Sage - Sage Timberline

From the July 2010 Review of Construction/Contractor Accounting Programs.

Sage Timberline Office from Sage Software has been a solid player in the construction software arena for years. Consistently reliable and with new features added on a regular basis, Sage Timberline Office is a robust product ideally suited to larger construction and contractor businesses.

BASIC SYSTEM FUNCTIONS:
The Timberline Office Desktop offers a centralized location for accessing all Timberline functions, files and web pages. The Desktop contains a small menu bar at the top of the screen, which offers access to all system modules. Clicking on an application displays all of its associated tasks. The Desktop is fully customizable so users can choose to display the Task area or close it for additional desktop space. Users can also select a homepage that will open automatically upon logging into the system.

System setup is assisted by Setup Central, which guides users through the setup process using wizards. Navigating through Timberline Office requires some initial patience, but once familiar with the navigational style, users will quickly appreciate the layout of the product. Timberline Office will work with Windows Server 2003+, Windows XP Professional and Windows Vista Business and Ultimate.

CORE ACCOUNTING CAPABILITIES:
The Timberline Office GL allows users to utilize up to 25 characters for their account setup structure. The product uses a batch system for processing transactions and can maintain up to two years of historical data and up to six months of future data. Recurring journal entries can be set up, and users can easily track data using the numerous custom fields available. The AP module allows percentages to be used for allocating costs associated with an invoice. Both invoices and vendors can be placed on hold and check formats easily customized. The AR module allows for customization of data-entry screens for easier posting, and previously billed amounts can be adjusted as needed. Partial payments are easily posted to the appropriate account, and previously voided billings can be reinstated when needed. The Payroll module easily handles multi-state processing, offers direct deposit capability and allows payroll personnel to post employee time directly to jobs, cost codes or equipment.

Additional accounting modules available include Equipment Cost, Cash Management, Billing and Contracts; all of which easily integrate with the core financial modules. System security in Timberline Office is excellent with four distinct levels: company, record, file and task level.

CONSTRUCTION/CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIC FEATURES:
Timberline Office offers an extensive array of estimating modules, automating the entire estimating process. Users can easily create custom estimates using the estimating interface, which resembles an Excel spreadsheet. The estimating function is powered by an extensive selection of databases suited for all types of construction and contractor-related businesses. Timberline allows new users to choose the business type that most closely suits their needs, so all system databases installed will directly relate to a specific industry.

The Project Management module allows users to track all aspects of each job through the correspondence log, which keeps track of all communication related to each job. Users can also track RFIs, submittals, transmittals and meeting minutes, if necessary. Change Orders are easily processed using the change request form that allows users to quickly enter and approve change orders in minutes. Documents are easily attached to change orders for better tracking, and the change date and relevant information is stored for future access. This feature makes it easy for job site personnel to be notified about any changes.