We have several clients using Automated Service with at least two that have the mobile features. In general the software works well for them and is fully integrated (lives inside) Sage. There are a few caveats to be aware of:
1. It's not in the business framework
2. Make sure absolutely everything is spelled out in the initial quote. If not, it will be $5,000 to add it later.
3. They will happily bypass you as the partner and quote custom programming which many times is not necessary.
4. They have a general disregard for the partner. They don't pay margin on annual maintenance even though their partner glossy says they do.
5. Upgrades can be very expensive and made so by custom programming that has been added. A recent quote for an upgrade from 2018 to 2020 was $20,000 just for their piece.
6. You have to actively insert yourself in the implementation process to stay on top of things, definitely not a "let them handle it" situation.
Unfortunately the fully integrated service solutions for Sage are pretty limited and this may actually be the better of the bunch.
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Bernie Lehman
Partner
Lehman Wesley & Associates
Lansing MI
517-908-0760
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-23-2021 16:29
From: Brett Zimmerman
Subject: Service Software with remote handhelds for technicians
Ouch!! One of our AutomatedService clients switched to Service Pro a few years ago.
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Brett Zimmerman
Net at Work
Greater Boston Area
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-23-2021 16:18
From: Lourdes Sobrino
Subject: Service Software with remote handhelds for technicians
MSI!!!! Brett….I had another customer sign with them…and ended up suing for not completing the implementation…
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Lourdes Sobrino
LU² DSD Puerto Rico
Guaynabo Puerto Rico
787.485.9638
Original Message:
Sent: 09-23-2021
From: Brett Zimmerman
Subject: RE: Service Software with remote handhelds for technicians
Or Service Pro from MSI? https://www.msidata.com/service-pro-field-service-software-sage-100-erp/
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Brett Zimmerman
Net at Work
Greater Boston Area
Original Message:
Sent: 09-23-2021 15:23
From: Jerry Norman
Subject: Service Software with remote handhelds for technicians
I'll second Wayne's conclusion: be very careful with service offerings that claim "Sage integration." Their definition of "integration" varies all over the map. My recollection of 90 Minders' feedback on this question over several years basically boils down to, "It's much, much more likely to end up as an unhappy customer" of a service bolt-on than a happy one. With Sage clearly signaling to the market (and therefore its related ISVs) that Sage 100 is on a slow ride to irrelevance, I think this caution is even more necessary.
As a valued partner to your customer, you have a responsibility to advise them clearly that "this is not an easy problem to solve, and you probably don't want to do this alone." Also, "If you do decide to approach this alone, I can't help you without likely costing you a lot of money." Then, "We can help you successfully navigate the investigation and decision process to solve your problem in a way that will enhance your growth over the coming years." (Translation: "Pay us now for a project to decide the value of your problem and a solution you can make work, or you'll pay us much more trying to recover from your DIY approach.)
I'm happy to discuss any of this with you or any other 90 Minder to help you get your customer on a good track. You should also attend 90 Minds' monthly "Office Hours" discussion including Ed Kless and Ron Baker. Tough issues like this (getting paid for your most valuable information and skill) are a core subject.
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Jerry Norman
At-Large BOD Member, 90 Minds
Smartbridge Partners
512.419.1444 x112