Q. If ACT! is so easy to use, why do I need an ACT! consultant?
A. ACT! is easy to use. But the setup and customization and other aspects may be challenging for most IT departments. It is a specialized form of SQL and backup and installation is therefore different.

Q. How do ACT! Consultants work with clients?
A. There are a range of services we provide. We do not work for Sage, but are independent consultants. We can get you licenses for your installation, and generally, our best pricing is for 10 or more licenses. We can install and configure ACT! on your server and the workstations. We can customize the interface. We can import data from other programs, such as Goldmine or Excel, or convert older versions of ACT!. We can, and highly suggest, that we train your users to get the most out of your ACT! installation.

Q. How do you charge for your services?
A. In two ways. For small jobs we bill on an hourly basis. For larger installs or conversions, 5 or more users as a guideline, a project price can be supplied. Training is charged on a separate basis. We accept credit cards and for small jobs, a 2 hour minimum is required and payable on completion.

Q. Can we synchronize remote databases with our server database?
A. Yes. ACT! can be setup to use a VPN connection or the internet as a conduit for synchronization.

Q. How is training delivered?
A. For individual users, you can purchase the CD training set on this site, which includes the Quick Start guide. For groups, we can train at your location and best results are obtained if users are 2 on one computer in a contained area. We can also train at our training center, up to 12 participants at a time, minimum 4 students.

Q. What is a training webinar?
A. Training is delivered via a web browser and conference call. The duration is 3 hours and covers beginning to intermediate ACT! user. The participants are able to ask questions during the presentation and are expected to try the exercises in their own ACT! during the webinar. All participants receive a Quick Start guide and CD1 as part of the fee. Currently, the webinars are held on Friday mornings, PST.

Q. Can you do connect remotely?
A. Yes, we can connect to your desktop at a scheduled time to make repairs, customize and most any other ACT! need.

Q. How do we get started?
A. Please call and we can explore the best path for ACT! in your business. By meeting with you we can understand your current situation, where your data is, what your expectations are from ACT! and how it fits into your business model. Initial consultation is free.

Q. One last question, why ACT! instead of Outlook or Outlook Business Contact Manager?
A. Outlook is by far the best email program. However, it is not designed to be contact centric but user centric. In other words, it is very difficult to share contact information when several persons are updating notes, emailing and so on. The problem with Business Contact Manager is that any user can delete the entire database, individual records or even get into the design and field structure. In short, there is zero security for your data, which is a recipe for disaster. Your customer data is too valuable to leave open the whims of a disgruntled sales person, isn't it?