When selecting a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, one of the first considerations to make is whether to go hosted (on the cloud) or on-premise. Although both types have their advantages and disadvantages, it’s worth taking a closer look and offering points of consideration to make the software selection process less daunting. Software Advice, an advisory firm that helps buyers select ERP software, conducted research to create a comprehensive guide to help buyers determine the best type of software needed for their organization, with findings compiled in this article.

The biggest difference between the two types of systems is cloud-based software is hosted on the vendor’s servers and accessed through a Web browser, while on-premise software is installed locally, on a company’s own computers and servers. Although over time, both systems’ cost tend to converge, cloud-based software is priced under a monthly or annual subscription basis, while on-premise software is usually priced under a one-time perpetual license fee.

Some advantages of cloud-based ERP software include its shorter implementation time, great stability with frequent updates from the vendor and no additional hardware investments. On the other hand, some disadvantages of this type of system are its less customizable functionalities and an organization’s possible less peace of mind that comes with data security being in the vendor’s hands.

On the other end of the spectrum, on-premise ERP systems are known to be more customizable and offer greater control over data. However, the implementation process can take longer and organizations have to pay associated hardware and IT costs. Organizations will find that cloud-based ERP systems are more mobile-friendly compared to their on-premise counterpart. 

It would be in an organization’s best interest to first assess its needs, budget and top concerns before deciding on the right type of ERP system that will be the right fit.

When selecting a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, one of the first considerations to make is whether to go hosted (on the cloud) or on-premise. Although both types have their advantages and disadvantages, it’s worth taking a closer look and offering points of consideration to make the software selection process less daunting. Software Advice, an advisory firm that helps buyers select ERP software, conducted research to create a comprehensive guide to help buyers determine the best type of software needed for their organization, with findings compiled in this article.

The biggest difference between the two types of systems is cloud-based software is hosted on the vendor’s servers and accessed through a Web browser, while on-premise software is installed locally, on a company’s own computers and servers. Although over time, both systems’ cost tend to converge, cloud-based software is priced under a monthly or annual subscription basis, while on-premise software is usually priced under a one-time perpetual license fee.

Some advantages of cloud-based ERP software include its shorter implementation time, great stability with frequent updates from the vendor and no additional hardware investments. On the other hand, some disadvantages of this type of system are its less customizable functionalities and an organization’s possible less peace of mind that comes with data security being in the vendor’s hands.

On the other end of the spectrum, on-premise ERP systems are known to be more customizable and offer greater control over data. However, the implementation process can take longer and organizations have to pay associated hardware and IT costs. Organizations will find that cloud-based ERP systems are more mobile-friendly compared to their on-premise counterpart. 

It would be in an organization’s best interest to first assess its needs, budget and top concerns before deciding on the right type of ERP system that will be the right fit.

You finally have Microsoft Dynamics GP and now you are ready to explore the wonderful world of online accounting software which is good and all but while you’re having lots of fun using the different applications it provides, don’t forget that you have to maintain it! Here are five tips to help you maintain Microsoft Dynamics GP.

1. SQL Backup

Make sure you create SQL backups of every database on your server. It’s recommended that you performed full backups or you have the option of full backups with transactions log backups, but it’s ultimately your choice. You also need to back up Dynamics databases, Company (s) databases and Model database.

2. File Backup

SQL aren’t that only backups that you have to do, don’t forget the other multiple files that need backing up to. For example any folder that ends in dic, set or config and all the other folders including subfolders. The <DATA> folder is included in the backup process as well as Dex.Ini that is located in the <DATA> folder for example OLEPath, OLEPathHR, Word Macro File etc.; I have one more suggestion, backup any files in the manuals of any add-on products.

If you are thinking of starting a new business, or getting a new software system, what company do you choose? How do you know that the company that you decide to go with fulfills your needs? It’s time that you do your own research and be in charge of your business financial system. Here are some questions that you should ask before you make a decision:

1.       Will the accounting software grow with your business?

You want to make sure that you don’t outgrow your system. It’s better to get a system that has the capacity to grow with your business.

2.       Can access be restricted for some users?

Having the power to monitor who uses particular functions is very important to a company. Having control is very important for senior level employees to keep certain information confidential and private.

I was reading an article called “Six Basics of preventing pain in our ERP implementation” and I thought to myself, why are all these problems with ERP implementation occurring in the first place? It’s happening more than normal and I think I know why, Companies are not doing enough research, therefore, they choose the wrong partner and software. Here I have a checklist of six rules you should consider before saying yes and signing the dotted line.

Really research thoroughly about which partner would be the right partner for you and which software would be the right software for you. Even if you have ten companies and have to narrow it to one then do that. If you’re Googling “accounting software” there are millions of results that come up, I know that can be overwhelming but don’t choose only the top three results. Some people think that the top three results are the best results, but that’s completely untrue. Google doesn’t rank you higher based on your product or services quality, they rank based on search engine optimization, keywords and links. But that’s another blog; basically what I’m saying is take your time to do your homework.

When you find the right partner and software, make it clear on what you expect from your partner. Have a one on one sit down with the company you will be working with, there needs to be impeccable communication between both companies. Make sure you listen to their expectations and make sure they listen to your expectations, because if one person’s not listening to the project is bound to go wrong. Even if you have to take notes, you need and they need to fully understand the expectations of the project. That’s to prevent sentences like: “I never said that”, “But I thought you said…”, “I told you that, remember?” Also, it’s good to get everything in a tightly sealed contract so you can also avoid those phrases.

So once you’ve found the right partner and you found the right accounting software and there’s clear understanding amongst both companies, make sure they don’t go anywhere. Sounds weird enough, but I’m not joking, whoever is in charge of your project make sure they stay in charge of the project. The reason this is on the list is to prevent your partner from doing an 180 on you. If you have one project manager that is in charge of the project, if there are any hiccups in the implementation you can go straight to that person to address the problem. If there’s no one particular in charge of the plan, you’re only going to get the run around when a problem occurs because no one’s in charge. Another reason it’s on the list is because if the company switches the manager, you would have to communicate every single detail about the project all over again hoping that they can comprehend it  and execute it all in a short matter of time.

Tune into part two and see the rest of the checklist!

Cloud computing has become a huge trend in the last five years; IDC has predicted a 130% increase in cloud computing by 2016. There are so many benefits to moving to the cloud that companies cannot resist anymore. For example, companies prefer a subscription payment model because they only pay for how much data they need. Cloud computing recovery services have been a cost-effective way to back up your whole company. Also, security is improving all the time; there is continuous effort to provide cloud computing companies with top quality safety structure. Here are three interesting cloud trends to watch which could help boost cloud computing in the long-term:

1. In a study done by Gartner, they predict the size of the cloud computing market could reach $150 billion in 2013.This is not a surprising number due to the excitement and benefits that cloud computing can offer businesses in the long run. An on-premise solution looks less appealing as the cloud computing market thrives.
2. Mimecast did a statistic based study and found that 7/10 companies using cloud services will move new applications to the cloud. Only 70%? Have you heard the saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”? This means some businesses are still skeptical about moving to the cloud. However, based on trends, they will probably move their applications to the cloud sooner or later.
3. Gartner also predicted that 60% of server workloads will be virtualized by 2014.This was not news to me because of the number of benefits you get in return. You don’t need to purchase hardware; you can reduce your carbon footprint and lower your energy costs. This is a great way to save money in the long run. At WebSan Solutions, you have access to your data, through our secure network, in our SAS70/SSAE16 certified data centre.

To see what our business accounting software can offer you visit our website.

To read more about different cloud computing statistics click here.

Natalie Williams, Marketing Coordinator,WebSan Solutions Inc., a Canadian Certified Microsoft Partner

The release is almost here! Business is growing and so is technology so look no further! Microsoft Dynamics GP is committed to helping you do this by delivering a widespread vision and solution for your business. In part 1 of this blog I will be talking about 3 features that you can look forward to in the upcoming release.

Take command of your business

Have access to Dynamics GP virtually everywhere. There will be a new web client so you can use and contribute to Dynamics GP anywhere, anytime. The business analyzer dashboard helps you gain access to key performance indicators, reports and important information.

What’s new about business intelligence is it now offers both full service and self-service users have more of an “out-of-the-box” Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services and Microsoft Excel Reports.

Drive efficiency up while you drive costs down.

WebSan Solutions’ Microsoft Dynamics GP and CRM interactive demos now enables users to leave feedback to unlock new resources that will offer additional information that can help in the ERP software selection process.

The Dynamics GP and CRM demos boast over 300 downloads and have been a trusted tool in helping give an overview of both systems’ capabilities and main modules. The demos give an inside look at what the systems can offer and show a preview of each system before users decide to purchase. Not only are the demos useful in the research process, they also prove valuable for their interactive functionality. The interactive functionality allows users to type in and click on specific fields; a feature that is not common to traditional software demos.

When users leave feedback for the demos after downloading, they are given links to valuable resources that offer additional information on the two systems. For the Dynamics GP demo, users can access an estimate of WebSan’s Dynamics GP implementation cost, while those who leave feedback for the Dynamics CRM demo can watch an exclusive webinar on maximizing Dynamics CRM’s out-of-the-box features.

Download our demos today to unlock these valuable resources!

 Linz Tan, Web Marketing Assistant, WebSan Solutions Inc. a 2014 Ontario Business Achievement Award Winner for Service Excellence

I recently read an article in the Toronto Star titled “IT projects are ticking time bombs.”

The article cited a study at Oxford University where they found that 17 percent of IT projects were so mismanaged that they had “average cost overruns of 200 per cent….”

After reading the article, I spent some time thinking about the IT projects I’ve been involved in over the years, from the large, multi-million dollar SAP projects to the smaller, 5-15 user Dynamics GP projects. I’ve had my share of smooth go-lives and my share of “rough” projects. One common theme with the projects that run smoothly is that an unbreakable link exists between the project team and their vision of what they’re working on and the overall business goals for the project.

It’s somewhat human nature, really. If we understand the “why” of what we’re doing, then the “what”, and “how” are easier to understand and “get behind.” I’ve seen projects with great potential and a really strong business case go off the rails because the executives didn’t effectively communicate to the project team what the real goal was. If the project team and leaders have “context” by which to understand the purpose behind the project, the odds of success rise dramatically.

There are obviously numerous other factors that affect the outcome of an IT project (which I’ve written about in the past), but I come back to executive involvement and leadership as the #1 factor in project success.

Move to the cloud or stay on premise? What do you choose? Some firms are very skeptical about moving to the cloud while others welcome it. If you are a company that thinks it’s time for a change, then using Hosted ERP System will be for you. Read the following list that I wrote about benefits of Hosted ERP System below:

• Do you prefer to pay for what you use? Hosted Dynamics GP uses a subscription-based licensing model, where you pay for the number of user licenses.
• Trying to keep your cost low? Licensing fees are very predictable and can be known in advance.
• Looking to get a quick start on things? Hosted Dynamic GP guarantees faster deployment and implementation than choosing to be on premise.
• Do you want to save energy costs?  You don’t have to have a server; you just need an internet connection.
• Still want to be in control of your data and business? Don’t worry, you also have 24/7 access to your data. You have the options of adding and removing users if you choose.

Are you still undecided? If you want to learn more information about Hosted Dynamics GP, visit our website www.websan.com At WebSan Solutions Inc. we help you unlock your systems potential.

By: Natalie Williams, Marketing Coordinator, WebSan Solutions Inc., a Canadian Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner

Last Thursday, we hosted our first web conference for this year. We discussed SQL linked Excel Reports and reviewed how you could effectively use tools, like pivot tables. With such a great turn out, we’re looking forward to hosting web conferences regularly. To be informed with the latest webinars, send us a message or e-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

You can view the recorded webinar and other Microsoft Dynamics GP training videos at our YouTube channel.

Excel Reporting - Part 1

By: Mabelle Gonzales, Marketing Coordinator at WebSan Solutions Inc, a Canadian Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner.

Sending an email should be easy to compose and send, it also should be easy to reply and forward to different people. Hotmail has one of the simplest ways of navigating and organizing emails, but the problem with that is companies don’t use Hotmail as their email provider. So say the email system that you’re using is giving you a hard time by not sending emails properly or sending all your emails to the junk folder, many of these problems can be frustrating and make you appear to be unprofessional. Here are a few benefits of using email integration in Microsoft Dynamics GP.

• Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 allows users to effortlessly email single and/or numerous documents. You can also send emails from a list in the system. You have the option of choosing a document that you want to send to a specific customer or vendor.
• With email integration, you can send documents as HTML, PDF, DOCX, or DOCX.
• You can customize messages for each document and/or customer/vendor combinations.
• You can also combine many documents and send them all at once in a single email.

So if you think your company needs a new email system and perhaps a new online accounting software system, why not kill two birds with one stone?

By: Natalie Williams, Marketing Coordinator, WebSan Solutions Inc., a Canadian Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner

According to Webopedia, BYOD (Bring your own device ) refers to employees who bring their own computing devices – such as smartphones, laptops and PDAs – to the workplace for use and connectivity on the corporate network.

Employees want to have the ability to work anywhere using their own device. Work flexibility is one of the key elements required in order to recruit good talent and increase employee retention.

Companies are reporting a reduction in employee turnover because BYOD and work shifting are able to bring more employee satisfaction, compared to any other motivational strategies that companies have traditionally implemented.

Employees prefer close workplace proximity and people generally choose their work based on commuting time and convenience, so working from home or anywhere else other than the office can lead to a tremendous boost in satisfaction.

A particularly good way to protect your company’s data is to implement a virtual environment within the device.  Employees can work and access all relevant data, but no data is ever actually saved within the device; both applications and data are cloud based, with the device simply serving as a portal.

Technology is shifting to the clouds. Whether it's phone apps like the Apple iCloud or email like Hotmail’s SkyDrive, many firms are transitioning there.  It makes sense to move your ERP system from on-premise to hosted instead. Using Hosted Microsoft Dynamics GP still means your software application is in a data center. You can still access your information where ever you are 24/7. You can rest assured of the security and reliability of your business. These are some reasons why you should use Hosted Dynamics GP:

• Superior security, availability and control of your data
• Lower Hardware Cost
• Reduced Maintenance cost and improved ROI
• Built – in disaster recovery and repair
• Gain access to your data from anywhere

To learn more about Hosted Dynamics GP, visit https://www.websan.com/solutions/hosted-microsoft-dynamics-gp/.  We are a cloud Microsoft Dynamics Certified Partner and IT consulting and solutions provider. We have over a decade of experience in Enterprise Software solutions, business and financial accounting software, implementation and design.

Natalie Williams, Marketing Coordinator, WebSan Solutions Inc., a Canadian Certified Microsoft Dynamics Partner

WebSan's YouTube account began in 2012 to showcase training and webinar videos featuring Microsoft Dynamics GP and CRM. Today, our YouTube account has more than 50,000 views. We're sending a big thank you to our YouTube subscribers and viewers. Without your support, we wouldn't be celebrating this milestone!

 Here are our top 2 most viewed videos:

• Management Reporter for Microsoft Dynamics ERP
• 10 Tricks in 30 Minutes: The Top 10 Features of Dynamics GP You’re Not Using and Should Be

 Stay up to date with our new videos by subscribing to our YouTube channel.

Linz Tan, Web Marketing Assistant, WebSan Solutions Inc. a 2014 Ontario Business Achievement Award Winner for Service 

As a business owner an ERP system will take your business to the next level. It will take all your current business flows and transforms them into a single process. Majority of ERP systems have already been pre-developed to fit the standard business prototype but can be modified to better fit your business needs. Once you have the ERP system in place, you will have access to all the right tools to remain highly competitive in the marketplace and become more efficient. Implementing an ERP system for your business can be highly profitable in the long run and can assist your company in becoming more scalable for future growth. Here are three reasons why you should implement an ERP system:

Reason One: Streamlined Processes

Once your ERP system has been implemented, all of your department’s processes streamlined. These faster and simpler working methods will increase employee efficient and in return, create a stronger business model. Also, room for human error decreases significantly when an ERP system is in place. As multiple departments, work as one, the business can now develop and grow into something bigger than it was before.

Reason Two: Customer Service

This webinar is a continuation of the Dynamics NAV Manufacturing Series. In Part 7, we will discuss the following;

• Variance reporting
• Labor reporting
• Dashboards and insights
• Power BI
• Variance reporting
• Labor reporting
• Dashboards and insights
• Power BI

Date: Tuesday March 20, 2018
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

Click Here to Sign Up For The Webinar Today!

Perhaps your company is struggling with existing complex and costly business software and hardware in order to carry out your day-to-day business activities. Your company has hired a team of expensive specialists/experts to manage and maintain these systems. It has come to the point that your company can no longer keep up-to-date with the latest technology due to limited resources. What should your company seek in a new enterprise solution? With the beginning of a new year, it's important to consider the advantages of making a transition to the cloud.

Cloud computing is a network of your company's business areas located externally on the internet.  The biggest advantage of cloud computing is that you no longer have to purchase expensive business software or hardware - not to mention the costly IT staff required to maintain your systems. All of your company's activities and information are located in an external online server which is supported and managed by an experienced vendor. As all your business functions are online, all necessary updates, upgrades, and backups are done automatically. Additionally, your company benefits from access to real-time information from each department such as HR, Marketing, Sales, and Accounting, among other business areas. Finally, your company benefits from being able to scale your cloud network up or down depending on your business needs and/or as your company grows. With these factors in mind, consider these 5 reasons to choose cloud computing as your next business venture:

• Up and running within days/weeks as there is no purchase of hardware or software. All you need is an internet connection.
• Reduce dependence on IT personnel.
• Remotely access your information from any location on any device.
• Real-time access to your company's information across all business areas.
• Scalability allows for your company to make changes as your company grows.

Make the Transition to Cloud Computing Today!

View our Cloud Computing Products

Nilofhar Zarif - Kadir, Web Marketing Assistant, WebSan Solutions Inc., a 2014 Ontario Business Achievement Award Winner for Service Excellence

Learn more about Dynamics GPView Dynamics GP PricingFree Dynamics GP Training

There are a number of recorded issues with Microsoft Dynamics GP 10.0 and 2010 when attempting to reference VBA code on 64-bit machines. Both Office 2010 and Crystal Reporting are known culprits in causing this issue to occur, as their installations update some system registry keys for VBA 6 incorrectly. Office 2010 references VB7, thus it should not be affecting keys it does not require. Registry Keys are used by the system as container objects, similar to folders, that can store values or further keys. If the value of a registry key is changed without the knowledge of an application that references its value, problems can arise. This would be the case for the VBA 6 file not being found.

I recently had a client of whom we were aiding implement an on-premise installation of GP and needed to deploy the software, along with any customized forms and reports we had designed, to a dozen workstations. After completing the deployment steps without any issue on the first three workstations, it was not until the forth that the system administrator eventually encountered the “File not found: VBA6.dll” error. The error can occur either on login to GP or when accessing custom VBA code through ‘Modifier’, if installed. Upon discussion, I was told that both Office 2010 and Crystal Reporting resided on the machine (Crystal was later removed, however the effects its installation has on registry keys can remain even after its removal).

To resolve the issue, there are two steps that need to be confirmed and/or completed to allow GP to properly reference the system dll:

(NOTE: Making changes to system registry keys is only advisable for advanced users, as incorrectly performing any steps can corrupt the system if care is not taken. Contact your system administrator for help.)
1. Ensure that Dynamics GP is not running.

Saturday’s ice storm was one of the worst ice storms in Toronto’s history. A utility company described the ice story as‘ far worse than imagined. Forestry crews have been brought in to help cut up and move massive tree limbs littering streets and roadways. Over 225,000 homes and businesses are still without heat and light across the city. The city is currently working to restore power and heat across Toronto. (Source: metronews)

It was business as usual here at WebSan Solutions! We experienced no issues throughout the storm and our backup generating system was on standby if needed. Our Microsoft Dynamics GP Hosted environment was up and running without a hitch. You always have access to your data, through our secure network, in our SAS70/SSAE16 certified data centre!

WebSan Solutions is dedicated to helping all businesses make better business decisions by improving their access to important company data and information, in rain or shine!

Natalie Williams, Marketing Coordinator, WebSan Solutions Inc., a Channel Elite Awards Winner for 2013