Comtech Solutions Worldwide, Inc. ' Image Accounting Pro

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Image Accounting PRO provides core accounting modules in a Microsoft Access-based product that includes source code, bringing the capability to fully customize the product for your exact requirements. Version 8.0 introduces many new features that make this a competitive, attractive product that can fit into many different business types.

MODULES AVAILABLE/SCALABILITY - 4 Stars Comtech Solutions offers three products in its lineup: Image Accounting, Image Accounting PRO, and Adept Financials .NET. Reviewed here, Image Accounting PRO is the mid-market entry for up to 10 users (with the Microsoft Access database) or 20 users (with the Microsoft SQL database). A nice side-by-side comparison of products is available on the company's web site.

The package is sold as a complete solution, with nine modules included and four add-on modules. The modules included are Main Menu (System Manager), Sales, AP, Banking, Purchase Order, Contact Manager, Inventory Control, Payroll, GL and Reporting. The add-on modules available are an Advanced Report Writer (w/Barcodes), Day Planner, Zip CodeData, PCCharge and ShipRush (UPS & FedEx).

Version 8.0 introduced many new features, including a segmented GL (for departmental, location or branch accounting), true warehousing, integrated payroll, and the ability to have add-on modules. The Day Planner add-on module is also new, featuring a task management system that displays the user's activities and the ability to set alarms for each activity.

EASE OF USE/ TRANSACTION ENTRY - 4 Stars The program utilizes a very organized easy-to-learn format that will help streamline adoption and new user training, especially for those transitioning from a small-business package such as QuickBooks or Peachtree. A standard Windows drop-down menu is functionally organized, with items such as Sales, Purchases, Inventory and PR. Each menu includes items for all related data-entry and reporting activities for that function. Popular activities, like Create New Invoice, Create New Order, Write Checks, Deposits, and others are defined with hotkeys for quick access. You can also display a 'Workflow Menu' that presents a pictorial workflow diagram for each module. Hotspots on the diagram provide one-click access to the appropriate data-entry, query or reporting screen. Data-entry screens are well designed and consistent throughout the program. Many data-entry processes begin by launching the Find window, which is a list of records (such as inventory items, customers or vendors) that can be used to browse and filter items. Double-clicking on the desired record opens the editing screen for that record. Data-entry screens typically use a multi-tab layout with lookup buttons for key fields. Buttons on the screen allow one-click access to related functions.

CUSTOMIZATION/SECURITY - 4 Stars From a user standpoint, customization is fairly constrained throughout the program. Users can set various filter options, desktop background, printing options, and startup options such as reminders and tips. However, the program in general provides the ultimate in customization with its included source code. An accomplished Microsoft Access or Visual Basic programmer can change virtually any aspect of the program to meet specific needs. This is truly one of the program's most appealing and powerful features. All source code follows industry standard programming and database conventions, making this process as open and accessible as possible.

Security is provided at the user level with a list of Menu Permissions and a list of Report Permissions for which access can either be granted or denied. This provides reasonably detailed control that is simple and effective. Global security settings for specific forms and form functions are also available. For example, you can apply separate passwords to the Security form, Delete buttons, Post buttons, Unpost buttons, and others. So even if a particular user has access to the vendor list for editing, they will not be allowed to delete a vendor.

INTEGRATION/IMPORT/EXPORT - 4 Stars Image Accounting PRO includes several data import/ export functions. An import wizard allows the direct import of customer, employee and vendor data from QuickBooks, Peachtree, and MYOB account-ing packages. Of course, with the program's open database system, you can always create custom imports as well. Data exports are provided through Microsoft Access or with the program's built-in report export discussed in more detail below.