IT News in Brief - 20 May

Security alliance

Asset management and monitoring companies Catsoft International and Asset Shield Technologies announced a strategic alliance at the National Accountancy Show in Birmingham this week. Asset Shield’s computer security transmitters and receivers can now intercommunicate with Catsoft’s asset management software via a modem, network or RS232 cable.

Cashbook update Dosh Software of Horsham has introduced a new version of its £60 DO$H Cashbook for ‘micro’ businesses. Version 2 is a 32-bit program for Windows 95 and above, but the company will continue to sell version 1 for those who wish to stay with Windows 3. The new edition can handle several companies and has improved calendar, password and help functions.

Fax from the desktop Exchequer has introduced a paperless module to its Enterprise accounting application that allows businesses to email or fax invoices direct from their PC desktop. Exchequer claims that electronic dispatch will cut the cost of issuing documents such as invoices and remittance advice slips by 90%.

Transaction fits the bill Having already released its personal and business tax programs for the 1999 year, Transaction Technology is pouring resources into wider practice management software. Time & Fees is the latest addition to the firm’s Iris software portfolio; having collated billable hours, the program will print out full invoices.

Training consortium Oxford-based PTP Software is harking back to its roots as a training organisation with the launch of a professional training consortium in London. Membership starting at £50 a year for qualified accountants will give them discounts on PTP’s tax software and access to tax update and financial reporting courses.