.
Intuit EasyACCT Professional Series is a comprehensive accounting software package. The program includes basic functionality such as write-up, general ledger, payroll, customizable financial statements, accounts receivable and accounts payable, and is designed to be an end-to-end solution.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 2006/2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Adjusted trial balance report; Windows-based AR and AP modules; financial statements and custom reports; trial balance; accrual of paid time off; 401(k) employer matching; online product download patches; asset depreciation; bank reconciliation; payroll; financial amortization.
Pricing: New - $1,590; upgrade - $850.
Maint./support: Toll-free phone support, e-mail support, Web site support and in-program help.
Training: Program manual, video tutorials, in-product help menus, Webinars and product demos.
Customer contact: (800) 934-1040.
Web site: http://accountant.intuit.com.
PROSYSTEM FX WRITE-UP
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
ProSystem fx Write-Up helps firms view and mine data to streamline the day-to-day management of clients' operations. The program can be customized so it works within the existing workflow. Transactions can be coded by departments, divisions, locations and other categories. Information can be filtered and sorted for customized reports, and the menus and toolbars can be adjusted and personalized. Write-Up includes signature-ready payroll forms, ready-to-print 1099s, payroll and tax liability reports, and payroll processing. Client bank accounts can be reconciled with one-click access to reveal current or past reconciliations.
Year introduced: 2004.
Current version: 2.7.
Recent notable enhancements: Integration with ProSystem fx Practice projects and time clocks; import transactions from an ASCII file; employee set-up templates; federal Forms 941 and 941 Schedule B are editable; import QuickBooks 2006.
Pricing: Starts at $1,850.
Maint./support: With annual fee and renewal.
Training: Online and offline training available.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://www.cchgroup.com/writeup.
WRITE-UP CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
The heart of the CS Professional Suite accounting product line, Write-Up CS is an integrated suite of modules that automates all processes, from entering data, including after-the-fact payroll, to generating financial statements and preparing year-end reports. Write-Up CS quickly creates standard and custom reports and financial statements from its built-in sample templates. The Payroll Compliance module processes Forms W-2, 1099, 940, 941 and 943.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 2006.2.
Recent notable enhancements: New Home Page with quick links and client, firm and product-specific information; ability to export and retrieve Client Bookkeeping Solution data into Accountant's Assistant in one step.
Pricing: Starts at $1,800.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Write-Up CS Seminars, hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and on-site training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
CRM
ACT! BY SAGE
Sage Software Inc.
ACT! delivers contact and customer management capabilities with deployment and customization options to help improve productivity and increase sales. ACT! is part of Sage CRM Solutions, a family of CRM products designed specifically for small and midsized businesses.
Year introduced: 1987.
Current version: 2007 (9.0).
Recent notable enhancements: Direct integration with Microsoft Outlook; enhanced user productivity; simplified administration; field-level data security.
Pricing: Standard, one to 10 users - $229.99; upgrade - $149.95. Premium for Workgroups - $399.99; upgrade - $259.95. ACT! Premium for Web - $399.99; upgrade - $259.95.
Maint./support: ACT! Advantage program (with unlimited phone support) - $299 annually. Per-call support also available.
Training: Certification, solution provider and end-user training available online, on-site and classroom.
Customer contact: (888) 855-5222.
Web site: www.sagecrmsolutions.com.
EXACT E-SYNERGY
Exact Software
Exact e-Synergy is a business management solution that maximizes an organization's access to the very latest information, any time, anywhere. The e-Synergy solution integrates and captures all corporate data within a single database, allowing all members of the value chain to view and act on this data, based on their access and roles within the system. E-Synergy streamlines workflow, with an environment of security, roles and rules-based access. E-Synergy's integration capabilities also provide a clear picture of major cost savings and operational efficiencies across the entire organization.
Year introduced: 2002.
Current version: 370.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Contact vendor.
Training: Contact vendor.
Customer contact: (800) 468-0834 ext. 2650.
Web site: www.exactamerica.com.
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS CRM 3.0
Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0 provides the tools and capabilities needed to create and maintain a clear picture of customers, from first contact through to purchase and post-sales. With modules for sales, marketing and customer service, Microsoft CRM delivers a fast, flexible solution that provides simplified installation, a smooth upgrade path, and extensive configuration and customization capabilities, all based on a set of tools and technologies familiar to customers and partners.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 3.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Redesigned user interface with native Office/Outlook experience; new marketing module; new service scheduling module; ability to easily add new objects and services into the platform; enhanced workflow; new integration and customization capabilities. Available in 22 languages.
Pricing: Professional - $622 to $880 per user; $1,244 to $1,761 per server. Small Business Edition - $440 to $499 per user; $528 to $599 per server. Subscription pricing for hosted deployments available.
Maint./support: Real-time support through public newsgroups, Microsoft's support newsgroups, or Microsoft Dynamics Community.
Training: Online information and tools.
Customer contact: (888) 477-7989.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/dynamics.
SAGE ACCPAC CRM
Sage Software Inc.
Sage Accpac CRM is an integrated sales, marketing, customer support and call center automation solution. Internet- and WAP-enabled, it integrates with Sage Accpac ERP and Sage Pro ERP, and with other business-critical solutions such as Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes, as well as proprietary systems. Sage Accpac CRM can be deployed as an on-premises or a hosted solution.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 5.8.
Recent notable enhancements: New end-user dashboard options, improved data management capabilities; extended system administration features.
Pricing: On-premises licensing - $595 per user; on-demand (SageCRM.com) - $69 per user per month.
Maint./support: 18 percent of product price. One-hour call-back service available. OnDemand customer support available on a case-by-case basis or in packages of five cases.
Training: Certification, solution provider and end-user training available online, on-site and classroom.
Customer contact: (800) 643-6400 or info.sagecrmsolutions@sage.com.
Web site: http://na.sagecrm.com/.
SAGE CRM SALESLOGIX
Sage Software Inc.
Sage CRM SalesLogix delivers easy-to-use and integrated sales, marketing, customer service and support automation solutions that can be tailored to an organization's unique customer acquisition, retention and development processes. SalesLogix is part of Sage CRM Solutions.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 7.
Recent notable enhancements: Interactive sales dashboards; integrated service and support client; enhanced marketing capabilities; full-featured mobile support; productivity enhancements for users, administrators and developers.
Pricing: Starts at $995 per user.
Maint./support: 10 to 20 percent of price. Unlimited phone and Web portal support included.
Training: Certification, solution provider and end-user training available online, on-site and classroom.
Customer contact: (800) 643-6400 or saleslogixinfo@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagesaleslogix.com.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
ADVISORPLATFORM
eMoney Advisor
AdvisorPlatform is a Web-based wealth-planning tool that offers an aggregated, comprehensive view of a client's financial portfolio. The AdvisorPlatform also includes a robust Client Financial Home Page, giving clients around-the-clock access to their updated, aggregated financial information, an online document storage vault for legal and financial documents, and tracking of frequent flier miles and other point programs.
Year introduced: 2000.
Current version: 4.4. 4.6 due in January 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Version 4.6 will include the ability to create custom asset classes; override asset classes on aggregated accounts; edit rates of return for the historical data; begin simulation during the current month in addition to monthly vs. annual compounding; model the state death tax exemption amount; associate negative growth rates to assets decreasing in value; track real estate depreciation costs.
Pricing: Independent licensing - $299 per month (three-month minimum). Advisor License and five client seats - $299 per month or $3,500 annual fee; 10 client seats - $425 per month or $5,000 annual fee.
Maint./support: Toll-free customer service department.
Training: Training sessions available at eMoney University Training Center.
Customer contact: (888) 362-4612 or emasales@emoneyadvisor.com.
Web site: www.advisorplatform.com.
MORNINGSTAR PRINCIPIA
Morningstar Inc.
Morningstar Principia is designed to help financial professionals conduct fundamental, in-depth research on seven different types of investments - stocks, mutual funds, variable annuity/life subaccounts, exchange-traded funds, closed-end funds, separate accounts and defined-contribution plans - and combine them in complete, real-world portfolios. Principia portfolio tools allow advisors to illustrate key concepts and provide detailed portfolio analysis. Advisors can also easily import client information and portfolios from popular third-party programs and generate NASD-reviewed reports.
Year introduced: 1991.
Current version: 5.6.
Recent notable enhancements: New defined-contribution plans module for assessing 401(k) and 403(b) plans and creating investment policy statements.
Pricing: Principia Suite with all modules - $2,825. Individual modules - $655; advanced modules - $1,185. Defined-contribution module - $995. Network pricing available.
Maint./support: Tech support included.
Training: Online and classroom training - starts at $49 per person.
Customer contact: (877) 586-5405.
Web site: www.global.morningstar.com/principia.
NAVIPLAN STANDARD & NAVIPLAN EXTENDED
Emerging Information Systems Inc. (EISI)
NaviPlan software is designed to help financial professionals quickly engage clients and become their primary advisor. NaviPlan Standard, a goals-based program, has three planning levels that range from simple to comprehensive, and easy-to-use "what-if" scenarios and retirement distribution planning features. In NaviPlan Extended, a full range of planning features is packaged into two levels for intermediate and advanced cash-flow-based planning, with detailed tax calculations and advanced estate planning features. NaviPlan software is available in an offline format and through NaviPlan Central, an ASP platform.
Year introduced: 1995 in Canada; 1998 in the U.S.
Current version: 10.1.1.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Compliance- and NASD-related updates to text and terminology.
Pricing: NaviPlan Standard - starts at $625; NaviPlan Extended - starts at $1,250. Discounts available.
Maint./support: Toll-free tech support; online resource center.
Training: Self-study guides, video clips, live Web-based training and in-person training.
Customer contact: (888) 692-3474 opt. 2 or sales@eisi.com.
Web site: www.naviplan.com.
PFP NOTEBOOK
Brentmark Software Inc.
PFP Notebook takes a modular notebook approach that helps construct plans customized for your clients without unnecessary data entry. PFP Notebook includes customizable letters and text that get merged with client data when the report is created. The modular design allows for quick "what-if" analyses. All reports can be printed, saved to word processing documents for further editing, or e-mailed directly to clients. The recent addition of practice management reports and letters lets users examine many clients at once and quickly generate appropriate letters.
Year introduced: 1993.
Current version: 2006.01.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to save generated reports in database; presentations from other Brentmark Software programs can be incorporated into PFP Notebook report; enhanced practice management letters and reports.
Pricing: Single user - $595.
Maint./support: Single user - $199 per year.
Customer contact: (800) 879-6665 or support@brentmark.com.
Web site: www.brentmark.com.
PFP RELIEF
AccountantsWorld
Designed exclusively for accountants, PFP Relief provides the tools and resources they need to help plan their clients' futures and offer financial planning advice. This PC-based system helps accountants make accurate, specific and billable client planning recommendations, and helps clients determine their net worth, save for retirement and their children's college education, do optimal asset allocation based on their risk tolerance, and perform estate planning. Accountants can easily make changes and add enhancements to generated plans.
Year introduced: 1998.
Current version: 6.6.
Recent notable enhancements: Updated table of college tuition rates.
Pricing: First year - $495; renewal - $250.
Maint./support: Tech and marketing support included.
Training: Phone and e-mail training, and personalized training and support available.
Customer contact: Lenny Bottiglieri lbottiglieri@accountantsworld.com or (888) 999-1366.
Web site: www.accountantsworld.com.
PROFILES+ PROFESSIONAL
Emerging Information Systems Inc. (EISI)
Profiles+ Professional lets users choose up to 14 individual planning modules for a focused plan, or integrate sections for broader analysis. A library of over 400 client reports lets planners show clients what they need to do to achieve their financial goals. Its modular structure provides flexibility and a built-in growth path for advisors. Profiles+ Professional is available in a stand-alone Windows desktop version, a browser-based version, or mixed environments.
Year introduced: 1996.
Current version: 7.6.
Pricing: Base - $1,000. Monte Carlo simulation, advanced estate calculations and Ibbotson Security Classifier options at additional cost.
Maint./support: E-mail support, toll-free tech support and online resource center available.
Training: Getting Started CD and Owners' Manual included. Free training packages available.
Customer contact: (888) 692-3474 opt. 2 or sales@profiles.com.
Web site: www.profiles.com.
VIEWPLAN ADVANCED
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This estate planning software enables practitioners to graphically compare multiple estate planning scenarios with clients. The presentation tool generates customizable flowcharts, graphs and reports that summarize planning scenarios for presentations. Modules cover mutual funds, stocks, variable annuities, closed-end funds and separate accounts.
Year introduced: 2003.
Current version: 4.7.
Recent notable enhancements: Updated $12,000 maximum annual exclusion amount for gifts made in 2006 and beyond; updated Section 6166 interest on estate tax installment payments formula; automatic database back-up file; revised GST assumptions.
Pricing: New - starts at $1,659; renewal - $919. Multi-user rates available.
Maint./support: Toll-free tech support included.
Training: On-site, teleconferences and Web conferences.
Customer contact: (888) 879-5515 opt. 1 or cust_serv@cch.com.
Web site: http://tax.cchgroup.com/viewplan.
FIXED ASSETS
BNA FIXED ASSETS
BNA Software
Available as a desktop, server or Web-based solution, BNA Fixed Assets comes with more than 40 predefined standard reports, including five fileable tax forms and supporting worksheets. Built-in wizards and asset templates make data entry fast and accurate, while automatic validation ensures regulatory compliance. The Open Timeline feature allows adjustments and changes to be made at any time, while maintaining a complete audit trail.
Year introduced: 1998.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Audit trail tracking capability documents all changes to fixed assets, who made changes, when changes were made, and what impact changes had; store image/document by attaching it to the asset records.
Pricing: Single user - starts at $1,675.
Maint./support: Desktop maintenance - starts at $875 a year. Unlimited tech support included.
Training: Hands-on classroom, Web and on-site/custom training available.
Customer contact: (800) 424-2938 or software@bna.com.
Web site: www.bnasoftware.com/fixedassets.
FIXED ASSETS CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
Fixed Assets CS provides easy-to-use depreciation processing capabilities to accomplish complex asset management and tracking tasks. The program includes the ability to custom-sort asset data and flexible report-writing capabilities. The Inventory module is also available for conducting physical asset inventories. To further simplify data entry, the program offers several wizards. With an intuitive graphical interface and flexible, customizable asset-sorting options, Fixed Assets CS simplifies the process of handling assets.
Year introduced: 1980.
Current version: 2005.2.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to print reports through UltraTax CS; streamlined import from Microsoft Excel; option to display gain/loss calculation; enhanced vehicle information data entry; ability to apply template client settings to existing clients; ability to export journal entries to Microsoft Excel; client password protection.
Pricing: Starts at $1,100.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and on-site training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide and Walkthrough Guide available.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
PROSYSTEM FX FIXED ASSETS
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This asset tracking, management and reporting solution streamlines all depreciation tasks and allows users to customize reports, asset information and screen views. Import and conversion capabilities automatically convert data from major asset management programs and import data from spreadsheets and other common file types. Fixed Assets handles an unlimited number of assets and up to eight different books, all viewable side by side on one screen. Fixed Assets allows firms to modify financial and tax reports, filter and sort data, and set reporting periods.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 2005.03000.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to include/exclude current and/or prior-year Section 179 in accumulated, current-year or total depreciation columns for all applicable reports; Business Use Percentage option; new report for mid-quarter convention calculations; ability to copy one active book to another book; Undo Split function; ability to combine multiple fixed asset reports into a single bookmarked PDF; customizable toolbar; ability to show detail in the calculations on each asset.
Pricing: Single user - $1,550; additional users - $135 each.
Maint./support: Tech support included.
Training: Online and on-site training available.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: www.cchgroup.com/fixedassets.
SAGE FAS FIXED ASSETS
Sage Software
Sage FAS Fixed Assets solutions combine fixed asset accounting, asset inventory and report-writing functionality; integrate with general ledger solutions, including Sage Software ERP and accounting products; and provide fixed asset depreciation calculations for financial and tax reporting. Sage FAS covers the entire fixed asset life cycle, from acquisition to disposal, and is also available in government and nonprofit versions. FAS CIP Accounting is also available for construction-in-progress projects, and FAS Compliance Advisor helps Sage FAS customers produce 16 of the most commonly requested auditing reports for demonstrating compliance with SOX security requirements.
Year introduced: 1982.
Current version: 2006.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Annual tax update; addition of Sage Desktop; introduction of three new product bundles; introduction of FAS Compliance Advisor for Sarbanes-Oxley compliance.
Pricing: Asset Accounting - starts at $2,295 for single user; Asset Inventory - starts at $2,295 for single user; Track Pack (Asset Accounting, Inventory and Report Writer) - starts at $3,995 for single user.
Maint./support: Available, including unlimited phone and online support, as well as annual software updates.
Training: Web-based - starts at $165; classroom - starts at $650; on-site customized - starts at $1,600.
Customer contact: (800) 368-2405 or fixedassets@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagefas.com.
NONPROFIT SOFTWARE
ACCUFUND ACCOUNTING SUITE
AccuFund Inc.
AccuFund specializes in financial reporting for nonprofit and government agencies with FASB and GASB compliance and cross-year/inception-to-date reporting capabilities. It stores separate budgets for annual, grant and project reporting, with two reportable versions for each. The suite has a consistent and easy-to-use interface in all modules, and also includes a range of fully integrated modules, including payroll, purchasing, requisitions, AP and AR, utility billing, property tax, fees and licenses, court fine, grants management, and allocation modules. It allows scanned documents to be attached to transactions throughout the system.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 3.04.
Recent notable enhancements: Grants management module; major enhancements to reporting module.
Pricing: Single-user Core system - $2,995. Server-based system - starts at $4,195. Additional users - standard edition, $895; Professional Edition, $1,195. Modules - from $1,095 to $1,995. Professional Edition - approx. 20 percent more.
Maint./support: Annual fee - 25 percent of license fee, includes 800-number, e-mail, Web site and dial-in to client site.
Training: On-site, at regional training programs and online.
Customer contact: (877) 872-2228 ext. 215 or sales@accufund.com.
Web site: www.accufund.com.
CMS FUND SUITE
Cougar Mountain Software
Cougar Mountain's Fund Suite is an accounting and financial management software package designed exclusively for nonprofit organizations and government agencies. It handles multiple funds or grant tracking with comprehensive budget comparisons. Each fund can have its own fiscal calendar, separate from the organization's fiscal calendar. It also handles inter-fund transfers and fund balancing, and fully conforms to GAAP. It also provides reporting for FASB Standards 116 and 117.
Year introduced: 1982.
Current version: 11.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to access customized reports from the report windows; ability to open any programs or files from a custom menu; new search functionality; drill-down features; enhanced security settings; purchase order alert when wholesale prices change; new sales tax reports; new employee condensed history report; improved bank reconciliation sorting and usability; improved movement reports; SinglePoint feature for access through the Internet from any location.
Pricing: Single user - $3,199; four users - $4,199; unlimited - $5,299.
Maint./support: Various plans available from CMS or authorized resellers. Paid support contracts available in increments of two to 20 hours.
Training: Three-day training at Cougar U in Boise, Idaho - $795 per person. On-site - $995 per day plus expenses (three-day minimum). Online training - $250 to $720.
Customer contact: (800) 388-3038 or sales@cougarmtn.com.
Web site: www.cougarmtn.com.
THE FINANCIAL EDGE
Blackbaud Inc.
The Financial Edge enables up-to-the-minute analysis with insight into critical data at a glance with the Financial Edge Dashboard. With strong budgeting and reporting features, The Financial Edge can be customized with a large number of modules, including GL; electronic funds transfer; accounting forms; e-requisitions; AR; AP; fixed assets; payroll; advanced budget management; POS; advanced security; project, grant and endowment management; allocation management; cash management; student billing; consolidation management; school store manager, and more. It also integrates with The Raiser's Edge, Blackbaud's fundraising solution.
Year introduced: 1984.
Current version: 7.7 due Jan. 1, 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: New business rules for projects; enhanced GL reports; ability to track a master grant to multiple fund sources or a single grant to multiple projects; ability to budget at the project level without tying the budget to a specific account; new functionality to increase productivity of data entry for AP invoices or student billing payment records in a customized grid format datasheet.
Pricing: Varies by size.
Maint./support: Variety of plans available.
Training: Classroom training through Blackbaud University in Charleston, S.C., or at regional sites. On-site and online training available. Blackbaud Training Pass includes unlimited training.
Customer contact: (800) 443-9441 or solutions@blackbaud.com.
Web site: www.blackbaud.com.
KINTERA FUNDWARE
Kintera
Kintera FundWare is a fund accounting system for nonprofits and government organizations that unites accounting, budgeting and reporting tools with an audit trail to help organizations realize improved operational efficiencies and reporting flexibility. It offers easily produced GASB and FASB financial reports, real-time information, and sophisticated fund allocation management, as well as real-time budget monitoring; budget modification histories, including comparisons between actual and revised budgets; cross-fiscal-year budget preparation; built-in audit trails and easy-to-prepare audit schedules; and a configurable set of modules.
Year introduced: 1976.
Current version: 7.4.
Recent notable enhancements: New Fixed Assets module.
Pricing: Modules - from $1,295 to $3,995.
Maint./support: Four levels of support available, from priority phone support, a dedicated technical account manager, and account support and maintenance, down to Web-only support. Online knowledgebase and online help function also available.
Training: On-site, classroom, e-classes, payroll bootcamp and customized training available.
Customer contact: (800) 551-4458 or fwinformation@kintera.com.
Web site: www.kintera.com/fundware.
SAGE MIP FUND ACCOUNTING
Sage Software
Sage MIP Fund Accounting is scalable, flexible and customizable to suit the needs of nonprofit, government and school organizations, while helping them demonstrate accountability and meet critical reporting requirements, including FASB/GASB regulations. Users can track and report on multiple funds across cost centers and throughout varying budget periods, and more easily plan and manage budgets, maximize grants, and produce accurate customized reports. Organizations can produce audit-ready financial statements with the flexible, built-in report writer. Executive view licensing gives select employees direct viewing access to financial reporting, graphs and real-time data, but preserves transaction-access security.
Year introduced: 1982.
Current version: 8.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Purchase order module enhanced with new receiving functionality and improved controls; three new modules - multi-currency, inventory control and sales order entry.
Pricing: Single user - starts at $2,995.
Maint./support: Available, including unlimited phone and online support, as well as annual software updates.
Training: E-learning - starts at $250.
Customer contact: (866) 831-0615 or ngspsrs@sage.com.
Web site: www.sagenonprofit.com.
SERENIC NAVIGATOR
Serenic Corp.
Serenic Navigator, powered by Microsoft Dynamics NAV, is a financial management solution for nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and government agencies. It offers core financials, plus a comprehensive suite of ERP applications, including fundraising, case management, utility billing and grant management. Navigator provides the ability to easily generate SFAS 117- or GASB 34-compliant financial reports, while delivering data analysis functions through Microsoft Dynamics NAV's drill-down technology.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 4.00.5.
Recent notable enhancements: Serenic MinistryView for semi-autonomous business units within faith-based organizations.
Pricing: Ranges between $3,000 per user for basic Business Essentials suite to $6,000 per user for Advanced Management suite.
Maint./support: Annual fees - 16 to 24 percent of price. Phone support available.
Training: Courses held at Serenic's office in Lakewood, Colo., or scheduled at client site.
Customer contact: (877) 737-3642 or sales@serenic.com.
Web site: www.serenic.com.
PAYROLL
1099-ETC. WITH A-T-F PAYROLL
Advanced Micro Solutions Inc.
The base program (W-2/1099 Forms Filer), which is required, enables users to complete and print the following forms: 1099/1098/5498/W-2G/1096, W-2/W-3, W-2C/W-3C, 1042S, 943 and Puerto Rico W-2/480. After-The-Fact Payroll is an add-on module to the 1099-Etc. system. ATF Payroll includes support for all states (including D.C. and Puerto Rico), 941 e-filing, 40 user-defined fields, MICR check support, direct deposit capabilities, and QuickBooks data import/export and Peachtree data import. There are also e-file options available for year-end forms. The Forms-Etc. module is an add-on forms-filler that supports over 300 payroll-related forms. The system can be networked at no additional cost.
Year introduced: 1985.
Current version: D-2.2.
Recent notable enhancements: Reports, forms and checks can be printed to a PDF file; A-T-F Payroll totals can be exported to QuickBooks' General Journal; ACH Direct Deposit files now available; payroll checks can be generated based on the employee's pay frequency.
Pricing: Modules - from $75 to $105; all - $405.
Maint./support: Tech support included.
Training: Tutorial. Help topics available throughout program. FAQs available in Help and on Web site.
Customer contact: (800) 536-1099 or info@1099-etc.com.
Web site: www.1099-etc.com.
ABRA PAYROLL
Sage Software
Abra Payroll includes all the payroll software functionality needed by midsized organizations to process payroll on the desktop or a network. Abra Payroll includes flexible features such as unlimited earnings, taxes and deduction types, multiple user-defined pay groups, and automatic ACH files for direct deposit. Abra Payroll provides a full range of tax management capabilities, including all standard tax tables, compatibility with EFTPS, and electronic media reporting for all states. An integrated employee self-service module, Abra ESS, supports online paystubs, check history, W-2s and W-4s.
Year introduced: 1984.
Current version: 7.5.
Pricing: Single user - $2,115 (for up to 75-employee companies). Suite of core modules, including HR and Payroll - starts at $4,340.
Maint./support: Annual fee averages 20 percent to 25 percent of license price per year, includes quarterly tax and legislative updates, version upgrades, unlimited phone and Web tech support. Tech support - included in annual fee.
Training: Three-day Abra Payroll classroom training - $1,320.
Customer contact: (800) 424-9392 or info.abra@sage.com.
Web site: www.sageabra.com.
EASYPAYNET
ADP Employer Services
ADP's EasyPayNet is a Net-hosted payroll offering that streamlines data collection, calculation of payroll totals and taxes, and other payroll and employer services (such as background checks and workers' compensation). Clients can print checks, pay vouchers and reports, or have them delivered. Accountants can also use EasyPayNet to process clients' payrolls in a wholesale arrangement. EasyPayNet can be personalized with customized workflows and pay input screens, and an on-screen audit to review payroll before processing.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 5.6.
Recent notable enhancements: Suppression of Social Security numbers on employee checks, vouchers and client output; stronger user sign-on requirements; general ledger interface lets users map payroll data to their accounting application; Web-based Data Access Suite application lets accountants share payroll-related data with clients.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Included.
Customer contact: Lisa Appello lisa_appello@adp.com or (866) 4ASK-ADP.
Web site: www.accountant.adp.com.
PAYCHEX ONLINE PAYROLL
Paychex Inc.
This Internet-based program lets small to midsized businesses enter payroll, create checks, change employee records and access other payroll options at any time. With client authorization, data is also available to users' accountants. Payroll reports can be converted to PDF format, delivered online, or printed and sent to the client via mail. Paychex Online Reports offers online access to quarterly and annual state and federal tax returns, employee W-2s and employer W-3s. The product also allows payroll information to be posted directly to most accounting software.
Year introduced: 2001.
Recent notable enhancements: E-Partnership program lets accountants use Paychex Online Payroll to enter and process client payrolls.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Included. Each client is assigned a dedicated payroll specialist. Comprehensive Internet support also available.
Training: Included. Instructor-led Web seminars available.
Customer contact: (800) 322-7292 or sales@paychex.com.
Web site: www.paychex.com
PAYCYCLE ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM
PayCycle Inc.
With PayCycle's Wholesale Service, the professional becomes the payroll provider, with PayCycle acting as their online back office. With Client Retail Service, professionals can set up clients to manage payroll on their own. PayCycle bills and provides direct support to clients, while the accountant retains real-time access to their information. The all-inclusive fee includes instant paycheck calculations, free direct deposit, quarterly filings, electronic tax payments, W-2s and customer support. PayCycle also provides free resources to help firms build their payroll practice.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Additional electronic state functionality; improved integration with QuickBooks, Quicken, Microsoft Money; more professional-looking reports in Excel; new multi-user access for retail clients; time sheet to capture payday information; new practice management resources.
Pricing: Wholesale Service - $14.99 per client per month for first five employees; $0.25 per month per additional employee. Client Retail Service - $42.99 per month for first five; $1.50 per month per additional.
Maint./support: Free support with payroll experts by phone and e-mail.
Training: Free live Web seminars.
Customer contact: (866) 729-2925 or sales@paycycle.com.
Web site: www.paycycle.com.
PAYROLL CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
Payroll CS offers stand-alone payroll capabilities with the functionality required to handle payroll services for a diverse client base, from small businesses to large, complex clients. It supports multi-department, multi-state and tipped employees; an unlimited number of user-defined payroll, deduction and withholding items; unlimited checks per employee and per vendor; third-party sick pay; and over 30 customizable reports. Firms can also provide clients' employees with read-only access to electronic copies of payroll information.
Year introduced: 1998.
Current version: 2006.2.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to create direct-deposit child support payments of amounts withheld from employees; ability to change direct-deposit bank routing numbers and account numbers during remote payroll entry; W-2 Copy C for employees now includes a 2D barcode so wage data can be scanned directly into UltraTax/1040.
Pricing: $1,500.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and on-site training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.
thomson.com.
PAYROLL RELIEF AC
AccountantsWorld
Payroll Relief AC is a complete Web-based payroll processing center designed specifically to help accountants offer profitable payroll services with virtually no compliance headaches. Payroll Relief AC has automated payroll processing and gives accountants the full flexibility to work collaboratively and share responsibilities with clients. AccountantsWorld offers users extensive support to help them build a payroll practice without competing with them.
Year introduced: 2003.
Recent notable enhancements: Electronic payments for federal and state taxes and child support payments for all major states as well as client invoice payments; enhanced integration with Quickbooks and Office Accounting; ability to create customized Excel spreadsheets with payroll data fields.
Pricing: Up to five employees - starts at $5.95 per employer per weekly payroll.
Maint./support: Tech and marketing support included.
Training: Personalized training and support available. Phone, e-mail and Webinar training available.
Customer contact: Lenny Bottiglieri lbottiglieri@accountantsworld.com or (888) 999-1366.
Web site: www.accountantsworld.com.
QUICKBOOKS ENHANCED PAYROLL FOR ACCOUNTANTS
Intuit Inc.
QuickBooks Enhanced Payroll for Accountants is an all-in-one payroll service that lets accountants offer end-to-end payroll processing for their clients. With a single subscription, accountants can process payroll for up to 50 clients. The service makes it easy to calculate deductions, earnings and payroll taxes directly from QuickBooks. It also allows an accountant to print paychecks in minutes, or use optional direct deposit. In addition, the service automatically gives users the most updated federal and state tax forms and fills them out with payroll data directly from QuickBooks, and now offers an efficient method for processing after-the-fact payroll.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Consolidation and improved usability with the Payroll Center; list of important dates in the Payroll Center; scheduled payroll groups that users can create to pay different groups of employees on different timetables; after-the-fact payroll functionality; client-ready payroll reports.
Pricing: $299 per year. Direct deposit - $0.99 per paycheck, plus $3 transmission fee per payroll.
Maint./support: In-product and online help; optional phone support for set-up and usage; phone and e-mail support with a dedicated engineer; online knowledgebase.
Training: CPA-led online training seminars; interactive CD training; local one-on-one training; instructor-led seminars; QuickBooks student and instructor guides.
Customer contact: (800) 316-1365.
Web site: www.payroll.com.
SUREPAYROLL WITH SURECHOICE ACCESS FOR ACCOUNTANTS
SurePayroll Inc.
SurePayroll's SureChoice Access lets accountants view any of their clients' reports and returns in a secure online environment. SurePayroll lets accountants refer clients, or resell SurePayroll under their brand. The online service includes ClickFree tax file and pay, and protection against IRS fines; direct deposit or self-print check payment options; free, unlimited access to payroll experts; a simple three-screen payroll process; and online processing.
Year introduced: 2000.
Recent notable enhancements: Additional reports that can be saved in PDF, Microsoft Excel, RTF and print-friendly formats; online searchable database of 13 frequently requested categories; ability to manage four new 401(k) plans.
Pricing: Weekly - $17.95, plus $1.50 per employee; biweekly - $28.95, plus $1.75 per employee; monthly - $42.95, plus $1.75 per employee. W-2 prep - $40, plus $4 per employee. Accountant resellers get 10 percent off.
Maint./support: Free, unlimited phone and e-mail access to payroll specialists. Online help database.
Training: Payroll specialist walks users through enrollment process and helps run first payroll.
Customer contact: Jason Copeland jason.copeland@surepayroll.com or (847) 676-8420 ext. 7316.
Web site: www.surepayroll.com.
WINFILER PLUS W-2 & 1099 SOFTWARE
Greatland Corp.
Winfiler Plus is a comprehensive, feature-rich wage reporting software capable of filing for an unlimited amount of payers and recipients. It offers Forms W-2, W-2G, W-3, all 1099s, all 1098s, all 5498s, 940, 941, 943, 944, 945 and corrections. It also offers quarterly employment forms for 46 states. Winfiler Plus is available stand-alone and networked (ranging from three to 50 additional seats). It offers multiple printing options (blank or pre-printed forms), and magnetic media data formatting for both federal and state and e-filing.
Year introduced: 1987.
Current version: 3.07.00.
Recent notable enhancements: Expanded data importing, including for QuickBooks; paperless filing for W-2s, 1099s, 941 and Schedule B, offering options of e-filing, print and mail of recipient copies, or bulk shipping the payer file copy; unlimited e-filing option for W-2s and 1099s.
Pricing: Preprinted forms - $249; blank forms - $344. Network license and magnetic media modules available.
Maint./support: E-mail, phone support and online support knowledgebase available. Extended hours available during tax season.
Training: Getting Started Quickly Guide; program help and FAQs available online. Software support walk-through available upon request.
Customer contact: (800) 968-1099 or greatland@greatland.com.
Web site: www.winfiler.com.
XPRESSPAYROLL
CompuPay Inc.
Designed specifically for small businesses with from one to five employees, XpressPayroll includes payroll processing via the Internet; full-service tax filing, compliance and payment for all payroll taxing authorities for one state, including quarterly 941 and EOY 940; direct deposit for all employees; check and report printing on site; online paystub detail and W-2s; a general ledger link; online reports including labor and taxable wages, a payroll check register, an earnings report, a deduction register and an EFT entry register.
Year introduced: 2003.
Current version: 1.0.
Recent notable enhancements: General ledger link.
Pricing: Monthly - $32.00; biweekly and semimonthly - $50.00 per month; weekly - $79.00 per month.
Maint./support: Team of client service professionals assigned to each user.
Training: One-on-one training available.
Customer contact: (877) 729-6299 or info@compupay.com.
Web site: www.xpresspayroll.com.
PLANNING & ANALYSIS
ACCPAC BUSINESS ANALYSIS SUITE
Sage Software Inc.
The Accpac Business Analysis Suite allows Sage Accpac ERP and Sage Pro ERP clients to create an interactive financial scorecard and identify key areas for business improvement through the product's advanced goal-seeking capabilities. Clients can also generate industry benchmarks to analyze and compare selected client results, and develop "what-if" business scenarios and analyses. It consists of Accpac Comprehensive Financial Optimizer, for assessing business performance; Accpac Key Performance Indicators, for detailed comparisons between financial models, the addition of user-specific variables, and benchmarking; and Business Advisor, for generating knowledge-based reports on the data contained in CFO.
Year introduced: 2000.
Current version: 2.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Compatibility with latest versions of Sage Accpac ERP and Sage Pro ERP.
Pricing: CFO - $1,000; KPI - $1,000; Business Advisor - $500. Suite - $2,500.
Maint./support: 18 percent of cost; includes upgrades and tech support.
Training: Webinars.
Customer contact: (800) 945-8007.
Web site: www.sageaccpac.com.
CASEWARE SCENARIOS
CaseWare International Inc.
CaseWare Scenarios displays an integrated income statement, balance sheet, cash flow, business drivers and analytics on a single screen, providing a clear, concise view of a firm's performance. It then allows users to create many different scenarios using actual data or other scenarios as a starting point, incorporating "what-if" and goal-seeking functionality. Scenarios may be used to identify how firms may grow their businesses, address problems or take advantage of proposed loans, or to demonstrate how a firm has performed relative to its peers.
Year introduced: 2003.
Current version: 2006.00.
Recent notable enhancements: Break elements into multiple sub-elements to track more information.
Pricing: Single user - $199; multi-user (up to five) - $799; each additional user above five - $129; multi-user (up to 15 users) - $1,299; each additional user above 15 - $129.
Maint./support: Multi-user license renewable yearly at 50 percent of license value. Tech support included.
Training: In-house and online training and consulting.
Customer contact: (800) 267-1317 or sales@caseware.com.
Web site: www.caseware.com.
CRYSTAL REPORTS XI
Business Objects Inc.
Crystal Reports XI enables developers and other IT professionals to rapidly create flexible reports and integrate them into the Web, as well as embed reporting in enterprise applications. Report authors can use the visual report designer to design highly formatted, interactive and professional-looking reports. It includes flexible application development so that developers can leverage cross-platform support for Java, .Net, and Com development technologies. Reports are easily published to the Web, as well as exported and repurposed to the electronic formats used by most end users.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: XI.
Recent notable enhancements: Improved productivity features; new Crystal Reports Server edition for departmental enterprise reporting; enhanced data access and report design; enhanced report management and delivery.
Pricing: Starts at $495.
Maint./support: Unlimited install support, as well as interactive support for two product-related cases included. Self-serve support Web site and support resources page.
Training: From certified experts; e-learning and instructor-led courses on- or off-site available.
Customer contact: (866) 681-3435.
Web site: www.businessobjects.com.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
Financial Analysis CS is a financial analysis application that lets firms compare the financial data of their clients' businesses in order to benchmark the financial position in relation to other similar companies or to an industry standard. It allows accountants to filter clients used to evaluate financial data based on user-specified criteria, such as industry code or annual revenue, to increase the value of each comparison. Results can be communicated to clients with extensive graph and text options.
Year introduced: 2004.
Current version: 2006.2.
Recent notable enhancements: Data Exchange module for creating custom reports based on unique criteria; ability to store 10 years of financial data for clients and industries; additional dashboard portlets, including financial data and graphs.
Pricing: Starts at $600.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and on-site training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide, Walkthrough Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
IDEA - DATA ANALYSIS SOFTWARE
CaseWare IDEA Inc.
IDEA can read, display, analyze, manipulate, sample or extract from data files from almost any source, including reports printed to a file. IDEA enhances audits and helps users meet the requirements of SAS 99 and Sarbanes-Oxley 404. Smart Analyzer, an optional component for IDEA, provides users with a defined set of standard tests for journal entries, accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory and fixed assets.
Year introduced: 1987.
Current version: 7.
Recent notable enhancements: New look and feel; improved history reporting; bubble help; enhanced field statistics; integration with IDEA Server; additional equation functions; new functionality including "group records by key" and "top record extraction;" new Conclusions window; faster indexing; redesigned IDEAScript; enhancements to Pivot Table; full text search functions.
Pricing: Single user - $1,995; volume discounts available. IDEA Express - $499 per user.
Maint./support: Includes all updates and new versions, downloadable accounting software imports, access to CaseWare IDEA Web support content, phone or e-mail tech support.
Training: Classroom programs and in-house custom training available from Audimation Services.
Customer contact: Audimation Services Inc. (888) 641-2800 or info@audimation.com.
Web site: www.audimation.com.
MICROSOFT FRX
FRx Software Corp. (a Microsoft subsidiary)
Microsoft FRx is a financial reporting application for small organizations, midsized businesses and divisions of global enterprises. It pulls information already established in the general ledger, and understands fiscal periods, charts of accounts, detailed transactions and various types of balances. It also recognizes positive and negative variances and posted and unposted transactions. Integration with Microsoft Excel allows users to import the rows, columns and formulas already created in spreadsheets, with the data and formulas intact. Users can drill down to any row of their reports to access transaction-level details. A single, comprehensive report can be sent to all report reviewers.
Year introduced: 1994.
Current version: 6.7.
Recent notable enhancements: Report Wizard; Report Manager.
Pricing: Starts at $4,500.
Maint./support: Available.
Training: Available.
Customer contact: (888) 477-7989 or (303) 741-8000.
Web site: www.microsoft.com/frx.
PROFITCENTS
Sageworks Inc.
ProfitCents is a Web-based financial analysis software program that enables accountants and financial professionals to provide a written explanation of financial statements to their clients. Plain-language reports assess a client's financial performance, compare it to its industry peers and make recommendations for business improvement; over 2,000 industries are covered. ProfitCents also automates the pre-audit and review process. The suite includes modules for financial analysis of nonprofit organizations, financial planning, and a public-company analysis tool, as well as tools for forecasting/projections and a real-time, industry-specific database.
Year introduced: 2000.
Recent notable enhancements: Industry Data and Analysis for industry-specific data; Sageworks Analyst for forecasting/projections.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Free tech support and client consulting.
Training: Live, daily and pre-recorded training classes available online.
Customer contact: (877) 724-3967 ext. 2 or info@profitcents.com.
Web site: www.profitcents.com.
PROSYSTEM FX PROFIT DRIVER
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
ProSystem fx Profit Driver is a financial diagnostic and analytical solution that enables professionals to show their clients the outcomes of "what-if" scenarios and develop detailed plans for reaching goals, and allows users to compare business performance against industry standards with benchmarking data functionality. Profit Driver allows professionals to analyze financial performance for up to 40 consecutive periods and highlight key trends.
Year introduced: 2004.
Current version: 7.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Benchmarking tools; import RMA data, based on sales size, total assets size or historical data; "what-if" analysis integrated with benchmarking data; Goalseeking to identify differences between a business and industry standards and explain what drivers need to be adjusted to meet industry standards; Interactive Analysis with 12 screens and context-sensitive help.
Pricing: Stand-alone, first user - $2,350; additional users - $775 each.
Maint./support: Tech support included.
Training: Online training available.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998
Web site: www.cchgroup.com/profitdriver.
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
BILLING MATTERS 8.0/TIME MATTERS 8.0
LexisNexis
LexisNexis Time Matters manages a firm's information and activities, from critical deadlines, to e-mail, documents, research, billing and client information, and includes productivity tools, such as document automation and management, and PDA and remote laptop synchronization, as well as workflow tools such as customizable navigators and definable automated processes. Billing Matters shares the same database as Time Matters, and adds billing productivity and workflow tools such as centralized billing, a payables process manager, a definable timesheet, and demand check processing.
Year introduced: 2006.
Current version: 8.
Recent notable enhancements: Time Matters - integrates with Adobe Acrobat Reader; automatically saves attachments from Outlook e-mails; provides for every record type AutoTXT shortcuts that increase accuracy and speed. Billing Matters - includes full back-office accounting features. Both - support Windows Mobile 5.0 and Windows Mobile Smartphone, and Palm PDA and Blackberry wireless handhelds.
Pricing: Professional Edition of either product - first user, $350; additional users, $200. Enterprise Edition - first user, $700; additional users, $400.
Maint./support: Complimentary incidents of tech support in first year.
Training: Electronic user manual, CD-ROM HelpCam, Time Matters training facility, online knowledgebase, authorized consultants.
Customer contact: (800) 328-2898 ext. 6 or sales@timematters.com.
Web site: www.timematters.com.
IMAGINETIME
ImagineTime Inc.
Originally developed in 1986 as a DOS product, Imagine Time was transformed to Windows in 1997 and has since been intensely marketed by its vendor, ImagineTime Inc. (formerly Both Worlds Software Inc). It combines time and billing with practice management, contact/calendar management, due-date tracking and a Tax Tickler project/work reminder.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 5.75.
Recent notable enhancements: Interactive tutorials; enhanced Quickbooks integration; enhanced engagement budgeting and reporting; ability to e-mail invoices as PDFs; enhanced final bill procedure; more than 150 other features and client requests.
Pricing: Single user - starts at $295, including installation support. Network - starts at $495 (average price $750). Contact/calendar and due date monitor modules - single user, start at $125 and $195.
Maint./support: Silver, Gold and Platinum support plans available. Tech support - $75.00 per incident.
Training: On-site training - half day, $595.00; full day, $895.00. Remote training - $95.00 per hour. Manuals - $35.00.
Customer contact: Fred Lindsley flindsley@imaginetime.com or (828) 248-3121 ext. 204.
Web site: www.imaginetime.com.
PRACTICE CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
Practice CS is a practice management system that provides integrated workflow management with customizable digital dashboards, project management functionality, advanced time and billing features, and has all information available in a single location for fast and efficient review. As part of the CS Professional Suite, Practice CS integrates with other Thomson Creative Solutions applications and Microsoft Outlook.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 2006.2.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to create client families; enhanced Billing Compose screen; ability to edit multiple clients; enhancements to Client Dashboard Outlook Mail portlet; ability to export contacts to Microsoft Outlook; ability to process credit cards.
Pricing: Starts at $1,200.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and onsite training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide, Walkthrough Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
PROSYSTEM FX PRACTICE DRIVER
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
ProSystem fx Practice Driver is a practice management tool that gives users a dynamic view of what's working and what isn't in their practices, and what has to change and by how much to realize opportunities, avoid pitfalls and achieve goals. Practice Driver imports data from ProSystem fx Practice and other major time and billing software applications, as well as data in spreadsheet form.
Year introduced: 2004.
Current version: 4.0.
Recent notable enhancements: Modes for Analysis - user can switch from any mode to analyze production; billings, including write/up-down; open WIP; upgraded dashboard, with ability to drill into categories; produce summary info on clients and staff; charts and graphics.
Pricing: Five-user package - $995; additional users - $12.50 each.
Maint./support: Included.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://tax.cchgroup.com.
PROSYSTEM FX PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This product offers project management, marketing, data mining and integration, and utilizes the latest .Net technology to offer accountants better remote connectivity and richer reporting for improved decision-making. ProSystem fx Practice Management is designed to empower employees to manage their own time, encourage billers to bill on-screen and on-demand, and inspire partners to better analyze the firm.
Year introduced: 2005.
Current version: 2006.60.02.
Recent notable enhancements: Enhanced reporting including print any report for any date range and save report selections as the default; billing enhancements including security for on-screen billing status change, customizable staff and project tracking labels in administration.
Pricing: MSDE - five users, $2,445; each additional, $170. SQL - five users, $2,995; each additional, $185. Internet Time Entry add-on module - $90 per user.
Maint./support: First year included. Maintenance includes toll-free and online support, including 24/7 access to Solution Center knowledgebase.
Training: Classroom, regional, Web-based and on-site training options.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://tax.cchgroup.com.
TIMESLIPS BY SAGE 2007
Sage Software Inc.
An industry-leading time and billing solution for more than 20 years, Timeslips by Sage works for any business that bills for its services, from sole practitioners to small to midsized service firms with multiple timekeepers.
Year introduced: 1985.
Current version: 2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to create slips by e-mail and determine which slips should be included on bills through slip approval; improved integration with QuickBooks; a custom bill cover page to summarize billing details; improved spell checking with added grammar check; scheduled back-ups.
Pricing: Single user - $449.99; five seats - $799.99; 10 seats - $1,449.99.
Maint./support: 30 days free support for new customers. Unlimited phone support - single user, $229; network, $349.
Training: Training guides, Sage Software Small Business Division certified consultants.
Customer contact: (800) 285-0999 or tssales@sagesoftware.com.
Web site: www.timeslips.com
TAX PLANNING & PREPARATION
BNA INCOME TAX PLANNER WITH FIFTY STATES
BNA Software
The BNA Income Tax Planner streamlines and simplifies individual income tax forecasting and analysis. Users can create client presentations, complete with letters and graphics. The program computes federal and state individual income taxes from 1987 on. Users can project taxes for 10 years, 10 scenarios or any combination of the two, up to 10 columns. The program handles all filing statuses and even calculates the income tax liability for trusts and estates.
Year introduced: 1984.
Current version: 2006.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Tax and legislative updates.
Pricing: Single user - Federal with Fifty States, $835; federal-only, $525.
Maint./support: Federal with Fifty States edition - $625 annual renewal; federal-only - $415 annual renewal. Toll-free tech support included.
Training: Fee-based courses.
Customer contact: (800) 424-2938 opt. 3 or software@bna.com.
Web site: www.bnasoftware.com.
CROSSLINK 1040
Petz Enterprises Inc.
CrossLink 1040 is tax compliance software for federal and all states, e-filing and bank products. The Work In Progress screen organizes and provides instant access to all returns from one location, while the Point and Shoot error-correction feature provides a link directly to the location of a problem with an explanation of the error.
Year introduced: 1990.
Current version: 2007.01.
Recent notable enhancements: Electronic filing of extensions; enhanced security at the preparer/data entry level; increased Zip code handling; enhanced CrossLink back-up by allowing scheduling; enhanced client letter functionality for cities; enhanced user-configurable reporting; expansion of CrossLink calendar to internal appointment tracking; enhanced ability to de-queue a return before transmission to central site; ability to re-sort Return Listing columns to user preference.
Pricing: Federal 1040, first year - $695.00; renewal price - starts at $695. Varies depending on options/modules.
Maint./support: 24/7 tech support during tax season included.
Training: Free during off-season.
Customer contact: Chip Coakley ccoakley@petzent.com or (800) 345-4337 ext. 2301.
Web site: www.petzent.com.
DRAKE SOFTWARE
Drake Software Inc.
Drake's tax suite includes over 6,000 forms and schedules; all state software packages; free electronic filing for individual and business returns; bank product software backed by four different bank partners; an integrated seven-year tax planner; paperless office; an appointment scheduler; an electronic training center with free CPE; real-time Web-based practice management reporting, and more. Drake includes free preparer Web sites, complete with online filing capabilities. Conversions from most software are also included.
Year introduced: 1977.
Current version: 2005.
Recent notable enhancements: Electronic Training Center, including some tutorials in Spanish.
Pricing: $1,395; early season discounts available. Pay-per-return and multi-site pricing also available.
Maint./support: Phone support, online knowledgebase and in-season tax updates included.
Training: Fall Update School, Electronic Training Center with free CPE, online knowledgebase.
Customer contact: (800) 890-9500 or john.sapp@drakesoftware.com.
Web site: www.drakesoftware.com.
GOSYSTEM TAX AND GOSYSTEM TAX RS
Thomson Tax & Accounting
GoSystem Tax/GoSystem Tax RS is a hosted tax compliance system serving the professional market. GoSystem handles any type of return, from the basic individual tax return to the most sophisticated multi-tiered corporate consolidation. Timesaving features include flexible data conferencing, built-in e-filing, multi-level security, comprehensive review tools, advanced data exchange options, tax equalization calculations for expatriates, and more. The system integrates with a number of Thomson products, including Tax Alerts, which searches through returns to note which clients are affected by current tax changes.
Year introduced: 1993.
Recent notable enhancements: New interface and Web service; ability to convert partnership to new modernized e-file format; ability to add Schedule M-3 to 1065, 1120S, 1120-PC and 1120-L; ability to add e-file capability of life and property and casualty insurance returns.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: On-site - $2,000 per day; regional training - $295 per seat; Web-based training available.
Customer contact: (800) 726-1040.
Web site: www.gosystem.thomson.com.
GREAT TAX PROFESSIONAL TAX SOFTWARE
Greatland Corp.
Great Tax offers several different packages: Silver, Gold and Platinum packages are available, which include unlimited federal and state e-filing, as well as bank product participation. Great Tax supports federal individual, state and business tax return preparation and offers free online conversions from other tax packages. Key features include easy data input, multi-state processing, seamless integration of e-filing and bank products, and an online E-File Center.
Year introduced: 2003.
Current version: 2006.00.
Recent notable enhancements: Enhanced E-File Center; added security features; expanded support of federal and state business e-filing.
Pricing: From $380 to $2,560. Early action discounts available.
Maint./support: Free online updates; online searchable knowledgebase; e-mail and phone support.
Training: Pre-release program available in early December. Tutorial and help files available.
Customer contact: (800) 968-1099.
Web site: www.greattaxpro.com.
INTELLITAX FOR WINDOWS
Orrtax Software Solutions Inc.
IntelliTax for Windows provides an integrated solution for individual and business tax prep for federal and state returns, e-filing and bank product applications. Whether for a small tax prep business or for managing multiple offices, IntelliTax includes tax prep features (like Tax Snapshot for estimating a return and net refund amount) as well as business management features (such as Client Organizer for managing pertinent client information). The Launch Pad provides one-click access to existing returns or creation of new returns, client profiles, reports, e-filing, check printing and more. After completing a tax return, a single screen allows review and corrections on the form.
Year introduced: 2001.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Built-in Auto Updates; Integrated Invoice and Payment Tracking System; prior-year debt notification; EIN Database Manager; integrated federal and state business tax returns.
Pricing: 1040 - $495; Premier - $995. Business module add-on - $300. Seasonal discounts available.
Maint./support: Phone, e-mail and online knowledgebase.
Training: Online and hands-on classroom training; training manuals.
Customer contact: (800) 337-7773 or sales@orrtax.com.
Web site: www.orrtax.com.
LACERTE
Intuit Inc.
Lacerte offers a comprehensive list of worksheets, schedules and forms, advanced functionality and in-depth calculations, as well as integration with other Lacerte products. Designed for the year-round, multiple-person accounting firm that offers a full-range of professional services, Lacerte handles a variety of calculations, including complex tax situations. It features tools such as the Missing Data Utility, Tax Analyzer and Client Tracker.
Year introduced: Acquired by Intuit in 1998.
Current version: 2006/2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Return review navigation changes; K-1 input screen redesign; 1099-R input screen redesign; depreciation schedule changes; forms availability improvements; e-file addition and 2D barcode; install game changer; speed and performance improvements.
Pricing: Starts at $2,140; unlimited-use or pay-per-return options.
Maint./support: Toll-free support, e-mail and Web site support, in-program help, Help Me option with screen-specific topics, IRS instruction per form.
Training: Intuit Electronic Filing Center, tutorials, live seminars and Webinars, video lessons.
Customer contact: (800) 933-9999.
Web site: www.lacertesoftware.com.
MAX
ATX/Kleinrock from CCH
MAX provides over 10,000 calculating individual and business forms - federal, state, city and locality, plus special use and annual forms. It includes unlimited returns with free, unlimited e-filing.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Ability to import QuickBooks and Peachtree accounting data into individual and business returns; added billing functionality; new notes feature; ability to mark fields as estimated; new data input validation process; support for instant refund anticipation loans.
Pricing: Standard three-user - $1,065; four or more users - $1,597.50.
Maint./support: Toll-free support and MyATX.com.
Training: Training video included, in-program tutorials, user's guide, regular Web-based training.
Customer contact: (877) 728-9776 or sales@atxinc.com.
Web site: www.atxinc.com.
PROSERIES PROFESSIONAL EDITION
Intuit Inc.
Intuit's ProSeries Professional Edition is specifically built to meet the needs of the year-round sole proprietor/small business that provides tax, accounting and other financial services. ProSeries Professional helps prepare, review and file tax returns with a comprehensive series of forms and schedules. Flexible data entry options, including forms or worksheet-based methods, allow for quick input of client data.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 2006/2007.
Recent notable enhancements: Forms Bar; error checking; Where Do I Enter tool; continued e-filing expansion - 1065 and state business form sets; improved PDF cababilities.
Pricing: PowerTax - $3,999; PowerTax Lite - $2,649; 1040 Complete - $999.
Maint./support: Toll-free tech support; 24-hour support during key days of last week of tax season; online support.
Training: Webcasts and teleseminars; live seminars and Webinars; case studies.
Customer contact: (800) 934-1040.
Web site: www.proseries.com.
PROSYSTEM FX TAX
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
CCH's ProSystem fx Tax provides capabilities for all types of federal and state returns, including individual, partnership, corporation, fiduciary, estate and gift, deferred compensation, and exempt organization. It performs automatic calculations, overrides and optimizations for every federal and state return. The diagnostic system tests for omissions and inconsistencies, and intuitive navigation panels, pop-up menus and "forms-stepping" features allow quick navigation through a return. The e-filing module enables individual, business and specialty electronic filing. It also integrates with CCH's Client Relate, which alerts practitioners as to which of their clients are affected by recent tax changes
Year introduced: 1990.
Current version: 2005.06000.
Recent notable enhancements: Over 100 new federal forms, state forms and worksheets; updated depreciation and depletion reports; new Internet-based e-filing status system; new integration with CCH @Hand; integration with Wolters Kluwer BasisPro Cost Basis analyzer.
Pricing: Starts at $995.
Maint./support: Annual renewal. Tech support included.
Training: Annual tax update seminars, Web-based training, on-site options.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://www.cchgroup.com/tax.
PROSYSTEM GLOBAL FX
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
Global fx is CCH's Web-based environment that provides firms with 24/7 access to ProSystem fx Tax, the cornerstone of the ProSystem fx Office suite of tax and accounting software tools. Global fx provides enhanced workflow flexibility and control, offers multi-office functionality and allows professionals to access other ProSystem fx programs.
Year introduced: 2002.
Current version: 2005.06010.
Recent notable enhancements: Enhanced electronic filing.
Pricing: Annual - $25 per user; seasonal - $50 per user.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Contact vendor.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://tax.cchgroup.com.
TAX$IMPLE
Tax$imple Inc.
This form-based, menu-driven software for 1040, 1120, 1120S, 1065, 1041, 706, 709 and 990 returns with fully integrated federal, state and city packages contains depreciation and passive activity modules, penalty calculations, and automatic generation of forms for federal and state returns, as well as enhanced diagnostics, tax practice management, client management, labels, transmittal letters, invoices and utilities. Preparers can use pay-per-return. E-filing is available for all the states.
Year introduced: 1983.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Bigger icons; 32 new business packages; Tax Practice Management based on Crystal Reports; incorporation of paperless office technology; enhanced information transfer on state returns; ability to print personalized K-1 letters for each partner; more e-filing states; additional capabilities to access EF results on the Internet; new report displays tax returns pending more than 48 hours.
Pricing: Single user - $300 to $3,000; multi-user - 20 percent additional. Starter package - 50 percent off. Avg. price per module - $250; core suite - $795 to $3,000.
Maint./support: Free.
Training: Free seminars, free last year's program to practice, over-the-phone sessions.
Customer contact: (800) 989-8955 or support@taxsimple.com.
Web site: www.taxsimple.com.
TAXWISE
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
TaxWise is a professional tax preparation program for the completion of all federal and state personal, business and specialty tax returns. TaxWise also offers a suite of integrated accounting solutions, including client write-up, fixed asset, trial balance and payroll programs, as well as research and tax planning products, stored-value cards for receiving tax refunds, fee-collection products and tax return warranties.
Year introduced: 1986
Current version: 21.0.
Recent notable enhancements: New user interface for online training system; new Document Manager software; expanded Spanish-language tax forms and help; Tax Update Newsletter with research from CCH; display multiple tax returns simultaneously; new "what-if" feature; unlimited number of state returns with corporation and partnership returns; expanded electronic filing for state business returns; consolidated 1120 returns.
Pricing: Starts at $300.
Maint./support: Toll-free customer and tech support in English and Spanish, seven days a week during peak season.
Training: Free new-user orientation and conversion support; free online training; free streaming video programs; Training Electronic Filing Center; GetWise Fall Seminars in 35 cities; training Webinars; practice returns included in software.
Customer contact: (800) 755-9473 or sales@taxwise.com.
Web site: www.taxwise.com.
TAXWORKS
TaxWorks
TaxWorks has been in the tax prep business for 34 years. It offers an entire library of tax programs, including programs for the 1040, 1041, 1065, 1120, 1120S, 706, 709, 990 and 5500.
Year introduced: 1972.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Improvements to electronic general ledger program and ArkWorks paperless archiving system; added Ohio Marriage Filing Joint/Split return; ability to add numerous categories to Client Selection Screen; extra security measures; addition of more state business programs.
Pricing: Single and multi-user - $1,195; starter package - $400. Core modules 1040, 1041, 1065, 1120, 1120S and all available states - $3,195.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Training seminars each December.
Customer contact: (800) 230-2322 or sales@taxworks.com.
Web site: www.taxworks.com.
ULTRATAX CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
UltraTax CS provides a family of products to accommodate tax preparation needs, including a full line of 1040, 1041, 1065, 1120, 1120S, 1120 Consolidated, 5500, 706, 709, 990 and 5500 returns for federal and state, in addition to a variety of city, county, personal and property tax returns.
Year introduced: 1996.
Current version: 2006.1.
Recent notable enhancements: Move to .Net platform; user interface enhancements; increased state electronic filing capabilities for business returns; 1120 states planned - Ariz., Colo., Ill., Ind., La., N.D., N.J., N.Y. and Pa.; 1041 e-filing for states where it is mandated; expanded integration with PPC Deskbooks; ability to produce landscape-style slip sheets.
Pricing: 1040 Federal - starts at $2,000.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and onsite training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide, Walkthrough Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
TAX RESEARCH
CCH ACCOUNTING RESEARCH MANAGER
CCH, A Wolters Kluwer business
Acounting Research Manager is an online database of accounting, auditing, SEC and governmental material and interpretive guidance. It provides links to authoritative and proposal-stage literature, plus in-depth interpretations from experts. ARM's Weekly Summary is an e-mail newsletter that outlines accounting, auditing, SEC and governmental changes. ARM's What's New Checklist is a three-month rolling checklist of recent changes in U.S. and international accounting principles.
Year introduced: 1998.
Recent notable enhancements: Continuous content additions/updates; bundling/integration enhancements.
Pricing: From $795 to $3,760.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Free online webinar.
Customer contact: (800) 872-2454 or cust_serv@cch.com.
Web site: www.accountingresearchmanager.com.
CCH TAX RESEARCH NETWORK
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This Web-based platform allows users to access more than 100 research sources covering federal, state, international and estate taxes; sales tax items; financial planning; business entity planning; and pension/payroll issues. It includes e-mail news notification, a customized desktop, express log-in, a browser toolbar, a client letter toolkit, unclaimed property look-up, IRS actuarial factors, interactive research aids, tools, calculators and forms.
Year introduced: 1997.
Current version: 18.
Recent notable enhancements: New Smart Charts; new interactive research aids; expansion of international, federal and state content; eight new integrated library products; integration with BNA content; and new CCH@Hand functionality.
Pricing: Varies; single user - starts at $199; multi-user - 1.1 to 1.5 times single user, based on network size.
Maint./support: No annual fees. Tech support included.
Training: Online and offline - $75 for 2-1/2 hours for new users; on-site - $350 for half day.
Customer contact: (800) 449-8114.
Web site: http://tax.cchgroup.com.
CHECKPOINT
Thomson Tax & Accounting
Checkpoint is an online platform that provides analysis, insight, commentary and workflow tools, with the leading accounting, auditing and tax brands on one platform covering domestic and international topics. The platform integrates PPC's complete line of accounting and auditing guidance with e-Practice Aids, WG&L and SEC materials, and includes RIA, WG&L and PPC products, and many third-party alliance partners such as BNA, IBFD, AICPA, FASB, GASB, SEC, PCAOB, IASB and more.
Year introduced: 1997.
Recent notable enhancements: Redesigned Checkpoint Home tab; Sarbanes-Oxley Reporter Service; Accounting Research and Guidance Solution; PPC's Guide to Audit Risk Assessment and Smart e-Practice Aids - Risk Assessment; Towers Perrin Executive Compensation; CPE and training solutions.
Pricing: Contact vendor.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: On-site, virtual classroom and Web-based training, and regional seminars.
Customer contact: (800) 950-1216.
Web site: http://ria.thomson.com.
ONEDISC PREMIUM FEDERAL RESEARCH LIBRARY
Tax Analysts
The OneDisc Premium Federal Research Library on DVD has 3 gigabytes of source documents in more than 40 databases, including the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; final, temporary and proposed regs; revenue rulings and procedures; announcements and notices; private letter rulings; all chief counsel advice including technical advice memorandums; tax legislation including bill text, committee reports and JCT explanations; IRS publications; the Internal Revenue Manual; U.S. tax treaties and related documents; and 100,000-plus full-text court cases (including every Tax Court decision) with parallel citations. It also offers numerous easy-to-use search options.
Year introduced: 2004.
Recent notable enhancements: Search All feature in court opinions and chief counsel databases.
Pricing: OneDisc Premium - monthly updates, $359 per year; quarterly updates, $339 per year. Discounts for multiple copies.
Maint./support: Toll-free and e-mail customer/tech support.
Training: On-disc audio tutorial.
Customer contact: (800) 647-2883 or cservice@tax.org.
Web site: www.taxanalysts.com.
PORTFOLIOS LIBRARY
BNA Tax Management Inc.
This research program, available on the Web, on CD-ROM and in print, combines over 400 practitioner-authored Portfolios covering virtually every aspect of federal, state and international taxation. Its practice tools include model documents; sample plans; federal and state forms and sample contracts; primary sources, including code, regulations and federal cases back to 1913; and daily tax news and journals.
Year introduced: Portfolios - 1959. Integrated version - 2001.
Recent notable enhancements: Improved search functions.
Pricing: Starts at $1,829.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Express Training; instructor-led Web-based training; self-serve training modules; BNA Tax Management Library User's Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 372-1033 or tm@bna.com.
Web site: www.library.bnatax.com.
TAX PRACTICE LIBRARY
BNA Tax Management Inc.
The Tax Practice Library is available on the Web and CD-ROM, and distills the analysis and insights of expert practitioners into practical answers on a wide range of tax questions. It offers hundreds of business-building productivity tools, including client letters, primary sources, and news and notification.
Year introduced: 2001.
Recent notable enhancements: Search improvements.
Pricing: Starts at $870.
Maint./support: Included.
Training: Express Training; instructor-led Web-based training; self-serve training modules; BNA Tax Management Library User's Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 372-1033 or tm@bna.com.
Web site: www.library.bnatax.com.
TOTAL KLEINROCK OFFICE
ATX/Kleinrock from CCH
Total Kleinrock Office is a tax research service that includes expert analysis and practice aids, comprehensive federal and state primary source materials, and lots of practical compliance and reference guides. It even includes 60 hours worth of tax CPE courses. Among its resources are the Employment TaxExpert; a comprehensive forms library; a Quick Answers Library; and the CCH Master Tax Guide: Kleinrock Edition.
Year introduced: 2003.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: CCH Master Tax Guide.
Pricing: Standard three-user version - $660; four or more users - $990. Network pricing varies.
Maint./support: Toll-free support; online product delivery, account maintenance, support and community site.
Training: Training video included, in-program tutorials, User's Guide, regular Web-based training.
Customer contact: (877) 728-9776 or sales@atxinc.com.
Web site: www.kleinrock.com.
TRIAL BALANCE
CASEWARE WORKING PAPERS
CaseWare International Inc.
From an imported trial balance, Working Papers generates working papers, GAAP financials and all required work programs and supporting documents for any engagement. Its exporting capability allows users to download directly to tax software. Working Papers improves electronic review with real-time updates, full annotation capabilities, task management and version control at the document, cell and account level. From the financial statement, users can drill down through the supporting schedules and documents all the way to the detailed data. With its document management software system, users can organize all documents related to an engagement in one area.
Year introduced: 1988.
Current version: 2006.
Recent notable enhancements: Lockdown to comply with regulatory requirements; ability to store Outlook e-mails (and other Outlook objects) on the document manager; centralized protection and Windows Active Directory integration; scanning and annotation of images from within Working Papers; document library.
Pricing: Single user - $499; up to five users - $1,399; each additional user over five - $260.
Maint./support: 50 percent of license per year. Tech support included.
Training: In-house for up to 12 people - $2,100 per day. Classroom and online training sessions available.
Customer contact: (800) 267-1317 or sales@caseware.com.
Web site: www.caseware.com.
PROSYSTEM FX ENGAGEMENT
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This paperless engagement tool leverages an integrated electronic workpaper and trial balance system built from the ground up on Microsoft Word and Excel. It allows users to manage all engagement-related tasks and experience the benefits of a paperless office.
Year introduced: 1999.
Current version: 4.5.1.
Recent notable enhancements: M-3 balances transfer to ProSystem fx Tax; Global Profile Management enhancements; 45/60-day audit documentation enhancements; import balances from one TB to another.
Pricing: Single-user TB and workpaper management license - $1,200; additional TB and workpaper management licenses - $500; additional workpaper management license only - $275.
Maint./support: Tech support included.
Training: On-site full-day training - $2,500, plus expenses. Web-based full-day training - $1,875; multi-client training sessions - $375.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://cchgroup.com/engagement.
PROSYSTEM FX TRIAL BALANCE
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
This solution from the ProSystem fx Office Suite allows users to streamline compilations, reviews and audits and produce accurate financial statements and a solid set of workpapers. Trial Balance offers multi-user access, supports various entries, provides access to source journals, and supports nonprofit and consolidated corporation engagements. It also predefines industry features, holds templates for new companies, and has a client file conversion.
Year introduced: 1996.
Current version: 2005.A01.
Pricing: First user - $1,200; concurrent users - $195 each.
Maint./support: Annual fees and renewal.
Training: Web-based or on-site.
Customer contact: (800) PFX-9998.
Web site: http://cchgroup.com/trialbalance.
TRIAL BALANCE CS
Thomson Creative Solutions
With Trial Balance CS, users can import balances from a spreadsheet or QuickBooks Pro, custom-design the sequence of columns and rows in the trial balance grid, and add custom workpaper references and tickmarks to indicate the review status of accounts. Trial Balance CS offers flexible sorting capabilities, customizable financial statement formatting, and unique split screens that display the trial balance view. Users can record journal entries right on the same screen, and see the effects instantly.
Year introduced: 2000.
Current version: 2006.2.
Recent notable enhancements: Mark AJE's as recurring, recurring template or reversing; assign categories to grouping codes and print reports based on grouping category.
Pricing: Starts at $600.
Maint./support: Support contracts available. Otherwise, $18 per 10-minute increment.
Training: Hands-on classroom training, teletraining, Web-based and onsite training, Getting Started Guide, Tutorial Guide, Walkthrough Guide.
Customer contact: (800) 968-0600 or cs.support@thomson.com.
Web site: http://creativesolutions.thomson.com.
