Monthly Archives: November 2018

Unfortunately, there were data issues with the conversion which led to very ambiguous error messages.  Our first challenge was to scramble to find a copy of a 17 year old Timeslips version so a better diagnoses and repair could be made. To give a car analogy – finding an intact Timeslips 10.5 is like finding an intact model T-Ford. Parts are hard to come by, and repairs will be more expensive.

Did anyone have a copy, what about install codes? Do we actually remember HOW to fix this type of error, and were the specific corrupt records critical? Documentation for data repair on older databases is not always easy to find.

Ultimately there was a happy ending to this story – the database was repaired, though the repair/conversion process took over 12 hours to complete.

The reality, however, was that it could easily have gone a different way. If we hadn’t had the resources (and a bit of luck), this would have resulted in an even more time consuming and costly project for the client. As it was, the cost included an extra 12 hours of consulting, plus extra down time for the firm without access to their billing.

Our policy is to support our clients, whether they are using “supported” versions of software or not, and we continue to do so. At the same time, it’s also important that firms understand the risk they are taking if they let years go by without periodically investing in keeping up with technology. Given that this is mission critical software, something to consider!

Is it time to Upgrade (or change) our Software… ?

We’ve had several clients recently contact us after receiving a call from Sage Timeslips salespeople telling them about upgrade promotions or that they now have an increased risk of corruption or data failure.  While having unsupported software does have risks (see below), it doesn’t mean that you suddenly have an increased risk.

What does it mean to be on an unsupported Version? 

Timeslips currently supports Timeslips 2018 and Timeslips 2019.  If you are currently using any other version, this is an unsupported version of Timeslips.  You cannot add additional licenses, use Timeslips E-Center, or purchase electronic billing module (i.e. LEDES). It also means that there is no official technical support available to you. If something changes in your environment (like upgrading to Windows 10, or some other program that links with Timeslips) there could be compatibility issues. Remember it’s always critical to make sure you have a good backup!  Borek Consulting is always happy to assist you with technical support, even with unsupported versions.

What are the new features?

Each version brings new features and fixes along with it. Some recent features include a faster database, enhanced security, Lawpay integration, and A/R improvements. We can send you a list of new features introduced since your version, and discuss which ones would be applicable to your firm.

What is the cost?

The software cost depends on the number of licenses you need. Find out your current number of licenses by going to Help, then “About Timeslips” from the menu bar. Let us know the number of licenses you have, and the number you need (it can be more or less). We’ll be happy to send you a quote with the software cost along with a budget for installation, conversion and training so you can take advantage of the new features.

What about the promotions? Is this a good time?

Sage periodically offers promotional discounts. Borek Consulting can always honor these discounts. Since we are approaching the end of the year, this is a good time to consider. However, it is also important to make sure that your hardware meets the minimum system requirements, and that you are ready for an upgrade. Give us a call to discuss.