WIP Software

WIP Software

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The practice is using Star Professional v 6 from Star Computers Ltd - but not the SQL version.

To upgrade to the SQL version is £3,500 to include 1 day install, 1 day training and other "minor costs". In addition, annual maintenance is £596.

Anyone have suggestions on other software that might be a reasonable replacement.

Key indicators of the practice:
1 - 20% of income is on standing order and I would like to move this closer to 50%.
2 - Hence handling of standing orders through WIP system is important.
3 - Sales of £400k with WIP less than £2k so effective monitoring of work load and billing is important.
4 - PBT reaching 50% and looking to improve on this in 2007.

Your advice and guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks,

David Hunter

David Hunter

Replies (4)

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By Ian P Thompson
29th Jan 2007 10:40

Clarification
To be clear about the figures Mr Hunter has been given, I think the £3,500 he refers to is for four days services time, not all of which is directly related to upgrading to SQL but includes a number of other activities. As follows:

Database upgrade from Access to SQL
Half a day installation plus half a day on site training
One day training (on site or off site)
Custom design of Fee Notes and Statements – one day

The SQL referred to is MS SQL Express 2005. Also, Star Professional is a combined WIP and Fees system, not just WIP.

The proposal also includes upgrading the system from a single user configuration to a network license and the training proposed includes training time to assist in the change in working practices that this involves.

The reason I can be so certain is that it is me who quoted Mr Hunter.

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By listerramjet
29th Jan 2007 11:15

Ian's analysis
does indicate that the upgrade costs noted are for more than just an upgrade.

My knowledge of Star comes from implementing and administering it in a multi site environment: i.e. I was a customer. For the price it is a very good tool, and at the time (c 4 years ago) there was not much to touch it.

David - it is interesting that the quote caused you to question the software. Do you have other concerns about it or is this just a gulp at the SQL upgrade cost? Does it help if you break the cost into upgrade and improvement?

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By listerramjet
26th Jan 2007 14:06

you might
want to challenge them on £3,500 for two days work. Sounds like you are getting the cut down version of SQL - I would expect the annual licence for full blown SQL server to be more than £596. I understood that the cut down version was free.

You might find that the costs of changing your software are considerably more than £3,500 plus £600 per annum. Star v6 is a good product. It is easy to use, and has considerable configurable power. Don't forget to factor in the training costs, and any costs of changing processes. You might then work out why they are charging so much for 2 days work!

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By User deleted
26th Jan 2007 15:41

Have a look at ...
http://www.journyx.com/

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