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Press Release
QuickArrow ECS v4.0 Drives The Bottom Line For Technology Service Providers
Web-native PSA software suite helps firms reduce business costs while increasing billable hours for a bottom line impact that can exceed 40-percent
Austin, TX - September 12, 2000...QuickArrow, Inc. today announced general availability of its Enterprise Consulting Suite (ECS) v4.0. This fourth-generation Professional Services Automation (PSA) application expands QuickArrow's proven software infrastructure to empower systems integrators, software consultants and other professional services organizations (PSO's) with a new standard in practice management technology. ECS v4.0 standardizes common business processes, streamlines operations, slashes expenses and boosts billable hours for a bottom-line impact that can exceed 40-percent-all via the Web.
In addition to the powerful business processes and management capabilities ECS is well known for, the new ECS v4.0 includes:- Accounting Integration-ECS' seamless integration with accounting applications from Great Plains, Solomon and QuickBooks allows companies to leverage their existing investment in accounting software. A generic API allows integration with other accounting packages. Financial integration enables data to flow from ECS directly into the appropriate accounting package fields-cutting administrative time, eliminating redundant data entry, improving accuracy, and compressing accounting cycles. Through ECS, financial data is readily accessible for reporting that supports informed decisions.
- Data Downloads / Offline Reports-ECS clients can remotely download a complete back-up of their data, anytime. Additionally, clients can use any ODBC compliant reporting tool (Access 2000, Crystal Reports, etc.) to run custom reports on specific business parameters.
- Fixed Price Projects-Standardized project management gives service providers the predictable benchmark numbers needed to confidently bid projects on a more profitable fixed-price basis; Pricing can easily be based on value delivered, not on time spent; Reports on fixed-price project status encourage proactive account management. Includes management alerts when projects reach preset budget limits or as milestones approach.
- Intuitive User Interface-A re-engineered GUI guides users through ECS' intuitive, role-based workflow. Little training is required to navigate the system, which encourages use throughout the client organization. As the application is assimilated its benefits multiply and snowball to the bottom-line
- Microsoft Project Integration-Assigns routine task and project status updates to individual consultants, eliminating management time spent gathering and manually updating project plans; Safeguards project plan integrity; Automates reporting for accurate, real-time project status checks; Allows shared and remote access that keeps managers, consultants and clients up-to-date. Bi-directional data transfers allow project managers to compare plans to actual time and expense within ECS.
- Multi-currency Support- v4.0 provides easy access to real-time exchange rates and automates calculations, dramatically reducing the time professionals spend on currency conversions for expense reporting. Easier reporting encourages timely filing that reduces delinquent reports and compresses reimbursement and billing cycles.
- Staffing Wizard-ECS reduces the hours formerly spent using legacy tools to locate and schedule professional resources to just a few clicks of the mouse. ECS v4.0 facilitates better staffing forecasts by cross-referencing employee skills and availability with both real and potential project assignments. Instant access to individual billing rates provides more accurate reporting and bid preparation.
ECS is a Web-native (architected specifically for use over the Web) software solution deployed through the fast-emerging Application Service Provider (ASP) delivery model. Its price on a per seat, per month basis through the ASP model is comparable to the cost of monthly cell phone use.
"To succeed in today's services market, PSOs' must manage their business with a keen eye on efficiency and profitability. Features like integration with MS Project and major accounting packages, support for fixed cost projects, a great new GUI, and powerful reporting capabilities make ECS v4.0 a must see solution for firms serious about building their bottom line," said David Hofferberth, Senior PSA Analyst, Aberdeen Group.
"We chose ECS because its extensive integration and easy to use GUI promise rapid adoption throughout the firm for a quick impact on our bottom line," said Bruce Spengler, president of Highland Software (www.highlandsoftware.com). "My goal is capture a 10- to 20-percent increase in billable hours by using ECS to integrate our project management, time and expense and sales lead systems."
"QuickArrow has already proven itself as the best PSA software on the market today, and we're thrilled to add it to our portfolio," said Feisal Mosleh, vice president at ASP aggregator Agiliti and architect of the Highland / QuickArrow deal.
About QuickArrow, Inc. (www.quickarrow.com)
Austin, TX-based QuickArrow, Inc. is the leading provider of professional services automation (PSA) and management solutions for IT services providers. The QuickArrow Enterprise Consulting Suite (ECS) helps consultants manage and automate business processes from client acquisition through project delivery to back-end accounting. ECS provides insights for strategic decision making focused on improving service delivery, increasing customer satisfaction, and planning for growth and profits. By leveraging the Web for fast deployment, ECS offers industry-leading time to benefit and rapid return on investment.
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