Vantagepoint provides a one-stop-shop for CRM, accounting, reporting, and planning.
Use Cases and Deployment Scope
Currently, we use Vantagepoint almost exclusively as accounting software along with using it for timesheets. We are looking to implement it for use as a CRM system, as I have used it for in the past. Right now only those in accounting really know how the software is used as the business model of the company is somewhat different from most others in civil engineering. One of the roadblocks to using the software is resistance to change and having to learn a new system.
Pros
- Timesheets.
- Interconnection of data. Activities are tied to contacts, firms, employees, and projects, accessible from any of these hubs.
- Customization of fields, tabs, and hubs is very flexible. You can create as many different customizations as necessary for your business model.
Cons
- Reporting is very clunky and anything but intuitive.
- Compared to Vision, Vantagepoint layouts are very cookie-cutter. The latest release allows you to create up to 5 columns, still, it is so much less customizable than Vision in look and feel.
- Customer service is poor. If you have a question or issue you can expect it to be addressed in 2-4 weeks, minimum.
- Software testing has been poor in the past. Too many bugs have made it through to release on things that should have easily been caught, such as certain workflows not working, etc.
Most Important Features
- Reporting
- Storing project narratives and other project information
- Timesheets
- Expense reports
Return on Investment
- Provides a customizable option for many current and to-be-determined use cases.
Alternatives Considered
Salesforce CMS and Airtable
Other Software Used
Adobe InDesign, OpenAsset, Microsoft Excel, monday.com
