Wednesday, 15 September 2010

Showcasing Sage 200 v2010

The release of Sage 200 v2010 further strengthens their customer and mid market divisions as well as crucially supporting trends in the lower mid market. Sage 200 v2010 has been developed after close reviews of feedback from customers and key business partners such as Pythagoras.

The release of Sage 200 v2010 has 3 key themes; accessibility, information management and customer satisfaction. As a key business partner with enviable in house experts and support Pythagoras outlines below some of the key benefits Sage 200v2010 can bring to your organisation weather you are a current Sage customer on Sage Line 50, Line 100 or 200 looking to upgrade or a new customer looking to implement Sage 200 v2010 to help take your business to the next level;

New Report Designer as seen in Sage Line 50

The new report designer brings a host of benefits including:

• Simplified reporting scheme
• Simplified use of analysis codes for reporting
• Improved look and feel and usability
• Report editing in preview mode
• Drill-down reports

Furthermore, being directly from Line 50 this ensures a smoother transition for those upgrading to Sage 200 v2010 thanks to product consistency. For those 200 users who are upgrading, the majority of reports will be migrated across to the new report designer however the old report designer is included to run alongside the new one to enable amended/ bespoke reports to be upgraded if they cannot automatically be migrated.

Sage 200 Mobile

Sage 200 Mobile allows users of Sage 200 access to data whilst on the move, giving them the power to make decisions when not in the office. The data currently available is aimed at the Financial Director, Managing Director, Sales Person and Project Manager roles. Sage 200 Mobile further allows a more effective and knowledgeable workforce, allowing them to be up to date on individual client information directly before meetings; spending more time on the road and less time in the office updating their knowledge.

2 New Workspaces

• Live Sales Order Status
• Allocated Stock

New BOM (Bill of Materials) Module

The re-write of the Sage 200 BOM module for Sage 200 v2010 is a strategic initiative by Sage to bring Sage 50 Manufacturing BOM, Sage 200 Manufacturing BOM and Sage 200 BOM (previously MMS BOM) into a single code base. This means from the release of Sage 200 v2010 the existing Sage 200 BOM module will no longer ship as part of the Sage 200 Suite, and will be replaced with the re-engineered Sage 200 BOM module. Sage’s initiative on bringing modules into a single code base will continue with the Sage 200 Manufacturing module being re-written in stages.

Sage 200 CRM Improvements

Sage 200 v2010 CRM comes with interactive user interfaces (UI’s), giving greater personalisation options and subsequently enhanced user adoption. Furthermore, an interactive dashboard allows users to personalise, manage and action all items from within a single screen further maximising productivity and minimising multiple screens. Lastly Sage 200 v2010 CRM now hides account entities which allow a smoother end to end processing from the CRM interface through to the back office in Sage 200.

Pythagoras has enviable experience in providing business solutions and support provider for Sage 200 with offices in Maidenhead, Central London and Manchester. As a Sage Business Partner and Sage Customer Development Centre Pythagoras has more than 350 Sage customers nationwide who have discovered how Pythagoras’s Sage expertise adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each.

For more information on Pythagoras and how our expertise can benefit your business please call 01628 519000 or email info@pythagoras.co.uk, for information on our monthly Sage 200 v2010 taster day events please email events@pythagoras.co.uk

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online




Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is designed for all business sizes ranging from small to large organisations; A Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online solution can be utilised as a complete end to end solution or alternatively used departmentally.

Delivered as a service from Microsoft, Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is the ideal solution for organisations that want to gain the benefits of Microsoft Dynamics CRM but don’t have the technological infrastructure or time to handle the on premise solution.

Pythagoras below states three key reasons to choose Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online;

Familiarity

Delivered within Microsoft Outlook and Office or through a browser Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online enables you CRM delivered in a very easy and comfortable way. Familiarity and integration instantly improves employee productivity and efficiency while customisation tools allow you to adapt the software to your business needs.

Furthermore, Microsoft Dynamics CRM allows accessibility whatever your individual staff location; in the office, en route or in the field, helping make user adoption with Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online a non-issue.

Configuration

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is available to use directly out of the box on the day you receive the software, however you may decide to configure the software over time to fit your business specific procedures and rules and tailor it closely to your business; this is all possible with Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online.

Furthermore, Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is implemented in days, not months thanks to easy integration with existing systems (Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 reporting services and other Microsoft Products)

Affordability

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is redefining the price / value equation for delivering online CRM solutions. Thanks to Microsoft’s unparalleled investment in data centres globally Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is available at a price which delivers on value and price compared to similar solutions within the market place.

Benefits of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online over Salesforce.com

Disconnected with the majority of workforces using Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office products, Salesforce.com users often find themselves using a multitude of applications due to the product shortcomings. This is in stark contrast to Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online users who gain the full benefits from working within one core, fully integrated system. Furthermore, Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online allows organisations to effectively mobilise their staff, improving customer support and efficiency.

As a leading UK Microsoft Gold Partner, a member of the Microsoft Presidents Club 2010 and a top 5% global Microsoft partner Pythagoras communications has the expertise and recognition to deliver Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online that suits your business. To discuss Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online further talk to one of our experts on 01628 519 000 or by emailing info@pythagoras.co.uk

Thursday, 5 August 2010

Sage CRM and Sage 200 CRM iPhone application (beta) released

There is an ever increasing need for mobile access, especially for those sales teams who frequently spend time away from the office, on the road or at customer sites. Equipping teams with the necessary tools to effectively do their jobs.

Sage CRM for iPhone (beta) provides a new theme for Sage CRM users being designed specifically for the iPhone. Delivering a rich user experience and providing real time live data Sage CRM for iPhone make full usage of Apple functionality such as the accelerometer which senses any tilting in the screen of the phone and adjusts the layout to landscape when appropriate and the date spinner.

Does Sage CRM for i phone work for Sage 200 CRM?

Yes this works for Sage 200 CRM as well but with the product being in beta mode at present this is subject to potential change.

What do I need to use this functionality?

Your CRM or Sage licence must include the mobile option and your administrator must have installed the “Sage CRM for I phone beta” component and your CRM installation must be accessible over the internet or through a VPN which I phones can connect to.

Once your login screen is displayed within Safari, use the plus symbol and select ‘Add to home screen’ to place a direct button link to Sage CRM.

Can I view reports on my iPhone?

Providing the user has the relevant rights reports can be viewed on the iPhone

How can i download Sage CRM Mobile?

Sage CRM for iPhone (beta) can be downloaded free of charge from the Apps and Extras section for existing Sage CRM v6.2 and v7 users with a mobile licence.

For more information on Sage CRM, Sage 200 CRM or about upgrading your Sage software to include mobile licences contact one of our Sage experts today on 01628 519 000.

Our Sage software and consultancy experts have enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business.

Friday, 23 July 2010

Pythagoras named in 2010 Microsoft Dynamics Presidents Club


The 12th of July 2010 was a day of celebration throughout Pythagoras' offices in the UK; this was the day we achieved recognition for our outstanding dedication to customer satisfaction through the delivery of our innovative business solutions.

The prestigious Microsoft Presidents Club represents the top 5% of Microsoft Dynamics partners world wide; gaining entry into this elite group demonstrates our continual development and growth, and commitment to building on our successes year upon year. Doug Kennedy, vice president of Microsoft Dynamics Partners stated, "Microsoft is proud to recognise Pythagoras Communications for its outstanding sales achievement, this honour is a direct reflection of Pythagoras' outstanding group of employees and management team, all of whom should be very proud of this accomplishment. Pythagoras plays a very important role in the growth and success of Microsoft Dynamics."

Our Managing Director returned from Washington D.C. on Monday after accepting the acknowledgement and spending the week at Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Conference (WPC).

Our official press release regarding the 2010 Presidents Club is available to view online here.

This week also See's the 1st Phase of our new website go live; with further improvements and updates to the existing pages over the coming weeks we believe the online environment for new and existing customers to learn about our expertise, solutions and professional serviceswill be second to none. View the website now at www.pythagoras.co.uk

Thursday, 24 June 2010

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customer Care accelerator helps you to enhance your service levels further

True customer relationship management software is all about improving the level of customer care that you are able to offer your clients. Microsoft Dynamics CRM is further enhanced by the release of the Customer Care accelerator (CCA) which focuses on delivering contact center enabling functionality, such as the ability to create a unified desktop by combining data elements from disparate line of business applications and displaying it in a single user interface.

The core Customer Care business scenarios highlighted by this accelerator include the following:

1. Integrated desktop: Customers can aggregate information from diverse business applications into an integrated desktop providing employees with a 360° view of the customer interactions. Customer service representatives have immediate access to business critical information to serve customers quickly and efficiently, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

2. Eliminating Duplicate Data Entry: Organisations can streamline business processes by creating desktop automation workflows. Process automation eliminates the need for agents to re-enter the same data in multiple applications. Minimising duplication helps to reduce human error and ensures a consistent customer service experience.

3. Computer Telephony Integration (CTI): Organisations are provided with a consistent framework to connect CTI systems with key line of business applications.

4. Activity Reporting: Contact center managers have swift access to agent desktop transaction reporting, helping them to identify process bottlenecks.

As with all the other Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 accelerators, CCA is available as permissive shared source and is a reference example that can be adapted to fit the needs of a customer as well as additional business scenarios.

Pythagoras is a company that is experienced in providing xRM (Anything Relationship Management) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management), Accounts and integrated business solutions for businesses across a broad range of industries and products. Pythagoras is a Microsoft Dynamics CRM Gold Partner with offices in London, Maidenhead and Manchester.

Tuesday, 11 May 2010

Pythagoras chosen for Microsoft CRM 5 beta programme

Pythagoras, a Microsoft Gold Partner and a UK leading Microsoft CRM software specialist is delighted to announce its inclusion in the Microsoft Dynamics CRM '5' beta programme.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM ‘5’ drives further innovation and focus in the CRM market place, enhancing user productivity and collaboration, giving users deep, core CRM capabilities, building on the groundbreaking Microsoft CRM 4.0.

Listed below are some key features to be found in Version 5; more details about how Microsoft CRM ‘5’ solutions from Pythagoras can benefit your organisation will be available later in the year along with further features available in Microsoft CRM ‘5’.

• Support for over 40 languages

• Use of the fluent UI (the ribbon) as seen in Office 2007. This command bar replaces the ‘tool bars’ at the top of each page. The ribbon command bar is fully customisable enabling users to add and alter buttons as much as is required.

• The ability to filter data in grids, much like Excel. Now you can perform your own in line filtering.

• Integration with Windows Sharepoint Service now comes Out of the Box. This includes document management, which includes site and document library provisioning, document metadata, item security, and check-in/check-out capabilities.

• CRM '5' allows you to visualise numeric data using in-line charts within the form itself. One can select a number of different chart formats such as Bar, Column, Funnel, Line, Pie and Scatter.

• The form model in CRM 4.0 made use of tabs to divide a form into multiple pages. In CRM '5' tabs are displayed in the same way as section, with each form just having a single, scrolling page.

Pythagoras Communications has been a successful Microsoft Gold Partner offering leading industry specific solutions since 1997; with offices in Maidenhead (UK) and London (UK) Pythagoras is developing an enviable combination of multi sector industry experience and customisable software innovation since being established.

For more information on Microsoft Dynamics 4.0 or to book a meeting or demonstration speak to one of our experts on 01628 519 000 or email info@pythagoras.co.uk

Pythagoras drives NHS Strategy and Innovation with Customised Microsoft CRM Solutions

With the expectations of customers having increased in recent years as the transparency of customer learning has grown many local NHS and PCT’s are now looking towards a CRM solution to improve service and respond proactively to their customers.

For the NHS, the desire is to provide quality care, increase satisfaction levels and proactively manage patient’s health. Pythagoras, a Microsoft Gold Partner has developed customised NHS solutions for a range of local NHS and PCT’s which underpin;

• World Class Commissioning
• Integrated Healthcare
• Reduction in IT Spend
• Compliance
• Mobile Working
• Reductions in DNAs
• Early detection and diagnosis

Pythagoras’ CRM for the NHS experts recognise how the silos of information stored in multiple systems and the subsequent manual processes make routine tasks challenging, helping leverage CRM technologies to increase efficiency and improve patient satisfaction.

Some of the benefits of a Microsoft CRM for hospitals and NHS solution from Pythagoras:

• Improved Stakeholder Relationship Management (SRM)
• Increase Patient Satisfaction
• Coordinate delivery of care
• Proactively manage chronically ill patients
• Improve community relations
• Extend existing IT investments

Pythagoras has successfully demonstrated their customisable CRM solutions for the NHS through a range of free webinars; the latest webinar will be held on the morning of June 16th. Click to see the agenda and register your free place.

Pythagoras Communications has been a successful Microsoft Gold Partner offering leading industry specific solutions since 1997; with offices in Maidenhead (UK) and London (UK) Pythagoras is developing an enviable combination of multi sector industry experience and customisable software innovation since being established.

For more information on Microsoft Dynamics 4.0 or to book a meeting or demonstration speak to one of our experts on 01628 519 000 or email info@pythagoras.co.uk

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online May 2010 Service Update

Pythagoras discusses the May 2010 service update; announced at Convergence 2010.

New Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online Portal Accelerators extending the outreach and power of Microsoft CRM while also aiding the customisation for the unique needs of
customers:

• eService
• Event Management
Partner Relationship Management

Expanded language support (for North America only currently):

• Spanish
• French
• Brazilian Portuguese

Developer tools and resources

The new developer tools in the updated software development kit have enabled the connection of Microsoft Dynamics CRM online with various on demand and premise services; Windows Azure being one example.

Integration of Microsoft Dynamics GP and Microsoft Dynamics CRM

The new framework available in the service update allows Dynamics GP and CRM to be integrated and used to enhance productivity across financials, supply chain and sales. Integration of GP and CRM is supported with both on premise and cloud versions of Microsoft Dynamics CRM for Microsoft Dynamics GP and Microsoft Dynamics GP 10.0

Founded in 1999 Pythagoras is a company that is experienced in providing Microsoft xRM (Anything Relationship Management) and Microsoft CRM (Customer Relationship Management), Accounts and integrated business solutions for businesses across a broad range of industries and products. Pythagoras is a Microsoft Dynamics CRM Gold Partner with offices in London, Maidenhead and Manchester.

Monday, 10 May 2010

Sage 200 taster day - 25th May

The recent success of Pythagoras Sage 200 taster days continues on May 25th in a new location; Centre Point in London.

In partnership with Sage, Pythagoras’ taster days have proven a success amongst those companies looking to upgrade from Line 50 or Line 100 and those simply interested in improving productivity and taking their organisation forward with Sage’s next generation software enabling them to meet their needs and challenges for the immediate future.

Pythagoras’ Sage taster days typically last until just after midday (with tea and biscuits available) covering a range of topics from how Sage software works across your business, Sage Business Intelligence as well as in selected seminars showcasing A La Carte Financial Intelligence software.

Throughout the morning experts from Pythagoras and Sage are on hand to discuss your individual needs; the interactive nature of the sessions promotes questions with the presentations and live demonstrations able to move into specific areas, further enhancing learning and understanding.

There is very limited space available for the taster day on Tuesday May 25th, to view the agenda and to register for one of the few remaining places please visit the Pythagoras web site.

Pythagoras communications has enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business.
These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.

Friday, 7 May 2010

Pythagoras looks ahead to the 2010 British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) Exhibition

Pythagoras Communications, a Microsoft Gold Partner and Insurance CRM software specialist looks ahead to showcasing their customisable Microsoft CRM solutions for Commercial Insurance Companies, Insurance Brokers and the Lloyds Market.

Pythagoras understands how the challenging economic times recently and continually evolving insurance landscape has led to the profitability, wallet share, sustainability, and enhanced relationship management being critical for success.

Pythagoras' experts in the insurance software industry are helping to redefine Insurance sales and marketing; the 2010 BIBA exhibition will see Pythagoras showcase solutions specifically for Commercial Insurers, Insurance Brokers and the Lloyds Market. Pythagoras outlines below the benefits Pythagoras can bring.

Commercial Insurance Companies


Microsoft CRM for insurance provides the central core platform from which Commercial carriers can launch a centralised approach, allowing cultivation and analysis of key market trends and better management of Broker / intermediary relationships.
Our solution is designed to provide commercial carriers with a single integrated platform that supports multiple business channels, multiple client touch points, online client access and rapid deployment.

Insurance Brokers

Pythagoras Microsoft CRM solution allows Brokers a central platform from which they can understand and serve every facet of each customer; this level of holistic personalised approach can be the differentiating factor that allows good customers to be successfully retained, reducing churn; critical when considering the expense of new customer acquisition and the profitability of customer retention.

Lloyds Market

The critical need to unify all client data from separate sources and systems into a single view for greater insight into key client relationships and profitable pockets within their business has been understood and solved thanks to Pythagoras’ suite of Microsoft CRM for the Lloyd’s market solutions.
Microsoft CRM for Lloyd’s from Pythagoras helps agents and syndicates access centralised information, understand key relationships accurate decisions quicker and in line with corporate strategic views.

The 2010 BIBA conference is located at London’s Excel Arena on May 19th and 20th; Visit Pythagoras’ experts on stand D2.

Thursday, 6 May 2010

Upgrading from Sage Line 50 to Sage 200

Many businesses currently using Sage Line 50 are experiencing growth; this combined with them becoming more dynamic leads to strain on their software.

The Sage suite incorporates a next generation accounts package within a wider suite of business management software; integrating information from finance, distribution, manufacturing, marketing, service operations and more.

The logical benefits of upgrading to Sage 200 are described below by Pythagoras, a Sage business partner;

The look and feel

Sage 200 offers an easier user experience and Windows functionality. Sage 200 v2010 due out this summer will be fully compatible with Windows 7.

Nominal drill downs

Sage 200 offers powerful downs into the nominal, and drill across into the relevant areas.

Excel Links

Sage 200 offers seamless Microsoft Excel integration; furthermore, users without a Sage licence can access the Business Intelligence (BI) within Excel.

Period Accounting

Sage 200 offers up to 20 accounting periods with a choice as to whether its run as open, closed or a mixture.

Foreign Currency

Sage 200 has the ability to create spot and period exchange rates.
Reporting
The Sage 200 report designer offers a more intuitive, user friendly report design tool.

Database


Sage 200 adopts an industry standard MS SQL database, making it easier to connect to other applications / software and connect to the outside world.

Cost Centre / Divisional Reporting

A strength of Sage 200 is the ability to analyse performance of cost centres across your business where analysis of budgets versus targets can be viewed graphically.

Paperless Office


Sage 200 encourages paperless integration with PDF invoices and statements available to send and receive electronically as opposed to paper; increasing productivity.

Workspaces

Gathers information from across the Sage 200 suite, allowing users to access and view data important to them via one customisable screen rather than numerous screens and programmes. The workspace designer allows further customisation and enhanced relevancy.

Business Intelligence

Sage 200 BI enables you to analyse data trends and data comparison thanks to its seamless integration with Microsoft Excel. Furthermore, users without individual Sage 200 licences can access and utilise BI in Excel.

Pythagoras communications has enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.

Wednesday, 28 April 2010

Microsoft Dynamics CRM with Outlook 2010 beta

The following is a brief look into Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 with Office 2010 beta from accounts online; firstly users require Microsoft Dynamics 4.0 Rollup 8 or above to utilise the Outlook 2010 beta version.

• Microsoft CRM in Outlook 2010 utilises ‘ribbons’ as opposed to tool bars, the ribbons allow users to progress through menus and to their desired location in far fewer clicks than previously.
- Furthermore, these ribbons are fully customisable with the option to build your own quick access tool bar and alter the colour schemes.

• Overall Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 with Outlook 2010 beta offers more concise menus, smooth screen transactions and a clearer and cleaner look. (see screen shot below)

Users experiencing or looking to experience the 2010 beta version of Outlook with Microsoft CRM will notice the option to send a ‘smile’ or a frown’ to Microsoft which allows users to notify aspects they like or aspects they feel improvements could be made; the system sends a snapshot of your screen along with your comments.

Listed below are 3 key features which will be found in Microsoft Outlook 2010;

• The introduction of mail ‘tips’ which alerts the user of any issues with their recipients(s) prior to delivery such as staff currently on annual leave or warning if you are sending to a large mail list.

• The ability to group and collapse email conversations together by subject line

• Linked to the group conversations is the ability to ignore particular conversations.

• Smart art and picture editing from within Outlook to allow conversations to become more attractive and less text based.

Pythagoras Communications has been a successful Microsoft Gold Partner offering leading industry specific solutions since 1997; with offices in Maidenhead (UK) and London (UK) Pythagoras is developing an enviable combination of multi sector industry experience and customisable software innovation since being established.

For more information on Microsoft Dynamics 4.0 or to book a meeting or demonstration speak to one of our experts on 01628 519 000 or email info@pythagoras.co.uk

Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 – Rollup 10 update

Pythagoras, a Microsoft Gold Partner and leading UK Microsoft CRM solutions provider outlines some of the main benefits from the 10th edition of Microsoft’s Dynamics CRM rollup’s; released on Thursday April 8th 2010.

Rollup10 for Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 is a cumulative rollup which includes all the fixes for the issues documented in rollup1 through to 9; rollup 10 contains the following hot fixes and updates that need to be enabled or configured manually:

• 981053 A workflow that contains a step to send an e-mail can cause a deadlock when many instances of the workflow execute at the same time in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0

• 981882 You incorrectly receive an error message when you create an appointment for a contact in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0

• 981837 The lookup fields are not updated when you run the Microsoft Dynamics CRM SDK import process to update Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0

• 981883 You cannot add the existing contracts or the existing quotes that are in "Active" status to a custom entity in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0

• 981840 The knowledge base article number uses an incorrect format when you create the knowledge base article in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0

Previous rollup hot fixes that are included in rollup 10 along with detailed deployment information and a full list of all the issues resolved for Microsoft Dynamics 4.0 users is available directly from Microsoft http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=979347

Pythagoras Communications has been a successful Microsoft Gold Partner offering leading industry specific solutions since 1997; with offices in Maidenhead (UK) and London (UK) Pythagoras is developing an enviable combination of multi sector industry experience and customisable software innovation since being established.

For more information on Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 or to book a meeting or demonstration speak to one of our experts on 01628 519 000 or email info@pythagoras.co.uk

Monday, 26 April 2010

Microsoft CRM for Media

Pythagoras, a leading UK Microsoft Gold Partner today looks at Microsoft CRM for Manufacturing, outlining the key benefits their customised CRM can bring to the Media industry.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM allows Media companies to strive for success by enabling them to better service the needs of their customers, allowing a more effective audience profiling, deeper relationships with advertisers as well as the ability to track complex interactions with client licensees and content providers.

Working as the natural extension of Microsoft Office Outlook, Microsoft CRM 4.0 drives user adoption levels thanks to the familiar user interface; the solution also helps eliminate manual data entry, significantly reducing errors.
Pythagoras outline below the benefits Microsoft CRM 4.0 brings for key areas of Media Organisations:

Advertising

• Improve efficiency and gain more time with clients by automating administrative tasks.
• Repetitive processes such as service requests and order confirmations are vastly improved.
• Greater insights into your client’s advertising needs are gained allowing better, more customised offerings.

Broadcasting

• Maximise cross selling and up selling across formats.
• Support cross channel advertising campaigns.
• Enhanced customer profiling, allowing more effective targeting.
• Track and share information and interactions with content providers.

Publishing

• Deliver better service through a 360 degree view of customers and their needs.
• Improve your ability to negotiate with distributors.
• Profile for and track the typically complex interactions with content licensees.
• Manage interactions with authors, spokespeople and others more efficiently.

Studios / Post Production
• Deliver consistent, high-quality service in all your client interactions.
• Speed up repetitive processes such as service requests and order confirmations, and respond quickly to unforeseen demands.

Founded in 1999 Pythagoras is a company that is experienced in providing Microsoft xRM (Anything Relationship Management) and Microsoft CRM (Customer Relationship Management), Accounts and integrated business solutions for businesses across a broad range of industries and products. Pythagoras is a Microsoft Dynamics CRM Gold Partner with offices in London, Maidenhead and Manchester.

Why upgrade from Sage 100 to Sage 200?

Sage Line 100 customers looking for the next generation software for reasons ranging from their business growth to the plethora of benefits available with Sage 200.

The Sage 200 suite incorporates a next generation accounts package within a wider suite of business management software; integrating information from finance distribution, manufacturing, marketing, service operations and more.

Top Upgrade reasons for a Sage Line 100 customer:

• Look and feel of Sage 200 with true Windows functionality
• The powerful drill downs into the nominal and drill across the relevant areas
• Seamless integration with Excel, furthermore users without an individual Sage licence can access the Business Intelligence within Excel
• The 20 accounting periods offered with the options to run them as open, closed or a mixture
• The ability to create spot and period exchange rates
• A more intuitive, user friendly report design tool
• The ability to analyse performance of cost centres across your business where analysis of budgets versus targets can be viewed graphically
• The ability to take data seamlessly from Sage Line 100

Key benefits:


• Make informed business decisions thanks to the detailed reporting and analysis
• Customisable workspaces provide an efficient way to analyse data and trends from all areas of the business on one screen
• Automatic Microsoft Excel import capabilities
• Business intelligence package allowing the drill down of data and trends
• The powerful modules designed to work seamlessly together, vastly improving efficiency

Pythagoras communications has enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.

Wednesday, 14 April 2010

10 Key Features of Sage 200 Commercials

Sage 200 commercials adds to the solid foundation of Sage 200 financials, providing ideal business software to companies with complex business processes; easy to implement and excellent for companies experiencing rapid growth as well as Sage Line 50 users looking to upgrade.

As an experienced Sage business partner the UK with over 300 customers Pythagoras highlights below just some key features of Sage 200 Commercials modules.

Sales Order Processing


- Foreign Currency Orders
Sage 200 enables you to receive orders in the appropriate currency in which it was placed. Furthermore exchange rates are controlled by you and are able to be controlled at the order entry and invoice stage.

- Integration
Relevant information such as stock records, customer balances and VAT return is updated throughout the system thanks to the Sales Order Processing modules integration with the Stock, Price Book and Sales Order module.

- Margin and Discount Analysis
The sales margins of sales orders totals and individual items can be viewed by authorised personnel, allowing instant negotiation. Furthermore queries can be quickly answered thanks to the ability of discounts to a particular item being visible.

Purchase Order Processing


- Foreign Currency Orders
Sage 200 gives the ability to place orders in over 100 currencies

- Disputed Invoices
The ability to flag invoices as under dispute means none will go through to the purchase ledger until the dispute has been resolved. The system also allows disputed order reports to be generated.

- Purchasing Control
The system allows only authorised personnel to place orders while recognising and rejecting unexpected or incorrect deliveries.

- Archiving
Sage 200 offers superb archiving of information which allows constantly fast performance; the information is available for viewing and analysis whenever required.

Stock Control

- Traceability
Batch or serial numbered items can store up to 15 pieces of additional information such as inspector references and quality assurance standards. Traceable numbers can also be automatically generated, allowing for greater accuracy and efficiency when entering new batch numbers.

- Sell By and Use By dates
Serial and batch traceable items can have use by and sell by dates associated. Furthermore, traceable stock items can have sell by dates automatically calculated as a number of days, weeks, months or years.

Price Book

- Unlimited prices per item
The unlimited price bands for each item can be utilised as you wish, for example retail price, web price, trade price.

- Import and Export Prices
The ability to import and export .csv or .xml format files allow you to create special promotional price lists and restore the original pricing when needed.

Speak to one of our experts regarding Sage 200 v2010 which will include Sage mobile; due for release this summer.

Pythagoras communications has enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.

Thursday, 8 April 2010

Sage 200 v2010 to include Sage 200 Mobile

In the ever more increasingly competitive market Sage has announced their Sage 200 v2010; due for release in June 2010 will include Sage 200 Mobile. The Sage 200 mobile user being those out of the office, travelling or field based who will now be able to access their Sage 200 data from their mobile.

After a survey conducted by Sage identified 60% of Sage 200 customers use Blackberry’s; because of Blackberry’s being the ‘always on’ choice and the superior battery life and protected data thanks to their 128 bit encryption Sage 200 mobile supports data access via the following Blackberry series:

- Blackberry 9000 Series
- Blackberry 8900 Series
- Blackberry 8520 Series

With the initial release of Sage 200 mobile Sage are providing data relevant for four key users of the Sage 200 Suite:

- Managing Director/Owner
- Financial Director
- Sales Representative
- Project Manager

Sage 200 Mobile is designed to allow read only searches for the following:

- Customers
- Customer Transactions
- SOP
- Stock Items
- Suppliers

Furthermore, Sage 200 for Mobile allows views via workspaces, providing a rich and detailed view of different data, meaning specific views for customers are able to be developed meaning users are not limited to what simply comes out of the box as with similar systems.

The standard views available include the following:

- Sales Revenue Position
- Cash Position
- Project Position
- My Sales Summary

In conclusion Sage 200 Mobile allows the following:

- Increased productivity
- A more integrated business
- Empowering the workforce
- Peace of mind
- Greater responsiveness
- Flexibility

Overall the addition of Sage 200 Mobile to Sage 200 v 2010 adds another dimension to the package; further supporting Sages ability to offer flexible and customisable solutions to the business world.

For more information on Sage 200 v2010’s release and other Sage products please contact one of our Sage experts on 01628 519 000 or by emailing info@pythagoras.co.uk.

A Look at Sage 200 Web Time & Expenses

One of the great benefits of the web is that it can be accessed from virtually any location. So when you trying to manage timesheets and expenses remotely this is a great innovation.

Sage 200 web time and expenses is great add on application for the Sage 200 business suite that is designed so you spend less time tracking and reporting and more time generating revenue. Using a flexible hierarchy customised to the way you work, so it’s easy to track and invoice no matter how complex your projects are. The Sage 200 Web Time & Expenses (WTE) module is linked to the Sage 200 Project Accounting module and allows users to enter and their timesheet and expense claims remotely using a web browser.

What is Sage 200 Web Time and Expenses?
• Sage 200 Web Time & Expense (WTE) is an optional module that you can add to the Sage 200 Project Accounting module.
• Users can enter their time and expenses remotely, via a web interface. The entries will then be synchronised back into Project Accounting for approval and inclusion into a project.
• Entries can be made over an intranet, or securely via the web.
• Cost-effective time and expense recording
• This cost effective module allows your people to enter Time and Expenses only, so you won't need to licence them as full Sage 200 users.
• Only the people who process the timesheets, and anyone who authorises expenses, need to have Sage 200 on their PC

The system can be configured in a number of ways, for example supporting users who enter their timesheets and expenses online (using an internet connection) or through a company intranet. One of the additional benefits of the Sage 200 WTE module is that the user does not require Sage 200 to be installed on their PC to allow the entry of timesheets and expenses.

Sage 200 Web Time and Expenses gives you the flexibility to track your time and expenses in a way that works for you. Rather than forcing you to track your time the way someone else thinks you should, Sage 200 Web time and expenses allows you to model your time tracking the way you do business. It's easy and quick to use, so you can start tracking your time and expenses immediately.

Flexibility
You can add as many users as you like to the WTE module; this is done on a named user basis since each WTE user is a named resource within the Sage 200 Project Accounting module.

If you need to add different people, no problem - either substitute them for existing named people no longer using the system, or add new users.

About Pythagoras
Pythagoras is an experienced business solutions provider for Sage 200 with offices in Maidenhead, London and Manchester. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how Pythagoras’s approach adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.

Monday, 29 March 2010

Top Features in Sage 200 Financials revealed

Sage 200 Financials is included as part of the Sage 200 Platform, the basis of the Sage 200 Suite. It offers the core accounting ledgers, giving you great financial control. All with unrivalled usability and customisation capability. Sage 200 Financials is straightforward to implement and easy to learn and utilises a powerful SQL relational database for scalability, robustness and each of integration with other applications.

Some of the most important features of Sage 200 Financials are revealed below.

Speed batch entry

Giving you the ability to enter large volumes of transactions and choose when to commit them to the ledgers. Additionally, colour-coded alerts let you know if there’s a potential problem without stopping your workflow.

Foreign currency capability
You can trade with customers and suppliers outside of the UK and in any mixture of currencies. For example, in Sage 200 Financials you can produce foreign currency invoices, statements, receipts and payments and you can maintain currency-specific product pricing and discounts. You can specify spot and/or period rates of exchange for each currency and all changes are recorded along with who made them. All transactions are recorded in base currency with the exchange rate used, so you can closely track the effects of currency fluctuations over time.

Nominal cost centre and departmental analysis
In Sage 200 Financials you can attribute costs, analyse budgets and produce management reports, e.g. Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss, by department and cost centre. You can also attribute individual transactions by your own analysis codes, for example, to track projects across departments and cost centre’s.

Group budgets
Making it easy for you to manage your subsidiary companies; Sage 200 Financials includes multi-company consolidated financial reporting and group budgeting capabilities.

Open or Closed Period Accounting
You can open, close and re-open periods as required, ledger by ledger; up to 20 periods can be set for each financial year. Access in Sage 200 Financials is tightly controlled by individual user permissions and there's a full history of who changed what and when.

Trading Periods

These can be set up to match the accounting periods if required, or have their own date range structure. These date ranges in Sage 200 can be set to suit your business; for example, you could measure sales performance on a weekly basis at busy times of the year and monthly at other times.

Comprehensive customer records
Store all the details on your customers for easy retrieval, with instant links to their sales orders.

Credit Management
A range of credit tools are supplied in Sage 200 Financials, including debtors' letters, statement production, provisions for doubtful and bad debts and the ability to place customer accounts on hold. Detailed credit information can be held against each customer/supplier record.

Automated payments

Sage 200 will suggest which payments to make to your suppliers in order to benefit from early settlement discounts.

Pythagoras reports continued success of Sage 200 taster day events in London

Pythagoras Communications, a leading UK Sage business partner is pleased to report the continued success of the Sage 200 taster day workshops held in partnership with Sage UK at London’s Royal Yacht Club.

Jeremy Cook, Sage sales manager at Pythagoras commented on the continued success of the days, stating “The Sage 200 taster days have been a great success so far, the location provides an intimate and inspiring setting allowing customers or business individuals an interactive session showcasing the benefits of customised Sage 200 software from Pythagoras.”

The taster days are suited to companies not currently utilising Sage software who are looking to integrate company wide accounts and CRM in one solution; as well as existing Sage Line 50, MMS and Sage Line 100 customers who are looking to upgrade with the end of life support for Sage Line 100 expected in the coming months.
A key feature of a Sage 200 partnership with Pythagoras is the unique, customised workspaces offered by Pythagoras; the works order workspace provides a visual aid for shop floor planning, giving work order assessments at a glance while the stock profitability workspace allows all relevant information to be housed on one screen with the ability to drill down into key figures quickly and easily with just a few clicks.

Overall, the Sage taster days have demonstrated how Sage 200 software can be utilised to your benefit to solve challenges facing; finance, sales and marketing, operations and customer care services as well as showcasing how your organisations profitability, efficiency, internal and external communications can be improved through integration of these functions.

Register for the next Sage 200 taster day on April 14th 2010

About Pythagoras
Pythagoras communications has enviable experience in deploying, creating and understanding your individual Sage 200 needs. More than 300 Sage customers nationwide have discovered how the Pythagoras approach adds value to their business. These are drawn from a diverse range of sectors and markets and we have specialist teams with specific expertise in each. Pythagoras has an enviable combination of extensive, multi-sector experience and a reputation for cutting edge technical development and innovation.