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as the first high-end workpaper program written for Windows, ACE for Windows is a breakthrough product. Developed by Sequel/McGladrey Software, the joint venture between Sequel Software and McGladrey & Pullen, a national accounting firm, ACE for Windows is the outgrowth of the venerable ACE (Automated Client Engagement) program, which thousands of accountants have used for workpaper preparation since 1990.
In the January 1994 issue of Accounting Technology, we reviewed several DOS-based workpaper programs that offer varying degrees of efficiency, usability, and features. However, ACE makes full use of the power of Windows to raise productivity and maximize your command over client data.
Windows does workpapers
Installing the four 3.5-inch program disks (plus a tutorial disk) is easy. Just follow the standard Windows File Run procedure. Although reviewed here in standalone mode, ACE also installs on a Novell NetWare network (using the AceNet module), though the Novell Btrieve module must be present and configured to ACE specifications.
The best way to learn how to use ACE is to take the ACEWIN Level 1 Tutorial. This 92-page guide, complete with a sample client, takes you through the entire process of setup, data entry, financial statements, import/export procedures, and utilities. A complete Electronic Manual, which uses the Windows Help system, is also included. It uses a multi-tiered, drill-down approach and covers all aspects of program operation.
From the moment you load "The Accountant's Big Dilemma," the flashy demonstration program featuring gumshoe Max Balance, you know this is not the customary ho-hum trial balance software. The program has a modern look-and-feel that reflects today's state-of-the-art technology.
When loading ACE, you first indicate your staff ID. The main screen, which has the look of a typical Windows display, appears next. The traditional Windows toolbar and menus are located at the top of the screen, and a status bar at the bottom displays the client and preparer names, the current period, and other helpful items. Creating a new client is as easy as clicking on File New and entering the pertinent data in the dialog box.
Along with data such as address, type of entity, fiscal year, and accounting and tax basis, ACE supports a flexible 13-digit account number, as well as numerous budget and write-up options. You can easily...