Microsoft Forecaster: Real-World User Stories

In this webcast, I interview two local executive who have implemented Microsoft Forecaster, and the Microsoft Master Certified Consultant who lead the implementations.

Click the image below to watch the webcast replay:

Microsoft Forecaster: Real-World User Stories

Microsoft Forecaster is the #1 planning application for users of Dynamics GP (“Great Plains”) and Dynamics SL (“Solomon”).  It’s integrated, easy to use, and affordable. 

During this webinar you’ll hear first-hand stories from:

• The Financial Systems Manager of the world’s largest aviation association.  She streamlined her re-budget process from 50+ spreadsheets to one screen; deployed new web-based data entry forms and reports, and shaved 40%+ off her time. 
    
• The VP of Finance at the world’s largest membership organization for hospice care, who will explain how she transformed an annual budget to a detailed monthly budget – in 50% less time.

We’ll also cover:

• Business challenges before Forecaster
• The impact of those challenges
• Why they chose Forecaster
• Benefits realized

 Enjoy!

Busting the Myth of “DCAA Certified” Accounting Systems

DCAA Does NOT Certify Accounting Software

 I’m frequently asked by CFO’s at goverment contractors which accounting software systems are “DCAA Certified.”

The answer: None.  Zero.  Zip.

Contrary to an urban myth, the Defense Contract Audit Agency, or ‘DCAA,” does not certify accounting software.  The DCAA does, however, require considerable detail about the direct, indirect, and overhead expenses associated with every item billed to the government on contract awards. 

In order to pass DCAA audits, government contractors must be able to provide effective reports and be able to show internal controls so auditors can rely on those reports.

Microsoft has just released an excellent whitepaper on this topic.  Several industry experts from CPA firms and government contractors weigh in on the topic.  If you are curious, follow this link to read the PDF document.

“12 Steps to Effective Budgeting” with Michael Gellman

Michael Gellman, CPA, Rubino & McGeehin

 Listen to the replay of my interview:

 Mike Gellman is a CPA, popular speaker and trainer who’s passionate about helping accountants take the pain and fear out of the annual budget cycle. 

Based on his work with hundreds of CFO’s in 25+ years of practice, Mike has created a 12-step process that promises to make the budgeting process more effective. 

Mike’s “secret sauce” is paying careful attention to the perspective of non-financial managers.

I’ve seen Mike teach his concepts to an auditorium full of 300+ accountants…and win rave reviews.  His concepts work!

In this 60-minute interview, I got Mike to share his “12-Step Process for More Effective Budgeting”.  Listen and learn the 12 steps.

Microsoft Convergence – 3 Reasons You Should Go

Convergence is the premier annual Microsoft Dynamics event for customers, partners and industry experts.   

The event is a an opportunity to participate in a learning program that includes speakers, product demonstrations, and hands-on learning sessions.  

In 2009, Convergence will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana March 10 – 13.  If you haven’t decided whether to attend, here’s three reasons to consider registering now:

1. You will learn how to enhance your Microsoft investment and interact with peers, partners, Microsoft team members and top industry experts in both structured and informal settings. .
2. You will build skills across all Microsoft platforms and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to optimize your business solution.
3. You will hear the vision and strategy of key Microsoft executive leaders and gain insight on the future of the company, product direction and investments so you can align your business and take advantage of the benefits.

For more information, and to register follow this link to the official Convergence 2009 website.

How To Add Vertical Lines to FRx Reports

Vertical lines can make your FRx reports more “readable.”  

In this post, I’ll show you how to add them to your reports.