Grouping tasks into similar groups is a basic organizational tool.  For us bookkeepers, that means on any given day we will enter a pile of bills, record cash receipts, and generate sales invoices – each task requiring multiple entries with repetitive keystrokes and mouse-clicks.  I find any little trick to make these transactions go more quickly is a welcome addition to my toolbox.  Here are some of my favorite tips that increase efficiency:                    

1)       In any date field in Dynamics GP, users have the option of clicking on the calendar and navigating to the desired date or using the keyboard to manually enter the date.  If the desired date falls within the same month and year as your user date, you can just enter the DD portion of the MM/DD/YYYY format and the year and month will be completed by the system.  For example, if your user date is 06/20/2011, and you are entering a transaction dated 06/10/2011, all you need to type in the date field is 10, tab out of the field, and voila!  The date will read 06/10/2011. 

2)      Similar to tip #1, if the desired transaction date is within the same year as the current user date, all you need to type is the MMDD portion (skip the slashes!) and the YYYY will be completed by the system.  For example, if the user date is 06/20/2011 and your desired transaction date is 02/25/2011, all you need to type is 0225 and the date will read 02/25/2011. 

3)      Ever notice long it takes to load up the Checkbook Register Inquiry window?  Try this:  Enter the date range first, THEN select the Checkbook ID. 

4)      Keyboard shortcuts!  The less I have to move back-and-forth between keyboard and mouse, the faster every transaction gets entered. 

a.       Alt-R is the magic keystroke to open the Payables Transaction Entry window from the Payables Batch Entry window

b.      Alt-S opens the Cash Receipts Entry from the Receivables Batch Entry window, then use Alt-Y to open the Apply Sales documents window.

One of the best resources for new tips and tricks is from other users.  I highly recommend a GPUG (GP User Group) membership. GPUG’s community uses a variety of tools to share information, tips and tricks and best practices.  If you want to get the most out of Dynamics GP, GPUG is a great place to learn how.