Timeslips, Uncategorized

Timeslips Announces the end of Perpetual Licenses

Timeslips recently announced policy changes relating to the Perpetual version. In case you are confused by their email, I’ve attempted to explain the important points below.

Effective August 1, 2019 Timeslips direct sales will only sell the annual subscription (Premium) product.  You may purchase through a Timeslips Solution Provider/Consultant through September 2020, but I encourage you to order through Borek Consulting Group before September 30, 2019 to receive my best pricing. Upgrading now will serve you well for the next few years by delaying the annual subscription price, which will be roughly equal to whatever you pay now for perpetual licenses.

If you are currently using a version of Timeslips 2018 or earlier, please consider reviewing your options and budget for future upgrades within the next month or two. 

Your next step:

Current Timeslips 2018 and earlier users: These products are already discontinued by the manufacturer. Windows technology changes monthly and Windows 7 will be obsolete at the end of this year. It is risky to continue using older software with newer operating systems. A technology upgrade will be required in your future. Be proactive now: take advantage of the last opportunity to own the software and, in the process, delay moving to annual subscription pricing.

Current Timeslips 2019 users: You could go either way. There isn’t a lot of difference between versions 2019 and 2020 but having the most up-to-date version now will delay moving to annual subscription pricing by least one more year.  Consider upgrading to the 2020 version and purchasing additional licenses prior to the end of March 31, 2020.

Current Timeslips 2020 users: The final service patch to Timeslips 2020 will be released in October 2019, and there will be no new features, enhancements or upgrades delivered for Timeslips 2020 afterwards. Install the October service release and you are done. You are already on the final Perpetual (non-subscription) product. Your next upgrade will be to the Premium (annual subscription) version in a few years. Purchase additional licenses prior to August 31, 2020.

To request a Timeslips upgrade quote for your firm, please call Borek Consulting at 954-963-7621. Let us know your current Timeslips version (year) and the number of computers currently using Timeslips. You can easily find this information by selecting Help/About Sage Timeslips from your Timeslips menu.

Leave your commentPosted by on July 3, 20191 Comment
Uncategorized

Best “New” Feature in Timeslips

Recently, I’ve been upgrading a lot of firms to the latest version of Timeslips (see my blog post: https://borekconsulting.com/2019/07/the-end-of-timeslips-perpetual-licenses-is-near/). As with all my upgrades, following the conversion, we have a training session which includes both new features, and features I typically call “New For You”. These are functions that may not currently be in use at the firm, but have existed in their older version of Timeslips.  Examples might include streamlining processes, customization, reports, shortcuts, etc.

Last week, a firm I was working with was absolutely delighted with the Timeslips feature of Abbreviations, which allows staff to use shortcuts to expand words, phrases, and sometimes even full paragraphs. This is a big time saver, especially when using the same terminology over and over again.  They had not used this previously, and considered this one of the best new features.  While the reality is that Timeslips has had this feature for over 25 years, it was new to them!

Carving some time to review features and tweak your use of Timeslips can make you and your staff more productive (even without an upgrade). We’re happy to help if you want to schedule an appointment.

Tagged:

Leave your commentPosted by on November 7, 2019No Comments

Tagged:

Timeslips, Uncategorized

What to do if you have an older version of Timeslips

I’ve had many conversations since Timeslips recently announced policy changes. After 30 years of being a “Perpetual” product that is owned by the users, Timeslips has announced that moving forward Timeslips Premium (subscription based) will be the only product sold through its direct sales channel. This has caused some confusion for folks. What are the options?

Here’s a quick summary:

Stay with your current version of Timeslips. Currently, Timeslips only supports Timeslips 2019, Timeslips 2020, and Timeslips Premium. Your older version will still work, however you cannot get additional licenses, purchase add-ons, or get official technical support. Timeslips Solution Providers such as Borek Consulting Group can still provide support for your older version. We can generally handle your issues (though there are exceptions, especially with newer Windows or servers.). And if the software breaks due to a Windows Update there may not be many options available.

Upgrade to Timeslips 2020. For a limited time, we can upgrade your existing Timeslips to Timeslips 2020 – the latest (and last) version that is Perpetual (owned) and not subscription. Only Solution Providers can offer this option (not Sage direct). Contact us with the number of licenses you currently have, and we can assist with a quote.

Upgrade to Timeslips Premium. This requires an annual subscription, it includes new features being added to Timeslips Premium several times a year (vs. the once a year upgrade). This is a good option for those who want to be able have a consistent budget each year for software, and/or those who like having the newest features available.

Consider Alternatives to Timeslips. If you are considering cloud based software, or would like to have an all in one solution that has both practice management, and time & billing or accounting, this is a great time for a software evaluation and selection. Borek Consulting provides software selection as a service and we’d be happy to review available options. The initial call is complimentary.

As always, feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Tagged:

Leave your commentPosted by on September 18, 2019No Comments

Tagged:

Uncategorized

Timeslips Upgrade Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Will my current database and reports convert?  Yes, the entire current database will be converted and new features and functionality will be added during the upgrade and conversion process. Nothing will be lost.

 2.  Do I have to purchase the Premium Annual Subscription?  Not yet. Sage decided to extend the ability to purchase licenses another year if purchased through a Sage Solution Provider/Consultant like Borek Consulting Group.

 3. Will my current 2018 or earlier software install on my new Windows 10 computer or new server?  Probably, but there is no guarantee on an unsupported version. In fact, there are known issues with Windows 10 and versions prior to Timeslips 2014. Attempting to install a version that old frequently results in errors, data corruption or it may not install at all. Support will not be provided by Timeslips.

4. Which Timeslips version works with E-Center? Only the current and immediate prior year’s versions of Timeslips will support E-Center. Currently, E-Center will only work with Timeslips v2019 or v2020.

5.  Can I still buy additional licenses for my current version of Timeslips?  Additional licenses can only be purchased for supported products. Currently, additional licenses can only be purchased for Timeslips v2019 or v2020.

6.  What is the Premium Edition? The Timeslips Premium Edition is largely the same product as the “perpetual license” version with additional features such as Day View, Bill Reminders and company logo watermarks on reports. The primary difference is that it requires an annual subscription which includes the latest updates, upgrades and features at no additional cost. Moving forward, new features will only be added to Timeslips Premium.

7.  What happens if I stop paying the annual Premium Subscription?  Timeslips will give you several warnings that the database will be put in read only mode and you will no longer be able to add or change information until the subscription is renewed. 

8. Is the Premium Edition a Cloud product?  No, the Timeslips Premium Edition is still a desktop product. A hosted server is required if you want access while remote or a remote desktop type access.

9. What if the firm has a current Business Care Plan with Sage? Existing Support plans will be honored. At renewal, customers will have the option to select Timeslips Premium.

10. Will Borek Consulting still support my older version if we decide not to upgrade? Yes, we will continue to support your older version. However, there are limitations with what we can accomplish, especially if there is a bug fix needed or environmental issue beyond our control. Our resources are limited on expired products since Timeslips support will not be able to provide assistance.  If at a future point you wish (or need) to upgrade, you will have no other option other than Premium. Your firm must decide the level of risk they are willing to take.  

To request pricing information for your firm, please email with your current Timeslips version (year) and the number of computers currently using Timeslips. You can easily find this information by selecting Help/About Sage Timeslips from your Timeslips menu.

Leave your commentPosted by on July 3, 2019No Comments
General IT Advice, Timeslips, Uncategorized

The True cost of “If it Ain’t Broke, don’t Fix it”

Recently I got a call from a colleague. He was running into an issue with a Timeslips conversion from version 10.1 to Timeslips 2019.  To give you an idea of the difference in versions, Timeslips 2019 is technically version 27, so this was a pretty big leap in time and data.

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!

Leave your commentPosted by on November 19, 2018No Comments
General IT Advice, Timeslips, Uncategorized

Is My Timeslips Outdated?

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. 

Leave your commentPosted by on November 4, 2018No Comments
Uncategorized

Three Questions

This month, we’d like to review 3 common questions we often receive:

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

Maybe you have received a sales promotion, a direct call from the vendor, or a new version was announced. Perhaps you have something new in your environment (staff, workstations, or servers), or are upgrading a different program and want to make sure everything works together. Possibly you are considering whether to keep or change your software entirely. There’s a lot to consider, including compatibility, timing, and transition.

Do you work with other software? We’re considering a change…

The short answer is … Yes!

We’ve added both Clio and Actionstep to our areas of expertise, and continue to support Timeslips, and Amicus.

If you are considering another product, we can often provide information, refer you to a colleague or assist with exporting data.

Can you tell me where our data is located? I’m not sure it is backed up…!

Unfortunately, hardware fails, data corrupts, and viruses (including ransomware) have become more and more dangerous, encrypting your files and preventing access. Often a backup is your only option for recovery, however we’ve found that sometimes you (or your IT folks) did not know where your data was located, so it was not backed up.

For a limited time, we are offering a complimentary 15 minute review of the data locations of your time and billing and practice management software.

If any of these questions apply (or you would like to schedule the complimentary call), contact us so we can review the situation together!

Leave your commentPosted by on April 26, 2018No Comments
Timeslips, Uncategorized

Timeslips Upcoming Changes

Sage Timeslips has announced some changes recently to their support and licensing policies. Following are some frequently asked questions and answers:

Timeslips has supported older versions in the past, what is the change? What will happen moving forward?

Timeslips has traditionally supported the most recent 3 versions of the program. As of August 1, 2017, Sage will now only support 2 versions (the current version and one prior). For example, once Timeslips 2018 is released, Timeslips 2017 and Timeslips 2018 will be the only supported versions. (Timeslips 2018 will be released in the summer.)

What does it mean to be using a supported version of Timeslips?

When you are using a supported version of Timeslips, you (or we) can get technical support, patches are available and updated, you can use E-Center, and you can purchase items such as additional licenses or electronic billing modules.

Can we still get support through Borek Consulting?

Yes, we will be happy to continue to support your firm, even if you are not on a supported version. Keep in mind if things change in your environment (changes to operating systems, 3rd party programs, links, etc), there may not be patches or fixes available.

Does Subscription mean that Timeslips is in the Cloud?

No – Timeslips is still installed on your server/local workstations. Subscription means that technical support, patches, and upgrades are included in the annual fee.

Do I need to move to subscription? How much does it cost?

The cost is dependent on the number of users and from what version you are coming from. We will be happy to provide you a quote.

Is there anything else to know about subscription?

All of the benefits listed above are included with a subscription. It is important to know that if you choose not to renew your subscription, your data will become “read-only” and will not be able to be modified.

What if I don’t wish to go on subscription? Can I still own the software? 

Timeslips 2017 and Timeslips 2018 will be available in both subscription and perpetual format (if purchased through a certified consultant such as Borek Consulting Group). Perpetual licenses are the “traditional” way that licenses have been issued in the past – licenses are owned by the firm and do not expire. Upgrades are encouraged but optional. 

Do I have to change everything? Or just Timeslips?

If you are linking Timeslips to another program (such as Amicus, Time Matters, Quickbooks, etc), we will want to coordinate to make sure all programs are compatible with each other.

What if I currently have Timeslips 2017? Do I need to upgrade?

It depends – once the features of Timeslips 2018 are released, you should review and evaluate whether they will enhance your firm’s billing. 

Are there billing programs other than Timeslips to consider?

We represent several case, time and billing management products that we would be happy to discuss with you, if you are seeking to make a change, or wondering if there might be a different solution available to you.

When is the best time to upgrade?

It depends on the firm – we’ll help you create a timeline.

What if I have more questions?

Please contact us and we will be happy to address your questions!

Tagged:

Leave your commentPosted by on May 31, 2017No Comments

Tagged:

Amicus Attorney, General IT Advice, Time Management, Timeslips, Uncategorized

My Toyota Saga.. and how it relates to Software & Consulting – Part 2

As many of you know from my previous post, I recently had some car troubles that put me in a strikingly similar situation to one my clients occasionally encounter: executing the best plan of action in an emergency situation. (Click here for Part 1)

Like our clients sometimes do, I had to decide: Do I go with a short term “patch” (or “workaround”), or do I make a costly decision under pressure?

Some background: Since I bought my car, I had all maintenance done at the same dealership. Even though other facilities offered marginally lower pricing, I felt that, in the long-term, it would benefit me to continue with the dealership. In fact, this was my second Toyota with the same dealership. So when I called Toyota Corporate and they reviewed my records, thanks to my long term relationship and history, they offered me a significant discount on the repair. Another positive – a new hybrid battery improved the resale value and gave me some time to breathe.

So, how does this relate to software support and consulting?
– My long history with the dealership helped me to negotiate a better deal, just as our relationship with software vendors helps us in negotiating on our clients’ behalf.
– Long term planning versus “wait until it breaks” – an expensive lesson to learn. I hadn’t even started looking for a new car when I had this crisis, but you can bet I’ll be looking now! Our clients also need to be aware of the options available to them, whether it’s an upgrade to existing software, or researching to see what else is available to satisfy their needs.
– A backup plan – I didn’t have one at the time, so had to scramble and take a lot of unplanned time to deal with this issue, between the negotiation and repair time. While I could borrow a car to get around, I can’t get back the down time and stress. Our clients need to make sure that they have rock solid backups (you knew I was going to go there) and backup plans for when the unexpected happens.

Moving forward, I plan to purchase a new car by the end of the first quarter of 2017. Feel free to check in with me and make car recommendations!

Leave your commentPosted by on January 11, 2017No Comments
Amicus Attorney, General IT Advice, Time Management, Timeslips

My Toyota Saga…and how it relates to Software Support (Part 1)

I have a 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid, which I love. Ok, to be honest the love (like the original paint) may have faded over time. But the car has been good to me, and before I knew it I had driven it about 2 years longer than I originally planned. As I watched the odometer inch towards 100,000 (and the end of my warranty) I thought to myself that it was probably time to start looking for a new car. With my busy schedule and dread of the car buying process, I decided to wait until the spring. The milestone came and went, and before I knew it my car odometer was at 100,882 miles.

Of course you know what happened next – without warning, all kinds of bells and whistles went off about a week ago. Danger, Hybrid Engine System Check? A quick look at the owner’s manual told me it was not good news, confirmed by the look on the car dealership service manager’s face when I brought it in. To make a long story a little shorter, there was over $4000 in repairs to replace the hybrid battery system. Now what ??? Do I repair the vehicle or buy a new one while I’m in a bind?

As I found myself contemplating the philosophical choices that I’ve made (buy vs. lease, keep just a few months longer vs. risk being out of warranty), I realized that there was a stunning parallel to the world of consulting and the software that we support.

Many of our clients are in the same boat. They often question how long they can stretch their use of existing software – the mission critical systems that keep your firm running (calendar and docketing, time tracking and billing, and even e-mail.)

Firms make do with what they have for many reasons – they fear the increased costs, learning curve, or even down time. We often field questions about upgrading, benefits of support plans, and defining exactly what “unsupported” means. Why should they upgrade? The software is paid for! It’s working fine, why should they change? Or, maybe it’s not working great, but we’d rather deal with what we have than deal with transition.

We have always continued to support our clients, whether the software vendor supports the version or not – for as long as we are able. We continue this commitment to our clients.

However, based on recent events with my car (and new trends in the software industry), we also realize that it is imperative that we are clear about the risks of using an unsupported version of your software.

Risks may include:

– Extra Costs for time spent researching issues and getting resources (since official technical support will not be available)
– Unplanned downtime if your program is not working
– Living with software bugs or workarounds
– Limited (or no availability) to add licenses
– Compatibility issues with new operating systems or 3rd party links (accounting, billing, etc)

– In the worst case scenario there may be a domino effect of needing to upgrade multiple systems – hardware, operating systems, practice management software, billing software, etc. at a most inconvenient time.

If you’d like us to review your options, please call our office to schedule a complimentary telephone conference. We’ll be happy to discuss your current systems and help you create a timeline that suits your budget – and your tolerance for risk.

And as for me, and my car – what did I do? You can wait until Part 2, or e-mail me to find out, and I’ll tell you the rest of the story…

Tagged:

Leave your commentPosted by on December 6, 2016No Comments

Tagged: