Can my existing data be converted to work with ACS?
Yes. We have been performing data conversions for over ten years from many different software packages and file formats.
What People information can be converted?
We offer three types of data conversions: Level One (Basic Membership information which includes names, addresses, phones, date of birth, marital status, envelope number, member status, gender, and some user defined fields), Level Two (Basic Membership and Contribution information which includes fund numbers, posting date, amount, transaction type), and File Specification Conversion (A specified file layout you put your information into). With Level One and Level Two conversions, Attendance information will not convert due to the inconsistencies in formats. We have a data-mapping guide that maps out the data fields from the more common software package and shows where it will be placed in the ACS product. If you are not certain that a special field in your current software will convert, you can send a request describing the information and how you use it along with your data and we can determine if it can be converted and where it will be converted (Additional charges may apply if extra programming is required).
How much does a data conversion cost?
Contact Data Services to get a quote for your conversion at 1-800-475-2710. The quote is free and you are under no obligation to purchase.
Why is a software preview required?
A software preview is required for custom programs, multiple databases in multiple software packages or when Data Services has not seen the software package that your organization is currently maintaining. This requires that you send us a full working copy of the program, a backup of your data and any documentation of user names and login/passwords that are required to load and/or access your program. There is a small fee for the software preview. If you proceed with a data conversion the fee is deducted from your conversion cost total.
It is my understanding that ACS software has an Import program for People. If this is true, why do I need your service?
Yes, ACS software has a People Import program available for clients to use on-site. The ACS People Import program can be used to import names, addresses, and other basic people information into the People or Special Mailings module. You are responsible for exporting your data out of your current software into one of the acceptable formats, which are comma separated values (.csv), Fox Pro (.dbf), dBase (.dbf), or Paradox (.db). If you are not familiar with this procedure, you should contact your current software provider and ask for instructions or take a look at your current software help files. Once you have the data exported out, then you will need to use tools to manipulate your data as required by the People Import program. This information is located in the ACS F1-Help files. This can be a time-consuming process depending on your available resources and your level of experience. Data Services is here to provide you with a data conversion service that will make this a smooth transition from your current package to ACS. Our conversion service allows us to provide you with more information than the People Import program. Also, this will remove the stress from you and allow you to focus on how to best utilize ACS.
How long does the conversion process take?
Data Services can have your data converted and back to you within ten business days from your scheduled conversion date. The Conversion turnaround time depends on research time, unexpected schedule delays, and computer availability. Utilizing our service during this transition will help your organization get back on track within weeks.
How do I schedule a data conversion date?
To schedule a conversion date, please contact Data Services at 1.800.475.2710 or e-mail us at data@ACSTechnologies.com
What will be required for the conversion?
In most cases, we utilize a backup of your previous software to extract the data for the conversion. After you schedule a conversion date, we will send you a conversion contract to review and sign along with a request for examples of information in your current database to be checked after the conversion is completed.
Why do you need examples of my records?
After a conversion is complete, the examples we receive are used to cross check the information from your old database. Data is recorded differently within each individual software package. Using examples from your original database to cross check the converted data can ensure that the data transferred correctly.
Can I continue to enter information into my old software?
After you make your backup to send in for your data conversion, it is recommended that you do not work in your database until the converted data is returned to you. Any data entry or modification done after the data backup was created and sent to us will have to be reentered into ACS.
Can I begin entering information into ACS Financials?
If you purchase the Accounting /Financial Suite in ACS and are not utilizing our Financial Conversion Service, you can get a head start by setting up your chart of accounts, adding vendors and entering employees into payroll. However, any data entry or modification done in the People Suite after the data backup was created and sent to us will have to be reentered into ACS.
What will I receive when the conversion is complete?
The converted data is returned to you as an ACS backup that you will be able to restore through the ACS backup/restore option.
What if I encounter an issue after the converted data is reviewed?
Once you receive the converted data, you have 30days to review it. If a discrepancy is found within the 30-day review period, you can contact Data Services to report the issue. We will diligently work with you to resolve the matter.
Data Services accepts the following backups and media types:
Backup Media Types
CD/DVD
Diskette
Iomega Zip (100/250mb)
LS120
Memory Stick
