February 8, 2018

If you are still using Sage Abra, how often do you say, “Fingers crossed?”

When you feel compelled to turn to mantras or good luck charms to boost your software’s reliability, that’s a clear sign to move on!

How can you build and sustain reputable operation if you don’t have control over your data, and you can’t keep up with today’s expected delivery speed? It’s problematic when any of your solutions don’t work, but it’s impossible to run your business or nonprofit without people. That’s why a stable, efficient Human Capital Management solution is vital to your success. Sage Abra will only hold you back.
Why is it time to move on from Sage Abra?
For starters, while Sage still supports version 9.2, that doesn’t cover the more crucial part of the software—the server.
Here’s the problem.The Sage Abra database is dependent on Visual FoxPro server by Microsoft. This last official product update was more than a decade ago—in 2007! Support dwindled until it ended altogether in 2015.
Not only is the server itself antiquated but as you update Windows over time, you may not even be able to run Sage Abra. This is because Microsoft no longer tests Visual FoxPro-dependent software against operating system updates.
What are the risks of sticking with Sage Abra?
Software crashes on a regular basis—with no support from Microsoft.

Any customization needs will likely go unfulfilled. Sage is not making any upgrades, and very few developers are familiar with Visual FoxPro. When the underlying architecture crashes, you’ll have difficulty finding anyone who can fix it.

Downtime is excessive and debilitating.

Slow performance is the norm. When FoxPro processes data, it transfers entire tables of information back to the local client. That’s like dragging a giant suitcase up and down a flight of stairs when the only thing you need to get to the second floor is a toothbrush.
Data is not secure. FoxPro is set up without precautionary user levels. Anyone who is authorized to view data has full administrative access and can also add to the database, and modify or even delete files. It’s also a hospitable environment for hackers.
To archive data, Sage Abra requires a third party tool. This causes a cumbersome process that hinders growth.
Data recovery rates are bleak. If processing is interrupted in FoxPro, recent work will likely not be backed up.
You’ll be dragged down by manual processes in an automated world.

Manual database backup is required.Daily manual re-indexing is recommended for optimal performance.
If you are still using Sage Abra, ask yourself:How often do these manual processes actually happen? Whose workload could be better allocated? How much productivity time are we losing? What are the risks if these actions do not happen on a given day?
Here’s the good news. Modern Human Capital Management (HCM) systems are available!
You can select subscription-based software that is housed in the cloud, such as Workforce Go! HCM or purchase a system that runs on a SQL-based server, like Sage HRMS. No matter which option you choose, here’s what you can expect from a modern HCM solution:
Performance speed is fast. Modern systems only transmits necessary data. (No heavy suitcase!) For example, change an employee’s ZIP and the system will not need to carry over the entire profile, as it does with Abra. The extra time adds up. It can take up to 3 hours to process payroll using Abra. Switch to a SQL server or the cloud and the same tasks only take 5-10 minutes!
Data is secure. The SQL server’s security is integrated with that of your network, so your organization has control over which users can modify or even view data. This is also reinforced by the fact that the data is stored on a separate server, thus providing an additional gateway that is nearly impenetrable for hackers. The cloud offers this same level of security.
Data can be easily recovered. If work is interrupted by a power outage or for any other reason, Microsoft SQL server and the cloud have you covered. Both systems record units of work against a database to ensure the last completed tasks remain intact.
Schedule automated backups. Files are backed up quickly since they are compressed and encrypted for fast, secure storage.
No need to manually set up database indexes. Schedule your modern HCM software to regularly re-index the database. This optimizes performance behind the scenes.
You’ll be able to grow operations without slowing down the system. Scalability allows modern software to handle increases in warehoused data.
Which modern HCM system will you choose?
The route you take depends on factors such as your organization’s structure, size, and technical capacity. To run a SQL based solution like Sage HRMS, you may need a technical expert on staff to manage the server and perform troubleshooting tasks.
A cloud system like Workforce Go! is a subscription-based software licensed per employee, per month. It allows you to maintain a high-caliber HCM while minimizing capital expense and reducing burden on your internal IT equipment and staff.
Talk to us to discuss what you’re looking for in a modern HCM solution. We can help determine whether Workforce Go! or Sage HRMS are the best fit for your organization.
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