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At the time of writing this edition of
CRMtimes, Commence announced the release of the next version, Commence
RM Version 3.1. So here is the latest information on the
exciting forthcoming new
features, "hot off the press".
Overview
The new version incorporates several
refinements to existing features, making them easier to use. The
user interface has been enhanced to simplify tasks and a new Windows
XP look and feel will better match Microsoft standard applications
making the product feel more consistent for the end user. Streamlined integration with Microsoft Outlook will enable the
user to bypass the Microsoft security prompts that often disrupt
desktop utilization. We are pleased to report that support for the mouse wheel is also included in
version 3.1
Version 3.1 will also offer more ways to
report and view information. Enhancements
have been made to the report designer which now includes a wizard that
automates advanced report settings such as grouping, styles and
themes. A seamless
interface to Microsoft Excel will provide advanced graphing and
analytical reporting while several new application plug-ins, such as
an organisation chart and a sales funnel (also included with our
application suite) will enable customers to extend the functionality
and utilization of their current applications.
Those who enjoy working with Commence under the covers will appreciate
the enhancements made to the Forms Designer, that now include a
floating properties window that makes it easier and faster to
customize forms. Support for Active X Controls is also included in
version 3.1, enabling programmers to add highly customized
functionality to the applications they create. Active X will also allow you to add and create visual graphs
and charts. In addition,
there are thousands of Active X components available for use.
Enhancing the product’s functionality,
while maintaining its outstanding performance is of significant
importance with every new release of Commence. For Version 3.1, changes have been made to the client side
synchronization process that has resulted in the reduction of
bandwidth usage and server processing time.
New Features in Commence RM 3.1
User Interface Enhancements
- Enhanced Windows XP look & feel
- Date & Time Formatting - Internationalisation
- Streamlined Integration with MS Outlook
- Support for Mouse Wheel
Workgroup and Database Format
- Enhanced Synchronization
- No Database Conversion Required
Detail Forms
- Enhanced Form Designer
- Support for ActiveX Controls
Reporting
- Report Wizard
- Sub-Reports
- Excel Integration, providing
custom formatting, integration of external data, pivot tables and charts.
Application Features
- Contact Management features including Accounts
and Contacts, Activities
and History, Attachments, Expenses,
Reporting
- Organisational Chart
- Sales Force Automation with Opportunity
tracking, Forecast
reporting, Sales
cycle & stage tracking
- Sales Funnel
Version 3.1 will include some basic sales automation
functionality such as opportunity management and forecasting. These
application features can be incorporated into existing
applications, adding significant value to any Commence installation and
can be extended using the built-in tools within the Designer Edition
Framework.
Expected Release Timeframe
The Commence Designer Edition Version
3.1 is in the final stages of testing and quality assurance. The
release date is scheduled for Q4 2005. Beta testing of Version 3.1
will begin very soon.
Obtaining the upgrade
Customers on a Commence Maintenance Plan (current at
the time of v3.1 release) will receive the new version automatically
at no charge.
Customers not on a Maintenance Plan will still be able
to purchase the upgrade, and will need to quote their existing serial
number when placing the order.
If you have an older version of Commence, and would
like to ensure a smooth, cost effective transition to Version 3.1,
contact us now for great deals on an immediate upgrade to v3.0 bundled
with a Maintenance Plan (including basic technical support), to ensure
you receive your 3.1 update, when it is released, at no additional
charge.
For the latest details, check our web site, www.aus.com.au/crm,
in the coming weeks for more information.
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