Sage 100

Received this question from a customer yesterday, and I thought I better ask 90Minders before Summit starts. Customer is on SAGE 100 ERP Standard version 4.50. Wants to add two web based functions: 1) Ability for remote salesmen to inquire information about customer status, activity and print reports on customer purchase history, etc. Does NOT have to be real-time information. 2) Web-based order entry that is NOT necessarily connected to SAGE 100 ERP. Customer wants ability to ""pull down"" from a web based customer order entry system, all new orders and then re-key the order into SAGE 100 Sales Order module, making sure all necessary items are included on the new order and that it is entered properly. Any suggestions on where I might find these two functions, is appreciated.

1) Use Sage CRM. With a connection to the Sage 100 database, you can build some additional screens that can provide this information and it would be real time. 2) Use Sage CRM and the Customer Portal that comes with it. No additional licensing for the customer access, if you didn't have anybody else accessing CRM you could actually do this with the free license. Talk to Marc at CRM Together @ Summit. We have a nice working portal that we are adding the same type of order function for a customer. But, with CRM you can have a connection to the Sage 100 database and use it for Item, Details, Quantity, etc... We are going to have it create an import file that at least gets the base order in the system as a quote and then the person in charge of reviewing the order will convert and correct any issues.

Two options: 1) If you have a terminal server, just use a rdp client and a hot spot on a cell phone. Even better if mobile device has a Cell modem. If Citrix or 2013 server exists publish 100 as app to make even easier. 2) If no existing term serv, use BlyMobile.

Oops, third alternative: ERP everywhere from xkzero. Paul Ziliak is a member of this group isn't he? (Sorry, having a senior moment)

Thanks @KevinWesley I would have never thought to look at Sage CRM. @ShawnSlavin - Customer does not have TS or Citrix - will check out BlyMobile and ERP Everywhere.

SageCRM has worked well for a number of our clients in the scenario as Kevin suggested and we are doing something similar with independent web order front end for sales orders for a client, but I like the idea of a portal from SageCRM @MichaelMcDonald Let's try to meet up again at Summit.

I really like using CRM for these because it takes care of the interface on the web for the salesperson and the Portal handles all the Customer login activity with the Self Service settings... and you get the licenses with Sage 100. Once you show the sales team CRM and what you can do with it, they usually jump on board right away.

@BobKohlmeyer and @KevinWesley - thanks for your great advice. I was looking for an opportunity to get more familiar with Sage CRM and this long-term customer is perfect. Unfortunately I will not be able to make it to Summit this year :( . But if you see something that looks cool, please send me an e-mail.