Click here for Setup.exe Downloading and Installation hints! If this is the first time you have ever downloaded the following Setup.exe, you should read this entire section first.
Downloading of the most current release of the COMS for Windows product is available if you are a active Maintenance-Club Plus plan member (renewal is in the late fall of each year). You will need the Password that has been provided to you by SpecialtySoftware.com by email or postal mail at renewal. If you have misplaced the Password (or unsure of your current membership status), please email tech@specialtysoftware.com and request a replacement (please include your Church name and also your Serial# if known in the Subject line of the email) - and we will send it to you again, or provide what your options are).
Format: Setup.EXE (88.5 MB).
Last updated: Dec. 11, 2024.
Note: this version 12.16 number changed within the COMS or EFA for Windows, and included other enhancements as well (including adding issues dealing with the close out by Microsoft of Internet Exployer being no longer working and the requirment for Edge, Chrome, or etc. As always, seems like we constantly have to visit code within the software to keep up with the changes that Microsoft and Google make in their products. Other enhancements include odd and end enhancements to reports and export features. All updates in year 2023 have been rolled into this version 12.04.
Please note we continue to ship the EFA for Windows but it is now considered a legacy product and no new enhancements are planned as it is a perfected product. The EFA for Windows was always considered a "courtesy" product on our end for churches.
If you are using any version of the COMS for Windows prior to version 10 then this is a must have upgrade which you should install immediately if you are using Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. For additional information on version 10.03 read the notes on "Version 10.03 on 04/30/2014" below that gives additional information on this important upgrade.
If you prefer to have the CD shipped to you by Postal Mail, then click on the following link. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover Card. A PayPal account is not required, but if you have one you can also pay by bank check.
Click Here To Order the Most Recent COMS Updates on CD for only $10
You can check what version you have on your computer by pulling down the Help Menu and selecting About... while you are in the COMS for Windows or EFA for Windows application. It is highly recommended if your version is older than the above version that you download the most current version.
This is the final 'full shipping version' of the new COMS for Windows program (the same version which is on the CD that we are shipping today). It includes all reported fixes and enhancements.
Also, be sure and download the PDF Help File on this page if you have not already done so.
This version will place three icons on your desktop. One is the regular COMS for Windows icon to start the program, another one is titled 'COMS Tutorial Videos' - and the videos are used in place of printed manuals for this application. A 'COMS Must ReadMe!' icon is also placed on the desktop as only about 1/2 of our users would read this important and required document - and our tech's require you have this document in hand if you ever need to call one of them. So, we have made it very easy for you to get to now.
The PDF Help File was updated on 4/11/03, so be sure and download that if you have an older version . Visit the bottom of this page to download this item.
Following is a list of version minor 'update' changes and what has been added, etc. You can expect this page to be updated often over the next couple months - as when we receive good request for improvements, enhancements, ease-of-use features, fixes, etc. we attempt to incorporate them almost immediately.
This release also includes the requested way to have Cell phones appear in all Reports instead of the Homephone if desired. We have activated a new feature (go to Tools.... Maintenance Procedures..... click on the Global Tab.... and then click on the button titled Cell Phone Update. This feature will allow you to update all cell phone number to the Homephone field (which will then print out on reports as all reports always use the homephone). If a person does not have a cell phone then the homephone will not be changed. There are several other options in this feature as well when you select this option.
Version 12.16 on 12/11/2024. Version 12.16 release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since version 12.04. This version includes issues dealing with the close out by Microsoft of Internet Exployer being no longer working and the requirment for Edge, Chrome, or etc. As always, seems like we constantly have to visit code within the software to keep up with the changes that Microsoft and Google make in their products. Other enhancements include odd and end enhancements to reports and export features. All updates in year 2023 have been rolled into this version 12.16.
Note about how the COMS and/or EFA for Windows works with the Web. The programs were never dependent upon the web other than showing the screen that comes up right behind the Login screen. This screen there to give you quick links to our website, etc. Starting with version 12.16 this screen behind the Login screen will no longer be accessing the web to retrieve this information (however links found on this screen might include links to external pages like our forum). The screen will look the same as it always has, but this screen is now built into the COMS and/or EFA for Windows programs. We made this change as our long term web provider has been sold and no longer has the support we require (in addition to dramatic increase of their yearly fee).
Version 11.03 & Version 11.98 in year 2023. have been rolled up into version 12.04.
Version 11.12 on 10/20/2022. Version 11.12 release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since the last published update. This release also includes a way to have Cell phones appear in all Reports instead of the Homephone if desired. In the old days (10 years ago) a Homephone always meant a Land line, but for most people now a days it is a cell phone. That being said, we have a utility which can merge the two as needed.
We have activated a new feature (go to Tools.... Maintenance Procedures..... click on the Global Tab.... and then click on the button titled Cell Phone Update. This feature will allow you to update all cell phone number to the Homephone field (which will then print out on reports as all reports always use the homephone). If a person does not have a cell phone then the homephone will not be changed. There are several other options in this feature as well when you select this option.
Version 10.67 on 02/2/2021. Version 10.67 release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since the last update since the last update in Feb. 2019. This release includes all version between 10:55 and 10.67. There were also several new enhancements to the giving reports (while entering giving and also the Posting deposit slip- both of these have been major request from our client, and we hope you enjoy these! Please note that the Online Giving Import for those in the Club Plus Plan is no longer being developed or supported - and no yearly fee is being charged for this feature. However, the final instructions are still in the ReadMe file on your Desktop and you can continue to use the product as always (but with no support provided or cost to Club Plus Plan members).
Version 10.55 on 09/15/2019. Version 10.55 release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since the last update since the last update in Feb. 2019. This release includes all version between 10:50 and 10.55. There were also several new enhancements to the giving reports (while entering giving and also the Posting deposit slip- both of these have been major request from our client, and we hope you enjoy these!
Version 10.50 on 02/12/2019. Version 10.50 release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since the last update since the last update in Oct. 2018.
One area you will see an immediate change will be if your church accepts Visa/Mastercard for giving - the COMS does not requires you to enter a Credit or Debit card number anywhere (in the past you didn't have to enter this information either on a weekly basis). We made this change as many credit card processing companies frown upon keeping this type of information on your computer. If you are using this type of processor, this will be a helpful feature. We expect receiving giving through Credit or Debit cards will only continue in the future as banks continue to move away from paper checks. Many companies like PayPal keep this information for you.
Version 10.49 on 10/12/2018. Version 10.49 includes all updates from version 10.44 through 10.49. This release contains many enhancements and improvements to existing features which we have worked on since the last update in March 2018, including increased performance in many parts of the software (especially the Reports, Imports, etc. We recommend loading this at your convenience (either through direct download here or CD).
Version 10.43 on 01/21/2018. Version 10.43 is a must install upgrade to the COMS for Windows and also the EFA for Windows UNLESS you have already installed version 10.42. We cleaned a few screens up from version 10.42. If you have already installed version 10.42 we recommend you also install version 10.43. If you have not installed version 10.42, then version 10.43 is a must install for all the benefits and enhancements.
Version 10.42 on 01/03/2018. Version 10.42 is a must install upgrade to the COMS for Windows and also the EFA for Windows. There were a number of enhancements to both products which help control user side data entry mistakes. For the COMS for Windows, we also removed some dialogs which a handful of users experienced while printing some People Reports (these dialogs started in version 10.40 and did not have any impact on the People Reports).
We have also added a new Summary Donor Tax Statement which just gives a Total Giving amount instead of a listing of each gift.
Now the big news!
Specialty Software is pleased to release some new ways to Enter Weekly Giving for Club Plus User's in Version 10.42. Most churches will find these options faster than even the current Enter Giving Form (which is still available and also used by the new features explain below). Items 1 and 2 were added in version 10.40-42, and Item 3 was initially added in version 10.30 but has also been dramatically enhanced in version 10.42.
This selection has three ways to enter giving:
- ComsCSV Way - The first way will allow you to export all or selected People found in the People Form to a file titled ComsCSV. Then, those people are imported into the COMS into a form that looks similar to the People Browse Grid (which is found in the drop down Form menu). We think most churches will use this option to enter giving going forward as it is so quick, easy, and can remember from week to week people who normally give. All big time savers!
- Excel Way - This will work just like the ComsCSV Way. The main difference is in the ComsCSV Way, we here at Specialty Software have done all the setup for you.
- Online Way - This will allow you to import Online Gifts from such sources as PayPal, Banks, and other Online Giving sources. It works exactly like the ComsCSV Way, except you have to download the Giving data from your Online Source.
Remember - the current way to Enter Giving is still available (and always will be) and is fully supported as always, and actually ties in with the new options mentioned above.
For additional information on these new features, see the COMS Must ReadMe on your Desktop (and read items 24, 25, and 26). We will post a new Tutorial Video on the use of these features soon for those churches who need extra help.
Version 10.41 - the notes on this version from Fall 2017 have been moved to above Version 10.42.
Version 10.40 - the notes on this version from late Summer/early Fall 2017 have been moved to above Version 10.42.
Version 10.30 on 04/18/2017. Version 10.30 is the biggest upgrade to the COMS for Windows since year 2003. The big news for this release is the addition of the Import Online Giving form. See the COMS Must ReadMe! file found on your desktop (see item number 24 in the ReadMe! for complete information and instructions). This was a 5 month project, and is very easy to use, and has the potential to save several hours every week for those who have been entering their online giving manually into the COMS program. The COMS can import 1 or 100,000 online giving records instantly. No church is to small or to large for this new feature.
This new feature requires the Club Plus-Maintenance Plan which nearly everyone has and will import giving from most online giving source (banks, PayPal, etc.). We will be available by email or 800 Support if any questions arise while importing Online Giving into the COMS for Windows. As you know, the Club Plus-Maintenance Plan comes with 800 Toll Free Support. This new feature is so easy to use that most churches will never require help - but we are here if needed. We have sent all Club Plus-Maintenance Plan users an email with your unique "Entry Code" which will allow you to access these new features.
As mentioned above, be sure and read item 24 in the COMS Must ReadMe! for complete information on how to use this new exciting feature.
If you are not a Club Plus-Maintenance member, you can call 800-568-6350 and change from the Basic Club-Maintenance Plan to the Club Plus-Maintenance Plan.
We at Specialty Software would like to make it very clear we continue to actively develop the desktop versions of the COMS and EFA for Windows program. Due to user request (and the changing technology landscape) we are rolling out online (also referred to as Cloud) features like this version 10.30 includes.
Version 10.21 on 12/28/2016. Version 10.21 has a small to the Giving Reports Report Setup screen (a filter issue was corrected that we was worked on two years ago) along with other small enhancements.
You will notice a new option in Forms titled "Import Online Giving" which will be activated sometime in Feb. 2017 for Maintenance-Club Plus plans. This is a new feature that will allow one to import giving from online sources such as PayPal, etc.
Version 10.20 on 11/03/2016. Be sure you read the extensive notes for version 10.19 below as it was a fairly major update/upgrade. Version 10.20 has a small change to the Pledge entry forms to make sure when entering a Pledge gift that you only enter valid Pledge Periods of 1 to 12.
Version 10.19 on 09/30/2016. This is a highly recommended upgrade. It includes many enhancements to the COMS and also the EFA. One of the major enhancements is the Backup and Restore feature. You can now click on a radio button and have the backup be placed on your Desktop, your Documents folder, or pick your own backup location just like always. There is also info on putting an additional backup online (example: using Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Gmail, etc.). We renumbered the version number to version 10.19 (and skipped version numbers 10.17 and 10.18 since this was such a nice upgrade).
If you are using the LAN version and are storing your data on a drive other than drive C:\ you might see a question when installing the new version - this question is asking permission to install up to 3 files occasionally within your Documents folder - and these files are used internally within the COMS and also the EFA to help the products more efficient. This is done automatically if you have your data on drive C:\.
Note for LAN users: it is not necessary to say Yes to this question, but in case of a network server failure these files might be able to be used by a Specialty Software Technician to help you recover all or most of your data. The only downside for a LAN user not saying Yes is once in a while the software might take a few seconds extra to completely exit as it is copying a few files from your server drive. If you have a large LAN with many people accessing the COMS, you might consider selecting one or two workstation saying Yes to this question, and the others saying No. However, the choice is yours.
Version 10.16 on 03/7/2016. The update includes a new utility option in the EFA to allow a church to delete the Check Register. You can then rebuild the Check Register if you wish. This option was added for those churches who do not want to see prior year Check Register data - and most churches will not use this option.
Version 10.15 on 01/19/2016. The update includes a minor change to allow users of the Free Payroll to change the name description of the Items to Pay.
Version 10.14 on 12/14/2015. The update includes many enhancements. In a few days there will be a version 10.15 which will also include changes to the COMS for Windows including a better selection of Cell phone or Home phone in the reports (over 49% of USA citizens no longer have a home land line phone but now use a cell phone instead). Changes made to the EFA are outlined in the COMS Must ReadMe! file which are found on your desktop after you run the Setup.exe. A quick list of changes include:
*EFA Correct Payroll Employee Check Stub (found in the Utility tab). This will allow you to reduce an employee "year to date" amounts which print on the check stub by one pay period.
*EFA Reinitialize AP 1099 report data (found in the Utility tab). This will allow you to verify and optionally change the amount that prints out on the 1099 informational report found in the Accounts Payable.
*EFA $ sign printing out on checks (found in the Utility tab). This new selection is found in the Check Set-up in the Utility tab section. You can now select to not have the $ sign print.
Version 10.13 on 03/30/2015. The update includes a small fix to the EFA Accounts Payable Maintenance Screen (if you accidentally delete the Vendor file of an already existing vendor - it would have a "open dialog" appear). This was corrected in version 10.12. The Giving Reports Report Setup screen filter was corrected to scroll all years without a message.
Version 10.12 on 02/17/2015. The update includes being able to print reports and labels in the EFA for Windows to a File (in addition to your Printer or Preview). Once in the file you can view the saved report or label with Notepad, a Word processor, etc. Be sure to view this report in a mono spaced font like Courier New so the columns all line up. Once the report is in Notepad or a Word processor you can then do whatever you wish to that saved .TXT file. We highly recommend that everyone download this version as it includes all prior enhancements, etc.
Version 10.11 on 02/05/2015 and 02/09/2015. The update includes now printing report in Normal or Bold type, also has the correct setup for the new Check that prints at the Top of the laser check, and also activation of the Vendor increment search when entering AP Transactions. Enjoy! And thanks for all the help to everyone for your great suggestions. On 02/09/2015 we posted this version 10.11 again as it included an "alignment" issue within a couple of the reports (most would never notice this as it was somewhat printer dependent but we needed it perfect).
Version 10.10 on 01/30/2015 (updated on 02/02/2015 with a minor change which did not change the version number). Version 10.10 includes dramatic improvements to the EFA for Windows. This release has a handful of minor changes to the COMS for Windows as well. However, we do not consider this a must download for the COMS for Windows if you are using COMS version 10.04 or higher and are not using the new EFA for Windows. We consider this a "must" download and install version of the EFA for Windows.
Some of the EFA for Windows enhancements are:
Activated the Report Writer so it can now be used in the new EFA for Windows just like it did in the old EFA. As you know, we have never officially supported or sold the Specialty Report Writer for the EFA, but many churches used it extensively with the old EFA for Windows. This feature is now active again. This was a major programming project and we hope you enjoy our efforts in having this now available. Remember that the EFA for Windows reports are complicated and even though we allow you to modify them into your own Custom EFA Reports, this is an unsupported feature just like it has always been. That being said, many users in fact do modify these reports. NOTE: more good news - the reports that you modified from the old EFA for Windows will work in the new EFA for Windows! However, you can not modify those old custom reports are the code is to different. However, if you have certain ones you have already modified and you need to be able to modify them the new EFA, this is doable. Email tech@SpecialtySoftware.com with your serial# in the subject line and notify a technician you need a old EFA custom report of yours converted. We can do this for you as part of your 800 support which you are entitled to.
More good news in version 10.10. Included is a new Laser Check option (QuickBooks/Deluxe type checks) with the Check at the Top and the two stubs in the middle and the bottom of the laser check. There is a stampede of users moving back to the EFA for Windows from trying to use QuickBooks for church accounting. You can now use the Laser checks you used with QuickBooks in the new EFA.
Finally, there was a small change made when posting checks from the Accounts Payable to the General Ledger and this was not an issue win the General Ledger. We corrected an issue that existed in the old EFA that was carried forward to the new EFA for Windows. When you post the Accounts Payable to the General Ledger within the Vendor File is a field titled Balance that is now updated correctly when voiding a check. What was happening is the Balance field would increase with the amount of the voided check - it will now decrease as it should. This is a small issue that does not effect the General Ledger and most people never noticed it. Thanks to a long time client for helping us track down the issue. We also updated the AP Report titled "Paid Items" as it experienced the same issue.
Version 10.09 on 01/16/2015. Version 10.09 includes an update was a release with particular enhancements but general changes to the COMS and EFA core code.
Version 10.08 on 12/30/2014. Version 10.08 includes an update to the Utility section.
Version 10.07 on 12/06/2014. Version 10.07 is a must download for all users of the new EFA for Windows as it includes a ton of enhancements! To better understand what this version includes, please read the Version 10.06, and 10.05 notes below as well.
Version 10.07 of the EFA for Windows completes all the features the initial release did not include a couple weeks ago. We hope you enjoy this new version! We will be releasing a new EFA for Windows manual in a few days, but that has not changed much from the current manual other than different graphics.
The Version 10.07 also includes the new Check Register (which now spans multiple years) and the Checkmark Payroll Import utility as well.
We recommend you download and install this version immediately. It also includes a couple of fixes on "quirks" when adding a GL Transaction or AP Open Items/Checks (if you typed in the Vendor code instead of using the pop it might appear to erase a couple items on the top of that form.) This was a one minute fix but we had a hard time duplicating it. Also we have now activated the optional "Classic Interface" which gives you even more features of the old EFA. As an example the Add Transactions and Add Open Items Items/Checks (these options did not appear in version 10.05) now go into a Adding cycle just like the old EFA if you use the Classic Interface. The only difference is after you Save the record, you just hit CTRl+N to add a new one. This is a great feature as it does two things: it allows you to check your just saved work, and then press CTRL+N to add a new one! In addition if you hit CTRL+L in a Saved record you can even go to other saved records in the Adding form (the old EFA could never do this). In addition, you will notice we have renamed the General Ledger Edit Transactions to Edit/Add Transactions and the Accounts Payable Edit Open Items/Checks to Edit/Add Open Items. This allows you to not only Edit existing records but also Add ones here as well. In addition if you use the Classic Interface you get the Selection List similar to the old EFA when entering these Edit/Add forms. Also, when picking an Account in the GL Transactions or AP Open/Items popup list - these now use the Incremental Search feature. Also, if you would like these Add Selection List to remember the last record you used - these is very handy if you use more than 2 rows in these forms. Also the General Ledger Add/Edit Chart of Accounts, the Add/Edit Vendor info, the Free Payroll Add/Edit Items to Pay, and Free Payroll Add/Edit Employees all start with a Selection List if you are using the Classic Interface. The only thing that we were not able to include in this version is the new Check Register which should be posted in just a few more days.
Version 10.05 on 11/04/2014. Welcome back EFA for Windows! Version 10.05 again brings the COMS for Windows and also the EFA for Windows back to the same code base. This is the first total re-write and upgrade of the EFA for Windows since 1999. We did this per user request and it took a couple years to complete. Also this release of the COMS for Windows will also include the tie in to the new EFA for Windows for those churches who also post their giving from the COMS to the new EFA's data folder which is EfaData. As a bonus we also did include a new Free Payroll module as part of the EFA for Windows. If you have the old EFA or are a current client of Specialty Software you can order the new EFA for Windows for a special discount and save over $450 in the process. You can call the sales department at 1-800-568-6350 to immediately order the new EFA. The new EFA for Windows will also work on the same computers that the COMS for Windows does - and they are both installed at the same time. For those churches that upgrade to the new EFA for Windows we have good news. The new EFA for Windows will get normal updates and upgrades just like the COMS for Windows. Since all our clients do use the COMS for Windows but all our clients do not use the EFA for Windows there will be a small fee in future years for the updates to the EFA for Windows.
Version 10.04 on 05/10/2014. Be sure and read the notes on COMS version 10.03 for important explanations on COMS 10.xx and higher. We have posted COMS version 10.04 as a maintenance update as it corrects one issue with the Donation Tax Statement not printing. Following is the version Setup104.exe which contains version 10.4. This should only be installed if you are directed to by a technician at Specialty Software.
Format: Setup104.EXE (23.5 MB).
Last updated: May. 10, 2014.
Version 10.03 on 04/30/2014. COMS version 10.03 is the biggest upgrade since the initial release of COMS version 8.15 back in year 2003. This is a must have upgrade if you are using Windows 8, Windows 7, Vista, and also Windows XP. This version gives immediate help to Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 users (and an occasional Windows 7 user) who are having a problem with a missing file (usually a Reg file of some sort that has nothing to do with data). User's who receive this strange Windows error are not able to enter into the COMS program because Windows has erased the path to their data (the data is there, but the COMS can't find it). COMS version 10.02 and higher will not have this problem. If you are having this problem - COMS version 10.02 and 10.03 will fix this issue. You might have to re-enter your initial path locations when you first run this version, but that should be no problem. Remember that if you are using a single user system (not on a LAN) the ComsData folder is found in your root drive at "C:\ComsData". If you are on a LAN, you can select the network drive where your ComsData resides in the initial startup screens. If you get a question when installing this version asking something like "Is this the first time the program has been installed on this computer?", select No. If you are on a single user system and accidentally select "Yes" a new "C:\ComsData" folder will not be created. However, if you are on a LAN a "C:\ComsData" folder will be created on your local root drive - and you do not need this as you already have this folder on a shared drive.
Also, because of Windows 8 and 8.1 issues we have decided to install COMS version 10.02 and 10.03 and higher into the "C:\Specialty Software" folder right off your root drive instead of within the "C:\Program Files\Specialty Software" folder as we have in the past. This will make the software easier to maintain on your end, and also if you need technical support.
Version 10.03 has an updated ReadMe file. Be sure and read the ReadMe file which will be placed on your desktop when you install version 10.03 as it contains information on how to move your old filters to the new version 10.03 if needed.
Although COMS version 10.03 looks similar to the prior version 9.99, it is a large re-write of the COMS program and shares the same code base as the soon to be released EFA (Essential Fund Accounting). We do not have an exact shipping date on the new EFA - so thanks for your patience - it will not be much longer. The issues that Microsoft introduced in Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 required us to re-visit much of the work that had already been completed in the EFA (which was a very time consuming task).
In a few days we will also post the link so you can download the Training Video's (these are the same ones that you already had).
We hope you enjoy version 10.03 as this was a surprise release for our user's and took hundreds and hundreds of programming hours.
Version 10.02 on 04/21/2014. See version 10.03 for complete details. Everything is the same in version 10.03 except the Readme file was updated, and also a routine was included to move old filters from the COMS version 8.x and 9.x to the new COMS version 10.03
Version 9.99 on 02/21/2014. The version 9.99 includes new enhancements that help with the stability of installing the COMS (including Windows 7 and Windows 8 issues that Microsoft introduced in the early part of year 2014). This is considered a substantial release with many benefits, and it is a highly recommended download and update. The COMS Must ReadMe file that is found on your desktop was also updated. Item number 17 in the COMS Must ReadMe! has a new ResetPath.exe information that will help you with a couple things if you are using Windows 7, 8, or Vista. This include a strange message that the "Application Serial Number" is invalid (introduced through a recent Windows 8 and perhaps Windows 7 update) and a handful of users have received this message. We expect Microsoft will eventually fix whatever they have done, but for now this is the solution - the ResetPath.exe. Also, the ResetPath.exe will automatically do what was added in COMS update version 9.10. Another item we have done is we changed the Setup program so that a handful of files that were not used by Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista are not longer installed through the Setup (but will continue to be installed on Windows XP) - so you will no longer receive a setup message about this (again, Microsoft changed something recently that was requiring a handful of users to install the software on Windows 8 in Safe mode - this should overcome that issue).
Version 9.10 on 09/26/2013. The version 9.10 includes a number of enhancements that help with the stability of the COMS (including Windows 7 and Windows 8 issues that Microsoft introduced in the Fall of year 2013). In addition, there were several smaller updates that were rolled into this release. This is why this version jumps to version 9.10 from 8.99. This is considered a substantial release with many benefits, and it is a highly recommended download and update. The COMS Must ReadMe file that is found on your desktop was also updated.
Version 8.99 on 05/30/2013. The version 8.99 removes a dialog that "some but not all" Windows 8 user's see when starting the COMS program. There were also some other minor changes. If you are using version 8.98 and NOT using Windows 8, you do not need to apply this update.
Version 8.98 on 08/25/2012. The version 8.98 is a MAJOR update/upgrade to the COMS for Windows program. All five of this years updates have been rolled into this one update/upgrade. The BIG change was in the form titled Browse People. This form has now been completely re-written and is now titled Browse People Grid and Related Forms. This form works just like the one it replaced, but notice it now includes all the related Form options. As an example, as you are Browsing through your People list you can now click on Giving, Pledges, Attendance, Service, Committee, and the Prospect push buttons. This will save everyone a tremendous amount of time when you need to go back and correct some data or even add new data. Yes, you heard that correct - although you can not add a new Person in the Browse People Grid and Related Forms, you CAN add information in the related forms. We hope you enjoy this major enhancement to the software. This took a tremendous amount of programmers time to be able to do this. Soon we will also be having some new Video Tutorials to help you see how all this works (although most of the changes are obvious, the Video will show some information you might miss). Enjoy!
Version 8.93 on 10/14/11.
The version 8.93 is another major update - especially if you use Pledges. There were many small enhancements made, but there was a major change to the software which again took a couple hundred hour of programming time. When entering giving (and pledges) in the Enter Giving form you will now see that each line of giving you enter will hold the category, period, and also the date - EVEN if different years are used. This was a major requested feature, so we hope you enjoy the effort. As always, make sure you enter the first person's information correctly as it will then serve as a template for the rest of the giving you make that session. Also, a small fix was made so that if you enter a Check number, it will be reset to empty on the next person. The feature applies to both those who use pledges and those who do not.
Version 8.92 on 08/27/11.
The version 8.92 is a major update, so the version number changed up to version 8.92. There were many small enhancements made, but there was a major change to the software which took hundreds of hours of programming time. This change has been requested for years, so we have finally been able to make this change. Here it is: you can now select a person within a family, and now have that person moved to a completely new Family & People Form. As an example, you have a family with 4 people, and one of the child members is now an adult and moving to his own home (perhaps he just got married). You can now select this person in the Family & People Form, then pull down the People menu at the top and select the new option titled "Move selected person to their own new Family & People Form." This will move the selected person from their existing family, to a new family unit. You still have the option to move a person from another family to the new family as well. So, you can now quickly build a new Family unit.
Version 8.89 on 02/23/11.
The version 8.89 changed the font to a bold print in all mailing Labels so they would look a little darker when printing. We did this as it seems that Microsoft somehow changed the default font we had been using, or at least it started printing differently. Also, when posting the Giving File the dialog now will close after it is complete.
Version 8.88 on 10/23/10.
The version 8.88 is a maintenance release, and should be used now if you are using version 8.87 or lower, as it makes the new Browser Grids a little easier to use, and does fix a small issue with the Lookup button in the Browser Grids.
Version 8.87 on 10/11/10.
The version 8.87 is another fairly major update. Including in this one is a People Browser Grid (including the new Simple Filter access), and also some Windows 7 and Vista features dealing with those two operating systems.
Version 8.85 on 09/29/10.
The version 8.85 is a fairly major update. - and we have rolled version 8.82 through 8.85 into this version - so we have removed the posting dates of these upgrades. In addition to there being a number of odd and end things found throughout the software in this release, one of the big items added to this release is the Simple Filter system that was added to the Family & People Browse Grid form. The Simple Filter found here is the exact same one found in the Report Manager that most user's use all the time, so there will be no learning curve for most of you. In addition, the current Simple Filter you set will be saved so you can use it the next time if you wish. Also, in the Family & People Form's on the Memo tab where the little line that allows you to populate all the members of a family to that line (so this info can be used in like the Family Pictorial directory, etc.), you now have the option of including the families Anniversary and also their Birthdays in this line as well (you will be given the option if you wish this). Remember just by pressing a button this info is populated in the line for you.
Version 8.81 on 09/20/09.
The version 8.81 a minor update to the major update 8.80. This update improves the way the new Browse Grid works. If you have not yet upgraded to version 8.80, make sure you read the notes on version 8.80 as it was a substantial upgrade. There will also be another major upgrade which will take place probably the first of the year. That upgrade will introduce the Simple Filter screen to the Browse Grids so that you can filter on what is presented (exactly as you can currently do with the Simple Filter in the Report Manager).
Version 8.80 on 09/16/09.
The version 8.80 is a major update and upgrade that includes a number of enhancements throughout the software (including betting Maximize of screens within the Enter Giving, Enter Attendance, and Enter Groups Forms) so that the data grid's follow and fill the screen better. This makes for a more pleasant look and easier to use form.
However, the big news in this release is the introduction of our new Browse Grids, with the first one being the Family & People From Browse Grid. This allows for quick and easy viewing and editing of most (but not all) Family and People data within a browse grid (the data appears in columns similar to a spreadsheet such as Excel). We have updated the COMS Must ReadMe! which will appear on your desktop when you install this version so that you can see how to use the new browse grid - see item 14 in the ReadMe. However, it is obvious how to use it upon first looking at it. Post your questions here in the forum if you need additional help. As the ReadMe states, you will not be able to modify phones or address info in this grid, as that would cause slow scrolling and a performance issue (although we are looking for an alternative way to deal with this shortly) and defeat the purpose of the browse grid. For now, you would just view and modify that data within one of the Family & People Forms. The browse grid is perfect for those power users that need to see data quickly, and make changes quicker than is possible in a regular Family & People Form. We hope you enjoy this enhancements as it has taken many months to develop this new portion of the software.
Version 8.77, 8.78, and 8.79 all released within version 8.80 on 09/16/09.
Version 8.76 on 10/23/08.
This version 8.76 also includes a number of enhancements that were made to version 8.75 even though the version was not changed. In version 8.76 changes were made to the Form Letter reports, backup routine for the COMS and also the EFA, in all reports we removed the apostrophe (" ' ") sign that appeared between the City and State in address line as this is no longer the accepted norm, also corrected the deposit slip report so that grouping is now correct when a person gives with different checks, a new drop down was created for people who give online in the Enter Giving Form. Also, just hundreds of other small changes throughout the software.
Version 8.75 on 10/01/07.
Major Upgrade, and not just an Update in version 8.75. This is the Upgrade everyone has been waiting on for a few months. Notice the Family & People Form has been completely redesigned into a much larger, easier to use Form. The older Family & People Form is still available as well, and has been renamed "Family & People - Small Form." The new form is named "Family & People - Main Form." The new form will require that a display be set at the industry standard resolution size of 1024 by 768 or higher (this should not be a problem for anyone as this has now been the standard resolution size for about 5+ years). This upgrade included all requested changes to the new Family & People Form. Enjoy!
Version 8.70 to Version 8.74 - all these updates and features that were made to the software in year 2007 were rolled up into Version 8.75.
Version 8.69 on 12/20/06.
This update includes a number of items which are behind the scene and you might not notice through a casual glance of the software. One major change is in TAX receipts. You can now have your Tax Receipts numbered. Before you print the TAX statement, there is a new checkbox you can check that allows this information to appear on the report.
Version 8.63 to Version 8.68 - all these updates and features that were made to the software in year 2006 were rolled up into Version 8.69.
Version 8.62 on 11/28/05.
This is a fairly major upgrade that changes the way Giving & Pledges are entered in the Enter Giving Form. The Enter Giving now has a new Start Wizard that will allow the Giving to be entered quickly as the form now finds a person and then adds a new giving record with less keyboard or mouse inputs. In other words, the Enter Giving is put in a continual loop to make giving entry quicker. Fixed and cleaned up deposit slip so would truly print in the order giving was entered. A default Pledge Category can now be entered in the Pledge default screen that helps when adding Pledges from the Enter Giving Start Wizard.
Version 8.61 on 05/15/05.
Added a Quick Change of Envelope and Envelope Number ID's. This is found in the Tools menu, and is a great feature. Added some new Filter items for the reports. Made a number of generic cosmetic changes to COMS. Made the address in the Enter Giving form a little bigger.
Version 8.60 on 01/08/05.
Update that pertains to Pledge New Year Setup. When you are copying pledges to a new year, you can now decide if you would also like those pledge forms that pertain to non-pledge items to also be copied (this is the default - they are normally copied).
Version 8.59 on 10/15/04.
Update that fixed a filter code line from being shown when printing reports (this line was accidentally allowed to be shown in some version of update 8.58).
Version 8.58 on 08/31/04 and 09/11/2004.
This is a fairly major update! The Giving and Pledge Reports are now prepared for printing about 100 to 200 times faster than version 8.57 (example: what might have taken five to ten minutes is now done in a few seconds - this is a dramatic increase). Added the Check# on the regular Giving Detail Listing report. In the Enter Giving form, if using Quick Lookup for slow LAN, the Family checkbox not will show just the Family Sequence = 1. Added a new giving report to show those who have not given in a selected time frame. When the Maintenance form is open, will now close other forms. In Enter Giving form, added the Spouse name to help identify the correct person. Phone numbers are now available when modifying Giving reports. Also, for all Family reports, we make sure if someone is overriding the family address or phone, that is reflected in the reports. In Giving Report Setup can now set a date range for the giving report. Note: on Sept. 11, 2004 we re-posted this update as some user's were not able to print the new Giving report that shows people who have never given during a certain time frame.
Version 8.57 on 05/14/04.
COMS can now do all that is required to prepare bulk mailings, as we have integrated the COMS with Postage $aver. Postage $aver is a low cost product that is approved by the US Postal Service to print the required forms, tags, as well as doing the required sorts. When you are printing labels in the COMS, the Report Manager screen now has a checkbox that says "Use Postage $aver" and when this is checked, it activates Postage $aver as needed when printing or previewing the labels. It can't be any easier than this in using Postage $aver. Pricing for Postage $aver will be posted on our web site the early next week (May 17, 2004) and it will probably be priced in the $50 range (little more or less). If you are already a Postage $aver licensed user and purchased it from another source, you can purchase the required activation from us for only $25. This fee is not required if you purchase Postage $aver directly from us as we will provide you with the activation at the time of purchase. Note: Postage $aver is not a Specialty Software product, but is integrated within the COMS. Support for Postage $aver will come from its developer if ever needed. Note: Postage $aver is where the BIG postal savings come from, and CASS will be available soon if required for additional small postal savings.
Version 8.56 on 04/21/04.
This is a Minor update for LAN user's. We tightened up the code which was put in update version 8.55, as one church corrupted that table and it had to be erased using Windows Explorer. Now, if the special lookup table ever gets corrupted, you can rebuild this in the Maintenance Procedure Form by pressing the Re-initialize tab, then pressing the Re-build button.
Version 8.55 on 04/06/04.
This is a Major update for LAN user's. Includes optional new code which slow LAN users can activate to make the people lookup form work faster in the Family form and also in the Giving Form. Be sure to read the FAQ titled Our LAN is slow, how do I activate the special People or Giving People Lookup List to speed this up? Also, we added a few new giving options in the Giving pull down menu to setup the printed giving reports settings, as well as activation of pledges. Also made a small correction to the Giving Low-High report to better group by Family.
Version 8.54 on 02/23/04 and also on 02/25/04.
This update includes several items: In reports cleaned up so dashes don't print if phone number is empty. Also in a couple of giving and pledge reports, we increased the bottom page margin a fraction of an inch as some printers would cut off this line. Also, activated the Web Enabled features of the software. If a computer is always hooked up to the Web (DSL, Cable, T1, etc) we open a web page in the opening screen with information about the software, links to the Club, etc. We allow this Web enablement feature to be turned off in the Tools... Properties dialog. This will be the first of many new Web integration features that will be added to the software (all optional of course). Notice that there is two dates for this update - the first one was just for those that had a always on DSL or Cable internet connection, and the one on 02/25/04 is for everyone - those that have and always on DSL or Cable connection, or those that have not internet connection at all.
Version 8.53 on 02/09/04.
This update includes a few terrific changes. The filters have been expanded somewhat to contain more fields (the People Form filters now contain more of the Family Form items. Notice that these filters are not installed automatically, but you re-initialize your filters to receive these additional features. Remember - when you do, you overwrite any existing filters you might have already created - go to this link for more info: http://www.specialtysoftware.com/support/FaqRpts.htm#q7 ). Also, many items were renamed so that you can better understand if an item pertains to the Family or People Form. Also, the Giving Report High-Low now shows more items and looks similar to the Giving People Analysis Form. Also, for the Fund Summary giving report, the Report Setup screen now comes up to allow you to pick what year you would like report to print for.
Version 8.52 on 01/23/04.
This update includes a few items. The Logon screen now also shows the COMS version number. Also, in the Pledge Form if you have selected a non-pledge item, it can be entered for prior and future years. For Canada user's that have Canadian postal codes enable, if you drop down the Country menu and select any country other than Canada, you can now add USA style zip codes.
Version 8.51 on 01/08/04.
This version 8.51 is the same as 8.50, however some users didn't get a complete download of all the added reports with version 8.50. This takes care of that issue. If you have downloaded 8.50, you should download 8.51 or higher to take care of that issue. Also, on 01/08/04 a small change was made to the sort of the Family Listing reports - so they would always print out in alpha order by Family Last+First name as expected (in very rare circumstances if a person was moved from one family to his own family, he would print out after his old family regardless of his first name). If you downloaded update 8.51 prior to 7pm eastern time on 01/07/2004 - then download update 8.51 or newer again.
Version 8.50 on 01/04/04.
We have been busy working over the long New Years weekend and hope all Club Members enjoy the overtime efforts. We added a new Family Listing (without emails and website address) that is a little tighter than the other Family Listing (this new report is almost identical to the Family Listing in old version 5.5x). In Attendance Report, the Attendance listing now breaks on a new page when class+year changes. Some of the Service and Committee reports now also break with each new category (and more sorts are allowed). Also, when entering Giving, if pledges are activated but the person does not yet have a pledge, a message now ask would they like to open the Pledge Form and add one. This will make those of you who have pledges activated a little quicker when you attempt to enter a Giving item for a person who has not yet had a pledge entered on him.
Version 8.49 on 01/04/04.
Version number 8.49 was skipped, see Version 8.50 instead.
Version 8.48 on 01/04/04.
Version number 8.48 was skipped, see Version 8.50 instead.
Version 8.47 on 12/03/03.
We have been busy working over the long Thanksgiving weekend and hope you enjoy the overtime efforts. Also a sincere thank you to our friend Stan for also helping us setup and debug the new Family Report items over this long holiday weekend. This update has the following changes and enhancements: The Enter Giving Form now opens up with the last record it was closed on - just like Family & People Form does. Also, in the Enter Giving Posting routine if there is a problem with posting to the EFA, then it bails without posting to the COMS or the EFA so that you can correct the problem and then post again. New item was added when printing Family Reports that if a person in the family has a different last name from the other people in the family, they can optionally print out on their own section of the report (but they still print out with the family depending upon the report). Also, in the Family Form, in the Memo Tab a pushbutton was added to build the line of family people who are part of the family - and this information can now also be used in several of the Family Reports to give you a listing of people in the Family (such as in the Family Column 1 and Column 2 rosters, etc.). Also, fixed a couple of the Family reports that were printing the individual email address instead of the family email address. Also, tightened up the Fonts to make sure reports were printing out a little tighter. Also, modified a number of reports so that when they break with the last name an "*A*", *B*, etc. will print out. Also, fixed a possible "SQL Too Long" message when re-initializing Attendance Records. We added the default message for the Tax Statement (applies to first time installation of the COMS - this can be manually typed in also if you have not already done so). Also, the new Query Manual in PDF (which gives additional info on how to build advanced filters) format can now be found in the "C:\Program Files\Specialty Software\ComsWin" folder.
Version 8.46 on 10/28/03.
Allow the Tax Form to print additional Page numbers if it spans more than one page (which should only happen in rare occasions - as they normally print on one page). Also fixed the Enter Giving report to print out if a unposted giving record does in fact exist. It seems like 'sometimes' a message would say no records were available to print - this will no longer happen unless no records exist in the Enter Giving form.
Version 8.45 on 10/20/03.
Added the actual Check number if required to the new 2004 Tax Form. If you backup or restore just the Family & People Form, the address and phone number data files are now also included in the Zip file. We also added at the Logon screen info on updates and technical help, etc. Also added a Technical support form to the Help menu. Also added code to remind you when your Club Membership expires, etc.
Version 8.44 on 10/20/03.
Version number 8.44 was skipped, see Version 8.45 instead.
Version 8.43 on 9/15/03.
In the Enter Attendance and also Enter Groups Form, the 'check all' check box was changed to two buttons you can press - one to Check All and one to Un Check All people. This speeds up this operation - especially when you select a different item from the List (like a new Class, etc.). A number of changes were made to the Report Manager. Several of the Forms had their Report Sort's activated whereas previously some of the sorts were only available when printing Labels. Also, a few new sorts were added that allows reports to be printed in Birthday or Anniversary order (ex: within a Attendance Report, a list can be printed of a class in Birthday order, etc.). Several changes were made to the Filtering system (you will need see this FAQ - http://www.specialtysoftware.com/support/FaqRpts.htm#q7 - to activate those new filter settings). Also, just to give you all an idea of how much time it takes to modify and program a new feature into software - it took 30 hours of a programmers time to write and test just the included new Sorts of this 8.43 update. Attention: Stan - the item you requested is in this update - enjoy it!
Version 8.42 on 9/01/03.
On this Labor Day, we labored hard and added a new menu selection to the People pull-down menu (when you have the Family & People Form open, you have access to the People menu). This menu selection is titled "Repair Family Table." This item will never be used by 999 out of a 1,000 churches. However, here is what is does. If you have a computer failure or outage (perhaps a LAN failure, lightning strike, etc.) and all of a sudden you notice when the Family & People Form are open, that a Family Address and/or Family Phone does not seem to match the correct family - then you 'might' have a Family table index corruption - or a missing Address or Phone record on this particular family. This new menu option will allow you reinitialize that Address and/or Phone for the Family. You can then make any additional corrections to the Family Address or Phones as needed. Also, if you have the Family & People Form open, and you notice that some of the Family Address or Family Phone fields are 'grayed' out - you do have a corrupted Address or Phone table - and selecting this menu option will also fix this problem as well.
Version 8.41 on 8/29/03.
After version 8.40 was posted, we found that under 'unusual circumstances' if you overrode a Family Address or Family Phone with an individual Person's Address or Phone, it just didn't behave as it should when you immediately went to another Person's individual address or phone form. So, this was corrected. Even if you downloaded version 8.40, you should also download and install version 8.41. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Version 8.40 on 8/28/03.
Changed several reports so that they now break with an alpha letter in the rosters. Added new Family Form report, new People Form report, new Family Master List report. Also, added a couple new Giving Reports for office analysis. Added item to hold EFA location when posting Giving in Windows registry - especially helpful for those on a LAN. Improved the Table repair utility that you see on application startup in case of power failure or LAN failure. Made an additional change to the Family Form when moving an individual from one family to a new family (this change makes sure if you are grouping his Giving-Pledges by Family, that they truly do print with the new Family). Also, made sure that when adding a Giving item that if you have the non-deductible item checked in the Category Form, that setting will also be set when adding a new Giving record.
Version 8.35 to Version 8.39
These version numbers were skipped as all the features were rolled into Version 8.40 and higher.
Version 8.34 on 8/01/03.
Made a few changes to Family Form so that for individuals (People) - the Mailing Group is now titled Personal Mailing Groups, and Location is titled Personal Location. We also made these changes in the Report Manager Filters - and we also added the Updated fields as a filter selection. Also, this is the first release that does not automatically overwrite the Filters but rather the user can do this in the Maintenance screen. Also, corrected the Friends 2 Column label report so it would print out barcodes. Also, gave new settings so user can decide if Anniversary or Birthdays will print out on the Listing reports.
Version 8.33 on 7/08/03.
Modified the main Pledge report which is used to give to donors so that any amounts posted for Non Pledge Items will be listed for periods 1 - 12. This will make this report a little clearer to understand. Also, when using the Report Writer you can now add Memo's from several forms to your modified report if required. Finally, fixed a couple quirks in the Report Writer.
Version 8.32 on 6/30/03.
Activated the IRS Donor Tax report that will used in year 2004 for year 2003 taxes. Donor Tax statement can now be grouped by Family if you wish. Also, activated so items can be given to Goods and Services with notice that normally an amount is not entered. Also, in the Report Manager the Report Settings dialog will appear when the you Preview or Print a report - unless you turn off this feature in the Properties window. Also, pressing the Report Settings button no longer turns off filters that you have already set for that particular report.
Version 8.31 on 6/21/03.
Fixed the Family Reports so they always use the Family Address and Phone numbers, whereas they 'might' have been using the Person One's address and phones under certain unique circumstances (this was correct for the People reports, but was a problem for some family reports). Also, activated several reports so you can now decide rather the birthday-anniversary complete year will print out by pressing the report setup button in the Report Manager. Also, added a new password selection so that a person can be restricted to 'just view' the forms and not change any data (see the UserName and Password FAQ for info on using the Security system as you might need to download 3 small files to receive this benefit). Also, changed the word 'Total' to 'Pledge - Received' in the Pledge Detail report to clear up any misunderstanding. Finally, made a small change when moving people from one family to another family so that the person who was moved to the new family will for sure inherit the address and phone numbers of the new family (unless you are overriding the family and phone numbers for that person).
Version 8.30 on 6/05/03.
Put the Page Setup... menu selection in the File menu so that when a report is being modified is being edited with Report Writer, it is selectable. Also, put a little more space in the Family listing report between families. And, changed data entry forms so that when entering ZIPS can enter letters also, so USA users can enter Canadian, etc. postal codes.
Version 8.29 on 5/12/03.
Minor fix while Entering Attendance that might pertain to a few people. When entering attendance, if you see a dialog that says 'Press any key to continue...' this update will correct and stop that message from appearing. Unfortunately, this was left over from programmers fixing another attendance issue a few releases back. If you do not Enter Attendance, you do not need to download this update.
Version 8.28 on 5/06/03.
Minor fix to the Restore procedure that presented a dialog before restoring each file. This only happened very seldom and few computers would have ever exhibited this behavior.
Version 8.27 on 4/25/03.
Minor fix to the Enter Attendance and Enter Groups form whereas if you entered the wrong name repeatedly the form might have shifted a pixel - which made it look out of focus. This only happened very seldom and few computers would have ever exhibited this behavior.
Version 8.26 on 4/23/03.
Minor fix to the Family & People Form. If a person was deleted from a family, the family address or phone might not be able to be edited in some circumstances. This was corrected. Also, the option found in the People pull down menu that allows a person to be moved from one family to another was renamed to 'Move a person to this family...' to make it more clear. Also added a new item to the Properties dialog that allows you to decide how long in an incremental search it holds the letters you are typing in (this applies in Grids and also lookup list, etc.).
Version 8.25 on 4/19/03.
Minor fix if posting to the optional program EFA and you have entered an incorrect debit-credit account. You are now able to pull down the Giving menu from the Posting screen, and make this change.
Version 8.24 on 4/17/03.
Major enhancement in the Enter Groups - added a new Requery option that now allows the people who are part of a group to be automatically checked - so you can see who is in that group. Also, fixed an annoyance that showed some people initially checked if their People 'Mark' field was checked.
Also, made sure that all Attendance, Service, Committee, and Prospect reports were printing out in Alpha order as required in selected reports.
Version 8.23 on 4/15/03.
Minor modification to a few attendance reports that were not breaking between attendance Category-Description and Attendance Year. Also, similar change to a couple Service-Activity and Committee reports. Also, made a minor change to the 'Simple Filter' for Family Filters if 'Only include in Family Reports' was selected.
Version 8.22 on 4/11/03.
Major change as the Form Letters for all Forms was activated.
Added a new ALT+Q option in the Family & People Form that allows the Find Dialog to be able to enter like a Last+First or Last+Nick name and immediately find that person and their family.
Added a new option to the CTRL+F Find dialog in the Family & People form that allows you to enter the FamilyLast + FamilyFirst Name and go immediately to that family.
Added new pull-down menus to the Enter Groups (titled Groups) and Enter Giving (titled Giving) that allows Categories and Descriptions to be added-edited quickly.
Version 8.21 on 4/4/03.
This is the remaining parts we didn't include in the prior update. Included in this is a new requested Find Dialog (CTRL+F) while Entering Giving. So, for LastNick or LastFirst allows you to enter a name like 'Smith Jimmy' or 'SMITH JIMMY' or 'smith jimmy' and when you press ENTER will immediately go to his record. You can now easily find people by pressing CTRL+L or CTRL+F and the choice is yours as to which one you prefer to use. Prior to this update, CTRL+F only allowed you to just enter the last name.
Also, this update now carries the Category+Description from the prior record when Entering Giving - which might save you a keystroke. This obviously doesn't apply if you have Pledges Activated.
Version 8.20 on 4/3/03.
We added the Description to the Unposted Giving Summary Report (which is one of two unposted reports). Also, fixed an annoyance for a few users that were using pledges - and when you saved the Giving the pledges did not appear in the form on the screen, but did in the Unposted reports.
Version 8.19 on 3/30/03.
Fixed an Enter Attendance problem that was introduced with update version 8.15. What could happened was when you were entering attendance and press the ENTER key, it would cause an error. Ouch!
Version 8.18 on 3/28/03.
Improvement in Attendance Reports Setup to allow easier selection of Absentee or Present reports.
Fixed a minor problem if you tried to print a 'Mailing Label' for the Music or Inventory Form (which do not require mailing labels).
Version 8.17 on 3/25/03.
Major change to Report Manager. A new 'Simple Filter' push button was added that allows you to set a simple filter here first, and then you can then set an additional one using the 'Quick Filter' or 'Existing Filter' options. Also, the Simple Filter is where you are able to set a filter for like: Birthday equals the month of June, so you can get a list of all people who were born in the month of June regardless of the year.
Version 8.16 on 3/18/03.
Minor change to Readme.txt file. Also, will place a Desktop shortcut to the Readme.txt file so that you can easily open it and read it - as this is required reading.
Made a minor change to conversion utility so that for LAN uses of old COMS 5.x program it will also check the COMSLAN folder to see if that is where the SVPATH.MEM file is that points to the visuals.
Added a new Lansetup.exe utility that will allow easy folders to be created on the workstation or the shared drive.
The PDF reports will now also output color items.
Version 8.15 on 3/8/03.
Minor change to couple allow Family and Friends Labels to be put in either all caps, or not.
Filter is re-set to default whenever a different report is selected.
Version 8.14 on 3/8/03.
Minor change to couple Family reports to always make sure they are just printing one per family without user having to set a filter.
Version 8.13 on 3/7/03.
When Preview a Report, it now Zooms to full screen.
Also made sure 'NoImage.jpg' was in default folder so that visual reports could find this file in case a Pictorial directory was being printed and everyone did not actually have a picture.
Note: To Download the Setup.exe, see the beginning of this section - it is titled Latest Update.
