PC Software Accounting, Inc.- Client Write-Up for Windows

LEARNING CURVE & EASE OF USE-
Installation and initial setup of Client Write-Up is simple, with creation and
management of a client company, account and other background information occurring
on intuitive tab-based screens. Data-entry screens can be resized as needed
by the user and can accommodate high or low resolution monitors. Basic wizards
are available during setup functions, allowing users to copy existing client
charts of accounts and other data for use in creating new entities. This “client
cloning” feature also allows copying of client charts, payroll settings
and custom reporting that has been setup for an existing client. The main system
interface offers a fairly traditional screen with pull-down menus and icons
across the top of an otherwise blank work area.

The program opens to the last client accessed, and offers a client selection
list that uses the Windows Explorer file system rather than a management console,
which provides less advanced filter and search options, but does allow users
to sort by either number or name, and offers client-level password protection.
Within a client’s files, most day-to-day functions are accessed via the
Transactions menu, which offers access to ledger transactions, journal entries,
bank reconciliation tasks, trial balance, and the ability to set recurring transactions
and journal entries. Transactional tasks such as splitting, deleting and modifications
can be performed individually or in batch. Data-entry screens for transactions,
journal entries and other information provide standard web-based forms with
access to lists for accounts, codes, employees, cost centers, transactions,
vendors and many other items, with GL screens allowing notes and automatic balancing
cash entries.

One of the unique aspects of the Client Write-Up systems is that data from
closed prior periods are always accessible and all transactional information
retained. This aids in modification of year-end figures and making changes and
adjusting entries for any period, which also eases reporting for prior periods,
including up to five years of histories. A quick Debit/Credit Check feature
provides users with a summary of GL balances.

Bank reconciliation functions enable users to import bank files and manage
electronic transactions. As well, users can utilize multiple methods of working
with accounts and transactions, including a side-by-side view of the disbursements
journal and the receipts journal. Employee management screens for payroll and
compliance reporting are well designed, with the ability to set 1099 and W-2
data, assign specific divisions or cost centers, and track hire and termination
dates. Selection lists offer basic sorting and search tools. Client Write-Up’s
after-the-fact payroll functions include e-filing options for both state and
federal information returns. The vendor’s Computer Checkbook and Payroll
systems offer check writing and additional options for more advanced employee
and company management.

REPORTING & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS-
PC Software Accounting’s Client Write-Up system houses a surprisingly
large library of reports, including full financial reporting options that include
balance sheets, income statements, retained earnings, cash flow, sales schedules,
break even, and others, which can be run as consolidated or by cost center and
can include up to five years of history. Other output options include trial
balance, general ledger listings, cash reports, tax estimates and budgeting.
Batch reporting options are available, and users can include customized or preformatted
charts and graphs with reports. Files can be saved as PDF or Excel formats,
the latter allowing for customization, or they can be e-mailed directly from
within the program.

INTEGRATION, IMPORT/ EXPORT-
The program offers integration with the vendor’s Computer Checkbook and
Payroll systems, and can import multiple years of GL data from any version of
QuickBooks. Import options are also available for most other client accounting
systems, including older DOS programs, and from plain text formats. It also
has interfaces for preparing and exporting data files into plain text, Excel
and a format specified for McDonald’s franchisees, along with the ability
to export data for use in most professional tax compliance systems.

SUPPORT, TRAINING & HELP-
Client Write-Up includes a traditional Help index with screen shots, plus F1
key access to field-specific Help. A tutorial, practice sets and a system overview
are built into the program, along with links to the company’s website,
which has downloadable updates but does not offer self-help resources such as
a knowledgebase or FAQs. A printed user guide is included with the system, and
unlimited U.S-based live technical support, program updates and payroll tables
are provided for one year with system pricing.

RELATIVE VALUE-
Client Write-Up for Windows has the ease-of-use of a program designed for small
firms, but offers good workflow features that can make it suitable even for
practices servicing very large clients. With the networked site license, it
can be used by any number of professionals in a single office, whether two or
20, and provides exceptional reporting capabilities, a beneficial always-available
structure that allows access and manipulation of transactional data in closed
accounting periods, strong reconciliation functions and effective integration
options.

2009 Overall Rating: