Wednesday, April 29, 2009

CONNECTIT: Sage MAS 90/200 v4.4

As far as we know, there's (as yet) no firm release date for the next release to Sage MAS90/200. We're really excited about the prospect of the new release as we are expecting it to include API support for creating purchase order documents, products and suppliers. Having this functionality in the MAS API means that we can complete the ConnectIT-MAS QuoteWerks to Sage MAS90/200 link to cover the same footprint as the UK ConnectIT for Sage 50 Accounts.

However, it was encouraging today that we got an email from Sage asking us to complete a survey which was asking how long from release we anticipated it would be before we integrated our solution with the new version and how Sage could help. Naturally our answers were "as soon as possible" and "get us a copy of the beta"!!!

Unfortunately it's still a case of "watch this space" before we can commit to a version of ConnectIT-MAS which will be able to create purchase orders, products and suppliers, but it is encouraging to see things moving along!

Monday, April 27, 2009

SUPPORT: Windows 7 to get XP Mode for compatibility

Microsoft is planning a new virtualisation tool to provide better application compatibility for businesses migrating from Windows XP to the forthcoming Windows 7 operating system.
The feature will be called Windows XP Mode and will allow users to install and run applications in a Windows XP environment running under
Windows Virtual PC.

It is specifically designed to help small businesses move to Windows 7, according to information recently posted to Microsoft's
Windows blog.

In the blog entry, Microsoft said a beta of Windows XP Mode and Windows Virtual PC is coming in the near future, but will run only on Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate editions.
Microsoft had not responded to requests for further information at the time of writing, so it is not clear whether customers would require an additional licence to cover the XP environment or whether this would be included.


The company already offers a similar tool for larger companies with enterprise licence agreements. Microsoft Enterprise Desktop Virtualisation, part of the Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack, enables customers to run legacy applications under Windows Vista.

Although running inside a virtual machine, this is hidden from the user who just launches and uses such applications as normal.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

DEVELOPMENT: Google launches API for Google Analytics

Google has announced the release of an API for Google Analytics. This means developers will be more tightly integrate information into users back office, web and mobile applications.

Announcement Headline: A Google Analytics API has long been one of our most widely anticipated features. Today we're pleased to announce that the Google Analytics Data Export API beta is now publicly available to all Analytics users!

What's so exciting about an API? The API will allow developers to extend Google Analytics in new and creative ways that benefit developers, organizations and end users. Large organizations and agencies now have a standardized platform for integrating Analytics data with their own business data. Developers can integrate Google Analytics into their existing products and create standalone applications that they sell. Users could see snapshots of their Analytics data in developer created dashboards and gadgets. Individuals and business owners will have opportunities to access their Google Analytics information in a variety of new ways.

For the full announcement, please see the Google Analytics Blog post.

For more information on Hilltops IT's software development services and to speak with one of our development team about the possibilities for integrating Google Analytics information into your business support systems, please contact us by phone on +44(0) 1782 564252 or by email: development@hilltopsit.co.uk

Monday, April 20, 2009

CONNECTIT: ConnectIT-Sage confirmed to work for Sage Instant Accounts 2009

We are able to confirm today that the next release of ConnectIT-Sage will work with Sage Instant Accounts 2009.

"I am really pleased that with the new version of Sage Instant, we can now offer users the ability to transfer documents from QuoteWerks to Sage using ConnectIT" says Hilltops IT CEO Steve Siggs. "I'm even more please than we are now able to achieve this with just a few minor adjustments to the existing code base. Now QuoteWerks and Sage Instant users can get the benefits of the ConnectIT software very cost-effectively, without needing to upgrade their Sage software."

The ConnectIT-Sage software has been developed over the last 3 years, gradually adding more and more features that users and resellers have been requesting in the software. Hilltops IT have produced this product to meet end users' requirements which drive more and more efficiencies into their business. With zero defects reported from production environments in more than 18 months, the need for "just a few minor adjustments", users and resellers can expect the same quality deliverable which "does exactly what it says on the tin".

The revised version is expected to be released within the next couple of weeks.

For more information on ConnectIT-Sage, please contact your QuoteWerks reseller or see the ConnectIT website.

Monday, April 13, 2009

CONNECTIT: ConnectIT-Workflow v1.0.1 released

Following feedback from users, this minor release of ConnectIT-Workflow expands the default example rules which are set up when a user initially installs the software. We have also provided fuller instructions on how to set up and manage your business rules.

ConnectIT-Workflow business process manager for QuoteWerks manages entries on a QuoteWerks document to ensure that the QuoteWerks user has entered all the required information at each step of document creation (Quote, Order and Invoice).

ConnectIT-Workflow validates that the QuoteWerks user has entered required values into particular fields before the user is allowed to print, save, convert or email a document.

When an error is detected, then depending on the level of that error, the user is either prompted and asked to correct the problem before they are allowed to continue, or they are just warned about the problem(s).

ConnectIT-Workflow pricing is very cost-effective and is currently being sold with free installation and configuration - get your copy and start taking advantage of ConnectIT-Workflow's cost and time saving benefits now.

CONNECTIT: ConnectIT-Workflow new resources available

New resources are now available on the ConnectIT-Workflow business process manager for QuoteWerks website in the form of screenshots and extended support documentation.

PLUS: take advantage of free ConnectIT-Workflow installation assistance while the offer lasts.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

CONNECTIT: new reseller group on LinkedIn

The purpose of the ConnectIT Resellers Group is to provide an additional support forum for ConnectIT application links, to keep members up to date with the latest news in the ConnectIT range of products and for members to share thoughts and experiences of implementing ConnectIT in various vertical industry sectors.

The group will never replace us preferring you to pick up the phone and speak to us, but we're aiming to make this a useful additional way to keep in touch with each other.

The URL to join the group is: http://www.linkedin.com/groupRegistration?gid=1416457

Please pass this on to your colleagues who you feel may also benefit from membership.