Software Review of:
Timeslips

Upgrading
If you are upgrading from Timeslips v9 or v9.1, your data will convert automatically when you access it.

If you are upgrading from Timeslips v8 or below, you must run the data conversion program to convert your existing data. Further, Sage recommends becoming familiar with the new version first (using the provided sample dataset) before converting. I cannot comment upon the wisdom of this advice, since I never used the earlier versions. But the “help” manual explicitly states, “there are many key conceptual changes to consider” in upgrading to version 10 from any version below version 8. The manual also hyperlinks to the section that enumerates these “key conceptual changes.” The manual is well written and not (like so many) circular.

The installation creates a new database with 65 separate tables are created from which the various options for billing, tracking, reporting, etc. are then modifiable by different pull-down box choices. This allows for the new user to be engaged very quickly in using, not just learning, the program. 

The “heart” of the Timeslips application is found in the graphical “Navigator”.

From this screen even a novice can begin to feel comfortable with the program enough to begin to prepare and print bills. The choice in the left vertical column is graphically represented in the large center box. In this box menu choices, processes, and inherent relationships with one another are clarified. The next Navigator screen shows the activities related to Time and Expense and again, makes the selection of activity not only easy, but also logical. I don’t know if other time management software uses a similar interface, but Sage’s Timeslips surely seems to flatten the learning curve. 

The Navigator’s screens continue in this manner for activities related to Accounts Receivable, Funds, Client information, Timekeepers (anyone who generates billable hours), Tasks, Expenses, Databases, Settings, and Other Assistance. Each major choice reveals a chart of activities logically flowing from it and chosen by clicking the appropriate icon. Naturally, the user is not limited to the report templates generated by the installation, but can design reports specific to certain needs. 

Requirements:
Timeslips requires a Pentium system with at least 24 MB RAM and 40 MB for a full installation. Installed on a local workstation Sage recommends at least 200 MHz, 10-20 MB of hard disk storage and 32 MB RAM. These requirements seem quite modest these days for anyone who would be in business enough to be using TS. It requires Windows 95, 98, or 2000, or Windows NT 4.0.  Sage contends that Timeslips’ Network Edition supports virtually all popular networks.

Timeslips is full-featured enough for a corporation and yet easy and affordable enough for the busy sole proprietor to use it to great advantage. It has a virtually unlimited capacity for employees, projects, clients, tasks, etc. It can link, through TAL (Timeslips Accounting Link), to any of the major accounting packages and so, new Timeslips owners are not required to abandon their commitment to existing accounting packages. A TAL wizard steps the user through the linkage and the procedure seems quite straightforward. State tax rules are included and are editable to allow for changing circumstances. Billing, therefore, adapts itself to the rules applicable in a given state. Although this may be a standard feature in all billing programs, I found it typical of Timeslips’ feature-rich approach. I suspect that the main problem with billing for time is probably the human one of getting folks to keep track. The Mini View feature allows a timing screen to reside atop any other applications, thus (it is hoped) reminding workers to track their time usage easily as events take place. 

Although I’ve never been enthusiastic about application tutorials, I believe that the Timeslips on-line guide is as good as I’ve seen. The sample dataset is complete and editable enough to display a variety of client, billing, reporting settings that the average owner would encounter with real-world data. The filtering choices (to see only the pertinent data) are sufficient and intuitive (i.e., by client, dates, activities, etc.)

A complaint
Timeslips is sold in predetermined “levels” that contain ascending feature sets. So, Level 2 has all of Level 1’s features, plus those peculiar to Level 2. And so, too, with Level 3 vis a vis Level 2. And, although the top bar in the application window identifies the level (2 in the case of the reviewed package), the literature and the online help are less explicit.  Examining the Timeslips User’s Guide, therefore, reveals nothing about which level it is guiding one through. Naturally, the price structures of the three levels correspond roughly to the differences. A word to potential buyers, therefore, You should be aware not only of the version you wish to purchase, but the level as well. In general, Level 3 allows for more customization in quantity as well as type of activity, e.g., larger databases,  wider report creation, virtually unlimited rate (for billing) creations. Sage’s rationale for the level packaging is to reduce clutter and unneeded features for the user. Many programs accomplish the same end though customizable installations, or preference settings. I would rather have seen Sage simply say that Level 3 is so feature-rich that they feel that they are justified in charging more for it. It may appear to be nit picking, but the product is so good (even on Level 2), that such reasoning should be beneath them.

Timeslips is apparently “comfortable enough” to operate simultaneously across a network in 16- and 32-bit environments while sharing a common database. This is good news for offices that still haven’t taken the upgrade path to state-of-the-art computers — in other words, many offices.

Timeslips also integrates with Palm or CE devices (the applications are called TimeReporter for Palm or Windows CE and cost approximately $120 each), which is very important to increasing numbers of users. I did not attempt to test the integration with TimeReporter for Palm, but have heard anecdotally (from friends) that the integration is easy, useful, and worth the extra cost.

And, yes, Virginia, there is a MAC version (6) as well as a 16-bit version (version 8 and below) and price structures seem to be comparable with the Version 10 that has been reviewed.

Final thought
My perspective in reviewing this application is that of the individual not the corporation. That said, I do believe that Timeslips v. 10, Level 2, is an excellent, feature-rich time billing management application. Its learning curve is made more gentle through excellent online help and the interface scheme is much more intuitive than those of most programs (of any sort) that I’ve seen.  From sole proprietors to corporations this application seems to be able to handle the critical functions associated with accounting and billing for timed services. And at $400, it strikes me as a value for the business that hasn’t yet developed good management of billing time.

Contact information

Sage, U.S. Holdings, Inc.
17950 Preston Road, Suite 800
Dallas TX  75252. Website: <www.timeslips.com>. 
1-800-285-0999.
1-972-818-3900