masterlinksoftware.com

Auto Shop Writer 8.83.31 has been posted to our webserver. It may be downloaded and installed using Autoupdate on your server. This version will only work if you have paid your DPP fees through the 3rd quarter of 2008 ( due July 1, 2008 ).

This version is a significant update with many new features. It does require updating of your data files on the server. Please follow these directions to install the update properly:

1) Have everyone exit their computers and close all internet connections. This would include any online catalogs, and other programs that would access internet data. This will make the download operate more quickly.

2) On the server, go to Start - All Programs - AutoShopWriter 8 - ASW Update. Please wait while all of the files are downloaded and installed. You will be prompted.

3) Enter Datamanager. You will be told that files need to be updated. When asked for a place to store the backup data, browse to the ASW8s folder, and click on the Databases folder inside. Then click OK. Once the backup is complete, you will be alerted that the system needs to update files. Click OK and wait for it to complete. Then, under Files, select Index. Select All, and reindex the files. When this is completed, you may exit Datamanager.

4) On each workstation, go to Start - All Programs - Auto Shop Writer 8 - Client Update and run it. IF it says the path is not found, you need to use the browse to go to the SERVER drive, and highlight the ASW8s folder. In most cases, this will not display. When the file is transfered ( a very quick process ), you can then go to work on each machine.

5) You need to update all the workstations before you use them. DO NOT use older versions of ASW 8.8 on some machines. This can lead to data errors because file structures have changed.

As always, if you have problems, or this is too much, you can call and we’ll go online and help, or do it for you. We do not want you to encounter any frustration with this.

What is Included:

1) The Tech Chat button on the main screen works a bit differently. It opens a chat window, but from that box we can prompt you and do a direct connection to your computer. So, if you need help, start a chat immediately, and if there is a need, we can go online and do it for you !

2) Picture-Picture: This is a great way to attach digital photos to your records. It works with clients, vendors, vehicles, employees, parts, and workorders. You can attach one photo in different areas, and multiple photos to a single record. Instructions are in the updated manual.

3) CustomerLink has been changed. Now, instead of doing the checkoffs and notes while closing a workorder, you can do it at any time while working on it. You can also make changes anytime. The methods and screens remain the same. You will find the buttons to access this data on the Interface tab of each workorder.

4) Mechanic Net has been activated … sort of. We found Mechanic Net was accessing, and possibly corrupting, our data files. So we created new procedures which write the proper data to a file which they can then upload to their servers. We do not endorse any company directly accessing our primary data files … and that has been our position since 1982. Our reason is simple … there is a strong likelihood they will corrupt your data. We have always suggested working with copies of the data. Also, some of the data they mine may not be what you want transmitted. You now have control if you use their service. Specific instructions are in the manual.

5) Credit Card Processing: We have implemented credit card processing through Acquirint Payment Processing, and integrated it into Auto Shop Writer. You can now set aside that machine, and use that phone line for better purposes. A single button click will allow you to swipe a card and have it applied to an invoice, or A/R payment. You can also manually enter card data if needed. The card reader will be provided to you FREE of charge. The company guarantees they will meet, or beat, your current rates. There are no setup fees, and no long term contracts. Its month to month … and if they don’t satisfy, you go elsewhere. Other benefits include faster approval ( 2 to 5 seconds total ), no external printers ( or paper rolls ), data prints right on the invoice ( including signature line ), you have a simple report of all transactions, you can use up to 4 separate charge transactions per invoice, and you can apply credits. Reoccuring charge capability is also available. Support is 24/7/365 in 163 languages ! There are even manual overrides available. If you are interested in this service, email support@masterlinksoftware.com with the company name, phone number, and contact person. Acquirint will be in touch with you quickly, and once you have an account, we’ll go online to your computer(s) to add the necessary operation file and set it up.

This post is long enough. There is a lot more added into here. You may find your important request was added but not mentioned.

Please use the online email ( under Help - Email Support ) immediately if you encounter any problems. We will fix them and get the update posted right away. Thank you.

Although we originally scheduled the update for release on September 15, we found more features we wanted to implement for credit card processing. Therefore we expect to delay the release by about 48 to 72 hours. You will be notified when it is published.

On September 15, 2008, we expect to post a new, significant, update to Auto Shop Writer. It will, of course, address smaller issues brought to our attention by our clients, but it also will include the following major new features:

Picture, Picture
This feature allows you to store photos on your computer, and reference them from client, vehicle, vendor, employee, inventory, and workorder records. One picture can be associated with several areas, and multiple pictures can be associated with a single item. For example, a vehicle could have a dozen pictures, or one picture of a vehicle could be associated with the vehicle record, plus the client, plus the workorder.

Customer Link editing modification
It used to be that Customer Link codes and recommendations were set only when closing a workorder. Now they can be set while working on the workorder, and even modified as the service progresses. Access is now on the “interfaces” tab of the workorder.

Mechanic Net
We were asked to make an interface for people who wanted to use Mechanic Net. Previous to this they were directly accessing the data files which we considered harmful to data integrity. The new procedure creates the files and lets you be the decider if you wish to let them have your financial ( profits ) information, or simply the workorder contact data.

Follow Up Enhancement
With 200 ways to select the follow up records, we’re not sure why you would not do it “in house.” We now have it set so you can select your data, then hit the email button and send emails to everyone with a valid address on file, then hit the letter button and print actual letters to mail to the rest. This will certainly cut expenses dramatically.

Merchant Services
Of course you take credit cards, but do you have the best rate ? Do you pay rent on the terminal ? Do you have to use a phone line for the credit card machine ? We have partnered with Acquirint Payment Processing to integrate your credit cards into Auto Shop Writer. Now, you simply press a button on the payment screen and swipe the card. The info prints on the workorder ( with a signature space ), and is retained in the system. We also have a new report on your credit card transactions. This company will provide you a free credit card swipe device. They guarantee to meet, or beat, your current rates, and they offer a whole lot more. If you are in a contract, they will payoff up to 50% of it to get your business. Best of all, they operate on a month to month agreement.

New Support Procedure
We’re eliminating steps to make life easier. When you click on the “Connect to Tech” button in ASW 8.31, a chat screen will open up. You can describe your problem, and if a connection is desired, you will simply click on a link in the chat message and we’ll actually be connected. It greatly simplifies the proceedure. We’re also studying some new options that allow us to provide online demonstrations and also the ability for us to provide support services online after hours with your presence not required. These are all part of our effort to provide great service with no frustration.

This will be a significant update. When you see the notice that you have an update available ( it will come up on your workstations ) make sure to check this board for specific installation instructions. Of course, if you are not comfortable with the process, we’ll be glad to help online.

We are considering an addition for Auto Shop Writer that is designed to help your marketing effort. We’d like to know what you think ! Can you please read this note, then send an email to TimStone@MasterLinkSoftware.com .

The marketing plan allows you to send real greeting cards which will be opened by your clients. You can send postcards instead, but the greeting cards have more impact. You would have an account setup with a 3rd party vendor. Then, you can check the follow up option on the workorder. On your schedule, a personalized card can then be mailed to your client thanking them for coming in. There are a wide range of cards to choose from, and you can customize the text. The system also supports things like sending out birthday cards, follow ups, marketing campaigns, etc.

These cards work. You can even include gift items like cookies, gift cards, etc. People who have been using them report great results.

What makes these unique is that the cards are sent in colored envelopes, with handwritten addressing ( script print ), and real stamps … all of the things that guarantee your card will be opened. We’ll even provide coaching on how to setup the program, and suggested follow throughs.

The costs are reasonable: 49 cents per postcard plus postage, 98 cents per greeting card ( in envelope ) plus postage.

So, please let me know if this appeals to you. I’ll work on this as part of the next upgrade if the interest is there.

The next update release for Auto Shop Writer 8 ( due in late August ) has a feature entitled Pictures Pictures. This has drawn some interest and we’d like to explain how it works.

On the main button bar is a new icon of a small camera. When you select that, a dialog pops up that shows photos you have stored in the system. These are digital pictures ( jpg ) that you will store in a folder called Images located in the ASW8s folder on the server.

For each picture, you will enter a Title, and very brief description. Then you will link the photo ( there is a lookup ) to the record. You can then specify a client account number, vehicle license, workorder, vendor, partnumber, or employee code. You can use as many as you want. For example, a picture can be used for a vehicle and a workorder at the same time.

There is also space to enter an exhaustive text description for the picture, or any notes you want to save.

You can also link multiple pictures to the same item, like a single workorder, or part.

You can access these pictures elsewhere in the program. For example, on the General tab of the workorder screen, you will see the camera buttons next to the vehicle, client, and workorder notes. Press the button next to the vehicle, for example, and a viewer will pop up with a list of pictures associated with that car. You can move from picture to picture and even click a button for an enlarged view. On the parts tab there is also a camera button. Press that one, and pictures of the highlighted ( in focus ) part will pop up.

The setup is simple. Just put digital photos directly into the Images folder, then create records for them. Then anything associated with that picture will be available for viewing.

Remember … this feature is coming in the late August update. Of course, writing this note about it means the program is built, and tested, in the developing 8.83 version. We never announce anything if we haven’t already made sure it works.

For 26 years we have focused on communication with our clients. We want to keep them informed, and hear from them, on a regular basis. With solid communication, we can always improve our product’s performance, and how it is used in each business.

For many quarters, when we have sent out invoices for the DPP fees, we ask for the current email address. However we rarely get a response. We really want to have your email address so we can get in touch quickly.

We thought the “Notes and Bulletins” idea would be a solution, especially since your program shows a note that one is available, but we find people often overlook them.

We’ll continue to use the bulletins, but we would also like to get your email on record. We are updating our tracking system and it would really help to have that address on file.

Would you take a moment now and send an email to timstone@masterlinksoftware.com listing the good email addresses for your company. You can send more then one if we should contact multiple people.

We use email only for direct communication about Auto Shop Writer. We don’t send you advertising, and we do not share your address with anyone else.

Finally, if you use a spam filter, there are two addresses from which you want to be sure to accept email: support@masterlinksoftware.com and timstone@masterlinksoftware.com.

Lets keep in touch. Could you please send the addresses today ! Thank you.

We are currently working on a significant enhancement to version 8.8. Some people say “how can you add more when I don’t use all the features yet ?” Well, some people use the software very aggressively, and they like the time saving features we add. Other options simply improve the way you can run your business. Here are some of the things we are working on to include in the next release ( due in the later part of August so we can fully test everything ).

1) Pictures, Pictures Everywhere: A new capability allows you to save digital pictures into a special directory, and then link them to various parts of the program. You will be able to link them to clients, vehicles, workorders, inventory and perhaps more. You can actually link a picture to multiple areas at once. Then select the picture button in that area ( like on the vehicle record ) and the picture(s) will be immediately available for viewing.

2) Mechanic Net integration: We really like the folks at CustomerLink for followup service, but we know some of you have been pitched on Mechanic Net. We’ve agreed to create a file from which they can capture data while still giving you control over what information you want them to have.

3) Email or Letter option on followup: You will now be able to select the option, in client follow up, to send an email when an address is available, and otherwise print a letter. As you increase the number of email addresses from clients, you’ll see your postage costs go down !

4) Integrated Credit Card Processing and direct deposit payroll: We have a company who will provide you with a credit card reader for FREE that attaches to your computer, and we’ll integrate that to the payment screen. You will eliminate all keystrokes and button pushing. They promise to match, or beat, your current credit card rates, and they claim 20% of you are paying too much in fees.

Of course there are other things we will handle. When creating a new workorder, and selecting appointments, only those pending which have not been associated with a workorder will show. A new field is being added to hold the SUTA payee name. The core engine should be updated with a more optimized version resulting in faster processing. Other user interface changes will be made that make the program easier to use.

There is still time to add your requests. Send them to Support@MasterLinkSoftware.com and make sure that we add in critical features for your business.

Tim Stone will be mobil from June 26 until July 14.

You can email his Blackberry directly. ( GTSTONE@masterlinksoftware.com ) Unfortunately he will be in areas where there is not always a data connection, but he will be happy to respond at the earliest opportunity.

Tom Birney will be handling support services during that period of time. Tom has over 20 years of experience supporting, Auto Shop Writer, and can handle your needs well.

DPP members will receive services from Tom without charge, and others will be billed at a fair market rate.

Tom can be reached at TomBirney@masterlinksoftware.com or by phone at 623 561-2256.

Tom also has the capability of providing online service through LogMeIn.

We are often asked if Auto Shop Writer can run under Vista. The answer is “yes” ! Because companies will no longer sell new computers with Windows XP, when people replace older equipment, it will be with Vista computers.

You’ve probably heard a lot about Vista, and some of the comments may be accurate. It is a new technology, and it has had some problems. However, it is more secure then previous windows versions, and it does work better with the newer computers and the dual, or quad, processors. We do have some important guidelines if you are purchasing a new computer with Vista:

You are most likely running several computers networked together. You can not use versions of Vista Home. If you purchase your computer at the local store, it is not a benefit to get Vista Home Premium. That simply is not a business operating system. The networking is not the same, and it will not work properly. You must purchase Vista Business, or Vista Ultimate. When you buy the computer, you can upgrade it on line. However, if you get the Vista Home Premium, you must pay to upgrade all the way to Ultimate. If you are ordering a new computer, then you can have Vista Business installed.

Vista has a lot of power but it does require RAM. Make sure that your Vista computer has 2 GB of RAM. If the sales rep tells you to upgrade later from 1GB of RAM, don’t buy it. Many companies have space for 2 RAM SIMMs, and they use 2 512MB strips to get the 1 GB. Therefore you have to buy 2 1GB SIMMs to get the remaining needed memory. If they have 2 slots, and only 1 is used with 1GB, then they can put the extra RAM in for you before you leave the store.

You don’t need to be concerned with Vista. It does work fine with ASW. However, when putting it into a network, you may want to consult with someone who is trained on Vista. If you start getting “comments” about how bad Vista is, then shop elsewhere for someone who has invested the time to learn it.

This new version has several features that may be helpful:

+ The Vehicle lookup for service history was expanded to include the VIN number
+ The main workorder list used to reposition to the bottom ( user request ) when exiting a workorder, but it was returned to just exiting and being at the workorder on which the user was just working. If there is an issue, please discuss it on the forum.
+ A new utility was added to recalculate the date of last service for clients based on the vehicles assigned to each client. The utility does all clients in the database.