2011 Fall - GPUG Magazine

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this Edition:

» Tips & Tricks » User Member Showcases with Sta-Home Health & Hospice, Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC, and Interactive Solutions

» A Yeti’s Guide to Summit 2011

» A Member in Action UNICEF

Fall 2011 • www.gpug.com 1045 Broadway Fargo, ND 58102

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In

» »

Magazine

this Edition:

Tips & Tric ks

User Memb er Showcase s with Sta-Home Hea lth & Hospice, Luby’s Fuddruckers

Restaurants, LLC, and Interac tive Solutions

Magazine

» »

A Yeti’s Gu ide to Summit 20 11

A Member in Action UNICEF

In Every Issue From the Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Fall 2011 • www.gpug .co

m

1045 Broadwa y Fargo, ND 58102

News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Academy Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Welcome to Our New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

The List, from The Partner Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Features Meet the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 User Member Showcase Sta-Home Health & Hospice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Leadership Bringing the Oddballs Together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Member in Action UNICEF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Summit Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 summit ®

Engage in Unique Networking Opportunities

A Yeti’s Guide to Summit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

GPUG Summit is designed with one thing in mind: to connect you, the Microsoft Dynamics® GP User, with the right resources to address your specific Microsoft Dynamics GP challenges, issues, and priorities. We create ample networking opportunities to make it easy for you to connect with other Users, Partners, and Microsoft team members. Those opportunities include structured networking sessions, Microsoft Town Hall meetings, exclusive expo times, interactive discussions, Microsoft Conduits, role/industry/location-based roundtables, Ask the Experts sessions, meetings-on-the-fly, networking receptions, and more. And, of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to keep the conversations and the fun going even after the day’s planned agenda is complete (after all, we will be in Vegas)!

Learn From the Experiences of Other Microsoft Dynamics GP Users

A Yeti’s Guide to GPUG Summit 2011 Adventures in Accounting with Microsoft Dynamics GP

by Mark Polino

Disclaimer

This is a work of fiction. Any similarity to persons living or dead is merely coincidental.

This work uses a fictional situation to illustrate conference offerings of GPUG Summit 2011. While every attempt has been made to ensure that the conference will contain the features described in this work, the descriptions may be inaccurate and should not be relied upon for purchase or implementation decisions.

This work is a parody and was not created for or with the consent of Microsoft or Dynamics Communities.

Preparation

We would like to extend a warm welcome to all of the abdominal snowmen abnormal snowmen aboriginal snowmen …er…yetis who will be attending GPUG® Summit 2011. We realize that you spend most of your lives at or near the peak, and we look forward to your insights to help Users get the most out of Microsoft Dynamics® GP. Just to be clear, GPUG Summit 2011 is not an actual summit

18

The GPUG Magazine

on a real mountain. Nor is it taking place anywhere near a snowcapped peak. It’s in the desert, hence the mountain theme.

GPUG is the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group, a group of professionals dedicated to getting the most out of the Microsoft ERP system known as Microsoft Dynamics GP. GPUG Summit is our annual User conference.

Given Microsoft’s location in the great Northwest, it’s not unusual to have sasquash Susquehanna Saskatoon…er…Bigfoot creatures attend Microsoft conferences. They fit right in, and we’re sure that you, too, will be welcomed to the open, sharing environment of GPUG Summit. Plus, you will be far from the strangest looking thing in Las Vegas.

Since we have a record number of yetis this year, we’ve prepared this short guide to help you survive the avalanche of great Microsoft Dynamics GP information that will be coming your way.

Basecamp

Your expedition begins by registering for the conference online

via the GPUG Summit link at http://www.dynamiccommunities. com/summit2011/GPUG/index.html. Fortunately, the cost of GPUG Summit is considerably less than the $25,000 permit required to climb Mount Everest. It’s affordable for everyone.

Base camp for this expedition will be Caesars Palace in beautiful Las Vegas. Walking Caesars Palace is a bit like strolling up K2, so yetis should have no problem. Humans should wear comfortable shoes and rope themselves together to avoid getting lost in the vast casino wilderness.

Yetis should register at base camp and pick up a conference badge. Please wear your badge throughout the conference. There is no one that Vegas bouncers would rather bust than an unregistered yeti. Feel free to add a little color to your monochromatic look by adding buttons or ribbons to your conference badge.

These provide a great way to meet yetis in the same industry or with similar interests. Fortunately for you, everything goes with white!

Please encourage other yetis to make Caesars Palace their ice cave away from home. This location is ideal for rubbing fur with others, sharing tips, and organizing a search party should someone become lost in the avalanche of information.

Unfortunately, Caesars Palace has a strict “No Yak” policy.

You will need to leave your yaks in the long-term parking garage.

Please ensure that they have plenty of water and that they lay off the horns.

Sessions

Sessions will be presented on a host of topics around Microsoft Dynamics GP. Most of the presenters are Users, Partners, or Microsoft employees with a lot of knowledge in their areas. As a courtesy to everyone, please don’t roar menacingly at the presenters. Bob McAdam in particular doesn’t react well to stress; seeing him in the fetal position sucking his thumb is not a pretty sight.

We do have a few sessions recommended specifically for yetis.

Mark Polino and John Lowther will be presenting the “Worst Mistakes You Can Make with Dynamics GP.” They’ve collected almost 200 of the worst mistakes people make with Microsoft Dynamics GP and will be presenting the worst of the worst. This session is lot like those narrow, high mountain footpaths next to a sheer cliff, with falling rocks and no guardrails. In short, you yetis will love it!

Additionally, Microsoft MVP Mark Polino will also present a session with the best of his 50 Tips in 50 Minutes for Microsoft Dynamics GP. This session is faster than Himalayan eco-tourists who have just seen a yeti and more fun than watching them outrun their Sherpa.

Many of the sessions are also interactive, with panels of speakers tackling tough questions around topics like inventory, payables, and fixed assets. For example, “Glaciers: Should depreciation be accelerated because of global warming?” It’s an important question for the experts to wrestle with.

Other sessions are designed to enhance collaboration and networking. As a reminder, the Birds of a Feather sessions have nothing to do with the small birds that sit on yaks. They are sessions designed to get people and yetis with similar interests and issues talking to each other. This is where you can build a likeminded tribe around field service, the media industry, or hibernation techniques.

We know that yetis specialize in blitz attacks, so you’ll be

thrilled to hear that we will be presenting speed networking. This will give ISVs an opportunity to hit you with a blizzard of information while you get the chance to critique their attack style.

Additionally, there will be a town hall style session with Microsofties answering questions from attendees. We know that yetis might associate town hall meetings with torches, pitch forks, and angry mobs. Frankly, Microsoft does, too. But though GPUG Summit attendees may be loud, they are friendly. Even when angry, they are more likely to attack you with a pivot table than a pitchfork.

Finally, a select group of shy creatures will get the opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with Microsoft in a conduit session. This is a great opportunity to argue forcefully for changes that you want in Microsoft Dynamics GP. Please don’t break any Microsofties. It upsets the Bigfeet Bigfoots …er… Sasquatches.

Expo

A key part of the conference is the Expo. In the Expo, vendors provide an opportunity to learn about ways to extend the value of Microsoft Dynamics GP. It’s a great place to follow up from speed networking.

While we know that yetis can be shy and are experts at giving the cold shoulder, talking with vendors at the Expo is a great way to figure out how to get the most out of Microsoft Dynamics GP. Don’t worry; the vendors don’t bite, although we’re still careful around Gianmarco.

Mark Rockwell, Rockton Software

2011

Landon Russell, The Money Box

Top Reasons to Attend GPUG® Summit 2011

Come explore what’s possible! GPUG Summit gives you an opportunity to meet other Microsoft Dynamics GP Users who are in a similar industry or have similar goals. Bounce your ideas and challenges off them, and learn from their experiences to pick up some new best practices for your own organization. Someone, somewhere has solved an issue you’re grappling with right now. Don’t reinvent the wheel; simplify your life by learning from the expertise of others.

Hone Your Microsoft Dynamics GP Skills at a Conference Designed for You As the largest independent, User-led conference dedicated exclusively to Microsoft Dynamics GP, everyone who attends Summit has a vested interested in the product and has experience from which you can benefit. This is your opportunity to hash out current hot topics, see the newest product developments, and share new insights around solving your business challenges. GPUG Summit is all Microsoft Dynamics GP, all the time.

Get Microsoft Dynamics GP Answers Right From the Top The Town Hall meeting is typically one of the most anticipated features of GPUG Summit! It’s a rapid-fire, Q&A type of session where key Microsoft Dynamics GP executives in Research and Development, Support, Service, and Marketing roles address your burning Microsoft Dynamics GP questions or concerns. Bring your product or strategy questions and participate in this candid, open, and honest discussion with Microsoft Dynamics GP leaders and influencers.

Learn to Better Utilize Microsoft Dynamics GP in Your Role

in Microsoft Dynamics GP

» Best of 50 Tips for Microsoft Dynamics GP

The GPUG Magazine

“GPUG Summit allows me to interact with fellow Microsoft Dynamics GP Users, vendors, and Microsoft employees – all in an intimate setting. I never feel lost in the crowd.”

Pam Misialek, Microsoft Dynamics

Meet Me There!

Errol Schoenfish, Microsoft

Realize a Strong Return on Your Summit 2011 Investment GPUG Summit 2011 could be one of the greatest investments you make to enhance your personal productivity and help improve your organization’s overall return from Microsoft Dynamics GP this year. You’ll have three days to interact, discuss, share experiences, troubleshoot, find solutions, talk to Microsoft, shop new products, and make valuable connections, all for the price of about a day and a half of an independent consultant’s time! Summit will likely pay for itself through the answers, solutions, and best practice tips you’ll pick up at the conference. If that’s not enough, you’ll also earn CPE credits through your participation in most of Summit’s breakout sessions and/ or by taking part in the optional pre-Summit training courses that are available. Networking, training, and CPE credits – you can’t go wrong!

Here are some sessions that are likely to generate a lot of interest among Users:

30

Kim Peterson, Dynamic Communities

Within your organization, you and your teammates likely utilize Microsoft Dynamics GP differently, depending on your role. Summit 2011 is set up the same way and we have sessions and learning tracks for the various roles and experience levels within your organization. Whether you’re a GP rookie or seasoned professional in accounting, finance, HR, payroll, IT support, or development, you’ll meet Users like you.

Not to Miss Sessions at Summit » 100 Products in 50 Minutes » Ask the Experts: 13 Classic Under-Used Features

“GPUG is all about community, and nothing builds community like getting together to share, learn, and celebrate. I’ll be there to share my enthusiasm, learn how GP can improve, and celebrate with friends.”

» Biggest Mistakes Made with Microsoft Dynamics GP » Enhancing Your Use of SmartList with Microsoft Dynamics GP

» Extender Magic

“The GPUG Summit is an important event to me. It’s intimate where I can have in-depth dialogs with Customers to really understand how they use Microsoft Dynamics GP and what’s most important to them. I’ve always felt that the Microsoft Dynamics GP community is like a family and GPUG Summit is like Thanksgiving, getting together and spending time together.”

“We’ve put together the best agenda ever with timely topics that can add efficiencies to your daily routine. I invite personally to come to this intimate conference and share your experiences while gaining knowledge that you can’t find anywhere else in a short amount of time. See you in November!”

“GPUG Summit gives me an opportunity to have candid conversations with Users who live in Microsoft Dynamics GP day in and day out. It’s a great opportunity for me to hear about your experience today and what you desire down the road. I hope to meet you in Las Vegas!”

» Management Reporter – Migrating from FRx » SmartList Builder Insights » The Accidental GP Administrator » Where do the Experts Turn for Answers?

Be sure to review the sessions and plan your Summit experience!

Learn more about GPUG Summit 2001 at www.gpug.com/conferences/ summit-2011.

Fall 2011

31

Events

In addition to sessions and the Expo, we will have a number of events of interest to yetis. These include:

» Challenge Walls – This is not a climbing event. We get it; yetis would win. Let it go already. This is a place where Users can post problems and challenge other attendees to provide solutions. » Code Fair – The code fair is designed to share reports and code with others. We know that yetis make some of the best Dexterity developers. This is the place to strut your fur. » Presenter’s Lounge – Sure, yetis are shy. We understand that you might not want to fight through the throngs of fans mobbing presenters after they speak.

No problem. Presenters get to hang out in the Presenter’s Lounge and take questions from attendees in a more relaxed atmosphere. Use that long, slow yeti stride that you do so well for the home movie cameras to head over to the Presenter’s Lounge and ask a question or two. » Book Signings – You’ll need something to read on that long flight back to the Himalayas. GPUG Summit is a perfect place to pick up a great Microsoft Dynamics GP book such as the Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Cookbook. You can even have it signed by the author.

That should raise your status with the monks back home. [Note: authors sign books in PEN, not blood.]

All Stars

I’m sure that the stars in the Himalayas are even prettier than the lights in Las Vegas. However, while you’re in Vegas, you will have an opportunity to vote for GPUG All Stars. These are volFall 2011

19

VAR Member Showcase Tribridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Tips & Tricks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Microsoft Member Showcase Errol Schoenfish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

User Member Showcase Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 ISV Member Showcase Rockton Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 User Member Showcase Interactive Intelligence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

contents Fall 2011

3

Pitch the the paper clips.

Go beyond the electronic file cabinet and experience the amazing efficiencies of Paperless ERP from MetaViewer. From AP to AR and HR to the CFO—everyone can share the efficiencies of 100% paperless transactions. MetaViewer gives you paperless invoice and order capture with OCR, automated workflow, real-time visibility and full Microsoft Dynamics ® ERP integration. In Paperless ERP, nothing compares to MetaViewer. So pitch the paper clips and visit www.metaviewer.com.

AX • GP • SL • NAV

summit 2011

®

from the director

summer2011 www.axug.com

Greetings, GPUG ® Members!

Kim Peterson

F

all is upon us, and it seems that this is

in your area? Let’s make it happen – let me know that you’re inter-

the time of year that we all start to get

ested in taking a leadership role to get a group together near you.

back to business.

Summer vacations are

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are one of my favorite benefits for

over, and the kids are back in school…now

the GPUG community. With SIGs, like-minded Members gather on

is the perfect time to think about furthering

a regular basis to learn how to be better in their role, take a deeper

your own professional education.

dive into key modules, or share what’s happening in their particular

In that spirit, let me share a few new and updated GPUG® educational opportunities:

GPUG Summit 2011, our annual Mem-

ber conference, will be held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas the week

industry. GPUG has around 10 unique SIGs that provide opportunities to collaborate with Users just like you. I encourage you to check out the SIGs and get involved.

Lunch and Learn is a program made up of preplanned webinars

of November 7. Here you’ll network with fellow Users who face the

held the second Tuesday of each month around the noon hour. These

same challenges you face every day. Choose from over 130 breakout

webinars offer you an opportunity to schedule the conference room,

sessions, shop around in the Expo area, and learn more about what

order in pizza, and have your whole team dig into a specific Microsoft

resources are available to gain more from your Microsoft Dynamics®

Dynamics GP topic. Upcoming topics:

GP investment.

I’d like to personally invite you to participate in Summit. It’s an intimate learning experience that’s all about Users helping Users solve real-world Microsoft Dynamics GP issues by sharing real-world Microsoft Dynamics GP knowledge and experiences. To learn more,

»» October 11: Which Builder Should I Use: SmartList, Navigation, or Excel Report?

»» November 22: GPUG Summit 2011’s Highest-Rated Session »» December 13: Year-End Closing Processes and Procedures

I hope you enjoy this edition of GPUG Magazine! Let me know what

check out the event highlights on pages 32 and 33.

you’d like to learn more about by emailing programs@gpug.com.

desire to network and learn from fellow Users and subject matter

resolved challenge at a time!

Regional Chapters are important for Members who have the

experts on a local basis. This fall we rolled out a series of chapter

Let’s continue to grow the GPUG community…one Member, one Regards,

meetings throughout the country and provided chapter leaders with professional meeting materials covering popular User-identified topics. If you are not active in a regional chapter, now is the time. Check out the Member Resources section of the GPUG website (www.gpug.

Kim Peterson

com) to see where chapters exist today, and get involved! No chapter

GPUG Program Director

This label only applies to the text stock.

Fall 2011

5

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Special Interest Groups

One of the greatest benefits of GPUG速 membership is participating in Special Interest Groups (SIGs). These groups are formed around a common area of interest and typically meet on a monthly or quarterly basis to share best practices in a roundtable format.

Active GPUG SIGs

Business Intelligence and Reporting HR/Payroll Database Administrators Healthcare Distribution/Manufacturing SmartList Monday Field Service Upgrades FRx Friday To participate in one of these SIGs, look for the next SIG webinar at www. gpug.com/events. In most cases, participation is available only to Premium Members.

Learn More About the SIGs Read on for more information about SmartList Monday, Database Administrators, Business Intelligence and Reporting, and Upgrade SIGs from the subject matter experts who lead the groups.

SmartList Monday

Third Monday of the Month 3:00pm ET Nicole Albertson, Microsoft SmartList Monday includes a discussion on available features in Microsoft Dynamics速 GP as well as how Users use them to solve challenges. The SIG covers SmartList as well as SmartList Builder.

Database Administrator

Third Thursday of the Month 3:00pm ET John W. Lowther, Jr., Sta-Home Health & Hospice, Inc. The Database Administrator SIG covers the challenges that Users have in maintaining their Microsoft Dynamics GP databases. Topics range from Performance to Data Warehousing, and Users discuss what they experience as well as share best practices.

Business Intelligence and Reporting Second Thursday of the Month 3:00pm ET John W. Lowther, Jr., Sta-Home Health & Hospice, Inc. The Business Intelligence and Reporting SIG addresses challenges encountered in setting up and maintaining a business intelligence system.

Questions and best practices regarding all systems, from in-house to third party, simple to complex, are welcome.

Upgrade

Check www.gpug.com/events for dates John W. Lowther, Jr., Sta-Home Health & Hospice, Inc. The Upgrade SIG covers all things upgrade, with topics including Microsoft Dynamics versions, Service Packs, Hot Fixes, code-changing payroll taxes, and third-party add-ons.

events Fall 2011

7

meet the board Christy Smith

Company: IronPlanet | Location: Pleasanton, CA Email: csmith@ironplanet.com | Title: Business Systems Analyst Board Member since: 2010 | Microsoft Dynamics® GP User since: 2008 Benefits of GPUG®: GPUG has been a great asset for our company. After going live, we were looking for additional resources/conferences and found the User Group. While we had missed Convergence that year, we attended Summit. We were able to gain a great deal of knowledge, find peers to network with, learn about third-party tools, and began a more active role with the User Group. Since then, GPUG has been a great source for training, networking, and learning about new processes and products. It is an amazing community of Users and one I feel very fortunate to be part of.

Company: US Fund For UNICEF | Location: New York, NY Email: ekogan@unicefusa.org | Title: Director of IT Board Member since: 2008 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 1996 Benefits of GPUG: GPUG is a way to communicate and interact with Dynamics Communities® and participate actively in Microsoft-built products. GPUG is also an arena to bring end Users with current vendors, professionals, and Microsoft team members.

Jim Noblitt

Company: L-1 Identity Solutions | Location: Fort Wayne, IN Email: jnoblitt@l1id.com | Title: Director, Application Services Board Member since: 2008 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2005 Benefits of GPUG: GPUG provides access to a community of existing Users/experts from which to draw upon for valuable information and support in the implementation and use of Microsoft Dynamics GP. The organization is also a valuable conduit to Microsoft regarding User input to the design, development, and enhancement of the solution. Lastly, GPUG also provides information and access to a vast array of additional applications that are available from ISVs.

Company: Sta-home Health & Hospice, Inc. | Location: Jackson, MS Email: jlowther@sta-home.com | Title: Database Administrator Board Member since: 2008 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2001 Benefits of GPUG: I enjoy helping Users and having access to Microsoft because our first Partner did not know anything!

Joyce VanJura

8

The GPUG Magazine

Eugene Kogan

John Lowther

Company: Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants | Location: Houston, TX Email: jvanjura@lubys.com | Title: Business Applications Manager Board Member since: 2008 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2002 Benefits of GPUG: GPUG has given me the opportunity to interact and meet some of the most experienced Users of Microsoft Dynamics GP. It also provides very useful webinars that help improve the way we use the solution.

Company: The Money Box | Location: Austin, TX Email: landonr@themoneybox.net | Title: Controller Board Member since: 2009 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 1996 Benefits of GPUG: GPUG provides the means, on a local and national level, to share knowledge between other Microsoft Dynamics GP Users, Partners, and Microsoft. GPUG also gives me the ability to learn from, as well as contribute, to the community of GP Users.

Michael Smith

Company: Intelident Solutions, Inc. | Location: Tampa, FL Email: msmith@intelidentsolutions.com | Title: Chief Information Officer Board Member since: 2008 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2001 Benefits of GPUG: The real benefits of GPUG lie in the opportunities to easily network with others in the GP community. There are so many people out there – other GP Users, Partners and Microsoft’s team – who have GP expertise, and GPUG provides the perfect avenues for connecting with these folks.

Company: Sta-home Health & Hospice, Inc. | Location: Jackson, MS Email: mmcdowell@sta-home.com | Title: Director of Finance Board Member since: 2007 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2001 Benefits of GPUG: Networking with other Users, webinars, training, direct line to Microsoft, and access to industry specific SIGs.

Traci Shaw

Landon Russell

Mike McDowell

Company: Interactive Intelligence | Location: Indianapolis, IN Email: traci.shaw@inin.com | Title: Senior Manager, Accounting Board Member since: 2010 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2000 Benefits of GPUG: GPUG allows our company to connect with other companies like ours. GPUG provides the means to do this by creating the appropriate settings for companies to connect whether it is live at Convergence, GPUG Summit, or via webinars. This has proven to be a great benefit for our organization.

Company: Performance Building Services | Location: Denver, CO Email: zgidwani@gmail.com | Title: Performance Building Services, Systems Analyst Board Member since: 2010 | Microsoft Dynamics GP User since: 2005 Benefits of GPUG: The establishment and access to a peer group for assistance in troubleshooting. Whether it’s on a monthly SIG webinar, in a Convergence session, late at night in the middle of a monthly close, or on the weekend fighting a stalled upgrade, knowing who to ping for what and having them respond is invaluable! My companies and I have benefitted by knowing what to watch out for, how to do it better, and where to look when something goes wrong. My peer network consistently has a faster response time at a fraction of the cost (drinks on me next time we meet!) than Microsoft or our VARs.

Zubin Gidwani

Fall 2011

9

Indiana/Kentucky Regional Chapter Accelerates at the Speedway

I

n late August, 25 Microsoft Dynamics® GP Users from Indiana and Kentucky converged at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the regional chapter’s sixth onsite meeting since February 2010. This event was hosted by fellow Microsoft Dynamics GP User, Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The meeting started with each participant sharing their story, including an overview of their use of Microsoft Dynamics GP, where they are relative to their Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 upgrade, challenges they face, and the ISV and other third-party solutions they use to help support their business operations. The chapter also shared that it will be well represented at GPUG Summit in Las Vegas.

Fastpath Solutions was a key contributor of content to this event and also served as the meeting sponsor. Andy Snook, president of Fastpath Solutions, made the drive to the Speedway all the way from Des Moines, Iowa. In the midst of the loud motorcycles on the track preparing for the weekend’s Indianapolis Red Bull Moto GP races, Andy was still able to maintain the attention of all participants by the great wealth of knowledge and experience he shared about Microsoft Dynamics GP security and other internal control issues that organizations continue to face.

Following Andy’s presentation, the chapter enjoyed a track-themed lunch sponsored by Fastpath Solutions. Next up was a roundtable discussion, kicked off by the question “what do you use for ___?”

This blank was filled in immediately by participants throwing ideas out such as document imaging, business intelligence, budgeting, and credit card processing. For every topic that was mentioned, the chapter shared experiences with the tools they’re using for each.

The session closed with planning for the next events. GPUG Summit will serve as the fourth quarter meeting and the next onsite event is planned for February 2012 at Interactive Intelligence in Indianapolis, where the chapter will focus on the Support Debugging Tool and Management Reporter.

After the meeting, participants used complimentary track passes to watch the afternoon Moto GP practice sessions and visit various community tents. The track passes were provided to each meeting participant compliments of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Carrie Pitman, accounting manager for the speedway, did an awesome job of coordinating everything to make this event a huge success.

Microsoft Dynamics Community Comes Together

T

he Dynamic Communities® User Groups AXUG®, CRMUG®, GPUG®, and NAVUG™) partnered with Microsoft and nine community business organizations to host a regional meeting at the Port of Tampa this summer.

The meeting kicked off with a keynote from Tampa Port Authority CEO Richard Wainio. The 90 attendees then took a cruise around the port, enjoying some networking time. Finally, the attendees gathered into networking and knowledge sharing groups based on the roles of CEOs, CIOs, finance professionals, supply chain professionals, and IT administrators.

The consensus was that this event must be repeated as the unique blend of organizations serving different aspects of business in the Tampa Bay community had much to gain from each other. GPUG

10

The GPUG Magazine

®

GPUG’s Regional Chapters

RegionalChapters Chapters Regional

W

e’d love to have you join a regional chapter near you! Below is the list of active chapters. For more information on the regional chapters, email the chapter contact nearest you or regionalchapters@gpug.com.

Regional Chapter

Contact Name Email Address

Baltimore

Susan Moore

smoore@pandora.net

California - North

Christy Smith

csmith@ironplanet.com

California - South

Rick Ward

rward@stormmfg.com

Chicago

Pat Schimpf

pschimpf@pharmedium.com

Denver

Mark Huff Emmanuel Castro

mhuff@sacwsd.org emmanuel.castro@Imageseller.com

Georgia

Heather Maughn

hmaughn@prosysis.com

Indiana, Kentucky

Steve Baute Traci Shaw

steve.baute@inin.com traci.shaw@inin.com

Inland Empire

Shelly Peterson

speterson@inlandimaging.com

Minnesota

Leon Hoffmann

leon.hoffmann@ergodyne.com

New England

Valerie Fogarty

fogarty@genomequest.com

New York

Eugene Kogan

ekogan@unicefusa.org

North Carolina

Frank Hamelly

fhamelly@intellpartners.com

Pennsylvania

Cindi Todd

ctodd@sabvi.com

Seattle

Mark Timm

markt@gravelpits.com

South Carolina

Ray Scarborough

ray.scarborough@acumenIT.com

Tampa Bay

Lisa Bristol

lbristol@tampaport.com

Texas - Austin

Landon Russell

landonr@themoneybox.net

Texas - Dallas/Ft. Worth

Daniela First

dfirst@batescontainer.com

Utah

Luciana Balthazar

lbalthazar@trilliumusa.com

Virginia

Denni Conner

denniconner@embarqmail.com

Washington, DC

Elizabeth Palmer

epalmer@aronsonllc.com

Wisconsin

Lori LaGrow

llagrow@lamplight.com

news Fall 2011

11

The right care. The right place. The right choice.

Company: Sta-Home Health & Hospice

Interviewees: John Lowther, database administrator, and Mike McDowell, director of finance

Headquarters: Jackson, Mississippi

Email: jlowther@sta-home.com and mmcdowell@Sta-Home.com

Website: www.Sta-Home.com

Established: 1976

Microsoft Dynamics® GP User Since: 2001

GPUG® Member Since: 2007

Number of Employees: 1,000

S

ta-Home’s mission is true to the company’s name: to provide high-quality home health care services in a safe, cost-effective manner to patients at home, optimizing their comfort and dignity.

“The company was founded in 1976 by an entrepreneurial husband and wife team who saw the need for home help,” says John Lowther, database administrator for Sta-Home. “Since then we have grown to almost 1,000 employees, but we’ve kept that way of treating patients and employees like family.”

Through this caring attitude and with a staff of nurses, physical therapists, social workers, and home workers, Sta-Home supports 6,000 people each month and is rated as one of the best home health agencies in the country, going up against publicly traded companies across the United States.

With so many caregivers in the field, Sta-Home relies on John as well as Mike McDowell, Sta-Home’s director of finance, to keep the business running smoothly behind the scenes – a task that has been hard won.

When Mike joined Sta-Home in 2003, he found the company’s

Microsoft Dynamics® GP implementation in a horrible state.

“I had never heard of GP before, and I’d only used multimillion dollar systems that did everything but sing to you,” says Mike. “But nobody from a financial standpoint had looked at what had been done in our GP implementation. The basics were there, but the core mapping was wrong. I ended up redoing years and years of financials.”

One of Sta-Home’s commitments is to do business with Mississippi-based companies and people. While there was one Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner in the state at the time, the organization was no longer providing support services. As a result, John and Mike decided that, in essence, they would become Sta-Home’s Partner, registering as such with Microsoft to gain access to the networks.

“That was before GPUG, when Customers could not talk directly with Microsoft and you had to go through a Partner.

Now that GPUG exists, we are back to just being Customers,” says John.

After gaining access, the duo taught themselves how to make Microsoft Dynamics GP work

best for their business needs, bringing in third-party products from mc², Mekorma, and Greenshades Software to round out the solution.

“If we would have had a strong Partner, John and I wouldn’t have a tenth of the knowledge that we have now,” says Mike. “Soon we were asked to lead sessions at Convergence (the Microsoft Dynamics® Customer conference). I realized that people wanted information in a fair and honest way, and once people knew they would get that from us, the crowds drew quickly. We pull as many Partners into a room as Users; people who are skilled Partners, and know a lot, come to our classes.”

From those Convergence presentations came a membership with the newly-formed GPUG®.

“We saw the GPUG stand and didn’t even ask how much a membership was; we just asked where to sign,” says John.

A symbiotic relationship has been built from that expo floor.

Mike and John serve on the GPUG board, contribute to the GPUG Member Tidbits blog and Ask the Community Website, and lead several of GPUG’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs),

Number of Users: 10

user member

showcase 12

The GPUG Magazine

and John has his own blog dedicated to sharing what he’s learned over the years (see sidebar for more information).

“The User Groups are a great thing,” says Mike. “I enjoy being able to network with people and listen to their problems and see how they’re fixing things. Some of the brightest people from all over the world are part of GPUG. If any of us has a problem, we know it can get fixed.”

The two are now in the favorable position where they can’t remember the last problem they had. Preparing for the upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics® GP 2010 R2, Mike has brought on two new employees in the last two years, and they’ve been able to learn the system quickly, which is of great benefit. “I’ve been on several systems where you almost had to have a master’s degree to run them,” he says.

John and Mike also have the favorable advantage of hindsight. Looking back at their GPUG experiences, they wouldn’t change a thing.

“I get two to three calls a week from people with questions,” says John. “I cannot tell you how much it would have helped me to find somebody like me ten years ago. I spent almost all my waking hours at work, going home to shower and then coming back. I don’t want anybody to go through that same headache.”

Their prescription for avoiding that headache is to take advantage of what a GPUG membership has to offer, from regional chapter meetings to webinars to Summit and other events.

“The GPUG staff is second to none. They know their stuff,” says Mike. “I remember interviewing Kim (Peterson) at the 2010 Summit, and since she’s been there, the bar has been raised.”

“We keep raising the bar, the way we reach out and help people. We’re there for the Users, for them to reach out and learn and help. We count on them as much as they count us.”

GPUG

Expertise Keep up with John and Mike’s expertise: » John’s Blog: https://community.dynamics.com/product/gp/gptechnical/b/gpdba/ default.aspx » GPUG Member Tidbits: https://community.dynamics.com/usergroup/gpug/ b/gpugmembertidbits/default.aspx » Ask the Community: https://community.dynamics.com/product/gp/f/32.aspx

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Fall 2011

13

Bringing the

Illustration by Ryan Fritz for The Partner Channel

Oddballs Together

by Pam McGee

S

ometimes I think my work would be so much better if people would just quit acting stupid and do things my way. I quietly (sometimes not so quietly) ask myself: How can someone be so annoying? Does he not know that showing up late for meetings is rude? Does she not know that when we are having a strategic dialogue, it’s NOT the place for a question on where customers should park? Why does he chew those peanuts with his mouth open? Did she really just say that? If she asks one more question on things we have covered a million times, can I throw my shoe at her?

And sometimes I think: man, I love how he thinks; he always brings up the most bizarre ideas. I can’t believe she just said that; I never think of that type of stuff.

Have you ever heard a similar dialogue in your own head? If you have, you may be visiting the land of oddballs. Oddballs are employees that think differently. They have quirks and habits that stretch company norms; they act differently; they think differently; they have annoying behaviors; and, they can be extremely creative. Being in the land of oddballs can be draining, frustrating and challenging. It can also be refreshing, exciting and interesting.

14

The GPUG Magazine

Why is a Team of Oddballs Important?

Research indicates that building a team that pushes conventional thinking leads to higher performance. If you have a homogenous customer base, you may get by with a more homogenous employee base. However, most companies with a diverse customer base have found that if they hire a diverse team that resembles their customer base, it leads to a better understanding of all customers, not just a particular segment. The automotive industry has started hiring more women in their plants and on their sales floors because today’s statistics indicate that women are the primary decision makers when buying a car. Research has also proven that nonconventional teams are often extra creative, higher performing and more profitable. For example, it is my speculation that Google™ hires people who are “different.” That is, people that don’t tie themselves to conventional wisdom. They may hire musicians to be developers; anthropologists as culture experts; non-HR people to be HR people. Different perspectives often lead to better solutions and higher performance. There is a bottom line payout for a team of oddballs that works well together.

When Can Having Too Many Oddballs be Detrimental to Performance?

There is a fine line between excusing unique work behaviors and styles and ignoring potential performance issues. Here is a general rule of thumb: if a team member’s behavior is affecting someone’s ability to meet a customer’s need, it is a performance issue. For example, if an employee is obsessed (and I mean obsessed; we’re talking off the charts obsessed) with deadlines, this may lead to a product or service that does not meet the customer’s needs because there was no time for adjusting to new information. The employee may have rushed to meet the deadline without ever asking if he/she was still delivering what the customer needed. The employee may have created something in 10 weeks, because that was the deadline, only to realize that it was not what the customer wanted. How many different ways can I say it? ODDBALL BEHAVIOR IS DETRIMENTAL IF IT AFFECTS THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE! How Do You Bring a Team of Oddballs Together?

To start, a leader must establish and constantly talk about the team’s common vision or goal. The group of oddballs needs to collectively be working for the same thing. If they do not have any unifier, they will work against each other, and their differences will become exasperating. Another team leader tactic is to help people see each other as people and not just employees. Getting to know each other on a personal level leads to a better understanding and appreciation for that person. You learn to see that person as a human being, not the big “wart” on your team. You see them as a father, a brother, a mom, a musician. Another thing a leader can do is show respect and appreciation for the oddities within the team. There DatabaseDietAd_A:Layout 1

8/3/11

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can’t be favoritism toward one type of “oddity” over the other. If there is, the team will divide and fight to get the attention of the leader, similar to how kids act up because they think a parent favors one of them over the other. The leader can also gain a lot of ground simply by verbalizing the expectation that the team appreciate each other’s quirks and strengths. As obvious as it may seem, the team may think the leader is ignoring the situation if he/she does not verbalize the expectation. A leader needs to be a great coach. He/ she has to help people learn to problem solve in different ways. A leader should never become the team conduit because that enables others to admonish their responsibility of making things work out.

More easily said, if team members are coming to the leader’s office to “complain” about others, it is the leader’s responsibility to listen and question so the team members can arrive at their own solution.

One of the most obvious techniques of getting people who are very different from each other to work together is to do some form of training that helps them understand each other better. Common personality assessments include Jung’s Typology, Myers-Briggs, The Big Five, Herman Miller and PT/Berkeley. It matters less which assessment you choose and more that you have a quality dialogue around the results.

For this, team leaders often solicit a trained facilitator that is neutral and has a broad understanding of personality and work style differences. Lastly, the team leader needs to teach people to laugh. This laughter often brings teams together because they can see how “weird” they each indeed are. Remember, laughing and being playful should never be sarcastic or hurtful; it should be warm and inviting, yet undeniably funny.

In conclusion, we all have a little oddball in us, whether we want to admit it or not. If we use that for the greater good, work can become more interesting, fun and profitable.

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AC

Academy Corner Interview We caught up with Tom Weaver, financial systems manager, and discussed his experiences in taking training at Summit.

GPUG: You signed up for two classes at Summit last year; how were they?

Tom Weaver (TW): Well, first of all, the detailed instructions to prepare my laptop for these classes were easy to follow. The sessions were so incredibly helpful and such a great value. One of the unexpected benefits was the opportunity to form a relationship with the instructors, and subsequently, I’ve been able to get some great advice from them over the past year on a couple of key issues for us.

GPUG: Are you taking any training at Summit this year?

TW: I had a difficult time selecting one session this year with so many great classes to choose from! I can’t wait to get there and am still hoping that I can find some funds to take more classes.

GPUG: Why should folks coming to Summit sign up for classes?

TW: I think it’s just a natural fit – you’re there already, so why not extend your stay by a day or two and really dive deep? The

instructors are so knowledgeable; they’re really subject matter experts, so I like taking advantage of this opportunity because I have confidence that it’s going to be a great class. What I’ve discovered is that I get to know others in my classes that first day, and with that jump start, I continue networking with them the rest of the week, really forming relationships and sharing ideas and solutions. You simply cannot put a price on that!

GPUG: So you think it’s a good value?

TW: It’s a great value. The classes are cheaper than other classes I’ve found in the market, the instructors are approachable, and the hands-on environment is great. It’s so much easier than taking a separate trip at some other time just for a class.

GPUG: Any tips for Vegas first-timers?

TW: Always double down and play 27 red. Seriously, bring a camera – it’s pretty amazing.

GPUG: Thanks very much for taking the time to speak with us, Tom. TW: My pleasure.

Want to take advantage of over 20 cost-effective, information-packed, expert-led Microsoft Dynamics GP classes at this year’s GPUG Summit? You don’t even have to attend Summit to take classes, just go to www.GPUG.com and click Summit 2011!

R U Getting the Most of Mekorma MICR? Stop by the GPUG Summit Connections Café for a free 10 minute tune-up.

Our experts will help make sure you’re getting all you can from your Mekorma investment… and you can see the new stuff, too!

If you won’t be at the Summit, call us at 888-MEKORMA (635-6762) to arrange a free consult.

www.mekorma.com

16

The GPUG Magazine

P: 888-Mekorma

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PCAP

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A PRACTICAL CERTIFICATION DEsIgNED AROuND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE GPUG Academy introduces a new certification program exclusively for Accounts Payable professionals. Improve your knowledge and capabilities, your standing amongst your peers, and advance your career through the GPUG Academy Professional Certification in Accounts Payable (PCAP).

By acquiring the PCAP, Professionals benefit from: } In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Dynamics GP and supporting tools

} Leveraging Best Practices related to the Accounts Payable function

} Differentiating yourself from your peers

} An industry-recognized affirmation of competence and expertise

} An increased ability to contribute to your organization’s goals

} An enhanced understanding of the processes surrounding the Accounts Payable function

} The opportunity to earn CPE credits

} A comprehensive yet customizable training plan

gETTINg sTARTED: View the complete certification curriculum, prerequisites, progress tracking and begin the application process by visiting:

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CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

A Yeti’s Guide to GPUG Summit 2011 Adventures in Accounting with Microsoft Dynamics GP

by Mark Polino

Disclaimer

This is a work of fiction. Any similarity to persons living or dead is merely coincidental.

This work uses a fictional situation to illustrate conference offerings of GPUG Summit 2011. While every attempt has been made to ensure that the conference will contain the features described in this work, the descriptions may be inaccurate and should not be relied upon for purchase or implementation decisions.

This work is a parody and was not created for or with the consent of Microsoft or Dynamics Communities.

Preparation

We would like to extend a warm welcome to all of the abdominal snowmen abnormal snowmen aboriginal snowmen …er…yetis who will be attending GPUG® Summit 2011. We realize that you spend most of your lives at or near the peak, and we look forward to your insights to help Users get the most out of Microsoft Dynamics® GP. Just to be clear, GPUG Summit 2011 is not an actual summit

18

The GPUG Magazine

on a real mountain. Nor is it taking place anywhere near a snowcapped peak. It’s in the desert, hence the mountain theme.

GPUG is the Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group, a group of professionals dedicated to getting the most out of the Microsoft ERP system known as Microsoft Dynamics GP. GPUG Summit is our annual User conference.

Given Microsoft’s location in the great Northwest, it’s not unusual to have sasquash Susquehanna Saskatoon…er…Bigfoot creatures attend Microsoft conferences. They fit right in, and we’re sure that you, too, will be welcomed to the open, sharing environment of GPUG Summit. Plus, you will be far from the strangest looking thing in Las Vegas.

Since we have a record number of yetis this year, we’ve prepared this short guide to help you survive the avalanche of great Microsoft Dynamics GP information that will be coming your way.

Basecamp

Your expedition begins by registering for the conference online

via the GPUG Summit link at http://www.dynamiccommunities. com/summit2011/GPUG/index.html. Fortunately, the cost of GPUG Summit is considerably less than the $25,000 permit required to climb Mount Everest. It’s affordable for everyone.

Base camp for this expedition will be Caesars Palace in beautiful Las Vegas. Walking Caesars Palace is a bit like strolling up K2, so yetis should have no problem. Humans should wear comfortable shoes and rope themselves together to avoid getting lost in the vast casino wilderness.

Yetis should register at base camp and pick up a conference badge. Please wear your badge throughout the conference. There is no one that Vegas bouncers would rather bust than an unregistered yeti. Feel free to add a little color to your monochromatic look by adding buttons or ribbons to your conference badge.

These provide a great way to meet yetis in the same industry or with similar interests. Fortunately for you, everything goes with white!

Please encourage other yetis to make Caesars Palace their ice cave away from home. This location is ideal for rubbing fur with others, sharing tips, and organizing a search party should someone become lost in the avalanche of information.

Unfortunately, Caesars Palace has a strict “No Yak” policy.

You will need to leave your yaks in the long-term parking garage.

Please ensure that they have plenty of water and that they lay off the horns.

Sessions

Sessions will be presented on a host of topics around Microsoft Dynamics GP. Most of the presenters are Users, Partners, or Microsoft employees with a lot of knowledge in their areas. As a courtesy to everyone, please don’t roar menacingly at the presenters. Bob McAdam in particular doesn’t react well to stress; seeing him in the fetal position sucking his thumb is not a pretty sight.

We do have a few sessions recommended specifically for yetis.

Mark Polino and John Lowther will be presenting the “Worst Mistakes You Can Make with Dynamics GP.” They’ve collected almost 200 of the worst mistakes people make with Microsoft Dynamics GP and will be presenting the worst of the worst. This session is lot like those narrow, high mountain footpaths next to a sheer cliff, with falling rocks and no guardrails. In short, you yetis will love it!

Additionally, Microsoft MVP Mark Polino will also present a session with the best of his 50 Tips in 50 Minutes for Microsoft Dynamics GP. This session is faster than Himalayan eco-tourists who have just seen a yeti and more fun than watching them outrun their Sherpa.

Many of the sessions are also interactive, with panels of speakers tackling tough questions around topics like inventory, payables, and fixed assets. For example, “Glaciers: Should depreciation be accelerated because of global warming?” It’s an important question for the experts to wrestle with.

Other sessions are designed to enhance collaboration and networking. As a reminder, the Birds of a Feather sessions have nothing to do with the small birds that sit on yaks. They are sessions designed to get people and yetis with similar interests and issues talking to each other. This is where you can build a likeminded tribe around field service, the media industry, or hibernation techniques.

We know that yetis specialize in blitz attacks, so you’ll be

thrilled to hear that we will be presenting speed networking. This will give ISVs an opportunity to hit you with a blizzard of information while you get the chance to critique their attack style.

Additionally, there will be a town hall style session with Microsofties answering questions from attendees. We know that yetis might associate town hall meetings with torches, pitch forks, and angry mobs. Frankly, Microsoft does, too. But though GPUG Summit attendees may be loud, they are friendly. Even when angry, they are more likely to attack you with a pivot table than a pitchfork.

Finally, a select group of shy creatures will get the opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with Microsoft in a conduit session. This is a great opportunity to argue forcefully for changes that you want in Microsoft Dynamics GP. Please don’t break any Microsofties. It upsets the Bigfeet Bigfoots …er… Sasquatches.

Expo

A key part of the conference is the Expo. In the Expo, vendors provide an opportunity to learn about ways to extend the value of Microsoft Dynamics GP. It’s a great place to follow up from speed networking.

While we know that yetis can be shy and are experts at giving the cold shoulder, talking with vendors at the Expo is a great way to figure out how to get the most out of Microsoft Dynamics GP. Don’t worry; the vendors don’t bite, although we’re still careful around Gianmarco.

Events

In addition to sessions and the Expo, we will have a number of events of interest to yetis. These include:

»» Challenge Walls – This is not a climbing event. We get it; yetis would win. Let it go already. This is a place where Users can post problems and challenge other attendees to provide solutions. »» Code Fair – The code fair is designed to share reports and code with others. We know that yetis make some of the best Dexterity developers. This is the place to strut your fur. »» Presenter’s Lounge – Sure, yetis are shy. We understand that you might not want to fight through the throngs of fans mobbing presenters after they speak.

No problem. Presenters get to hang out in the Presenter’s Lounge and take questions from attendees in a more relaxed atmosphere. Use that long, slow yeti stride that you do so well for the home movie cameras to head over to the Presenter’s Lounge and ask a question or two. »» Book Signings – You’ll need something to read on that long flight back to the Himalayas. GPUG Summit is a perfect place to pick up a great Microsoft Dynamics GP book such as the Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Cookbook. You can even have it signed by the author.

That should raise your status with the monks back home. [Note: authors sign books in PEN, not blood.]

All Stars

I’m sure that the stars in the Himalayas are even prettier than the lights in Las Vegas. However, while you’re in Vegas, you will have an opportunity to vote for GPUG All Stars. These are volFall 2011

19

unteers who make GPUG special by giving their time, energy, and support. Who knows, maybe even a yeti can be a GPUG All Star!

Party Animal

Finally, despite all of the great sessions, this conference is not only about work; it’s about relationships, and there is no better way to build relationships than to have some fun together. Yetis will have plenty of chances to let loose, shake their fur, and roar for the cameras in beautiful Las Vegas.

Here are a few things to keep in mind.

The Blue Man Group is great, but they are not blue because they are cold. They are blue because they eat too many blue M&Ms. We hear that Elvis actually lives in a monastery in Tibet. Please tell him that his performances live forever in Vegas. If you blow all your money on slots, the casinos are always looking for yetis to work as bouncers or showgirls, so shake that booty fur.

To wrap this up, have some fun, meet someone new and learn more about Microsoft Dynamics GP at GPUG Summit 2011, November 9-11 in Las Vegas. I’ll meet you there!

About the Author

Mark Polino is a CPA, CITP, and CFF. He is a Microsoft MVP for Microsoft Dynamics GP and a Microsoft Certified IT Professional – Dynamics who has worked with Microsoft Dynamics GP for more than 10 years. Mark is the author of the Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Cookbook and the Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Lite Cookbook.

He runs the popular Dynamics GP website at www.DynamicAccounting.net and works as a Principal Consultant for I.B.I.S., Inc. This is a personal project.

The Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Cookbook is available from Amazon.com and other major book retailers.

Mark can be reached via:

»» »» »» »»

Web – www.DynamicAccounting.net Email – mpolino@gmail.com Twitter - @mpolino or @DynAcctNet Facebook - DynAcctNet

Disclosures

No yetis were harmed in the making of this document. However, a Sherpa did suffer a paper cut and was treated by onsite medical staff. He is expected to make a full recovery…and to sue for damages.

20

The GPUG Magazine

Please spay or neuter your yak. Our animal shelters are full enough.

Someone at Microsoft will give me a hard time about the torches, pitchfork, and angry mob comment…even though they know that it’s true. “…we’ve prepared this short guide to help you survive the avalanche of great Microsoft Dynamics GP information that will be coming your way.” – But will you survive the puns?

You’ll notice that I avoided the obvious “Check your sasq-watch to make sure that you are on time” pun. You’re welcome.

Caesars Palace doesn’t actually have an explicit “No Yaks” policy. You just wouldn’t believe what a Yak can do to carpet.

GPUG Copyright© 2011 Mark D. Polino, CPA All rights reserved.

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Company: Tribridge

Interviewee: Bob McAdam, title, and Steve Terp, chief sales officer

Headquarters: Tampa, Florida

Email: Bob.Mcadam@tribridge.com and Steve.Terp@tribridge.com

Website: www.tribridge.com

Established: 1998

GPUG® Partner Member Since: 2006

B

ob McAdam, title of Tribridge, knew User Group life as a Customer before that of a Partner. While Bob was working in a Customer organization, Andy Hafer, director of Dynamic Communities®, asked him if he would be interested in participating in the newly formed GPUG®. Bob helped to form the central Florida regional chapter before making a career change to work for his company’s Partner organization, Tribridge.

Though he was now a Partner, Bob still had an interest in helping GPUG grow, and he asked Andy if he could continue his involvement. The relationship was different now, but Bob was soon leading webinars and GPUG Academy classroom sessions, as well as presenting at Summit and Convergence.

“I saw this as an opportunity for me to educate GP Users and enable them to use some of the tools that I’ve helped my Customers leverage regularly,” says Bob. “It’s also a great opportunity for me to give back to the community that I’ve been part of for 13 years.”

Bob’s involvement in GPUG provided a segue for more Tribridge team members to get involved as well. The 300-person firm spread across 12 offices now promotes GPUG to its new and existing Customers as another support mechanism for acclimating to Microsoft Dynamics GP and gaining troubleshooting experience of their own.

“At the end of the day, a good consulting company teaches people how to swim on their own,” says Bob. “Customers have CustomerSource and us, but GPUG allows them to network with their peers and iron out the wrinkles.”

Steve Terp, chief sales officer for Tribridge, has found that GPUG is filling a niche for Customers to be heard.

“Customers love peer-to-peer interaction and very rarely are challenges secluded to one Customer,” says Steve. “We’ve found that the more interaction we can give to Customers, the more value they have. Misery loves company, but excitement loves

company, too. Bringing those elements together and allowing people to share ideas is a gigantic part of business.”

One message that Tribridge has heard loud and clear over the last couple of years is that Users are hungry for information regarding cloud-based solutions. Taking action with that feedback, Tribridge has launched Concerto Cloud Services, which gives its Customers a choice about how their Microsoft Dynamics GP solution is hosted.

“For us, Concerto is about giving Customers a choice,” says Steve. “The only thing we want to push is choosing Microsoft, then our Customers can choose how they want the applications delivered to them, whether that’s in the cloud or on-premise.”

“Our company was built to listen to Customers.

In addition to hearing the cloud message from Microsoft, we were hearing it from Customers who were looking for an option,” says Steve. “Hearing it from them was well worth the investment we made to get our business in order to provide that option.”

Even though the option is there, Users still need to make decisions as to which is the best deployment model for their organization, making a User Group membership even more valuable for Users as they can talk with people who have made or are making that very decision.

“GPUG is all about people listening to each other and sharing ideas,” says Steve. “It’s been really interesting for us to take this cloud message to people whose businesses are changing. GPUG is another place for Users to compare stories and look at alternatives, and I think there’s a lot of value in that.”

In addition to their cloud offering, Tribridge is excited about another successful GPUG Summit.

“You don’t have to wait until next March in Houston to learn more,” says Bob. “Users can come to Vegas in November, talk with me and other presenters, and get their hands dirty. We’re providing folks a second opportunity to keep up with Microsoft’s technology. It comes out quickly, and you have to keep up with it.”

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tips & tricks

Validating Your SQL Backups

by John Lowther

O

kay, you have your SQL maintenance plan faithfully running, you make full backups at some interval, you probably make log backups in between the full backups; you may or may not even have differential backups between the full backups. So, are you sure that your SQL backups are actually valid?

Can you restore from your SQL backups should you need to?

While we all hope the need never arises, when it does come, that is definitely not the time to find out that some or all of your SQL backups are corrupt. It would be much better to know that your SQL backups are bad long before you actually need to use them.

So, how do you validate that your SQL backups are actually valid? One could say that the SQL command to verify your backups is enough, and while that sounds great, when it comes to data – especially your Microsoft Dynamics® data that your company depends on so heavily – is it really enough? Just take a second to think: What would happen if all of your Microsoft Dynamics data were suddenly lost for all time? Depending on which modules you are using, how would you pay your employees? How would you bill your customers? How would you know what inventory you have or need to order? On a personal level, would you lose your job?

The list goes on and on, but you get the point…and in cases like these, it can be a very good thing to be paranoid person.

Now while there are several ways to validate your backups, one of the easiest is to try to restore from the SQL backup file and see if it is successful or if you hit some sort of error. You could go to your workplace at some time when no one else is working, a time that coincides with your full backup just finishing (such as 2 a.m.), and try to restore to your Production SQL Server that last full backup.

However, if you do, (in my humble opinion) you have more faith in your SQL backups than you should. If the SQL backup is corrupt, then the process of trying to restore the corrupt backup could – and most likely would – corrupt your data on your Production SQL Server. Moreover, the last thing that you want to do is to corrupt the very data you are trying so hard to backup. So, the best thing to do would be to restore your backup to some other server

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rather than your Production SQL Server. For several reasons, this is actually a lot easier than you might initially think.

The first reason is that you can do the restore any time you want to because you are not affecting the performance of your Production SQL Server. In other words, the restore can be done during business hours, whenever it is convenient for you.

Another reason that makes it easier is that you do not have to have the exact same hardware for the SQL Server that you are restoring to as you would need for your Production Server. Who cares if the restore process takes twice as long as the backup did as long as it completed successfully. That means you can use the absolute minimum requirements for the SQL Server you want to restore to – and possibly even go below those requirements – and still be able to validate your SQL Backup.

Yet another reason is that you do not have to restore to the same edition of SQL Server. It does need to be the same version of SQL Server, but not the same edition, and it can be different versions and editions of the operating system. For instance, if your Production SQL Server is a Windows 2008 Datacenter Server running SQL Server 2008 Enterprise, you should be able to restore those SQL database backups to a Windows 7 laptop running the developer edition of SQL Server 2008. However, keep in mind that if the version of SQL on Production is 2008, then the version of SQL on the machine you will be using to test your SQL backups should also be 2008.

So, in closing, stay paranoid and validate your SQL backups!

John Lowther is the database administrator, senior developer, and business analyst for Microsoft Dynamics® GP at Sta-home Health & Hospice, Inc. John works mostly with Database Administration, Development, Payroll, Human Resources, and BI as well as overall system performance. Involved with Microsoft Dynamics GP since 2001, John serves on the board of advisors for GPUG®, is involved with several of GPUG’s special interests groups, and posts on several blogs.

Capturing Record-specific Data When and Where You Want It

by Martin Olsen

E

very company that uses Microsoft Dynamics® GP has a need to capture additional information that does not come with Microsoft Dynamics GP “out of the box”. How could a team of developers possibly have captured all the intricacies of your business and the data you need to capture in a changing world? It is impossible. You currently do store all this extra information, just not in Microsoft Dynamics GP. Most companies store the extra data in the great unstructured world of Microsoft Excel®.

Now just because you need to store extra information, this does not mean you need the same extra information stored against every record; in fact, mostly you need different information stored against different records. This can be different journal types needing different details, or different SOP documents needing different data tracked, or different details tracked about different fixed assets, and so on. Let’s look at a specific example: I have four main Customer types: retail, corporate, government, and international. Against each Customer type there is a different set of information I need to record (for example, personal information for retail, audit requirements for government Customers, international tax and shipping details, and more). This means that from a workflow perspective, I want different Extender windows popping open for different Customers.

So, how do you use Microsoft Dynamics GP Extender to do this?

Use the Extender Window Group functionality, which lets you prescribe the conditions when a particular Extender window should open: 1. Create all the Extender windows you need independently.

That means for the example above, create three separate Extender windows: one called International Extras, one called Retail Extras, and one called Government Extras.

2. Create a window group and determine the trigger point for all of the windows that will be assigned (auto open, hot key, or extra menu).

3. Add the first window required.

4. Define the condition upon when this window should open: The International Extras window will open when the Class ID=International. The Retail Extras Window only opens

when the Class ID=Retail and so on. By doing this, there will be no Extender window linked to Corporate Customers as there is no extra information required about these Customer types.

5. Repeat steps three and four for each window you want in the group.

It is that simple. Next time you have a Customer selected and open the Extender window, the appropriate window will open.

In the example above, you can see the same setup but for different data being captured against specific cheese and against the packaging the cheese is wrapped in.

Another time to use Window Groups is if you want just a single window to only pop open based upon a condition (such as the Customer class is equal to government), then you need to only add the single window to the group. Apply the condition to this window, and it will only auto open when you need it.

GPUG Martin Olsen is the product director with eOne solutions.

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Microsoft® Dynamics

GP

G

PUG® recently sat down with Errol Schoenfish, director of product management, to talk about the latest and greatest from Microsoft Dynamics® GP. May 2010 saw the release of Microsoft Dynamics® GP 2010 R2, a release that delivered greater business intelligence (BI) tools, increased functionality with the Microsoft® Word integration, and mobile device-enhanced travel and expense reporting.

but R2 builds on this, allowing you to make emails more personal.

You are also now able to email any report, whereas before you were only able to email certain ones.

We also have added travel and expense reporting through Concur, which is pretty slick. For example, Users are able to take a picture of a receipt with their mobile phone and use an app to upload the receipt into the reporting product.

GPUG: Tell us about the themes around Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2.

Errol Schoenfish (ES): Our business pillars for Microsoft Dynamics GP are people, process, and ecosystem, so everything we do comes back to these pillars and the way that a dynamic business runs.

For GP 2010, we delivered on the three primary themes of enhancing insight, making it easier, and extending connections, with all three tying back into our business pillars.

We’ve found through Customer and prospect surveys that organizations are looking for better ways to consume information to help them make critical decisions in their business. They’re looking for ways to control their solution, track cash positions, and make decisions to allow them to grow their business.

R2 added functionality around contextual BI, giving Users the opportunity to see information that is related to the context of what they were working on instead of going somewhere else to find information.

GPUG: That’s quite the list. Where do ideas for these new features come from?

ES: Many of them are submitted by Users via MSConnect (connect. microsoft.com). We receive a list from that team of the features that are rolling to the top. We also do our own surveys as well as receive direct Customer feedback from our Partner Product Advisory Group and Customer events. During those events we also ask people to share more information regarding their interest about specific features –why they want it, how they’re doing things now, and so on.

GPUG: Is this functionality comparable to what a User would get from an ISV product?

ES: It doesn’t replace any third-party products that currently exist, but it does answer a request that we’ve had from Customers that, until now, was not available. In fact, ISVs can leverage our BI tools to provide further value for their Customers.

GPUG: What else is included in R2?

ES: Another feature is Business Analyzer, which enables CXO-level people who don’t spend their day in GP to access information and perform tasks from anywhere in the world. We also have Word Template Generator, which allows Users to run any report and bring the data into a Word template, thus replacing the need for preprinted forms.

We added an email component to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010,

GPUG: Is the feature list locked for the next release of Microsoft Dynamics GP? ES: No. While there are a lot of features that have been asked for, currently they are not receiving many individual votes on MSConnect. I would encourage Users to get out there and vote for the features they want for this next release. We really do pay attention to that data and our Customer and Partner requests.

GPUG: Do you have any recommendations for our GPUG Members?

ES: We are very committed to continuing to provide you with valuable releases of Microsoft Dynamics GP. As amazing as the software is, and will continue to be, it’s up to our Customers to get their best use out of it.

I encourage your Members to have conversations with their Partners about their company’s plans to get additional value from their existing solution by implementing additional functionality. Also, continue to attend events such as Summit and Convergence, and regularly take advantage of training posted to CustomerSource and available through GPUG. GPUG

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Saving Children’s Lives

How One IT Director Contributes

by Patrick Collins

T

o put things into perspective, stressful work situations are often neutralized when someone says, “It’s not like we’re saving dying children.” But when Eugene Kogan goes to work — even though he’s an IT professional — everything he does is in support of precisely that mission.

Kogan has been with the U.S. Fund for UNICEF (www.unicefusa.org) for nearly 11 years. He is currently the organization’s director of IT, database, and application development. With approximately 206 employees — most of them based at headquarters in New York City — the U.S. Fund for UNICEF saves and protects the lives of children by supporting UNICEF’s work through fundraising, education, and advocacy in the United States.

Kogan’s responsibility is to make sure that all applications and databases are managed as efficiently, transparently, and affordably as possible. To do that, he relies on Microsoft Dynamics® GP, which is the company’s primary financial application for accounting, purchasing modules, and the storage of all general ledger transactions.

The solution also handles a financial summary of the data associated with approximately four million donors, and it’s here, Kogan says, that the power of Microsoft Dynamics GP really comes into play. “We have yearly financial and IT audits,” Kogan says. “Everything has to be recorded and must adhere to accounting standards; Microsoft Dynamics GP is our bread and butter.”

To realize maximum value from the technology, Kogan began participating in the local GP User Group more than three years ago. As chairman of the New York/New Jersey chapter, Kogan made presentations at the annual Convergence conference about how not-forprofits use the solution. “Since I am in charge of development activities, I need to be more aware than the typical user,” he says. “I’m looking for trends, for integration pieces, and the group is a great source for that kind of information.”

And that information, he says, relates directly to UNICEF’s goal: reduce the number of children who die every day from preventable causes from 22,000 – where it stands currently – to zero. “Money we save on applications is money that can be put toward what we provide,” he says. “It’s a direct correlation.”

Kogan leverages that correlation via the IT infrastructure. While his job is to give people more power and flexibility in what they’re doing, in the back of his mind, he is always thinking about the end result: saving money means saving children’s lives. “If the database application I’ve developed works correctly and efficiently for finance and non-finance people alike, my organization will be more effective in its mission,” he says. “And that means that ultimately more lives will be saved.”

In addition to his responsibilities for ensuring efficient and effective technology, Kogan also views his work through a philosophical lens. He grew up in the former Soviet Union and lived through several wars — experiences, he says, that impressed upon him how much children can and do suffer without proper support. He also sees the relative ease with which many childhood deaths can be prevented. “Children in Africa are dying from malaria because they don’t have a mosquito net, which costs about $3.00,” he says.

His main source of inspiration, however, may be the fact that he is a father. “We are all human beings, and these issues go to your heart and touch you,” he says. “I believe UNICEF is setting a good example for my children, and I take comfort in knowing that if my children were ever in need, there’s an organization that would help them. Because we’re all living in one small world, giving a hand to each other.”

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summit 2011

®

Top Reasons to Attend GPUG® Summit 2011 Engage in Unique Networking Opportunities GPUG Summit is designed with one thing in mind: to connect you, the Microsoft Dynamics® GP User, with the right resources to address your specific Microsoft Dynamics GP challenges, issues, and priorities. We create ample networking opportunities to make it easy for you to connect with other Users, Partners, and Microsoft team members. Those opportunities include structured networking sessions, Microsoft Town Hall meetings, exclusive expo times, interactive discussions, Microsoft Conduits, role/industry/location-based roundtables, Ask the Experts sessions, meetings-on-the-fly, networking receptions, and more. And, of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to keep the conversations and the fun going even after the day’s planned agenda is complete (after all, we will be in Vegas)!

Learn From the Experiences of Other Microsoft Dynamics GP Users Come explore what’s possible! GPUG Summit gives you an opportunity to meet other Microsoft Dynamics GP Users who are in a similar industry or have similar goals. Bounce your ideas and challenges off them, and learn from their experiences to pick up some new best practices for your own organization. Someone, somewhere has solved an issue you’re grappling with right now. Don’t reinvent the wheel; simplify your life by learning from the expertise of others.

Hone Your Microsoft Dynamics GP Skills at a Conference Designed for You As the largest independent, User-led conference dedicated exclusively to Microsoft Dynamics GP, everyone who attends Summit has a vested interest in the product and has experience from which you can benefit. This is your opportunity to hash out current hot topics, see the newest product developments, and share new insights around solving your business challenges. GPUG Summit is all Microsoft Dynamics GP, all the time.

Get Microsoft Dynamics GP Answers Right From the Top The Town Hall meeting is typically one of the most anticipated features of GPUG Summit! It’s a rapid-fire, Q&A type of session where key Microsoft Dynamics GP executives in Research and Development, Support, Service, and Marketing roles address your burning Microsoft Dynamics GP questions or concerns. Bring your product or strategy questions and participate in this candid, open, and honest discussion with Microsoft Dynamics GP leaders and influencers.

Learn to Better Utilize Microsoft Dynamics GP in Your Role Within your organization, you and your teammates likely utilize Microsoft Dynamics GP differently, depending on your role. Summit 2011 is set up the same way and we have sessions and learning tracks for the various roles and experience levels within your organization. Whether you’re a GP rookie or seasoned professional in accounting, finance, HR, payroll, IT support, or development, you’ll meet Users like you.

Realize a Strong Return on Your Summit 2011 Investment GPUG Summit 2011 could be one of the greatest investments you make to enhance your personal productivity and help improve your organization’s overall return from Microsoft Dynamics GP this year. You’ll have three days to interact, discuss, share experiences, troubleshoot, find solutions, talk to Microsoft, shop new products, and make valuable connections, all for the price of about a day and a half of an independent consultant’s time! Summit will likely pay for itself through the answers, solutions, and best practice tips you’ll pick up at the conference. If that’s not enough, you’ll also earn CPE credits through your participation in most of Summit’s breakout sessions and/ or by taking part in the optional pre-Summit training courses that are available. Networking, training, and CPE credits – you can’t go wrong!

Not-to-Miss Sessions at Summit

Here are some sessions that are likely to generate a lot of interest among Users: » 100 Products in 50 Minutes » Ask the Experts: 13 Classic Under-Used Features

» Biggest Mistakes Made with Microsoft Dynamics GP » Enhancing Your Use of SmartList with

in Microsoft Dynamics GP

Microsoft Dynamics GP » Extender Magic

» Best of 50 Tips for Microsoft Dynamics GP

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Mark Rockwell, Rockton Software

Landon Russell, The Money Box

“GPUG is all about community, and nothing builds community like getting together to share, learn, and celebrate. I’ll be there to share my enthusiasm, learn how GP can improve, and celebrate with friends.”

Kim Peterson, Dynamic Communities

“GPUG Summit allows me to interact with fellow Microsoft Dynamics GP Users, vendors, and Microsoft employees – all in an intimate setting. I never feel lost in the crowd.”

Pam Misialek, Microsoft Dynamics

Meet Me There!

Errol Schoenfish, Microsoft

“The GPUG Summit is an important event to me. It’s intimate where I can have in-depth dialogs with Customers to really understand how they use Microsoft Dynamics GP and what’s most important to them. I’ve always felt that the Microsoft Dynamics GP community is like a family and GPUG Summit is like Thanksgiving, getting together and spending time together.”

“We’ve put together the best agenda ever with timely topics that can add efficiencies to your daily routine. I invite you to come to this intimate conference and share your experiences while gaining knowledge that you can’t find anywhere else in a short amount of time. See you in November!”

“GPUG Summit gives me an opportunity to have candid conversations with Users who live in Microsoft Dynamics GP day in and day out. It’s a great opportunity for me to hear about your experience today and what you desire down the road. I hope to meet you in Las Vegas!”

» Management Reporter – Migrating from FRx » SmartList Builder Insights » The Accidental GP Administrator » Where do the Experts Turn for Answers?

Be sure to review the sessions and plan your Summit experience!

Learn more about GPUG Summit 2011 at www.gpug.com/conferences/ summit-2011.

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Joyce VanJura

Company: Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC

Headquarters: Houston, Texas

Interviewee: Joyce VanJura, business applications manager

Email: jvanjura@lubys.com

Websites: www.lubys.com www.fuddruckers.com www.kookooroo.com www.lubyscs.com

Established: Luby’s 1947, Fuddruckers 1979

Microsoft Dynamics® GP User Since: 2005

GPUG Member Since: 2007

J

oyce VanJura has a lot on her plate. As the business applications manager for Luby’s Fuddruckers Restaurants, LLC, Joyce and her team manage 95 Luby’s cafeterias located throughout Texas; 58 Fuddruckers restaurants across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada; and three Koo Koo Roo restaurants in southern California, in addition to a food service management branch that caters to 20 sites in the healthcare, higher education, and corporate dining industries.

Luby’s utilizes Microsoft Dynamics® GP to keep the financials running as quickly as their customers’ orders. In addition to running the restaurants’ operations, Luby’s maintains a service center for any repair work needed in the facilities, making good use of the service call module.

Since their hospital and college clients are on a monthly system, they’ve engaged their Partner to help them create a billing system to maintain the additional billing structure. The company also uses Mekorma’s MICR for check printing and eOne Integrated Business Solutions’ Flexicoder for general ledger distributions.

Joyce found GPUG® when she relocated to the Houston area from Florida. She had four years of experience with Microsoft Dynamics® GP but lacked the per-

sonal connection she enjoyed with colleagues in her former position.

“I needed to find a group I could rely on to help me out,” says Joyce. “I was also looking for some training as we hadn’t established a Partner in Houston.”

Joyce found GPUG through an Internet search and quickly found the answers she was looking for.

“Most of my questions were surrounding upgrades, and I’ve really gotten a lot out of the webinars – what to watch for when we upgrade and information around creating Users,” says Joyce. “We’re SOX compliant and have to be really careful on who can do what in the system.”

Joyce’s learning was first confined to the online events as Houston doesn’t have a regional chapter, but Joyce is looking at building one, especially since Convergence (the Microsoft Dynamics® customer conference) will be hosted in the city in March 2012.

“GPUG asked if there would be anybody interested in leading the group, and I stepped forward,” says Joyce. “It really is one of those groups where you really get to know key people in the industry. I wanted to get on the board, meet more people, and make connections so I could use GP in the best possible way to help our company.”

In addition to the webinars

Joyce originally found, she has served as a Convergence speaker for the past two events.

Having this opportunity has not only pushed her to get to know Microsoft Dynamics GP even better, but also has given her a little brush with industry fame.

“When I did the first Convergence, I was walking and heard somebody call my name. It was Mariano Gomez (long-time Microsoft Dynamics GP advocate and Most Valuable Professional; see http://dynamicsgpblogster. blogspot.com). “He was my Partner when I was in Florida, and to see how far he’s come, it was amazing to me,” says Joyce.

“It was also really cool that he remembered me.”

Right now, Luby’s GPUG involvement is centered on Joyce, but she’s working to get more of her colleagues involved, especially with the prospect of creating a local regional chapter.

Joyce is also quick to recommend the group that helped her find her way in a new hometown. “GPUG is a group of people that you’ll get to know through webinars, Summits, and regional chapter meetings,” she says. “They are some of the most knowledgeable people, and if you can make that connection, no matter what issue you have, you have met a resource to get an answer quickly.”

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Welcome to Our

New Members GPUG is adding new Members (with new Microsoft Dynamics® GP expertise) every day! To date in 2011, we have added 853 Members to the GPUG community, bringing the group’s grand total of Member organizations to 2,821. Welcome to our new Members, and to all Members, thank you for your participation and continued support! Each new Member organization adds value not only to their own company, but also to the entire community as they share their GP knowledge and experiences.

We want to recognize those Members who have invested in GPUG Premium membership in 2011 as well as our Premium Partner Members. Thank you! Please note that these organizations have given GPUG permission to share their name publicly.

Premium Members - 2011 3PV/AssureSign ABC Financial Services Accounting Integration Manager Allmand Bros American Association for Justice American Chamber of Commerce Executives American Public University System American Senior Communities American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists Arizona Public Media Aronson LLC Asthma and Allergy Center Atlanta History Center Banyan Work Health Solutions Benefitfocus.com Cable Telecommunications Association for Marketing CaribEx Worldwide City of Franklin Tennessee

ClearPointe Close To My Heart Connexus Energy CoreCentric Solutions, Inc. Dungarvin Elim Care, Inc. Emergency Physicians, P.A. Fort Pitt Group Genensee & Wyoming Inc. Grand Isle Shipyard Greatwide Logistics Services, LLC. Green Mountain Beverage GREENWOOD COMMUNITIES & RESORTS, INC GW Holdings I GWF POWER SYSTEMS LP HACSB Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board Hoss’s Steak & Sea House In Touch Ministries Infilaw Corporation

Iovate Health Sciences Inc J. W. Mays, Inc. John Burroughs School Kings View Corporation Kodiak Trailer Components LA Fitness MILL MAN STEEL, INC. Minges Bottling Group Minnieland Private Day School NADA Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society NextMed North Dakota Mill NRG Systems, Inc. Nueterra Holdings, LLC Owensboro Municipal Utilities Pittman Dental Laboratory, Inc Plato Consulting Inc. Presidio Networked Solutions Private Diagnostic Clinic, PLLC Pro Cellular Wireless Communication Inc Progenics Pharmaceuticals

Provident Agency, Inc. Renewable Water Resources Saint Martin’s University Sauder Custom Fabrication Semafo Snoqualmie Casino Speed Control, Inc. SS8 Networks Tanglewood Corporation Tenacious Holdings, Inc. The Blood Connection Incorporated The Rockefeller Foundation Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc. Trevecca Nazarene University Varicon, LLC WEL Companies, Inc. Weston Products Wilmington University Wilmorite Management Group Zeller Corporation

IBIS Inc. JOVACO NetStandard Inc.

OTT, Inc. RockySoft Unanet Technologies

Premium Partners - 2011 Aztec Systems Inc. Binary Stream Software Christianson & Associates Collins Computing, Inc.

Concur CS & S Consulting David Greenman & Associates

Again, thank you for your contributions, and welcome to GPUG! If you, too, want to explore the benefits of GPUG Premium membership and take advantage of membership opportunities, simply visit www.GPUG.com > Join GPUG. Our Premium Members are the lifeblood of our organization and enable us to continue to provide valuable networking, educational events, and solution-specific programming.

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“It is refreshing to get answers as directly to the point as Rockton does. Keep up the good work.”

– Randy Smith, Vicinity Manufacturing

“We know your software here, love it, and try to sell it to anyone who could use it. Your team always writes very good, useful software.”

Company: Rockton Software

Interviewee: Mark Rockwell, president

Headquarters: Sandpoint, Idaho

Phone: 877-4-ROCKTON

Email: sales@rocktonsoftware.com

Website: www.rocktonsoftware.com

Established: 1999

GPUG® Partner Member since: 2007

– Mike Bodine, Cargas Systems

GPUG: Tell me about Rockton Software.

Mark Rockwell (MR): We make Microsoft Dynamics® GP simpler and easier. We make work simpler and easier.

GPUG: Tell me about your products.

MR: We have a suite of tools that focuses on usability, security, system administration, reporting, auditing, and Customer pricing. Everything we build is integrated into the core of Microsoft Dynamics GP and works with all third-party Dexterity products.

GPUG: What do you have coming up for Customers?

MR: We’re getting incredible traction with our Microsoft Dynamics GP Toolbox. We have a suite of tools that phenomenally changes the way people interact with Microsoft Dynamics GP, and we continue to add more tools as the months go by. It’s fun to get reactions like, “Wow – I didn’t know GP could do that.”

GPUG: What makes Rockton Software different from companies with similar products?

MR: Our ease of use and phenomenal support.

Installation couldn’t be simpler, and our support is unlimited in any format that works for you. We also have a friendly, knowledgeable team that just loves helping people; we get lots of great feedback from our Customers and Partners.

GPUG: You’ve been involved in GPUG® a long time. What’s been the greatest overall benefit?

MR: As soon as GPUG was announced, we saw it as a way for us to reach Customers; it’s been a very important and valuable part of our marketing plan. Traditionally, with Microsoft owning so many

ERP systems and us just focusing on Microsoft Dynamics GP, it’s been difficult for us to reach just the Microsoft Dynamics GP channel. When GPUG came along, we could focus on our target market.

From a learning perspective, many of our employees attend webinars and classes, using GPUG to continue to expand their knowledge of Microsoft Dynamics GP. GPUG: You’re very involved with Summit, both from a planning and sponsor perspective. What’s your best piece of advice for GPUG Members who are attending Summit?

MR: Attend everything you can. Be involved and ask questions. Meet people. These are common things, but they’re so important. Just by showing up, you’ve done the hardest part. It’s amazing how many people using Microsoft Dynamics GP think they have a weird or unique process, yet there’s always somebody who does the same thing. Ask questions, explore ideas, and ask for opinions, because you will get them.

GPUG: Looking back at your experiences, what should a Customer or Partner do to get the most out of his/her GPUG membership?

MR: If you’re a Microsoft Dynamics GP Customer and are not involved in GPUG, you’re missing out.

I would highly recommend you attend a regional GPUG chapter meeting. They’re popping up all over the country and are a less expensive – and very valuable –way to get involved.

For Partners, if you’re in the Microsoft Dynamics GP space and haven’t embraced GPUG, you’re missing a great opportunity. GPUG is an inexpensive way to get a lot out of Microsoft Dynamics GP and get a lot out of a thriving community.

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5280 Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Altec. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Binary Stream Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Integrity Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Mekorma. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Metafile Information Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Microsoft Dynamics Convergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Nolan Business Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Professional Advantage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Rockton Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Straight Arrow Consulting, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Tribridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

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CONVERGENCE 2012 ©

A World of Opportunity

As the premier event for the Microsoft Dynamics® Customer and Partner business community, Convergence is where opportunity and innovation meet to deliver real business value.

Active learning. Networking opportunities. Solution optimization.

What’s in it for you?

• Discover how to maximize the full capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics solutions.

• Stay up-to-date on the latest Microsoft products and technologies.

• Make key business connections with peers, industry experts and Microsoft representatives.

• Explore the strategy and future plans for Microsoft Dynamics software.

• Develop sales opportunities with new and existing customers.

Visit the Convergence website for more details: www.microsoft.com/dynamics/convergence

March 18-21, 2012

George R. Brown Convention Center | Houston, TX

Fall 2011

35

Steve Baute

Company: Interactive Intelligence

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

Interviewees: Steve Baute, senior business analyst in finance Traci Shaw, senior manager in accounting

Email: steve.baute@inin.com, traci.shaw@inin.com

Website: www.inin.com

Established: 1994

Microsoft Dynamics® GP User Since: 2001

GPUG Member Since: 2007

Number of Employees: 1,000

Number of Users:

I

nteractive Intelligence is a business communications solutions provider that focuses on enterprisewide telephony systems, call center solutions, messaging, and business process automation.

Its Customer portfolio, which ranges from Amway to Harvard to Microsoft, is bolstered even more by the numerous industry awards the company has achieved in its 17-year tenure.

“When I started at Interactive Intelligence, we were using a very small off-the-shelf accounting package,” says Traci Shaw, senior manager in accounting. “I was fortunate enough to be a part of the GP implementation more than 10 years ago and have watched the number of Users grow from five to 50 and from one to four databases.”

As the company increases market share, acquiring new entities both domestically and abroad, Steve Baute, senior business analyst in finance, and Traci continue to heavily utilize Microsoft Dynamics® GP to meet their evolving needs.

Interactive Intelligence currently runs Microsoft Dynamics GP 10, with plans to upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 R2 in September 2011.

“With our upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010, we will be able to fully utilize the enriched features the product offers such as the ability to email invoices to our Customers, which will help us keep pace with our rapid business growth,” says Steve.

Rounding out Microsoft Dynamics GP is a host of ISV solutions, including Fastpath’s Configurator and Audit Trail, Nolan’s InterCompany Postings, eOne’s eXtender, Avalara’s AvaTax, Concur’s Travel and Expense, and NetSuite’s OpenAir, and internallydeveloped applications for online orders, discount management, license management, and maintenance renewals.

In addition to their roles at Interactive Intelligence, Steve and Traci have been active in the GPUG® community from its beginning and have co-chaired the Indiana/Kentucky regional chapter since February 2010. In addition to this, Traci serves on the GPUG advisory board.

“Being on the GPUG board gives me a chance to be an advocate for GP Users,” says Traci.

“I hear what GP Users want in terms of training, and I help to ensure the appropriate classes are delivered either at GPUG Summit or Convergence.”

Traci Shaw

“It’s a great benefit for us to leverage the experience of fellow Users who have worked through issues or challenges with GP,” says Steve. “GPUG has created an atmosphere where the people are very open and candid. I see it as an extension of a VAR, CustomerSource, and Microsoft, and it’s only getting better.”

“GPUG is an incredible way to receive support from your peers,” says Traci. “It gives you the chance to connect with others that have had the same issues, and gives you the chance to gain insight on how other Users were able to overcome obstacles.”

When asked about what advice he would give to Members who aren’t active in GPUG today, Steve turned to his finance roots.

“As the offerings increase by GPUG for Premium Members, it begins to sell itself,” says Steve.

“I encourage people to check out the preview membership, which lets you experience the benefits of a Premium membership for a short time. Based on the business problems we’ve solved and the efficiencies we’ve gained as a result of being a Premium GPUG Member, we’ve more than made up for our membership fee.”

GPUG

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The GPUG Magazine

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