Following our recent article on the upcoming new release of Timeslips, our clients have had many questions on what the future is likely to hold. Here is a summary of those questions:

Q         Why is Sage changing the Timeslips database?

A          Anyone who has used Timeslips for a while knows that the present Paradox database, running on the Borland Database Engine, has been in place for nearly 20 years. After a rocky beginning, Timeslips databases have undergone a lot of improvements in stability, efficiency, and performance, but we still find that we have to repair our clients’ databases much more often than we would like. Our clients have been frustrated that their Timeslips databases seem so susceptible to the slightest hiccup in their networks. Why not devote those resources to training or making better use of the many Timeslips features and reports instead of repairing data? Moving to Timeslips 2017 (and its Firebird SQL platform) is expected to provide much greater stability, data integrity, and performance. This is confirmed by our clients who have already switched to Timeslips Premium over the past year. Timeslips Premium has operated on the Firebird SQL platform since its release in 2016.

Q      Will Timeslips 2017 cost more?

A      Timeslips 2017 (numbered versions refer to the perpetual-license edition), at present, is priced the same as version 2016. The first license price is higher than that of additional licenses; the actual price depends on

• whether it is a new installation,
• an upgrade from a supported version,
• or an upgrade from an unsupported version.

Timeslips Premium is billed as a monthly or annual per-user subscription. There are different levels depending on the add-ons and support included.

Q     If we adopt the new Timeslips, what new features will we have?

A     Timeslips 2017 will offer, in addition to all of the features of previous versions, the following:

• Added speed and functionality for the Billing Assistant, including a new “at a glance” view
• Support for a greater number of users without compromising data integrity or performance
• Redesigned Accounts Receivable entry and listing screens
• A new look and feel for client budgets
• Generally faster processing

Timeslips Premium offers all of the above plus:

• Quick Bill functions, designed for your clients who pay while they are in your office
• The ability to include Client Calculated Fields (like spreadsheet formulas) on bills
• Ongoing enhancements delivered automatically as updates (which are included in the subscription price) are released

Q     Is Timeslips Premium a cloud-based program?

A     No, the Premium program must be installed as on-premise software. Sage Timeslips eCenter subscriptions are still available for Internet-based time and expense entry, for both Timeslips 2017 and Timeslips Premium.

Q     So if we go with Premium, we will pay a lot for a subscription and get only 2 additional features?

A     No, there’s more. Subscriptions include all updates, new features, and service releases during the term of your subscription, without having to purchase any new versions. Sage BusinessCare support is also included.

Q    What happens if we sign up for Premium and later decide to unsubscribe?

A    You can purchase on-premise licenses for the current “numbered” version if you decide to discontinue using Timeslips Premium. Otherwise, your database will become read-only and you will not be able to update your billing data. There are no refunds for unused subscription time.

Q     Are older versions of Timeslips still supported?

A     It depends on the version. Versions 2016 and 2015 are still supported. Sage will discontinue support for Timeslips 2014 on July 31, 2016. Versions older than Timeslips 2014 are not supported by Sage at all (though Crosspointe still supports all Timeslips versions, within the limitations set by Sage).

Q     What does it mean for me if Sage discontinues support for my version of the software?

A       In addition to not accepting calls to Tech Support (even if the call is placed through a Certified Consultant), Sage does not sell additional licenses or add-ons (such as the Electronic Billing interface) for unsupported versions. Also, Sage Timeslips eCenter accounts will stop working once support for the underlying version of Timeslips is discontinued.

Q       What if I don’t upgrade now? Can I stick with my current version of Timeslips?

A        Technically, yes, within the limitations noted above. Sage has made it clear, however, that – eventually – the perpetual-license model will be phased out. At that point, anyone needing to upgrade will be required to subscribe to Timeslips Premium.

Q       How do I purchase Timeslips 2017 or Premium?

A       We are Certified Consultants authorized by Sage Software to sell and support the Timeslips product line. As such we are licensed to sell all versions of Timeslips. We can often obtain licenses for clients at a lower price than Sage will sell to end users when ordered directly from Sage. Give us a call at 610-941-2116 to discuss pricing.

Q        Since this is a new database format, will third-party programs work with it?

 A     As of 6/20/2016, here are the third-party links that will work with Timeslips 2017 and Timeslips Premium –
·         QuickBooks
·         Sage 50 Accounting
·         Timeslips E-Center
·         Amicus Premium (with Timeslips Premium only at this time)

Q      If I don’t see my program listed, does that mean the link to my program isn’t there?

 A      Links with other programs are the result of collaboration between the programmers at Sage Timeslips and third party software manufacturers.  If you do not see your program listed, the link for the new database format may still be under development.  We expect releases to come soon and will keep our clients informed of their release.  Please call us to discuss options.

Have additional Timeslips questions? The Sages at TriStar Data Systems have supported and offered training on the Timeslips product line since its inception over 25 years ago. That’s before Google was even a gleam in Sergey Brin’s eye. Test us by calling us at 610-941-2116, or email us at [email protected].