In Use
CMS Fund is designed to be user friendly and has a simple layout and menu options. The security feature is well thought out, which includes password protection and the ability to set up multi-users and define the areas of the module that can be seen by each user. This system is able to produce a variety of reports which include income statement, trial balance, and statement of cash flows. The bank reconciliation module is designed with the same type of layout as the general ledger. It is a versatile module which lets you keep an accurate account of more than one banking account and allows for setting up categories for your transactions to make tracking easy. The bank reconciliation reports help the non-profit organization to track the status of various accounts. The Payee Card Report provides a quick list of payees to use when you need a general list of payee names and addresses. This software will meet the basic needs of a non-profit organization; Cougar Mountains has many add-ons available at an additional fee.


Technology employed
CMS Fund Version 12.1 can be installed on a single computer or set up through a server. Fund works with Windows XP Professional, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2000, and Windows Vista Business. If you are using Vista products there are special instructions for installing and setting up your network. The system requires 2GHz Processor, 1GB RAM and any where from 1 to 20 GB of space depending on if it is on a single computer or a server. This system is not suitable for MAC users. The software can be accessed remotely on any internet browser.


Ease of use, configuration, and deployment
CMS Fund is easily installed and Cougar Mountain has very reliable and friendly associates to answer any of you questions. When you purchased the system you receive installation services, and a 12 month enrollment in their Software Assurance Program, which guarantees customers receive all updates, patches and automatic upgrades to the latest version if one comes out during the 12 month time frame.

Recap
The CMS Fund is multi functional software that can handle an unlimited number of funds, departments or grants. It has the capabilities to handle inter-fund transfers, fund balancing, and multiple grants with varied year ends. This system also includes a bank reconciliation module which can handle multiple bank accounts and you can customize the transaction into categories for tracking by any criteria. This software will meet the basic needs of any non-profit organization; Cougar Mountains has many add-ons available at an additional fee. The price for this system starts around $1,200.00 and increases depending on how many licenses will be needed and any additional add-ons purchased.

Advantages

• Multi functional modules
• User friendly and nice layout
• Numerous types of reports to track your organization

Disadvantages

• Additional Modules and user licenses can boost the cost system

My Opinion
CMS Fund is a versatile, multi- functional system that can handle all your non-profit basic accounting needs. The application itself is easy to use and can handle multiple accounts. The thing that makes CMS Fund stand out from the rest is its customer service and Software Assurance Program. The associates at CMS Fund are friendly, well trained and prompt in assisting you and handling your requests. From installation to any support question, you can find the answer on their website or talk to an actual live person, which is unique in itself. I would highly recommend this software for small to medium size nonprofit organizations who are looking for a solid well thought out system to handle basic accounting needs.