Solution Strategists Newsletter The Accounting Software Experts   --   Solutions from the Strategists
Fall 2002
Inside this Issue:
  • New Features in MAS 90/200 Version 3.70
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Pooped Out from Pop-Ups?
  • 'Tis the Season
  • New Features in MAS 90/200 Version 3.70

    MAS 90/200 version 3.70 provides several new enhancements. If you are on a current Sage Subscription Plan, you automatically received this release as part of the plan. With the addition of the Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) module, the total number of modules available exceeds 25.

    Accounts Receivable
    Credit cards may now be accepted for invoice payment during cash receipts entry. Also, multiple credit card numbers for each customer can be stored in Customer Maintenance. The billing addresses for each card can be retained for verification and security purposes. This new functionality makes it easier and more efficient to accept credit card payments from your customers. Also, customers who need to maintain cash receipts history will have the option not to purge the Monthly Cash Receipts file during Period End Processing.

    Accounts Payable
    If a vendor (i.e., Amex) is paid by credit card, MAS 90/200 will retain the details and history of the transaction with the actual vendor that originated the charge, not with the credit card vendor. Another new feature allows customers who print checks from more than one bank account, to set the default form for checks by the bank code and to retain the last bank code used when checks are printed.

    Inventory Warranty Tracking
    Warranty tracking allows distributors to apply warranties to items sold and to automatically track warranty expiration dates for inventory items. Warranty codes can be set up for a variety of warranty periods and applied to each inventory item sold. In addition, a manufacturer's warranty can be assigned to each vendor's item. This new feature can be used with or without the new Return Merchandise Authorization module. However, if it is used in conjunction with RMA, the operator is alerted of any expired warranties on returned items and can extend the warranty on an item.

    Introducing the new Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) module
    Adding new functionality to the wholesale distribution series, the RMA module can be utilized to enter, track and administer customer returns. Key to the RMA process is the return reason codes used for reports and helps to identify problems. Customers can request a credit on their account; receive replacement items or return items for repair. Items can be returned to stock, returned to the vendor for repair or replacement, repaired in-house or scrapped. The RMA module also provides the option to calculate restocking charges and process RMA receipts in batches. Warranty codes can be attached to inventory items, so customer service representatives will know immediately if an item is still under warranty. If you have been looking for a more streamlined way of processing and managing your returns, consider adding the RMA module.

    Compatibility with Other Sage Products
    With all new versions of the software, there are always questions about integration. Both the ABRA HR (human resource) Interface and FAS (fixed assets) have been tested and released with version 3.70. FAS contains features to support the latest tax laws. Current releases of report writers; such as, Crystal Reports, FRx Desktop and F9 are also 3.70 compatible. Other solutions, including the ACT! Link, Business Alerts and SalesLogix, will be upgraded to feature new functionality and to integrate features of the RMA module. A new version of the PC Charge Payment Server, released with 3.70 has been designed to make end-of-day processing easier for users. The current version of StarShip will continue to be compatible with the new release, as well.

    For more information on version 3.70, the RMA module or any additional information, please contact Trish Proudman, your Account Manager.


    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Transaction Date (or) System Date, Run Date, and Invoice Date?
    Transaction Date (or) System Date is the date the update is performed. (Accounting date used to post to the General Ledger.) Run Date is the date the reports are printed. Invoice Date is the date used for aging invoices.

    Why doesn't my Accounts Payable Aged Invoice Report balance to the General Ledger?
    The Aged Invoice Report uses the invoice date (or due date) for its calculations. The GL posting uses the Transaction Date/System Date. The difference between the GL and the Aged Invoice Report is caused by an invoice date that falls in one accounting period and a System Date that falls in another accounting period. To confirm this, print the AP Trial Balance Report. If it balances to the GL, your modules are in balance because invoices were updated with a system date in a period that is different from the invoice date.

    Why am I getting data corruption?
    Data corruption in Windows 98 when using a Realtek Network Adapter Driver causes Error 47, Error 105, Error 107, Error 109, Error 112, Error 114, and Error 117. Use the appropriate Windows 98 driver. If a Realtek Adapter is being used, the latest drivers should be downloaded from:
    http://www.realtek.com.tw/downloads/downloads.aspx. Solution Strategists LLC cannot guarantee nor be responsible for the content of third party Internet sites. Contact the Webmaster for that site with any questions or problems.

    Slow performance and/or errors when anti-virus programs are running.
    You may experience slow performance, Error 12, Error 0, or Invalid handles, when an anti-virus program is running with MAS 90/200. Recommended settings for MAS 90/200: Set the AV to only scan program files, or to ignore *.SOA files. Only set AV to scan during initial workstation boot up, so it doesn't interfere with normal operations. Set to "prompt for action" rather than delete or rename the file. These are only recommended settings. Other factors may be involved that require different settings.

    Norton Antivirus 2001 has a checkbox named 'SmartScan Technology'. This feature has been reported to cause serious performance issues in MAS 90/200. Disable (uncheck) this checkbox. If performance improves, contact Symantic for a possible workaround. Solution Strategists LLC cannot assist in this task and we are not currently aware of any workaround.

    Why doesn't my module date change daily?
    Each workstation maintains a personal preference. One preference is to have MAS 90/200 prompt for the accounting date the first time a user accesses a module that day. Within MAS 90/200, select File | Preference. In version 3.60 and above, select the System Prefs, tab number 4. Under the Dates section of the box, mark the check box for Prompt for Module Date. Select Accept. In versions 3.51 and below, select the Windows Prefs tab. Under the User Settings section of the box, mark the check box for Prompt for Module Date. Select Accept.

    What is the correct procedure to delete a deposit in process?
    What you don't know is that during data entry an invisible field called Paid Today (located in the Customer Open Invoice file layout) is populated. If the deposit is incorrectly deleted, this field is not released and you will be unable to post a cash receipt to an invoice. To correctly delete a deposit, you must delete each line item (entry) first, then the deposit. In version 3.70, when you select Delete, you are now prompted to "Delete this Distribution?"


    Pooped Out from Pop-Ups?

    Are you overrun with the annoying pop-up windows that take over your Internet browsing experience? These pop-up windows enter your screen unannounced and seem to take over. Created by the now "desperate for a revenue stream" Internet companies, pop-ups are the latest Internet advertising method. If that is not enough, there are now ads that block the article that you are trying to read for a few seconds or the ad floats annoyingly across the screen. There is help! A variety of software products are available to stop the pop ups from taking over. Check out the following sites and their products. Each one has a slightly different feature set and ways to customize tools to best fit your browsing needs.

    Adsubtract: www.adsubtract.com
    Popup Killers: www.stopzilla.com
    Popup Stopper: www.panicware.com


    'Tis the Season

    The holidays will soon be upon us, giving us the opportunity to remember those in need. This year, Solution Strategists has decided to help a select group of non-profit organizations. Instead of sending out holiday greeting cards, we will be donating those dollars instead. We hope to do this annually, focusing on a different group each year.

    A Note from Art

    Another year is quickly winding down. For SSI, that means preparing for year-end closes. Be sure to look for our Special Edition Year-End Tips Newsletter, being released in December .

    *
    We hope that those of you who have not yet upgraded to the latest version will call to schedule. This way, you'll be able to take advantage of the newest features.
    *
    Solution Strategists is proud to be part of Sage's Beta Testing Team for version 3.71. As a beta test site, SSI works closely with Sage on the new modules and enhancements prior to the new release. This allows us to be able to provide you with a higher level of support and a more thorough understanding of the newest features.
    *
    Our October MAS 90/200 User Group meetings, held in both NY and NJ, had over 100 attendees. The opening presentation was given by Mark Moreau, Sage Software's Regional Account Manager. Besides announcing the direction Sage is going in, Mark also discussed version 3.71 and gave a "sneak preview" of 4.0. A variety of topics were covered by Paul, Bob, Pat, and Eli, including the RMA module, Business Alerts, shortcuts, and tips. The feedback received was extremely positive and upbeat. Check out the
    pictures from the meetings on our web-site. Our next User Group is scheduled for the Spring. Don't miss it!
    *
    www.solstrat.com has a new look! Take a minute, to visit.


    In the Spotlight:
    Paul Natalizio IV, CPA

    "It's a great feeling when you introduce a client to a new time-saving feature in the software or solve their problem with a quick fix over the phone or by using DesktopStreaming," said Paul Natalizio IV, CPA and Senior MAS 90/200 Consultant.

    Since May, 2000, Paul has been helping clients with installation, training and on-going support of their accounting software applications. Working with the rest of the SSI consulting group, Paul has been able to learn from others' experiences and has accumulated a tremendous amount of knowledge about the software and our clients' businesses. This experience is invaluable to him during implementations and training sessions. Having worked with Crystal Reports for many years, Paul also provides clients with a variety of solutions for their reporting needs. While much of his time is spent on-site at clients, he occasionally can be tracked down at the office responding to support calls.

    After graduating from Trenton State College/The College of New Jersey with a degree in Accounting, Paul worked for three years in public accounting to earn his CPA certification. He remains active in many professional and volunteer organizations, including the NJ Society of CPAs, Institute of Management Accountants, March of Dimes, American Diabetes Association and the Bloomfield Center Alliance. In his spare time, Paul participates in the PT Cruiser Club.


    rdyiesarvostceer
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    Unscramble the letters above (words are found within this issue), fax the answer with your name, company, and telephone number to 908.272.5404
    Five correct answers chosen at random, received by December 15th, will win a prize.
    The winners will be announced on our website:
    www.solstrat.com and in our next issue.


    Sites of Interest

    Solution Strategists
    VARbase
    30% Tax Write-off
    Virus Alerts
    Product Literature

    Sage Software
    AnyWho
    Electronic Accountant
    NJSCPA
    NYSSCPA

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    In Our Next Issue:

  • MAS 90/200 Tips and Tricks
  • Preventive steps on data loss
  • Disaster Planning and
       Recovery: Key considerations
       to Ensure Survival

  • JUMBLE Winners


    SSI Holiday Closings

  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Friday after Thanksgiving
  • December 24th at noon
  • December 25th
  • December 31st at noon
  • January 1st


    E-mail Reminder

    In order for SSI to be able to respond to your requests more efficiently, if you contact a consultant via e-mail, a copy of your e-mail should also be sent to either Pat or Joan. This will ensure that if a consultant is out of the office for a few days, with no access to his/her e-mail, your request will be recorded and addressed in a more timely manner.


  • Solution Strategists LLC
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    908.276.2270 · fax: 908.272.5404
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