CYMA Systems, Inc. — CYMA Accounting For Windows

Article Tools

• Print This Article
• Email This Article to a Friend
• Save This Article
• Order a Reprint

From the April/May 2007 Review of Construction Accounting Software

CYMA is a veteran in the accounting software industry, providing technology solutions since 1980. The latest version of CYMA Accounting For Windows (Version 9) highlights the Job Cost module that is available. Not specifically designed for the construction industry, CYMA is still a strong contender in this niche area, mainly because of its excellent Job Cost module.

The latest version of CYMA also contains numerous product enhancements, such as grids, where multiple vendors can be added simultaneously. The quick invoice entry grid allows users to utilize batch controls for entering numerous invoices. The Job Costing module contains new invoice options, including cost plus with fixed fee, time and material with markup, and time and material with markup and fixed fee. Numerous tabs have been added to the Maintain Jobs screen, including Labor Entry, Financial Overview, Job Tasks and Adjustment Entry. The new Job Contacts tab allows for vital information to be recorded, such as subcontractor data and contacts and phone numbers.

Up to 10 alphanumeric characters can be used when setting up job control numbers. Multiple costing methods are available, including Direct Material, Subcontractor, Other Costs and Overhead, and Direct Labor. Material costs can be directly applied to a specific job or spread between jobs. Labor costs can be distributed by job and by skill. Extensive data can be easily tracked by CYMA, including Costs/Budget by totals and to-date, percentage of job completion, all work in progress billings, and sales and revenue by job or cost type. :::::

LEARNING CURVE – 5 Stars
Installation was quick with limited input required. The main screen contains a drop-down menu bar at the top containing system functions such as File, Maintain, Enter, Process and Report. The options found under these headings are updated when the module is changed. Below that is a window that displays the current module, and users simply click on the arrow to change the module. Various tools provide access to CYMA’s website and download center. Navigation within the program is easy, and all data-entry screens contain lookup options. The batch entry system is an easy-to-navigate grid where users can enter new batches or add to existing ones. Sample companies are available with which to practice entering data.

MODULES & ADD-ONS – 4.5 Stars
CYMA is a modular system, allowing users to purchase only the modules needed. The System Manager module is required in order to run any other modules. Available modules in the CYMA Financial Management System include AP, AR, Bank Reconciliation, GL, Inventory Control, Job Costing, Payroll, Purchase Order, and Sales Order. These modules are all priced individually and can be purchased as needed. CYMA can be used with Crystal Reports or F9 Financial Reporting software, and the vendor also offers a MICR Check Package. CYMA runs on a Pervasive Database that will have to be purchased as a separate license. Pervasive is available in workgroup and server versions, for up to 50 users.

PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS – 4.5 Stars
CYMA offers several features designed to make life easier for those in the construction or contractor trades, including eDesk, which is a web-enabled desktop that works alongside the software. eDesk allows users to add links to web pages, create shortcuts to specific menu items within CYMA, create one-click access to frequently run system reports, and even add web content and images. Taking the time to configure eDesk properly will save a great deal of time later. Within eDesk is a series of financial calculators, including a 1040 Tax Calculator, Breakeven Analysis, Cash Flow, Loan Comparison, Financial Ratios and Business Valuation. The Custom Data Designer allows data to be entered into user-defined fields.

IMPORT/EXPORT & INTEGRATION – 5 Stars
The Job Costing module integrates seamlessly with all other modules available from CYMA. Along with Crystal Reports and F9, numerous third-party software products that integrate with CYMA are also available, including various fixed assets, human resource, and time and attendance systems. As well, users can import BNA or AssetKeeper Fixed Asset files.