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Showing posts with label dynamics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dynamics. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Annual Retail Realm Conference Information
Saturday, December 5, 2015
New Videos: Options for RMS/HQ Users and Consulting Process Overview
A couple of new videos that may be of interest to you. First up is some updated honest advice for stores using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS (and HQ) point of sale software programs. General advice related to the end of life status with RMS and HQ and how the new Retail Management Hero plays in to your various options:
By request, I have also created a video that highlights in a bit more detail the process that I use when offering unbiased paid point of sale consulting work for larger organizations with between 5 and 300 locations:
Information on how to reach me for more information can be found on my contact page.
By request, I have also created a video that highlights in a bit more detail the process that I use when offering unbiased paid point of sale consulting work for larger organizations with between 5 and 300 locations:
Information on how to reach me for more information can be found on my contact page.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
What are Support "Incidents" and How Do They Work
With some Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ partners fading away, I've been contacted by several businesses searching for support related to RMS and HQ. While I am happy to assist as best I can or arrange for a certified RMS/HQ support person to contact you, I wanted you to know that you also have the option of obtaining support direct from Microsoft.
If you have stayed current on your annual software maintenance for RMS/HQ then you normally receive a limited number of free support incidents directly with Microsoft. If you are not current on your maintenance then a fee per incident applies.
So what does an incident mean? In my experience it means that one issue per incident will be dealt with until all parties agree the issue is resolved. So if you need help reconnecting your database to a POS station, that counts as one incident. If you need help reconnecting your database to a POS station and need help installing a OPOS driver for a receipt printer on the same POS station then that counts as 2 support incidents.
You can contact Microsoft for RMS and HQ support at 888-477-7877 for Dynamics RMS and HQ support. You can also visit my contact page for information on how to reach me.
If you have stayed current on your annual software maintenance for RMS/HQ then you normally receive a limited number of free support incidents directly with Microsoft. If you are not current on your maintenance then a fee per incident applies.
So what does an incident mean? In my experience it means that one issue per incident will be dealt with until all parties agree the issue is resolved. So if you need help reconnecting your database to a POS station, that counts as one incident. If you need help reconnecting your database to a POS station and need help installing a OPOS driver for a receipt printer on the same POS station then that counts as 2 support incidents.
You can contact Microsoft for RMS and HQ support at 888-477-7877 for Dynamics RMS and HQ support. You can also visit my contact page for information on how to reach me.
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Big Discount and Incentive for Microsoft Dynamics RMS Users
Wow, so I have been made aware of a special offer from a national NCR CounterPoint SQL point of sale partner. As you know, many Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software users are looking at different point of sale options due to the upcoming EMV liability shift date as well as the end of life status with RMS (sales of RMS to new customers and mainstream support for RMS and HQ end July of 2016).
The offer is a 20% discount on licensing costs as well as a free transfer of your inventory, customer, and vendor data. This is a very large potential cost savings - especially as the majority of the 725 stores using RMS (and HQ) that have contacted me for advice have indicated that they plan on switching away from RMS sooner than later.
Please contact me for more information and I'm also happy to share my personal experiences having helped a few stores upgrade from RMS to NCR CounterPoint back when I was selling and supporting a large variety of point of sale systems for retail stores, restaurants. and museums.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
The offer is a 20% discount on licensing costs as well as a free transfer of your inventory, customer, and vendor data. This is a very large potential cost savings - especially as the majority of the 725 stores using RMS (and HQ) that have contacted me for advice have indicated that they plan on switching away from RMS sooner than later.
Please contact me for more information and I'm also happy to share my personal experiences having helped a few stores upgrade from RMS to NCR CounterPoint back when I was selling and supporting a large variety of point of sale systems for retail stores, restaurants. and museums.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
NCR CounterPoint SQL as an Upgrade or Replacement for Microsoft Dynamics RMS
A quick reminder that sales of Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ to new users as well as mainstream support ends next year (2016) so please keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing RMS or HQ as point of sale software for your business or organization.
April 3rd, 2016, new video review/overview of the NCR CounterPoint SQL point of sale software: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/04/updated-review-of-ncr-counterpoint-sql.html
With the EMV Liability Shift Deadline looming as well as the "end of life" status form Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ, I wanted to revisit NCR CounterPoint SQL as a logical upgrade from RMS.
I've had direct experience in the past with retail stores and museums replacing RMS with NCR CounterPoint and overall the experience has been positive. It is easy to transfer the data from RMS to NCR CounterPoint SQL and users appreciated the additional features and functions that NCR CounterPoint SQL offers. The user interface for NCR CounterPoint SQL is very different from the user interface in RMS but is also more customizable.
As NCR CounterPoint SQL offers a lot more than RMS, dedicated training sessions are a "must have" as is allowing for time to transition to a new point of sale system. Another bonus is that NCR CounterPoint SQL works with most of the same peripherals (barcode scanners, cash drawers, etc) as Microsoft Dynamics RMS. NCR CounterPoint SQL is also much better suited for multi-location environments that using Microsoft Dynamics HQ.
About the only complaints that I heard from businesses and organizations who upgraded to NCR CounterPoint SQL from Microsoft Dynamics RMS is that the reporting in NCR CounterPoint SQL is not as robust as the reporting in Microsoft Dynamics RMS. In most cases this was overcome by writing custom reports using Crystal Reports.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
April 3rd, 2016, new video review/overview of the NCR CounterPoint SQL point of sale software: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/04/updated-review-of-ncr-counterpoint-sql.html
With the EMV Liability Shift Deadline looming as well as the "end of life" status form Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ, I wanted to revisit NCR CounterPoint SQL as a logical upgrade from RMS.
I've had direct experience in the past with retail stores and museums replacing RMS with NCR CounterPoint and overall the experience has been positive. It is easy to transfer the data from RMS to NCR CounterPoint SQL and users appreciated the additional features and functions that NCR CounterPoint SQL offers. The user interface for NCR CounterPoint SQL is very different from the user interface in RMS but is also more customizable.
As NCR CounterPoint SQL offers a lot more than RMS, dedicated training sessions are a "must have" as is allowing for time to transition to a new point of sale system. Another bonus is that NCR CounterPoint SQL works with most of the same peripherals (barcode scanners, cash drawers, etc) as Microsoft Dynamics RMS. NCR CounterPoint SQL is also much better suited for multi-location environments that using Microsoft Dynamics HQ.
About the only complaints that I heard from businesses and organizations who upgraded to NCR CounterPoint SQL from Microsoft Dynamics RMS is that the reporting in NCR CounterPoint SQL is not as robust as the reporting in Microsoft Dynamics RMS. In most cases this was overcome by writing custom reports using Crystal Reports.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
EMV Options for Microsoft Dynamics RMS (and HQ) Point of Sale Software Users
Update July 2016: Since many Microsoft RMS point of sale software would like to keep using RMS for another couple of years but still need to deal with the EMV Liability Shift Date, visit this post for more information on the Card Defender EMV add-on for Microsoft RMS versions 1.3 and higher (and HQ as well): http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/06/card-defender-emv-add-on-for-microsoft.html
Video explaining the different EMV Liability Shift Date options and offering advice for users of the Microsoft Dynamics RMS (and HQ) point of sale programs in the United States. Covers all the options from doing nothing, using separate credit card terminals, using a payment gateway, or switching to a different point of sale system.
Between EMV and the 'end of life' status with RMS and HQ, just about everyone using RMS (including HQ) has to take some course of action.
I have already been contacted by 1102 stores and organizations using RMS (with about 12 also using HQ) for free and unbiased advice and direction so this is real word advice and not sales fluff. If you are in need of free and unbiased advice - including trusted contacts at any of the solutions that I mention in the video of which many are offering significant discounts to RMS users - please contact me via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com or on my cell at 208-340-5632. You can also visit my contact page for other ways to get in touch with me.
Video explaining the different EMV Liability Shift Date options and offering advice for users of the Microsoft Dynamics RMS (and HQ) point of sale programs in the United States. Covers all the options from doing nothing, using separate credit card terminals, using a payment gateway, or switching to a different point of sale system.
Between EMV and the 'end of life' status with RMS and HQ, just about everyone using RMS (including HQ) has to take some course of action.
I have already been contacted by 1102 stores and organizations using RMS (with about 12 also using HQ) for free and unbiased advice and direction so this is real word advice and not sales fluff. If you are in need of free and unbiased advice - including trusted contacts at any of the solutions that I mention in the video of which many are offering significant discounts to RMS users - please contact me via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com or on my cell at 208-340-5632. You can also visit my contact page for other ways to get in touch with me.
Monday, June 15, 2015
Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ Buying Group
A quick reminder that sales of Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ to new users as well as mainstream support ends next year (2016) so please keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing RMS or HQ as point of sale software for your business or organization.
Update July 5th, 2015: I've now had 731 stores using RMS contact me and, while the "RMS buying group" sounds great, it is proving to be too cumbersome to coordinate. What I have done instead is work out some discounts for RMS users with various point of sale program that have already proven to be popular replacements for RMS and HQ. Visit my contact page for information on how to reach me for more details and to see how I can direct you to the best resources.
I wanted to pass along this idea: since I'm now in contact with over 720 stores in the United States that currently use the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software (with around 17 also using HQ), would it be good for all of you to connect with each other?
Based on my records, none of you are in competition with each other but all of you are seriously considering replacing RMS/HQ with a different point of sale solution. 720 stores approaching a vendor who can offer a solution to replace RMS/HQ would mean huge buying power (think along the lines of the buying groups that many of you are members of). While its likely that one point of sale program will not meet everyone's needs, the potential for cost savings is huge even if some of you go with one solution and others choose a different solution.
If you have any questions, comments, suggestions or want to get on the "list" - please get in touch with me using the contact form to the right, via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com, or on my cell at 208-340-5632.
Update July 5th, 2015: I've now had 731 stores using RMS contact me and, while the "RMS buying group" sounds great, it is proving to be too cumbersome to coordinate. What I have done instead is work out some discounts for RMS users with various point of sale program that have already proven to be popular replacements for RMS and HQ. Visit my contact page for information on how to reach me for more details and to see how I can direct you to the best resources.
I wanted to pass along this idea: since I'm now in contact with over 720 stores in the United States that currently use the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software (with around 17 also using HQ), would it be good for all of you to connect with each other?
Based on my records, none of you are in competition with each other but all of you are seriously considering replacing RMS/HQ with a different point of sale solution. 720 stores approaching a vendor who can offer a solution to replace RMS/HQ would mean huge buying power (think along the lines of the buying groups that many of you are members of). While its likely that one point of sale program will not meet everyone's needs, the potential for cost savings is huge even if some of you go with one solution and others choose a different solution.
If you have any questions, comments, suggestions or want to get on the "list" - please get in touch with me using the contact form to the right, via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com, or on my cell at 208-340-5632.
Thursday, June 4, 2015
New Option for RMS/HQ Users - Retail Management Hero
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
How to obtain a 30 day trial version of Retail Management Hero: http://www.pospondering.com/2017/01/how-to-obtain-30-day-trial-license-of.html
Wanted to let all of you using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software more about the new Retail Management Hero point of sale software that will be available in late 2015 or early 2016. Please keep in mind that all the information is subject to change as the software is still in development mode.
Retail Management Hero (RMH) is being developed as a solution for single location RMS users and smaller chains using HQ that don't have the size or budget to migrate to Retail Realm Essentials. RMH could truly be considered RMS version 3 as the core database will remain the nearly the same but the user interface will be completely updated and new features will be added.
This is great for RMS users as the plan is that you can transfer your data (inventory, customers, etc) from RMS to RMH. Even better is that the current plan is to offer free licenses of RMH to RMS users who are current on their software maintenance. Users who have opted not to stay current on their software maintenance will be able to purchase licenses of RMH.
About the only bummer in all of this (for RMS users) is that it appears that RMH will not be available in time to meet the October 1st, 2015 EMV Liability Shift Date in the US. This means that RMS users still need to make arrangements related to EMV along with the associated hardware and software costs.
You can always contact me with any questions related to RMH, RMS or point of sale in general. All advice is free and unbiased (up to 1 hour of my time).
I'm working on getting some screen caps and more details related to RMH and will post more information as it becomes available as I personally know about 700 stores in the US using RMS of which around 15 also use HQ.
Based on the interest from end users as well as Microsoft Partners it looks like the folks at Retail Hero have a goldmine on their hands! Now they just need to get the software ready for deployment.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
How to obtain a 30 day trial version of Retail Management Hero: http://www.pospondering.com/2017/01/how-to-obtain-30-day-trial-license-of.html
Wanted to let all of you using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software more about the new Retail Management Hero point of sale software that will be available in late 2015 or early 2016. Please keep in mind that all the information is subject to change as the software is still in development mode.
Retail Management Hero (RMH) is being developed as a solution for single location RMS users and smaller chains using HQ that don't have the size or budget to migrate to Retail Realm Essentials. RMH could truly be considered RMS version 3 as the core database will remain the nearly the same but the user interface will be completely updated and new features will be added.
This is great for RMS users as the plan is that you can transfer your data (inventory, customers, etc) from RMS to RMH. Even better is that the current plan is to offer free licenses of RMH to RMS users who are current on their software maintenance. Users who have opted not to stay current on their software maintenance will be able to purchase licenses of RMH.
About the only bummer in all of this (for RMS users) is that it appears that RMH will not be available in time to meet the October 1st, 2015 EMV Liability Shift Date in the US. This means that RMS users still need to make arrangements related to EMV along with the associated hardware and software costs.
You can always contact me with any questions related to RMH, RMS or point of sale in general. All advice is free and unbiased (up to 1 hour of my time).
I'm working on getting some screen caps and more details related to RMH and will post more information as it becomes available as I personally know about 700 stores in the US using RMS of which around 15 also use HQ.
Based on the interest from end users as well as Microsoft Partners it looks like the folks at Retail Hero have a goldmine on their hands! Now they just need to get the software ready for deployment.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Point of Sale Options for Dynamics GP (Great Plains) Users
Users of the Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) accounting software have a multitude of options when it comes to choosing a point of sale system that offers some level of interfacing with GP. Two options really stand out as they don't just interface with GP but actually become part of GP as a GP point of sale "bolt on".
I recently spent some time getting familiar with the Compass and SalesPad point of sale solutions for GP and was very impressed. The cost and complexity of Compass and SalesPad put these solutions in the small to mid-sized chain retailer and offer scale-ability whether you have 5 locations or 150 locations.
Given the complexity of these point of sale programs, please contact me directly for more information and the contact information for a trustworthy Dynamics Partner who is experienced with the sales and support of Compass, SalesPad, and Dynamics GP.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
I recently spent some time getting familiar with the Compass and SalesPad point of sale solutions for GP and was very impressed. The cost and complexity of Compass and SalesPad put these solutions in the small to mid-sized chain retailer and offer scale-ability whether you have 5 locations or 150 locations.
Given the complexity of these point of sale programs, please contact me directly for more information and the contact information for a trustworthy Dynamics Partner who is experienced with the sales and support of Compass, SalesPad, and Dynamics GP.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Future Option for Microsoft Dynamics RMS Point of Sale Users
Update July 2016, Retail Management Hero demo and overview: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-version-of-rmsretail-management.html
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
Looking towards the end of 2015 or early 2016, it appears that users of the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software will have the option to trade up to new point of sale software. The new point of sale software is currently being written with a target release date towards the end of 2015. This new software will offer features and functions similar to what RMS offers and will be marketed towards single location and small chain retail businesses.
The good news is that the intention is to offer free licenses of the new software to RMS users who are current on their annual software maintenance. If you are not current on your annual software maintenance then licences of the new software can be purchased at $250.00/lane plus required first year maintenance at $215/lane.. The new software licenses are slated to have a license cost similar to an RMS license.
The bad news is that this new point of sale software will not be available until after the EMV Liability Shift Date has passed so current RMS users still need to make plans related to EMV and chip based credit and debit cards.
Of course, if you have not been staying current on your annual RMS software maintenance then you are behind the eight ball already.
My advice remains the same - now is the time to look at your options related to replacing RMS or continuing to invest in RMS. Don't wait too long or you will end up end the back of line with the thousands of other RMS users who waited until the last minute.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
Looking towards the end of 2015 or early 2016, it appears that users of the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software will have the option to trade up to new point of sale software. The new point of sale software is currently being written with a target release date towards the end of 2015. This new software will offer features and functions similar to what RMS offers and will be marketed towards single location and small chain retail businesses.
The good news is that the intention is to offer free licenses of the new software to RMS users who are current on their annual software maintenance. If you are not current on your annual software maintenance then licences of the new software can be purchased at $250.00/lane plus required first year maintenance at $215/lane.. The new software licenses are slated to have a license cost similar to an RMS license.
The bad news is that this new point of sale software will not be available until after the EMV Liability Shift Date has passed so current RMS users still need to make plans related to EMV and chip based credit and debit cards.
Of course, if you have not been staying current on your annual RMS software maintenance then you are behind the eight ball already.
My advice remains the same - now is the time to look at your options related to replacing RMS or continuing to invest in RMS. Don't wait too long or you will end up end the back of line with the thousands of other RMS users who waited until the last minute.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Take Aways from the 2015 Retail Realm Conference for Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ Users
Updated information on the upcoming Retail Management Hero Software (or what I am coining "RMS 3.0 for 2015 and beyond") can be found here: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/new-option-for-rmshq-users-retail.html
The recent Retail Realm Conference in April of 2015 helped clarify the current situation related to the Microsoft RMS and HQ point of sale programs. Here are the highlights:
The recent Retail Realm Conference in April of 2015 helped clarify the current situation related to the Microsoft RMS and HQ point of sale programs. Here are the highlights:
- Sales of RMS to new users will end July 2016
- Extended support for RMS will end July 2021
- Right now complying with the October 1st 2015 EMV Liability Shift Date in the US can only be accomplished using paid third party payment gateways or using payment terminals that are not connected to RMS
- If you do not stay current on your annual software maintenance agreement, you will not qualify for any updates or license swap options for new point of sale programs
- Retail Realm Essentials is a new point of sale program that is a possible replacement option for stores with multiple locations that also currently use HQ.
- Retail Management Hero is a new program under development that is designed for single location RMS users and they will be offering license swap options to RMS users who are current on their annual maintenance. No word on when Retail Management Hero will be available other than that the software presently is about "40% complete".
- If you are not current on your annual maintenance for RMS and/or HQ - your options are very limited for EMV/Chip Cards and switching to Retail Realm Essentials or Retail Management Hero.
- It does not make sense to invest in RMS at this point if you are searching for a point of sale system for your business or organization (would you buy a car if you knew that you could no longer obtain service for it after a specific date?).
- If you are current on your software maintenance then Retail Realm Essentials might be an option if you presently also use HQ and have multiple store locations.
- Retail Management Hero may be a good option for single stores using RMS or stores that do not use or need HQ and are also current on their annual maintenance agreement. However it is not clear when Retail Management Hero will be available.
My advice to RMS and HQ Users:
- Make a plan for EMV/Chip Cards
- If not current on software maintenance, look at either replacing RMS or look at the cost to renew your software maintenance
- Make a plan as to whether you want to keep investing in RMS/HQ, for how long, and whether Retail Realm Essentials or Retail Management Hero are possible replacement programs
- Look at other point of sale options just to see what might be of interest to you - a lot has changed over the last couple of years and you may find that a much better option exists for your business or organization that is well worth the cost to switch point of sale systems.
If you need some unbiased advice, please visit my contact page for information on how to reach me. I've worked extensively with QuickSell 2000, QuickSell HQ, QuickSell Commerce, Microsoft Dynamics RMS, HQ, and multiple other point of sale programs and apps. Currently I'm offering advice and information to around 700 stores in the US using RMS of which around 15 also use HQ.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
More Advice for Microsoft Dynamics RMS Users - the 7 year rule
A quick reminder that sales of Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ to new users as well as mainstream support ends next year (2016) so please keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing RMS or HQ as point of sale software for your business or organization.
Updated information on the upcoming Retail Management Hero Software (or what I am coining "RMS 3.0 for 2015 and beyond") can be found here: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/new-option-for-rmshq-users-retail.html
As I continue talking to businesses using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software as well as talking to businesses considering purchasing RMS, I wanted to pass along reasons why investing in RMS as a new point of sale system for your business or organization is a poor decision (those of you already using RMS have different options available which are covered in this blog post).
Updated information on the upcoming Retail Management Hero Software (or what I am coining "RMS 3.0 for 2015 and beyond") can be found here: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/new-option-for-rmshq-users-retail.html
As I continue talking to businesses using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS point of sale software as well as talking to businesses considering purchasing RMS, I wanted to pass along reasons why investing in RMS as a new point of sale system for your business or organization is a poor decision (those of you already using RMS have different options available which are covered in this blog post).
- EMV Liability Shift date. This is coming up in October of this year (2015) in the United States and related to who is liable for fraudulent transactions when a chip credit or debit card is used for payment. Based on information from Microsoft, if you purchase RMS now, you will need to also purchase additional software and hardware to meet the EMV liability shift date. I am extremely disappointed that Microsoft Dynamics RMS Partners in the US are selling RMS to businesses without explaining how to handle the EMV Liability Shift Date (as well as the costs involved).
- RMS and HQ End of Life. Back in May 2014, Microsoft released information related to the future of RMS and HQ with mainstream support and sales ending in July of 2016 and all support ending in July of 2021.
- What else will come around? Once EMV is past us, what sort of new standard or requirement will come up in 2016 or beyond that will require further investments?
- 7 Year Rule. Typically, I have found that a good point of sale system should last about 7 years. If full support for RMS ends in 2021 then, if you purchase RMS today, you will only have 6 years before you need to look at replacing or upgrading RMS.
Point being, buying RMS now as a point of sale system for your business is not a wise choice.
Comments and questions are always welcomed!
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, April 9, 2015
What About Microsoft Dynamics POS 2007/2009 Users?
Update for all Microsoft POS/POS 2009 Users: Upgrade license pricing is being extended to you for the new version of the Microsoft RMS point of sale software - rebranded under the new Retail Management Hero name. Please contact me for more information.
With so much focus having been on Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs, folks using Microsoft Dynamics POS 2007 or 2009 may be feeling a bit ignored. Mainstream support for these point of sale software programs ended some time ago so hopefully stores have already taken steps to replace POS 2007 or 2009.
If you haven't them the upcoming EMV liability shift date (October 2015 in the US) will mean that you will have to look at the following course of action:
With so much focus having been on Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs, folks using Microsoft Dynamics POS 2007 or 2009 may be feeling a bit ignored. Mainstream support for these point of sale software programs ended some time ago so hopefully stores have already taken steps to replace POS 2007 or 2009.
If you haven't them the upcoming EMV liability shift date (October 2015 in the US) will mean that you will have to look at the following course of action:
- If You are Processing Credit & Debit Cards within POS 2007 or POS 2009:
- Do nothing and assume all liability for fraudulent transactions
- Look at replacing POS 2007/2009 with a point of sale software program that works with EMV/Chip Card hardware
- Switch to a separate EMV terminal - easiest fix but opens the door to employee errors and also means that you have to reconcile 2 reports as part of your close out procedures
- If You Already Use a Separate Credit Card Terminal:
- Ensure that the company that handles your merchant services provides you with new equipment by October 2015 to work with the chip credit and debit cards
Compared to Dynamics RMS, the Dynamics POS software programs did not turn out to be very popular but I know of at least a dozen or so stores still using POS 2009 so I suspect there are a few thousand businesses in the US using POS 2007/2009.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Contacts for help or questions related to Dynamics RMS, HQ or Retail Realm Essentials
A quick reminder that sales of Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ to new users ends next year (2016) so please keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing RMS or HQ as point of sale software for your business or organization.
As I continue to receive almost daily calls and emails from folks with questions (or needing support) related to Microsoft Dynamics RMS, HQ and the new Retail Realm Essentials (powered by Microsoft Dynamics) point of sale programs, I wanted to let you know that I do have contacts that I can put you in touch with who can provide technical support as well as general information related to these point of sale programs.
These are people that I know in the industry and are fully certified for sales and support of all the entire Microsoft Dynamics suite of point of sale software programs.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
As I continue to receive almost daily calls and emails from folks with questions (or needing support) related to Microsoft Dynamics RMS, HQ and the new Retail Realm Essentials (powered by Microsoft Dynamics) point of sale programs, I wanted to let you know that I do have contacts that I can put you in touch with who can provide technical support as well as general information related to these point of sale programs.
These are people that I know in the industry and are fully certified for sales and support of all the entire Microsoft Dynamics suite of point of sale software programs.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Need Help With Microsoft Dynamics RMS or HQ Point of Sale?
A quick reminder that sales of Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ to new users as well as mainstream support ends next year (2016) so please keep that in mind if you are thinking of purchasing RMS or HQ as point of sale software for your business or organization (not a wise investment at this point).
Update June 28th, 2015 - special discount and incentive from a national NCR CounterPoint Partner for RMS and HQ users: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/big-discount-and-incentive-for.html
Even with the 'end of life' announcement from Microsoft related to the Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs as well as the upcoming EMV liability shift date, there are still at least 38,000 stores in the US using these point of sale programs.
As my technical skills are limited, I have made arrangements with a certified RMS and HQ technician to be available for folks searching for technical support or training on RMS. If you are in need of support or training on RMS or HQ, then please contact me for the technicians contact information - he does work for a Microsoft Dynamics partner with multiple locations in the US.
Updated information on the upcoming Retail Management Hero Software (or what I am coining "RMS 3.0 for 2015 and beyond") can be found here: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/new-option-for-rmshq-users-retail.html
Update June 28th, 2015 - special discount and incentive from a national NCR CounterPoint Partner for RMS and HQ users: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/big-discount-and-incentive-for.html
Even with the 'end of life' announcement from Microsoft related to the Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs as well as the upcoming EMV liability shift date, there are still at least 38,000 stores in the US using these point of sale programs.
As my technical skills are limited, I have made arrangements with a certified RMS and HQ technician to be available for folks searching for technical support or training on RMS. If you are in need of support or training on RMS or HQ, then please contact me for the technicians contact information - he does work for a Microsoft Dynamics partner with multiple locations in the US.
Updated information on the upcoming Retail Management Hero Software (or what I am coining "RMS 3.0 for 2015 and beyond") can be found here: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/new-option-for-rmshq-users-retail.html
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
A Little More Information on Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft
A note of thanks to the folks at Retail Realm for letting me know that some new content has been added to their website specific to the new Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft Dynamics (RRE) point of sale program.
Retail Realm has assured me that they will pass along more details as they become available - I know many of you are waiting on license cost information as well as any information related to possible license swap options for businesses currently using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs.
Here is a link to RRE website: http://www.rrdisti.com/products/retail-realm-essentials
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Retail Realm has assured me that they will pass along more details as they become available - I know many of you are waiting on license cost information as well as any information related to possible license swap options for businesses currently using the Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ point of sale programs.
Here is a link to RRE website: http://www.rrdisti.com/products/retail-realm-essentials
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft Dynamics
Just a quick note that I should be able to share more details related to the new Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft Dynamics point of sale software by Mid March 2015. I'm just waiting on a few specifics from Retail Realm related to license cost, hardware requirements, and license swap options for folks using Microsoft Dynamics RMS who are current on their annual maintenance agreement.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
What Microsoft RMS/HQ Point of Sale Users are Doing - Part Two
Update July 2016: Since many Microsoft RMS point of sale software would like to keep using RMS for another couple of years but still need to deal with the EMV Liability Shift Date, visit this post for more information on the Card Defender EMV add-on for Microsoft RMS versions 1.3 and higher (and HQ as well): http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/06/card-defender-emv-add-on-for-microsoft.html
Update July 2016, Retail Management Hero(RMS version 3.X) demo and overview: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-version-of-rmsretail-management.html
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
Update July 27th, 2015: I have now talked to over 730 stores using RMS, HQ, and Dynamics POS. The NCR CounterPoint offer have proven to be very attractive with several stores taking advantage of the offer mentioned below. Bindo POS also continues to be popular as well.
Update April 21st, 2015: 2 more stores have let me know that they are switching to Bindo Point of Sale (www.bindopos.com) from RMS.
Update March 24th, 2015: getting multiple calls from stores who were about to invest in RMS as a new or replacement POS system and the business/dealers/partners selling RMS made no mention of EMV or the end of life sale and support dates for RMS. Needless to say these stores will not be investing in RMS or recommending businesses/dealers/partners that are selling RMS without full disclosure.
Update March 9th, 2015: still talking to an average of one business per day using RMS. Trends are still about the same especially related to Bindo POS and Retail Pro but a few more RMS users have been asking about Retail Realm Essentials - especially government entities that prefer to stick with Microsoft branded point of sale software. As always - contact me if you have questions or if you are completely confused.
Update February 3rd, 2015: I've been talking to an average of 5-7 stores using RMS each week so I will keep this information updated so everyone can compare options and plan what to do with RMS over the next few months.
A quick update on conversations that I have had over the last several weeks with multiple businesses of all sizes that currently use the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS) point of sale software (some are using HQ as well).
As there are tens of thousands of retail stores in the US using RMS (I know about 700 of you personally!), I wanted to pass along what RMS users are doing or planning related to the RMS and HQ end of life announcement from Microsoft as well as the upcoming EMV liability shift date for users in the US.
So far, many of you have already switched to different point of sale systems:
Update July 2016, Retail Management Hero(RMS version 3.X) demo and overview: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-version-of-rmsretail-management.html
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
Update July 27th, 2015: I have now talked to over 730 stores using RMS, HQ, and Dynamics POS. The NCR CounterPoint offer have proven to be very attractive with several stores taking advantage of the offer mentioned below. Bindo POS also continues to be popular as well.
Update April 21st, 2015: 2 more stores have let me know that they are switching to Bindo Point of Sale (www.bindopos.com) from RMS.
Update March 24th, 2015: getting multiple calls from stores who were about to invest in RMS as a new or replacement POS system and the business/dealers/partners selling RMS made no mention of EMV or the end of life sale and support dates for RMS. Needless to say these stores will not be investing in RMS or recommending businesses/dealers/partners that are selling RMS without full disclosure.
Update March 9th, 2015: still talking to an average of one business per day using RMS. Trends are still about the same especially related to Bindo POS and Retail Pro but a few more RMS users have been asking about Retail Realm Essentials - especially government entities that prefer to stick with Microsoft branded point of sale software. As always - contact me if you have questions or if you are completely confused.
Update February 3rd, 2015: I've been talking to an average of 5-7 stores using RMS each week so I will keep this information updated so everyone can compare options and plan what to do with RMS over the next few months.
A quick update on conversations that I have had over the last several weeks with multiple businesses of all sizes that currently use the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS) point of sale software (some are using HQ as well).
As there are tens of thousands of retail stores in the US using RMS (I know about 700 of you personally!), I wanted to pass along what RMS users are doing or planning related to the RMS and HQ end of life announcement from Microsoft as well as the upcoming EMV liability shift date for users in the US.
So far, many of you have already switched to different point of sale systems:
- 1 business went from RMS to LightSpeed as they needed both a food service and retail POS system
- 5 businesses went from RMS to NCR CounterPoint
- 7 businesses went from RMS to Bindo Point of Sale
- 5 are considering using separate EMV terminals (should run around $400-$800 but this opens the door for costly employee errors and means reconciling 2 reports at the end of each day)
- 2 are looking at the 3rd party gateway options but are concerned about the costs of using a third party payment gateway as well as what sort of new requirement will come around in 2016 that requires another investment to keep using RMS
Of the remaining stores that I talked too (well over 30 at this point with new ones contacting me each week), all but one are planning on switching away from RMS in the next few months. A few are waiting for more details related to the new Retail Realm Essentials (powered by Microsoft Dynamics) point of sale system that should be released before the end of Q3 2015.
Many of you have also told me that you are considering Retail Pro as an RMS replacement. Retail Pro offers a very similar feature/function set when compared to RMS but is more up to date when it comes to also using mobile devices as well as traditional computers.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
How to Get More Information on Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft Dynamics
While I am still waiting more details related to costs and license swap options for the new Retail Realm Essentials - Powered by Microsoft Dynamics point of sale software, I have found someone at Retail Realm who has offered to be a point of contact for retailers interested in the software.
As a reminder, Retail Realm Essentials is a good fit for retailers with 2-24 locations or a single high volume location. This applies to current Dynamics RMS/HQ users as well as folks searching for a new or upgraded point of sale system.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
As a reminder, Retail Realm Essentials is a good fit for retailers with 2-24 locations or a single high volume location. This applies to current Dynamics RMS/HQ users as well as folks searching for a new or upgraded point of sale system.
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Microsoft Dynamics RMS and HQ End of Life
Update July 2016: Since many Microsoft RMS point of sale software would like to keep using RMS for another couple of years but still need to deal with the EMV Liability Shift Date, visit this post for more information on the Card Defender EMV add-on for Microsoft RMS versions 1.3 and higher (and HQ as well): http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/06/card-defender-emv-add-on-for-microsoft.html
Update July 2016, Retail Management Hero (version 3.X of RMS) demo and overview: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-version-of-rmsretail-management.html
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
As you might be seeing some conflicting information related to the status of the Miscosoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems (RMS) and Dynamics Headquarters (HQ) point of sale programs, here are the links to the end of life dates for these programs right on the Microsoft web site:
For RMS: http://support2.microsoft.com/lifecycle/default.aspx?LN=en-us&x=7&y=14&p1=12198
For HQ: http://support2.microsoft.com/lifecycle/default.aspx?LN=en-us&x=5&y=13&p1=12218
And here is a link to an explanation of what the various lifecycle terms mean: http://support.microsoft.com/gp/LifeBizSolFAQ
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
Update July 2016, Retail Management Hero (version 3.X of RMS) demo and overview: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-version-of-rmsretail-management.html
Updated information on Retail Management Hero as a direct replacement for RMS as of December 3rd, 2015: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/12/updated-information-on-new-retail.html
New video discussing options for Dynamics RMS and HQ users as of December 5th, 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evVWS7dj0Bs
As you might be seeing some conflicting information related to the status of the Miscosoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems (RMS) and Dynamics Headquarters (HQ) point of sale programs, here are the links to the end of life dates for these programs right on the Microsoft web site:
For RMS: http://support2.microsoft.com/lifecycle/default.aspx?LN=en-us&x=7&y=14&p1=12198
For HQ: http://support2.microsoft.com/lifecycle/default.aspx?LN=en-us&x=5&y=13&p1=12218
And here is a link to an explanation of what the various lifecycle terms mean: http://support.microsoft.com/gp/LifeBizSolFAQ
- RMS and HQ will no longer be sold to new customers after July 2016
- Any product enhancements, updates, fixes, or compliance updates will only be available to users who maintain a paid annual maintenance agreement (your Microsoft Dynamics Partner can provide information on costs - normally the annual fee is around 18% of your initial license cost so if you originally spent $2800 on software license fees then your annual maintenance agreement cost would be 18% of $2800 or $504/year)
- If you currently use RMS and/or HQ and are current on your annual maintenance agreement then you have the option to keep using RMS/HQ as long as you stay current on your annual maintenance agreement. I would personally recommend looking at other point of sale solutions instead of continuing to invest in a point of sale system that is end of life.
- If you are currently using RMS and/or HQ and are not current on your annual maintenance agreement then you need to explore switching to other point of sale solutions or you need to contact your Microsoft Dynamics Partner to see what the backdate/lapse fee is to bring your annual maintenance agreement current. For example, if you originally spent $2800 on software licenses but have not renewed your annual maintenance agreement in 3 years then you would be looking at spending $1512 (estimate only) to bring your annual maintenance agreement current. While you could technically continue using RMS/HQ without a maintenance agreement, it is extremely likely that some sort of compliance or technology shift will occur (EMV anyone? ) that will render RMS/HQ unusable without incurring significant costs (to the point that you will be spending nearly the same amount as the original cost of the software licensing). You also have to keep in mind that updating the RMS/HQ software may also render other hardware to be in need of updating (based on real world experience this ends up having a snowball effect and suddenly you are looking at spending $5,000+ to update an outdated point of sale system).
- If you are searching for your first point of sale system then I would strongly advise against purchasing RMS and/or HQ. As much as I have found RMS and HQ to be amazing point of sale solutions, I would never recommend investing in something that is 'end of life' - especially with EMV coming up in October of this year (2015).
Are you in the US and in need of no cost retail point of sale advice? I'm happy to help and can be reached on my cell at 208-340-5632 (I am on Mountain Time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com. There is also a contact form to the right that can be used to reach me.
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