Kepware is a leader in OPC and embedded device communication based in Portland, Maine.  A Gilchrist Scott and Dynamics GP client since 2007, they found a need for increased efficiency in generating specific reports.  How did GSL help Kepware save time?

"Insight, however, only has value if it can be delivered to the right person so it can be used and acted upon in a timely manner."  Microsoft

Kepware is the world leader in communication software for automation and offers unique experience in both OPC and embedded device communications. Founded in 1995 in Portland, ME, Kepware has focused on the development of communication drivers to automation controllers, I/O and field devices.  Kepware has been a client of Gilchrist Scott since 2007. 

Booking unearned revenue and tracking revenue recognition runoff was a manual process for Brett Austin, CFO.  He would spend 30 to 45 minutes each month updating a spreadsheet that was fast becoming unwieldy due to the number of years, customers, and different contract methods in place.  While ½ to ¾ of an hour each month doesn't sound like a lot, the problem with any manual process, particularly one that involves so much data, is:

• Too much room for error; you begin to lose trust in the data
• Reconciling the data is difficult, particularly for outside accountants during an audit
• Time spent on manual processes could be better served on business intelligence.

It's difficult to put an exact cost on manual processes. But, we do know that whenever a manual process becomes automated, professionals have more time to analyze data; to gain insight into the business and act upon that insight immediately.

Solution: GSL created an Excel Report to accumulate and calculate unearned revenue over multiple years for all types of contracts.  Not only does the Excel report save Brett time each month, it's reconcilable and reliable.  Now Brett and his team can focus on the real benefits of Dynamics GP such as upgrading to V2010 and:

• Real time reporting via the Business Portal rather than static data report that are outdated the moment they are printed.
• Year over year trending of financial data using Management Reporter; financial intelligence.
• Implementing Dashboards and Key Performance Indicators for the finance and sales teams.

 "Gilchrist Scott has been great for Kepware; very responsive, quick turnaround times, and great training," says Brett.  "More importantly, they have been proactive by initiating better reporting, implementing functionality that will save us time, and generally helping us to utilize the software to gain more insight."