Category Archives: Timeslips

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Is My Timeslips Outdated?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 Shari Borek on November 4, 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, 3^rd 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!

Leave your commentPosted by Shari Borek on May 31, 2017No Comments

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 Shari Borek 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…

Leave your commentPosted by Shari Borek on December 6, 2016No Comments

Amicus Attorney, Time Management, Timeslips

Received a promotional E-mail or call from your software company? Give us a call to discuss!

Borek Consulting Group is proud to work in partnership with the sales channel at each of the software programs we work with.
Should you receive an email or a call from one of the software companies regarding a sales promotion, give us a call!
Not only can we honor their pricing, but being familiar with your firm’s set up and use of your programs, we can guide you through a transition – and make sure that taking advantage of a promotion is the right fit.

Leave your commentPosted by Shari Borek on July 21, 2016No Comments

Timeslips

Setting Exclusive Mode in Timeslips 2013 or Higher

There are times when you need exclusive access to your Timeslips database to perform a specific function. Examples include making a backup, creating or editing custom fields, purging data, or running a database verification. These require exclusive use of the Timeslips database – in other words, all other users must be completely logged out. In the past, administrators needed to go from workstation to workstation, use the intercom, or our personal favorite – page the entire office “Everyone out of Timeslips!”

Beginning with Timeslips version 2013, you can now use the NEW “Exclusive Mode” feature to notify users to log out, and log them out automatically within a specific time frame.

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Start by choosing Special, then “Exclusive Mode” from the menu bar

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Create a specific message, and click on OK:

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If there were users already logged into the database when you attempted to go into Exclusive mode, you will see the following message:

You can then set a time frame to lock the users out, and click on OK. The logged in users will see a timer countdown in Timeslips with the time frame you have indicated:

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While the administrator will see the following countdown:

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Once there are no other users in Timeslips, you will see the following message: Clicking on “Show workstation details” will allow you to see the specific workstations still logged in.

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You will also see the following in the bottom right corner of your screen:

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Any users trying to log into Timeslips while the database is in Exclusive Mode will see the following:

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Once you are finished with the process and are ready to allow users to go back into Timeslips, you can click on the “Exclusive Mode” in the bottom right status bar, or choose Special, and Exclusive Mode from the menu bar, and choose to “Allow other workstations to access the database”.

Leave your commentPosted by Shari Borek on October 28, 2013No Comments