Switch Programs?

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James Miller

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I would like to hear from anyone who has changed from one framing program to another. What did you change from? What did you change to? Why? Did you have any problems in transition? In retrospect, was your decision the right one?

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James Miller,PPFA-CPF; PPFA Certification Board Member; FACTS/GAFP Committee Member
 
Jim, I just signed on so This reply is a little delayed, but for what it's worth.

I switched from Lifesaver to Frame Ready this year. I used Lifesaver for about 4 years before giving up. The two main reasons was th eincreased cost of the updates with little change in programing. I inquired about some modifications reguarding the art inventory and was advised nothing was being done in that area. I sell a fair amoumt of original art and this was important to me.

Frame Ready has a great art inventory function. I laso found that FrameReady staff listened better to individual needs in making changes to th eprogram. Also, if you track moulding inventory, Frame Ready allows you to show inventory by sticks, not just total feet.

I should have switched when Lifesave stopped supporting the MAC.

Fred Horton
Galerie Severn
 
I have Lifesaver and felt it was the best option when I purchased it. I need something that enables imaging and more interactive with other programs. I have not renewed or updated in a year. Many of the same reasons already mentioned. I am leaning toward the Frameready as well.
 
Got the trial disc for Specialty Soft, but have nothing to compare it to. Have any of y'all had a chance to compare?
 
Jim-By coincidence, we are making a switch. We have been disatisfied with FullCalc for a while(primarily their lousy service) and we have it narrowed to Specialty and Frameready. But the most glaring issues we have found are,1,we ain't gonna get the things we really think are important all the time, and 2,the software biz for our trade is very, very small. And with that smallness, your options are not very compelling. So the decision becomes a "What will work best for us" decision. It's sorta like going to Baskin-Robbins; What's your favorite flavor?

For us, I think it's going to come down to who we think we like the best; not necessarily which program does what we want the best.
 
I have not switched but I can say that Bert has been great to work with and I would HIGHLY recomend Frameready.

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Diver Dave
 
This is an interesting thread for me also. I was satisfied with my Lifesaver program until this year when my gallery business picked up and I realized I could not keep track of it properly with Lifesaver. I am planning on checking other programs out soon in Atlanta. Do any of you know if there is a separate program for small gallery owners that I might look at? I'd rather not change programs if I don't have to so I'm thinking and additional program might work. Kind of up in the air about it at present.

Sandie
 
Just gotta put in another plug for Artisan Storefront by CerTek Software. I've been happy with my decision to choose them. I also really liked Frameready and Specialty Soft, but picked Artisan Storefront for various dinky reasons.

They may be worth checking out for the gallery expansion stuff---maybe not the full Frame Shop program for now, but just their POS? Don't know much about Gallery needs -- but they do support full Lieberman catalog code numbers, prices, etc.
 
I compare service provided by Specialty on-par with that provided by Fletcher-Terry. THE BEST THAT I HAVE HAD IN QUITE A WHILE. Just two weeks ago, I installed a Beta version by mistake on the live shop computer. At 3pm on Friday, we found a bug that shut things down.... like "Right Now". Even though the problem was caused by me installing the beta on the wrong computer, I left a message on the phone at Specialty (7pm Eastern Time on Friday nite). I had a fixed copy of the program by 9:30 am on Saturday morning. Many problems are quickly fixed as long as the problem can be repeated and accurately described. It is nearly impossible to correct a problem that cannot be duplicated.

I have heard that Specialty is more difficult to learn than LS. To me, the number of keystrokes or mouseclicks are comparable once you realize that the first click with Specialty is to tell the software whether you are selling from General Inventory or whether you are designing a frame package. "Specialty Charges" in a frame design seem to be more versatile with the SpecialtySoft application.

A "LITE" version is being introduced at Atlanta in a few weeks. It is expected to be a full frame writeup package, less most of the reporting features which will probably fit the initial needs of most frame shops.

As with any computer software, you will always have to learn to do some things differently. The sooner you realize AND accept that fact, the sooner you will be able to efficiently work the application. Also, almost any software package will have some bugs, either known or unknown. SpecialtySoft is no exception, but most have work-arounds.

Evaluations..... unless you are willing to spend a considerable amount of time (money) installing the fullblown versions, it is unrealistic to think that you will be doing a thourough evaluation. About all a person can realistically do is to interview the company and query existing users.

Next week, I plan to begin testing a barcode scanner. If it works as expected, that will be an excellent timesaving device worth the money spent. All of the quotes, orders, workorders and invoices are barcoded, in addition to most matboard and moulding samples.

Rick Bergeron - CPFcm
Coeur d'Alene, ID

[This message has been edited by Frugal Framer (edited September 08, 2001).]
 
We've used FullCalc since 1994. We were a BETA test site for their Windows 95 version before it came out.

When Michaels bought the source code and Steve Britz (its writer) went to work for them, FullCalc's sales & service to small retailers became the responsibility of Eagle Computing in Atlanta.

For almost a two year period Eagle's support of FullCalc was unacceptable. If I could have decided on an alternative during that time, I would have made the move.

However, in the past six months Eagle has really come around. Every issue (except one that lingers) has been corrected; every question answered; every problem solved. When I call, they answer promptly. I still have difficulty downloading regular updates from the web site, but two tries will usually do the trick, so now I plan for that.

My only serious complaint about FullCalc is that it is owned by Michaels. And I see that as a problem only because it means future improvements and changes to the software will be designed to enhance its effectiveness for large, multi-location, networking retailers -- such as its owner. Most of us small retailers with FullCalc will never use its full capabilities.

And I think it is highly unlikely, considering the ownership, that we small retailers will get the improvements most helpful to us. For example, a direct connection to QuickBooks Pro (which we use) or another comprehensive accounting program would save us the trouble of double entry. Also, interfaces to all the major CMC software would help, as would a peripheral mat-design program where drawings could be kept as part of order history.

Six months ago I was prepared to buy either FrameReady or Specialty, but now I will stick with Fullcalc a while longer. If there are further problems with it, then I will move quickly. I'll be ready next time.
 
Jim make the change. We too were with FullCalc from the beginning and saw their service fly high like an Eagle above all their problems. For us it was an easy choice--FrameReady--very good support, program that can be tailored to ANY frame shop/ gallery, and a vendor update system second to none.
The program is written (overlay)on database that you can design your own displays and other entry forms, it allows you to handle all your computer work with one program. Download a demo, call them with your needs and you will convert over right now.
 
We really, really, really missed the opportunity that Atlanta would have provided to help us make this decision(but let's not start that again)on changing from Fullcalc to either Frameready or Lifesaver.

But, doggone it, we are little like Jim and his CMC decision, we just can't seem to make the jump. But Frameready does have a special conversion rate to convert and it's very attractive. And if they are half as good as they are nice, it will be a breath of fresh air.

My sympathy does go out to the small vendors like these that needed an Atlanta. We don't know how much we would have spent, but whatever it was, it's just not as easy now. I'm glad this forum exists to at least get another perspective.

But we're going to buy one of them.
 
I have used SpecialtySoft for two years and once I got hold of a tech person that could actually help computer illiterate me (talk to me in a language I could understand), things have worked out great. E-mail questions are quickly answered, the data base is updated often, and I had no trouble getting the program up and running, and believe me, I know very little about computers.
 
Bob, I'm sure you have looked at the demos for both, but it is hard to tell without actually using them. I have used Lifesaver for three years. We are both a frame shop and an art gallery with art on consignment. This year the gallery has become much busier and we are trying to become more professional in the way we administer it. This was becoming increasingly difficult with the Lifesaver program. After looking at Frameready and another package I have decided to switch to Frameready. For not much more than the cost of my Lifesaver yearly subscription, I was able to get a software package with much more versatility. Other than the gallery issue I was not disstisfied with Lifesaver, though I thought their annual subscription rate kind of high for what I got ( $300/yr to Frameready's $150) However, time will tell as I have not actually received my software ( any day now!)and so, haven't put it into use.
I don't know how much help this is ..just my 2 cents.

Sandie Mizerak
Little Sebago Gallery & Frame, Maine
 
oops! Fingers too fast..

Sandie Mizerak
Little Sebago Gallery & Frame, Maine

[This message has been edited by Sandie (edited November 24, 2001).]
 
I am in the throes of exploring both Frameready and SpecialtySoft and I am interested in reviews and miscellaneous observations from users of either.
And what does the "regular" SpecialtySoft package have that SpecialtySoftLite does not?
Thanks all,
Edie
 
I am a SpecialtySoft user and find it easy to use/update. My newest employee came from a shop that had Full Calc and seems to think she likes it better. I tend to think I like what I paid all that money for. The Lite version was not available when I made my final decision on which program to purchase so I don't know what has been left out of the original version. Some minor "help" problems have been ironed out to my satisfaction and I have been well pleased with the choice I made.
 
The most significant difference between SpecialtySoft Lite and FULL is Point of Sale. The Full version includes all the POS functions where the Lite version does not include these. The Lite version is basically a "Frame Write-Up" package with reporting, ordering, inventory, customer database, etc.

Though I have only used it on one occasion, ordering from LJ using SpecialtySoft electronic ordering makes LJ Direct look like a turtle in terms of length of time to place an online order.

I have an electonic copy of the Specs for the Lite version should anyone want to see it, but thought this posting would look too much like an infomercial if it were included.

Rick Bergeron - CPFcm
Coeur d'Alene, ID
 
I have been using a freebie program for figuring framing orders, and it worked fine for just starting out. We've been blessed with great customers, though, and I need a more advanced system to serve them better...(and I need a break
redface.gif
))

Currently it's between Frame Ready and Specialty Soft. I'm wondering WHY people are choosing one over the other. It's hard to analyze, so maybe it's a "close your eyes and jump" thing. Frame Ready is a little cheaper - updates are less expensive. I need to check if I can use it with a scanner and an electronic drawer (which I want to have). Both seem to offer good framing programs and versitile inventory control for non-framing items.

Specialty Soft appears to have a good reports system and looks easy enough to use. Their updates cost more and I'm not sure why. Are they more timely? Accurate? Bottom line is, if they carry my suppliers, I'm happy, if not, I have to enter everything manually, so it's no time saver for me and that's what I need....MORE TIME. Is there a voice of experience out there....I'm about ready to close my eyes and J
U
M
P!

Hoping for no regrets,
Quinnan
ArtWorks

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by James Miller:
I would like to hear from anyone who has changed from one framing program to another. What did you change from? What did you change to? Why? Did you have any problems in transition? In retrospect, was your decision the right one?

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
 
I used a program from Gallery Software since 1992 and it was a real BEAR to use. It was very clunky and had no modification options to personalize the program to fit individual needs, ie., message changes for invoices and workorders, logo additions, address changes, etc. Support was virtually nil and they had a annual maintenance fee of several hundred dollars per year which got you nearly nothing!

I switched to Frameready 3.0 in 1999 and never looked back! The ease of use, versatility, and professional support you get from Bert DeRoo, Carol, and the staff at Soft Touch Solutions is worth much more than the purchase price of the software. (See Decor magazine, June, 2001, pp. 81 - 84 for an interview I participated in about computers in the gallery/frame shop.)

I am presently using Frameready 4.1 and I simply love it. It can handle stacked mouldings, multiple mats with or without fillets, special cuts, and you can add any special service or product that you offer to the list of items shown in each category. I have added things like the cost of cameos, the cost of doing mat laminated spacers used in shadowbox designs, and brass nameplates of different sizes/types. All the messages that appear on each one of my printouts are personalized for my gallery including the gallery logo, address, and phone number that prints out at the top of each invoice and monthly statement.

The customer data base is automatically updated each time you enter a new customer or add a new address or phone number for an existing customer. You can enter automatic discounts if you offer them to commercial accounts or preferred customers. One of the handiest things is the updates that you download from the Frameready website for all of the frame and matting supplies that you carry in your gallery/frame shop. They are updated by the suppliers and you can arrange to receive an e-mail when new updates are posted so you don't have to waste time checking the site for updates. They download and automatically update all of your prices per foot, cost per mat board, and enter any new items that have been added to the supplier's offerings. It will also automatically delete any outdated mouldings or matboards.

As I mention in the Decor article, be nosy when shopping for a new computer program! Ask questions. One thing that nobody needs is to pay for extra bells and whistles that you may never use in YOUR shop on a day to day basis. Be realistic about what your needs may be in your own situation, not a theoretical one that some salesman sets up for you. I don't use bar codes, for example. That may be a big selling point for some gallery programs but it wouldn't do ME one bit of good. And I don't want to pay for something that I will never use.

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****4 mitered corners away from that perfect frame****
 
I realize this thread is a bit old, but I can't resist this particular topic.

We have used Lifesaver since 1995, starting with the late, lamented Mac version. We were Lifesaver User #12 or thereabouts. We have been tempted many, many times over the ensuing years to jump ship, but have always backed away because of the amount of work it would take to re-key all our customized data and the lack of MUCH better alternative. The "devil you know" mindset. To my mind, FrameReady is probably the best alternative and the one I would use if I was starting out from scratch today.

Lifesaver has become more buggy rather than less over the years. Many of the newer features are of dubious value and basic functions that used to work fine in the past have developed problems.

Dan at Lifesaver has been helpful over the years in listening to my rants and doing what he can to satisfy us. I realize every user has his or her own wants and needs and they can never satisy everyone 100%.

The underlying problem, I think, lies in the fact that custom framing software represents such a miniscule portion of the overall software industry. The market is so small and scattered that there is little incentive to make a really great product.

Our "solution" for some time now has been to use framing software simply as a "ticket generator" for custom framing orders--and run our business using other software products.

This is my first visit here. Picture Framers Grumble is an interesting and useful site.
 
I have had Lifesaver since 1995 and have been very satisfied with the product from the start and would buy it again if I were looking for a framing program. Sure, it has its limitations but so does every computer program. It is up to the user to adapt to the program, not the program to the user. This is true with any software package.
 
Bob did you ever switch programs and what did you go with?
Eric

<blockquote>quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by Bob Carter:
We really, really, really missed the opportunity that Atlanta would have provided to help us make this decision(but let's not start that again)on changing from Fullcalc to either Frameready or Lifesaver.

But, doggone it, we are little like Jim and his CMC decision, we just can't seem to make the jump. But Frameready does have a special conversion rate to convert and it's very attractive. And if they are half as good as they are nice, it will be a breath of fresh air.

My sympathy does go out to the small vendors like these that needed an Atlanta. We don't know how much we would have spent, but whatever it was, it's just not as easy now. I'm glad this forum exists to at least get another perspective.

But we're going to buy one of them.
<hr></blockquote>
 
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