CRM UK - the official blog of the CRM specialists at TSG

Microsoft Dynamics NAV and VAT Rate Changes - How to account for the increase in the standard rate of VAT in Microsoft Dynamics NAV

Here’s some important information from Concentrix Support on how to change VAT rates in Microsoft Dynamics NAV.

Please read this article and download and read the relevant Microsoft whitepaper (link below) thoroughly before taking any action.

From 1st January 2010, the UK standard rate of VAT will increase from 15% to 17.5%. The following are not affected by the change in VAT rate:

- Zero-rated goods, for example, basic food stuffs, children's clothing and children's footwear

- Goods and services subject to VAT at the reduced rate of 5%

Important

Concentrix is unable to advise which VAT rate you should apply in specific circumstances. If you are unsure, please confirm the correct VAT rate with HMRC either by phone or by consulting the relevant guidance on the HMRC website, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk

How to Change the VAT Rate in Microsoft Dynamics NAV

Microsoft Dynamics NAV provides a VAT rate change tool that allows you to perform VAT and general posting group conversions. This tool allows you to easily change VAT rates in order to maintain accurate VAT reporting. Before you can use the VAT rate change tool, you'll need to prepare your data for the VAT rate change, install the VAT rate change tool and then set it up. Microsoft has produced a whitepaper which details how to do this and change the VAT rate in Microsoft Dynamics NAV. This is applicable to Microsoft Dynamics NAV 5.0 SP1 and Microsoft Dynamics NAV 4.0 SP3.

Download Microsoft_Dynamics_NAV_Change_VAT_rates_Whitepaper

Further Help and Information

If you are a Concentrix customer with a current support contract and are experiencing any problems changing VAT rates in Microsoft Dynamics NAV, please contact the Concentrix support desk on 01509 410555 or email [email protected].

Sage Line 100 and VAT Changes - How to account for the increase in the standard rate of VAT in Sage Line 100, and Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage Line 100

Here’s some important information from Concentrix Support on how to change VAT rates in Sage Line 100 and Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage Line 100.

Please read each section of this article thoroughly before taking any action.

From 1st January 2010, the UK standard rate of VAT will increase from 15% to 17.5%. This article explains how this change affects Sage Line 100 and what you need to do. It also describes how to change the VAT rate in Sage 50 Construct linked to Line 100.

The following are not affected by the change in VAT rate:

-Zero-rated goods, for example, basic food stuffs, children's clothing and children's footwear.

-Goods and services subject to VAT at the reduced rate of 5%

Note: Concentrix is unable to advise which VAT rate you should apply in specific circumstances. If you are unsure, please confirm the correct VAT rate with HMRC either by phone or by consulting the relevant guidance on the HMRC website, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk.

To Change the VAT Rate in Sage Line 100

First, backup your data directory before implementing the VAT change. Also ensure that all sales and purchase postings are updated before proceeding.

To change the standard rate of VAT you will need to do the following:

-Accounting System Manager -System Parameters -Vat Rates

-Select the standard rate tax code and select, then edit the vat rate field and enter the rate of 17.5%. Also edit the EC Standard purchase ledger (PL) Code (Purchases, Goods and related Services ) to 17.5%.

To Credit an Invoice at the old Rate

To credit invoices at the old vat rate, create a new tax code at the old rate of VAT  as follows:

-Accounting System Manager -System Parameters -Vat Rates

-Move down to locate an empty field and enter in a relevant tax code number and description

-Tick the option for include in vat return

-Enter rate of 15%

-Ensure relevant Input/ Output Nominal Codes and also relevant cost centres

Please note that the EC purchase flag should not be selected.

Entering Late Suppliers Invoices/ Supplier Purchase Orders

If you receive an invoice from a supplier that you need to enter at the old rate of VAT, you must manually amend the VAT amount. To do this simply over type the VAT amount with the correct value on the Invoice / Order entry screen.

If you receive an order from a supplier that you need to enter at the old rate of VAT, ensure when entering the order that you select the relevant tax rate.

Create an Invoice at the New Rate of VAT

The invoice will post correctly at the rate 17.5% once the section "Change the VAT rate in Line 100."

Existing Sales & Purchase Orders

Existing sales and purchases orders entered into the system can be viewed using the Screen Enquiries option. Caution should be used when selecting to Amend Order once you followed the section "Change the VAT rate in Line 100".

Re-printing invoices & Backup

All invoices re-printed after changing the VAT rate to 17.5% will print at that rate even if the invoice was originally printed at the 15%. As a workaround we would suggest taking a backup of the data prior to changing the rate and use this backup to access the data via a new company to reprint any historical invoices.

Unposted Invoices through Sales Order Processing (SOP)

Any invoices printed but not posted before you followed the section "Change the VAT rate in Line 100", will be posted at the new rate.

Unposted Invoices through Invoicing

It is advisable to print and post invoices prior to following the section "Change the VAT rate in Line 100."

How to Change the Vat Rate in Sage 50 Construct with Sage Line 100

Follow the procedure to Change the VAT Rate in Sage Line 100 above. Sage 50 Construct will pick up the VAT rate automatically from this.

Entering Late Subcontractor or Supplier Invoice:

If you enter either of the above and they are to be invoiced at the old rate of 15% you will need to create a new VAT code.

To Credit a SubContractor or Supplier Invoice at the old VAT rate:

There may be occasions when you need to credit invoices at the old VAT rate. If you need to do this, you should create a new tax code at the old rate of VAT - follow the procedure to change the VAT rate in Sage Line 100 and then run the procedure for Load Accounts.

Further Help and Information

If you are a Concentrix customer with a current support contract and are experiencing any problems changing VAT rates in Sage Line 100 or Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage Line 100, please contact the Concentrix support desk on 01509 410555 or email [email protected].

Sage 50 and VAT Changes - How to account for the increase in the standard rate of VAT in Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage 50 Accounts, and Sage 50 Manufacturing linked to Sage 50 Accounts

Here’s some important information from Concentrix Support on how to change VAT rates in Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage 50 Accounts, and Sage 50 Manufacturing linked to Sage 50 Accounts.

Please read each section of this article thoroughly before taking any action.

From 1st January 2010, the UK standard rate of VAT will increase from 15% to 17.5%. This article explains how this change affects Sage 50 Construct linked to Sage 50 Accounts, and Sage 50 Manufacturing linked to Sage 50 Accounts and what you need to do.

The following are not affected by the change in VAT rate:

-Zero-rated goods, for example, basic food stuffs, children's clothing and children's footwear

-Goods and services subject to VAT at the reduced rate of 5%

Note Concentrix is unable to advise which VAT rate you should apply in specific circumstances. If you are unsure, please confirm the correct VAT rate with HMRC either by phone or by consulting the relevant guidance on the HMRC website, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk. 

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 50 Construct v11.0.0 Upwards with Sage Line 50

First, change the standard rate of VAT in your accounting package according to the program's instructions –  visit the Sage website page Sage 50 Legislation Changes for information on how to do this.  

After making the change in your accounts, log directly into Construct and run Utilities > Load Accounts. Note: If you cannot see Utilities on your menu, go to Tools > Users and change the TreeMenu by selecting 'Construct' from the drop-down list.

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 50 Construct v10.0.0 and Below with Sage Line 50

For users of Sage Construct version earlier than v 11.0.0, follow advice for Standard VAT of VAT rate in your accounts program but do not run 'Load Accounts'. Construct will pick up the VAT rate automatically from the accounts program.

Entering Late Subcontractor or Supplier Invoice:

If you enter either of the above and they are to be invoiced at the old rate of 15% you will need to create a new VAT code. Please follow the advice at Sage 50 Legislation Changes and then run the procedure for Load Accounts.

To Credit a Subcontractor or Supplier Invoice at the old VAT rate:

There may be occasions when you need to credit invoices at the old VAT rate. If you need to do this, you should create a new tax code at the old rate of VAT - see the Sage 50 Legislation Changes page and then run the procedure for Load Accounts.

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 50 Manufacturing with Sage Line 50

No settings need to be altered within Sage 50 Manufacturing. You will need to change the standard rate of VAT in your accounting package according to the program's instructions - see the Sage 50 Legislation Changes page for advice.

Further Help and Information

If you are a Concentrix customer with a current support contract and are experiencing any problems changing VAT rates in Sage 50 Construct or Sage 50 Manufacturing, please contact the Concentrix support desk on 01509 410555 or email [email protected].

Sage 200 and VAT Changes - How to account for the increase in the standard rate of VAT in Sage 200 and MMS (including Sage 200 POS, Construct and Manufacturing)

Here’s some important information from Concentrix Support on how to change VAT rates in Sage 200 and relevant Sage 200 modules.

Please read each section of this article thoroughly before taking any action.

From 1st January 2010, the UK standard rate of VAT will increase from 15% to 17.5%. This article explains how this change affects the following products, and what you need to do:

- Sage 200 & Sage MMS

- Sage 200 POS (Point of Sale)

- Sage 200 Construct

- Sage 200 Manufacturing

The following are not affected by the change in VAT rate:

- Zero-rated goods, for example, basic food stuffs, children's clothing and children's footwear.

- Goods and services subject to VAT at the reduced rate of 5%

Important: Concentrix is unable to advise which VAT rate you should apply in specific circumstances. If you are unsure, please confirm the correct VAT rate with HMRC either by phone or by consulting the relevant guidance on the HMRC website, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk.

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 200 or Sage MMS

To change the VAT Rate in Sage 200 & Sage MMS To change the standard rate of VAT you will need to do the following:

- Accounting System Manager - Settings - Tax Rates

- Edit the Standard tax code to 17.5%

You should also edit the EC Standard Purchase Ledger (PL) Code (Purchase, Goods and related Services) to 17.5%

Important - We recommend that you print and post any invoices presently in the system that need to be invoiced at the 15% rate before following any of the advice on changing the VAT rate. If you amend an order after the Tax Rates have been changed, this will correctly recalculate the VAT for the order - this will also be the case if you run Balance Ledgers on Commercials to Fix - it will revalue all non-complete orders to the newly amended rate.

To Credit an Invoice at the Old Rate

If you need to credit invoices at the old VAT rate, you should create a new tax code at the old rate of VAT. You can do this as follows:

-Accounting System Manager -Settings -Tax Rates,

The Accounting System Manager Tax rate details box appears.

-Choose Add -

Enter a description of your choice

-Select Vat Return Option

-Enter "Not Applicable'' in the EC terms box

-Enter the rate of 15%

-Ensure relevant Input/ Output Nominal Codes

Entering Late Suppliers Invoices/Supplier Purchase Orders

If you receive an order from a supplier that you need to enter at the old rate of VAT: 

Ensure when entering the order that you select the relevant tax rate. Create an Invoice at the New Rate of VAT The invoice will post correctly at the rate 17.5% once the section "Change the VAT rate in Sage 200 & Sage MMS'' has been followed.

Additional Information

Existing Sales & Purchase Orders

Existing sales and purchases orders entered into the system can be viewed using the View Order option. Caution should be used when selecting to Amend Order once you followed the section "Change the VAT rate in Sage 200 & Sage MMS'' has been followed. Amending an order and Saving or Closing without saving will recalculate the VAT at the new rate.

Re-Printing Invoices

For invoices entered in the system the VAT summary section will show the VAT rate as displayed in the Accounting System VAT Rate settings section however all monetary values will be based on the VAT rate selected at point of invoice posting.

Copy SOP Order

If you copy a SOP order that was created before you followed the section "Change the VAT rate in Sage 200 & Sage MMS'' ensure that you check all values on the order as it will calculate the VAT at the new rate on the order created by the copy.

Recording Payments In Advance

We recommend any orders entered in the system before the change in tax rate, that are not complete, and have advance payments associated with them, are checked to ensure that the increase in VAT has not resulted in the payment value being less or more than the value of the goods.

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 200 POS (Point Of Sale) with Sage 200

To change the VAT Rate in Sage 200 POS please follow the procedure for Sage 200 and MMS (above). Then make the changes in line your particular circumstances:

- If net prices are used and you want to increase prices in line with the new VAT rate, only tax codes require adjustment in the back office, prices can remain the same.

- If net prices are used and you don't want to change prices at this point, prices and tax codes in the back office need to be adjusted accordingly.

- If you use gross prices and want to increase prices in line with the new VAT rate, you need to adjust prices and tax codes in the back office accordingly.

- If you use gross prices and don't want increase prices at this point, only tax codes require adjustment in the back office, prices can remain the same.

How to Change the Vat Rate in Sage 200 Construct with Sage 200 or Sage MMS

First, change the standard rate of VAT in Sage 200 as described above, then

- log directly into Construct and run Utilities > Load Accounts.

Note if you cannot see Utilities on your menu, go to Tools > Users and change the Tree Menu by selecting 'Construct' from the drop-down list.

To enter a Late Subcontractor or Supplier Invoice:

If you enter either of the above and they are to be invoiced at the old rate of 15% you will need to create a new VAT code. Change the standard rate of VAT in Sage 200 and then run the procedure for Load Accounts.

To Credit a Subcontractor or Supplier Invoice at the old VAT rate

There may be occasions when you need to credit invoices at the old VAT rate. If you need to do this, you should create a new tax code at the old rate of VAT. Change the standard rate of VAT in Sage 200 and then run the procedure for Load Accounts.

How to Change the VAT Rate in Sage 200 Manufacturing

Change the standard rate of VAT in Sage 200 - no settings need to be altered within manufacturing.

Further Help and Information

If you are a Concentrix customer with a current support contract and are experiencing any problems changing VAT rates in Sage 200 or MMS, Sage 200 POS, Sage 200 Construct or Sage 200 Manufacturing, please contact the Concentrix support desk on 01509 410555 or email [email protected]

Microsoft Advises Businesses to Ensure VAT 2010 Compliance

Microsoft Press Release - important information for Concentrix customers using Microsoft Dynamics NAV:

The Microsoft Business Solutions group is advising customers to be aware of changes to European Union (EU) tax law that will come into effect Jan. 1, 2010.

Microsoft Corp. has released updates to existing functionality to enable Microsoft Dynamics ERP users to include services in the European Commission (EC) Sales List report. This report previously had to include only the sales of goods to companies in other EU countries. With the upcoming changes to EU tax law, services need to be included in the report. In addition, the layout of the paper report and the definition of the electronic file are different in each of the 27 EU countries. Companies that supply services across borders and have not yet redefined their financial and business management processes and trained employees to deal with the upcoming changes are urged to move quickly to comply with them.

By installing the VAT 2010 updates, customers on the Microsoft Business Ready Enhancement Plan can comply quickly and easily with the changes in regulations. All customers on an enhancement plan and a supported version of Microsoft Dynamics ERP are entitled to receive these Microsoft software updates. These VAT 2010 changes highlight the ongoing need for all businesses to be able to adapt quickly to regulatory changes.

Microsoft Dynamics helps its customers with regulatory compliance by monitoring the local legal requirements in the markets it serves and making the necessary changes within the software itself. The VAT 2010 updates are a good example of how Microsoft Dynamics solutions can help ensure that business processes can transition smoothly to a whole host of new legislation.

Microsoft has released updates to specific versions of the Microsoft Dynamics ERP applications (Microsoft Dynamics AX, Microsoft Dynamics GP and Microsoft Dynamics NAV) that support VAT 2010 within the core application and encompass the specific requirements in each country. Further releases will become available as subsequent announcements are made by the EU member states that have not yet specified local details.

“It’s important that our customers and partners have the tools they need to help ensure compliance with basic legislation in whichever region they operate. By making it part of the core functionality of our system, it is quick and easy to update,” said Crispin Read, general manager, Microsoft Dynamics ERP. “For customers on a Business Ready Enhancement Plan, this should be simple. Those who are not, and have not yet taken action, shouldn’t be complacent about making these changes.”

About Microsoft Dynamics

Microsoft Dynamics is a line of easy-to-use, integrated and adaptable ERP and CRM applications that enable business decision-makers to quickly respond to market shifts, take advantage of new trends, increase their competitive edge and drive business success. Microsoft Dynamics solutions are delivered through a world-class network of partners who provide specialized services and additional innovation to help customers excel in their industry.

News Roundup - Bristol Office Enquiries, Hosted Microsoft CRM in Small Businesses

Here's a quick Concentrix news update:

First, we're seeing an increased number of enquiries to our regional office in Bristol. The office opened in October UK to provide businesses in the south-west of the UK with a "one-stop-shop" for CRM, accounts, ERP, business management software and IT solutions. So, if you're looking for CRM, accounting or ERP solutions in Bristol or the south-west - please call the local Concentrix office on 01454 629700.

Next, we've been looking at our customer data and have found a strong uptake of hosted Microsoft CRM among small businesses, while larger businesses tend to go for on-premise CRM solutions. We've also found that businesses are starting off with hosted Microsoft CRM because it's quick and easy to get started, and needs little (if any) hardware and IT resource. Then, when they've found through the hosted model that CRM delivers and they've installed a 'CRM culture', they are then moving to on-premise Microsoft Dynamics CRM because it provides an even better ROI over the long term (no monthly fees).

For more details we've posted the news as a press release on our website - Hosted Microsoft CRM Takes Off in Small Businesses

 

The Evolution of CRM – Part 3 of 3

The popularity of CRM software has increased as more and more businesses look for new ways to improve their efficiency and effectiveness. However the “customer” part of the term “CRM” is slightly misleading as the strategy, software and processes apply equally to the management of any relationship, irrespective of who the relationship is between. What’s more businesses increasingly want the ability to manage every relationship which occurs within their organisation, not just those between the organisation and customers. This is a concept which Microsoft have branded xRM, where the “X” can be replaced with "anything", and products such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM are used as a base-platform to acheive this. The concept of xRM has the ability to provide organisations with real competitive advantage and in tough economic times, this can be a key differentiator.

Benefits of xRM

Irrespective of size or sector, xRM will provide businesses with:

- One central database – providing a complete view of all prospects, customers and suppliers

- Complete customisation to specific business requirements

- Improved Communication

- Automation – making it easier to perform administrative tasks

- Enhanced staff efficiency and effectiveness

Implementing CRM/xRM

Often, once implemented solutions can fail and common reasons cited for this include, poor sponsorship, lack of defined requirements and miscommunication between the project team and the stakeholders.

Subsequently, whatever solution you choose, implementing and configuring it correctly is essential to the success of any project. To do this, you need an effective project methodology. This will minimise the risks and costs associated with the project and will help to achieve a higher return on investment by providing maximum user objectives.

Projects are more likely to be successful if there is a defined project methodology because:

- It reduces the time spent completing project deliverables

- Monitoring and controlling the project is more efficient, especially during the execution phase

- It reduces overall costs by saving time and effort to building deliverables

- Change, risk and issues are reduced because the project is fully and clearly defined from the outset

- Full quality assurance is in place throughout the project lifecycle to ensure requirements are met

- By clarifying roles, responsibilities and delivery expectations, staff performance and motivation remains high

For more information about how CRM has evolved, please contact Concentrix on 01509 410500 or email [email protected]

Concentrix Awarded Place in Sage Circle of Excellence

We’ve had some good news at Concentrix. Because of positive feedback from a broad cross-section of our customers, we’ve achieved a place in the prestigious Sage Circle of Excellence! So to all our customers - thank you for your continued support.

Obviously everyone at Concentrix is really pleased about our place in the Sage Circle of Excellence. To put it in perspective, each year just fifteen Sage Business Partners achieve this award - out of well over 1200!

Customer satisfaction is key to the continued success of Concentrix and something we’ve been working hard at lately. Throughout 2009, we made a variety of changes to the way we work – some practical, some cultural. It’s all part of an ongoing effort to maintain and improve our outstanding customer service levels. A place in the Sage Circle of Excellence shows the changes are working.

And Concentrix has received more than one Sage award! As well as a place in the Circle of Excellence, Sage has also officially recognised Concentrix as Sage CRM Business Partner of the Year. The award acknowledges our commitment to Sage CRM, along with our expertise and strong annual sales of the popular mid-market CRM solution.

So, if you have any queries or need a Sage Business Partner with proven customer service excellence, contact Concentrix.

TFM&A Cocktail Game - Win a Cocktail Masterclass!

Hope to see you all at the Technology for Marketing and Advertising Exhibition (TFM&A), Earls Court 2, London 23rd and 24th February 2010. Concentrix will be on stand A9 - if you need tickets let us know, or register direct at http://www.t-f-m.co.uk/.

TFM&A is the UK's only integrated marketing event, and to help you make the perfect blend for truly integrated marketing & advertising campaigns - here's their Perfect Mix cocktail game! Have fun, and we look forward to seeing you at TFM&A!

 

Concentrix launches Sage CRM Planner

Have you ever double booked a meeting, failed to do something that you were supposed to do or questioned where a colleague is? This is a common problem within organisations. However, often the information required to prevent this from happening is available from within the organisation’s CRM system. The problem is that the users don’t view the information.

Concentrix has developed a Sage CRM Planner which makes these problems a thing of the past and provides complete visibility across an organisation

So what is Sage CRM Planner?

Sage CRM Planner is a reliable, web based application which sits within Sage CRM. Sage CRM planner provides users with the ability to see all the communications within their Sage CRM system graphically over a specific time period.

Sage CRM planner can bring a number of benefits to an organisation including:

- It facilitates effective allocation of resources

- Presents communications graphically, making them easier for the brain to interpret

- Enables users to edit communications

- Can be customised to specific user requirements

- Improves employee knowledge

For more information about Sage CRM Planner or Sage CRM please contact Concentrix on 01509 410500 or email [email protected]