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Access launches online version of Dimensions

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24th Oct 2006
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Access Accounts has returned to the market for hosted accounting applications with Access Dimensions Online, a version of its flagship program adapted to run over the web. John Stokdyk reports.

The suite includes all of the modules available within Dimensions, including project accounting, the Executive Desktop reporting module, alerts, along with all of the security and access controls of the client/server edition.

Unlike systems installed on customers' networks, Dimensions Online is supported by a remote disaster recovery site to save and restore online clients' data.

Access has been here before with Dimensions.NET. Like many hosted applications, it failed to set the accounting world alight when it was launched, but Access marketing director Barry Anderson said the company decided to revive its hosting strategy after seeing the rise of software as a service start-ups and the arrival of hosted versions of Sage 50 and IRIS Accounts Office Online.

"It's not something our existing customers have been breaking our door down for, but it offers an alternative to customers who want a hosted alternatives, for all sorts of reasons," said Anderson.

Having Dimensions "on tap" provided a flexible tool for companies that have to deal with seasonal fluctuations in their accounting and cash collection workloads. "With a hosted system you can flex the staff complement with people working remotely and bring the numbers back down when work tails off," he said.

"If you look at technology trends it's sensible to assume that net-based access will become more prevalent. We reckon critical mass will be reached at some point and there will be a business (solution) opportunity," Anderson said.

Whenever a software developer that supplies packaged applications moves into software as a service, the pundits zero on its ability to adapt its business model - if it expects to realise the returns it gets from client/server applications, it risks being undercut by cheaper and newer suites. But if it prices the online service too competitively, it could into its traditional revenue base.

Access also relies heavily on independent resellers to sell and support Dimensions Online - and resellers could lose out if a lot of users migrate to the online edition sold and supported by Access itself.

Access said however that the online Dimensions service would be a "consultancy-led offering" delivered via resellers. Anderson said the company had reviewed its licence structure very carefully, but Access would not publicise specific price points, as the costs would depend on the individual organisation's requirements.

"We want to try to make it attractive to users, while making sure it's viable for partners as well," Anderson said.

"When you deliver software through the client/server sales model, many elements of the business are more than just software - there's project management, training and other services. To contrast capital sales and SaaS and say the former doesn't have a service element is not a viable argument."

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Replies (5)

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By User deleted
27th Oct 2006 07:26

Transparent Pricing ...
Why is a lack of transparent pricing so often the case?

Possibly one issue with companies such as this is that they sell products via agents/consultants and not directly. Therefore a simple product turns into a 'pricing hydra' because of all the VAR's in the loop!

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By carnmores
24th Oct 2006 19:25

well
how much then?

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By jacp400
24th Oct 2006 21:49

Drop me an email
Hi Nicholas

There's too much information to put in a post, plus a couple of attachments which I doubt I could put on here. Also, it's way past my bedtime.

Drop me an email at [email protected] and I'll reply by return with details of the service and pricing.

Regards

John Clough
BDO Stoy Hayward LLP

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By jacp400
27th Oct 2006 10:48

Published Price List
Unlike many authors, Access have a published price list.

It's not that complicated, just a cost per module, then add on your user packs and youre there. Not quite as simple as SAP Business One but easier than Pegasus or Sage MMS, and way easier than Navision used to be.

I guess the reluctance to provide a price is that the software, services, and licence will vary considerably between a single user financials and 50 user with all the modules.

Regards

John Clough
BDO Stoy Hayward

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By paulcartwright
31st May 2007 17:06

HIGH PRICES FOR DIMENSIONS ONLINE
I cannot believe the high price I have been quoted for Access Dimensions Online by an Access dealer

Upfront Fee £3550

Then for the basic bundle + 3 Modules £240 per user per month +£70 hosting Fee.

So for 4 users I am looking at in excess of £12k per annum + £3.5k upfront.

Access appear to be a well marketed company, but these prices are completely unrealistic.

Can anyone confirm or otherwise

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