Microsoft RMS Support

 A quick note that I am still getting calls and emails regarding support for the Microsoft RMS point of sale software. I do have equipment running Microsoft RMS but that equipment is quite old.

 As long as the equipment keeps running, I will do my best to offer limited support for RMS. If it only takes 15 minutes to answer your support question, then the support is free.

 More in depth RMS support will be billed at an hourly rate of $79/hour.

 

 

Should I Keep Using Microsoft Dynamics RMS Through July 2021? Should I Keep Investing in RMS?

Should I Keep Using Microsoft Dynamics RMS Through July 2021?

The recent slew of payment industry requirements and conflicts with Windows 10, have prompted many of you to contact me regarding whether you will still be able to use Microsoft Dynamics RMS (and HQ) through the final July 2021 end of life date.

This question has been on my mind as I travel to meet with RMS users across the country - especially with those of you on HQ who have 5-40 locations and can't quickly switch to Retail Management Hero (RMH) or Cloud Retailer.

At this time, it appears that the main issues are related to the native payment processing used in RMS as well as outdated payment processing solutions like the 1000 series pin pads and Windows XP. The best short and long term solution here is to put in Card Defender which works with RMS as well as Retail Management Hero and Cloud Retailer. Replacing older Windows XP with Windows 7 Pro or Windows 10 Pro is also required at this point.

We are going to continue to see new industry requirements at least every 3-6 months so eventually the age of RMS will catch up with itself (we are talking about a program that was released in the early 2000's based on a software program from the late 1990's).

Single location retailers can basically make the switch to RMH or Cloud Retailer when time and budget allow or put in Card Defender and deal with RMS come 2020 or 2021.

Chains need a bit more time to plan ahead - any MANY of you have contacted me to discuss via phone or in person. Given that we are seeing issues related to Windows 10, SQL Server, and payment processing hardware, I would highly recommend having a plan "A" and a plan "B". Plan "A" would be to update and replace all hardware as needed now (including adding Card Defender if needed) and plan for the replacement of RMS and HQ come 2019 or 2020 - I would not recommend waiting until 2021 as we don't know what exactly might come around come 2020 and 2021.

Plan "B" would be some sort of contingency plan to switch POS systems sooner that later if some sort of failure occurs. Basically plan "B" would be an expedited version of the second part of plan "A".

So the short answer to my original question is that I am somewhat less confident in RMS being fully functional through July 2021 - especially when it comes to trying to use the native payment processing. Thus, you should have two plans of action - just in case.

Should I Keep Investing in RMS?
This is a tough question. It depends on how much longer you plan on using RMS and what point of sale software program you will be replacing RMS with. An example would be investing in Card Defender for Microsoft RMS. This is a good investment since Card Defender takes some of the security risks out of RMS when it comes to payment industry requirements AND Card Defender works with some of the RMS replacement programs like Cloud Retailer and Retail Management Hero.

If you are looking at 3rd party plugs ins for RMS like age verification or the ability to email receipts, then it depends on how much longer you plan on using RMS. If RMS is being replaced in 1-2 years, then I'd seriously consider the overall cost versus what not having a specific feature/function is costing you in terms of lost revenue or labor for manual processes. However, if you plan on using RMS for another 2+ years, then the investment likely makes sense.

Same for investing in new hardware (computers, cash drawers, receipt printers, etc). If you are incurring a lot of break/fix costs, then investing in new hardware makes sense. Just make sure that you use industry standard hardware that is supported by most POS software programs.

The short answer is basically looking at the investment using the following criteria:

1. Does the investment solve an issue that costs our organization lost revenue or extra labor costs?
2. Will this investment carry through to our next POS software program?
3. When will we be replacing RMS? Will this investment be in use long enough to offer an ROI?

Have I completely confused you? I think that I have confused myself! I have lost count on how many retailers, chains, and franchisee's have contacted me for sales, service and on-site paid consulting.

If I can help related to sales, service or paid on-site consulting specific to RMS and HQ, please let me know by emailing kevinantosh@gmail.com or calling 208-340-5632. I would enjoy the opportunity to learn more about your organization!

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:

• 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". 

There are obviously some trends that you need to be aware of based on the above information:

• 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:

1. Make a plan for EMV/Chip Cards
2. If not current on software maintenance, look at either replacing RMS or look at the cost to renew your software maintenance
3. 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
4. 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.

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

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:

• 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.

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.

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

1. RMS and HQ will no longer be sold to new customers after July 2016
2. 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)

I will repeat what I have posted before related to RMS and HQ:

1. 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.
2. 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).
3. 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.

New Retail Essentials Point of Sale Software from Retail Realm & Microsoft

***Note that Retail Ream Essentials POS Software is no longer available. Please contact me for other options***

Update January 13th, 2015: a video highlighting what we do and do not know about Retail Essentials can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AUEllil8SI or below:

Update January 2nd, 2015: The correct name of the software is Retail Realm Essentials - powered by Microsoft Dynamics.

A note of thanks to the folks at Retail Realm for taking some time earlier today to share some information on the new Retail Essentials point of sale software. While we are all waiting on a few more details, it is great that I am able to pass along any information - especially to the many stores that I have worked with in the past who are presently using the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems Store Operations (RMS) point of sale software as well as the multiple other RMS and HQ users who have contacted me since we all received the end of life announcement from Microsoft related to RMS and HQ.

While no licensing cost or license swap information is available, I can share that Retail Essentials is a good match in features and functions for large single location stores using RMS as well as multi-location stores using RMS HQ.

Like most Dynamics products, Retail Essentials will be deployed through trained partners to ensure that end users receive top level training, installation, and on-going support services. Retail Realm is also working to ensure that third party solutions are ready to go for mobile sales devices, e-commerce integration, and accounting software integration.

As we get closer to the expected release date for Retail Essentials (Late February 2015), I'm hoping that I can share more about Retail Essentials related to license cost, hardware requirements, hardware compatibility, specific features and functions, transfer of data from RMS and HQ, and places in the United States that will be authorized Retail Essentials Partners.

My gut instinct would advise you to make sure that you are staying current on your annual maintenance agreement if you plan on continuing to use RMS/HQ whether or not you might be considering switching to Retail 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.

EMV Options for Microsoft Dynamics RMS 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

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 August 8th, 2015: Blog post and video covering all the options available for RMS users related to EMV: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/options-for-microsoft-dynamics-rms-and.html

I want to thank the folks at Retail Realm for spending some time with me discussing the future of RMS as well as the new Retail Essentials point of sale solution. As I have personally sold many copies of RMS and HQ and continue to receive calls & emails on a weekly basis from RMS and HQ users of all sizes, I am pleased to pass along the following information related to the EMV Liability Shift and Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems Store Operations and Headquarters point of sale software programs.

While Microsoft has not made a formal statement related to EMV and RMS/HQ, Retail Realm has worked with multiple companies to introduce payment gateways that are "EMV ready".  As everyone should now be compliant with the latest PCI standards (if you are not compliant then don't be surprised to receive information about potential penalties and fines for processing debit and credit card payments through a non-PCI compliant system), the focus has shifted to the EMV Liability shift that is scheduled to take place in October 2015 for businesses and organizations in the United States.

Shift4 offers one of these EMV ready payment gateways that works with RMS and HQ to ensure that your payment processing is done utilizing the latest in encryption and tokanization methods. In fact, no actual card information resides on the point of sale system as encryption takes place as the card is swiped.

Retail Realm is also working with other payment processing and processing gateway companies to allow for RMS/HQ integration.

While these companies do have various fees related to their payment processing and processing gateway services, it is nice to know that RMS and HQ users do have processing options aside from using an independent credit and debit card terminal.  Note that there are still costs associated with EMV compatible credit and debit card terminals which everyone will need to purchase anyway.

While it would be great if Microsoft announced an update and compatible EMV hardware list, at least Retail Realm has some options available now.

You can always contact me, Retail Realm, Shift4 or your RMS Dynamics Partner for more information.

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

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 Point of Sale Software from Microsoft and Retail Realm

***Note that this software program is no longer available. Please contact me for other options***

Some more information was made available related to the new "Microsoft Dynamics Retail Essentials" point of sale software. As I have mentioned before, I have fielded a lot of calls and emails from upset Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Store Operations (RMS) users over the last year due to the official "end of life" announcement from Microsoft related to RMS and lack of clear communication related to EMV compatibility in RMS.

What we know about Retail Essentials:

• Retail specific version of Dynamics AX
• Will be sold and supported via trained Microsoft partners
• Tentatively will be available for deployment in late February 2015

What we don't know about Retail Essentials:

• Cost
• Specific features and functions
• Mobile device compatability
• EMV compatability
• Data conversion for RMS users
• Multi-location features (if any)
• Peripheral compatibility

With so many stores looking to me for advice (well over 700 stores in the US), I'm hopeful that someone from a Microsoft Partner, Microsoft, or Retail Realm will work with me to learn more about Retail Essentials so I can share that information with you.

UPDATE: Retail Realm was kind enough to reach out to me so I am going to hold off on making any recommendations until I get a chance to learn more about Retail Essentials.  Then I can hopefully share more and help you make an informed decision on what to do (whether you are searching for a replacement for RMS or whether you are searching for your first POS system).  I hope to have more information to share with everyone by mid December.

Here is a link to the official press release - contact me if you have questions:
http://www.rrdisti.com/announcements/microsoft-and-retail-realm-jointly-announce-microsoft-dynamics-retail-essentials-with-retail-realm

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.

Microsoft RMS/HQ End of Life and EMV

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 August 8th, 2015: Blog post and video covering all the options available for RMS users related to EMV: http://retailpospondering.blogspot.com/2015/06/options-for-microsoft-dynamics-rms-and.html

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 January 1st, 2015:

Based on recent conversations with Microsoft and Retail Realm, use of EMV hardware with Microsoft Dynamics RMS Store Operations and HQ will only be available via third party software add-ons (subject to change of course). While this does provide a way for RMS/HQ users to comply with the EMV liability shift, it also means that you will need to pay to use the third party EMV software.

Of course, RMS and HQ are end of life so it make more sense to start planning to replace RMS/HQ with a new point of sale program.

Confused? Contact me for free and unbiased advice.


Since I have been receiving multiple calls and emails related to Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems Store Operations (RMS) and Headquarters (HQ), I wanted to pass along some updates based on what I know so far related to RMS and HQ 'end of life' as well as EMV compatibility.

First, on EMV compatibility:

A forum response from a Microsoft Representative states that there are no plans to upgrade RMS to work with EMV hardware.  However, there is a good chance that a third party will step in and offer some sort of add-on so RMS users can use EMV hardware.  I have heard of some third party RMS EMV apps becoming available but they take a percentage of each transaction.

It is starting to look like RMS and HQ users need to start looking at other options as I question whether it makes sense to invest in a point of sale product whose end of sales and mainstream support date is July of 2016.

Which brings up another possibility related to RMS and HQ:

Given the sheer number of users, as well as all the companies that sell RMS and HQ or offer various enhancements for RMS and HQ, I am hopeful that someone might acquire the rights to coding and database design for RMS and HQ.  I have not heard anything but it seems really strange that a point of sale program used by 40,000+ stores would just be completely retired.

Like I said, I've not heard anything yet but a companies like Retail Realm and New West Technologies stand to loose a lot of revenue if RMS and HQ are retired.

The upside (if a company acquired the rights to RMS and HQ) would be an extremely large existing user base - the downside is that a lot of RMS and HQ users are pretty upset with Microsoft and already making plans to switch to different point of sale programs before October of 2015.  And I don't just mean small single stores but stores with hundreds of locations in the US.

So - anyone interested?  Of course, Microsoft may not be interested in selling the coding and database information for RMS and HQ so this could be a mute point in the end...

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.

Reminder on Discounts for Former DirectPOS/RVP Business Systems Customers & Microsoft Dynamics RMS Users

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

As August 2014 quickly winds down, a reminder that I have arranged for some significant discounts if you happen to be a former customer of DirectPOS/RVP Business Systems who had offices in Boise, ID, Spokane, WA, and Salt Lake City, UT but sold point of sale systems throughout the United States.  It doesn't matter which system you bought from them as I have made arrangements to cover everything from cash registers to multi-location retail and restaurant point of sale solutions.

The discounts also apply to anyone who is currently using the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Store Operations or Dynamics POS 2007/2009 point of sale software programs.

You'll need to contact me for more details using the contact form to the right, via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com or on my cell at 208.340.5632.

5 Things You May Not Know That Microsoft Dynamics RMS POS Can Do

Update 13.June.2015: A quick note that I have been receiving multiple calls and emails from Microsoft Dynamics RMS users looking to replace RMS due to the upcoming October 1st, 2015 EMV liability shift deadline as well as the "end of life" status for Dynamics RMS and HQ. I have personal experience with RMS users upgrading to NCR CounterPoint and would be happy to share - just visit my contact page for information on how to reach me. I can also put you in touch with a trusted NCR CounterPoint SQL partner.

Even though we know now that the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems Store Operations (RMS) software now has an 'end of life' date, many of you have decided to continue using the system until we know more about the various replacement programs for RMS.

The video below highlights 5 things that you may not know that the RMS POS screen can do like:

1. Dashboard or Snap Shot Performance Summary
2. Touchscreen Menu
3. Recording Macros
4. Changing the POS Screen Layout and Options
5. Labels for the Function Keys

Not a fancy video and I just hit the highlights - you can always contact Microsoft, your Dynamics RMS partner or myself for more information.

If you have been thinking about replacing RMS, please contact me as I am aware of different discounts and promotions being offered through August of 2014 that would likely be of interest to you. You can reach me using the contact form to the right, via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com, or on my cell at 208.340.5632.

Discounts and Promotions for Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems (RMS) Users

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

Hello to the 40,000+ users of the Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems (RMS)   Through some careful conversations, I have been able to obtain commitments from several trusted and established point of sale companies offering some very significant discounts on point of sale software and hardware.  These discounts and various promotions apply if:

• Your business is in the United States
• You are currently using the RMS point of sale program in your business
• You are:
• Looking to upgrade or refresh RMS
• Looking to replace RMS with a similar point of sale solutions
• Looking to replace RMS with a completely different point of sale solution 

To give you an idea - these promotions and discounts are worth anywhere from $1500 to $5000 depending on what you need in terms of software, hardware, and labor.

Best advice is to contact me and we can chat more. As always, my advice is completely free. These discounts and promotions will end at some point.  You can use the "contact me" form to the right, email me at kevinantosh@gmail.com or reach me on my cell at 208.340.5632.

Things to Keep an Eye On

As we wind our way though July, here are some things to keep in mind for the next 12 months:

• Microsoft and their various point of sale solutions - at some point we really need to hear more about the replacements for Microsoft Dynamics RMS Store Operations and Dynamics POS 2009.  
• EMV - this is still over a year a way (Oct 2015) but will effect everyone anyone who takes credit and debits cards. Start talking now to your point of sale provider or the company that handles your merchant services now to see what the plan is and how much EMV compliance is going to cost you.
• Keep an eye on the mobile solutions like Bindo Point of Sale (www.bindopos.com) as this latest generation of point of sale solutions are looking more and more attractive given the modest monthly fee that covers support and system updates
• Watch out for the "fly by night" point of sale apps. I've seen a lot of point of sale companies come and go over the last 15 years.  Key warning signs that you may talking to someone who is not committed to a long term presence in the point of sale world:
• No toll free number
• Very basic website with limited information
• No user reviews
• Very small number of references
• The program or app was written by someones brother, nephew, etc
• They don't come across as understanding "retail"
• They are working out of someones garage or basement

Can I help?  If you are in need of some free point of sale advice, please use the contact form to the right, email me at kevinantosh@gmail.com or call me on my cell at 208.340.5632. In addition to working with thousands of folks over the last 15 years to help them find the best point of sale solution, I have also now secured various discounts with trusted point of sale solution providers in the United States.

Future of Microsoft RMS and RMS HQ

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

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 28.June.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

For the 38,000 users of Microsoft RMS Store Operations (of which I know many of you personally):

Just a quick reminder that the Microsoft Retail  conference is this weekend (25.April.2014 - 26.April.2014). Microsoft has indicated that information will be shared related to the future of RMS and HQ.  This will finally allow the 35,000+ users of RMS to start planing for any upgrades or migrations that will need to be made over the next year.

I will post any and all information related to RMS as quickly as it becomes available to me (so please ignore any spelling and grammer errors).

I have also scheduled a meeting with a national RMS partner in May so I can also pass along information related to how a Microsoft Partner can assist both my personal former client base as well those of you using RMS and/HQ that I have not had a chance to meet yet.

-Kevin

Support End Dates for Microsoft Point of Sale Programs

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.

Update 28.June.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

Microsoft has announced some dates related to the end of support timeframe for many of their point of sale software programs.  Here are the details for the most popular programs:

Dynamics POS 2009:
Mainstream support and sales to new users will end on July 8th, 2014.  If you stay current on an annual maintenance agreement, then support for POS 2009 is extended to July 8th, 2019.

Dynamics RMS Store Operations and HQ:
Mainstream support and sales to new users will end on July 10, 2016.  If you stay current on an annual maintenance agreement for RMS/HQ, the support will be available until July 13th, 2021.

I am still waiting on Microsoft for more news related any new or updated retail point of sale programs being released. This information will likely become available in late April 2014.

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 (mountain time) or via email at kevinantosh@gmail.com.