CYMA Systems, Inc. — CYMA Accounting for Windows Client Write-Up

From the Nov. 2007 Review of Client
Write-Up Systems

CYMA Accounting for Windows is an accounting platform for mid-market companies,
offering modules for management of GL, AP, AR, reconciliation, inventory, payroll,
POs, job costing and other functions. For professional accountants who service
multiple business clients, CYMA offers the Client Write-Up module, which includes
After-the-Fact Payroll and enhanced financial reporting and analysis tools that
offer enhanced customization features with the inclusion of a run-time version
of Crystal Reports, the F9 reporting utility and the ability to export data
to Excel spreadsheets. Payroll functions include direct deposit, check writing,
W-2 and 1099 production, and state payroll forms. The CYMA Accounting for Windows
system is built in Visual C++ on a Pervasive SQL database, which allows it to
support an unlimited number of companies with any number of GL accounts, employees,
vendors and other data. Pricing for the single-user version of the program with
the Client Write-Up module starts at $1,745.

LEARNING CURVE & EASE OF USE — 4 Stars
CYMA requires installation of the Pervasive database (included with the cost
of the software) prior to the accounting system and is somewhat detailed during
setup since the program is geared toward mid-sized and larger entities. The
program offers step-by-step guidance during client setup. Its unique interface
is centered around the eDesk, which allows extensive customization to each user’s
needs, including setting up links to external websites or shortcuts to functions
within the CYMA program. CYMA’s customization capabilities also allow
for the creation of more than 100 fields. The screen includes a web address
field and can be used as a web browser.

The program’s main workspace provides traditional pull-down menus and
navigation, but does not offer icon-based menus or workflow diagrams. Within
program modules, CYMA provides easy access to client companies and their charts
of accounts, ledgers and transaction data. The program can handle any number
of companies with subsidiary entities, and its tabbed entry sheets support heads-down
data entry, with information fields that include smart selection lists and account
lookup functions. The GL supports up to 24-digit alphanumeric account numbers
with 10 user-defined segments and complete date sensitivity, with unlimited
historical years. Unlimited user-defined journals allow six alphanumeric digits
for IDs. Users can create accounts “on-the-fly” during journal entry
tasks and can copy account structures during company setup. Other program features
include a full-time, detailed audit trail with consolidation for multiple departments.

REPORTING & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — 5 Stars
With the inclusion of Crystal Reports and F9, CYMA includes exceptionally strong
reporting options, resulting in reports that can be totally customized as needed,
including header and footer messages. Financial statements include summary and
detailed income statements, subtype income statements, and detail and subtype
balance sheets. Other reports include entry listings and ratio analyses. The
system offers encryption of sensitive data like SSNs, and provides Sarbanes-Oxley
compliant security and audit capabilities.

INTEGRATION, IMPORT/EXPORT — 4 Stars
A general import feature is included, allowing acquisition of data from third-party
systems via a two-step process (export to *.CSV, then import to accounting module).
The company also offers a bridge to AssetKeeper. With its Crystal Reports and
F9 features, CYMA can also output reports into Excel and PDF and provides additional
export/save options.

SUPPORT, TRAINING & HELP SYSTEM — 4 Stars
CYMA includes printed installation and user manuals that include illustrated
examples, and the system includes traditional built-in Help, and step-by-step
assistance aids client setup tasks. The company’s online support center
offers a knowledgebase and links for purchasing support plans, contacting consultants
or purchasing manuals; there are no FAQs, or other free do-it-yourself Help
resources. Online and live training options are offered, and the program can
automatically download system updates.

RELATIVE VALUE — 4.5 Stars
CYMA Accounting for Windows Client Write-Up is a strong program for servicing
mid-sized and larger client bases, with a powerful database backend and support
for limitless data. The system is best suited to firms not serving the very
small business market, but rather those with more extensive transactional data
and greater reporting demands.

2007 Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars