Single-File Design

The Concept
Accounting can be viewed simply as a series of transactions that take place over time. The traditional approach of modular, batch-oriented, master-file systems involves a series of batching, posting, and closing at various levels with the need for potentially numerous module interfacings to allow transactions to flow through all necessary functional areas of the system for reporting purposes.

The master-file approach necessarily creates possible timing conflicts between data processing needs and reporting objectives. When is the system ready to produce reports? Typically, only after all transaction entry points have completed the cycle of batching, posting, and closing will the system's reports contain the results of all transactions currently entered into the system.

The Single-File Design deployed by Plus & Minus is a refreshingly different, more efficient approach. Conceptually, all accounting transactions, no matter where they originate, are stored in one file from which the computer can retrieve data as requested and present it in the form in which it is needed. The result is a system in which all data is available at all times, on demand.

Processing

SFD handles computer processing needs using one file. This diminishes both dedicated random access memory and hard disk storage hardware requirements needed to operate the programs by up to 80 percent. There is no posting, no closing, and no module interfacing. The system operates in a real-time environment, up-to-the-second at all times, and does not have to be formally closed.

Reporting

Plus & Minus' deployment of SFD technology combined with its real-time processing environment allows data entry to function independently of reporting functions. Why is this important and how does it differ from the classic master-file approach of all other mid-market systems? The books theoretically remain in a perpetually closed state, ready for examination at any time - the ultimate implementation of the "virtual close"! Simply specify the appropriate time period along with the desired range of accounts and/or sub-accounts. All transactions which meet the specified selection criteria are electronically gathered and presented to the user. Due to the system's robust performance, this typically only takes a matter of seconds. A near paperless office is now a reality because all reporting is done on demand. Transaction and document detail remains in the system indefinitely. Massive computer printouts, journal reports, and ledger runs can be eliminated. With the ability to produce reports on demand indefinitely into the future, there are no mandatory print requirements for reports, as typically required by batch oriented systems.


Real-time or
batch?

The age-old dilemma accountants struggle with: Is it preferable to subject financial and operational data to the batch model of entry, review, and posting to system accounts prior to reporting on such data? Or, should reports reflect all data currently entered in the system regardless of its review or posting status? Company resources, type of industry and products offered, data sensitivity, and materiality are but a few of the variables that must be taken into account to answer this question for any given company. Plus & Minus accommodates both methodologies. Recognizing that some prefer the relative "comfort" of batch oriented systems in environments requiring a higher level of internal controls while others insist on the fast, accurate, and on-demand financial reporting of a real-time oriented system, Plus & Minus offers a choice between the two to help your business successfully compete in today's increasingly complex business environment.

The Virtual
Close

Want to stay on top of your P&L on a daily basis? Avoid being blind-sided by unpleasant operating results by implementing the reporting system concept made popular by Cisco Systems. Use technology that shares your critical financial data instantaneously across the entire enterprise. Plus & Minus provides such an electronic infrastructure that allows constant monitoring of your critical data - sales figures, product margins, high-cost structures by region, division, department, or other reporting unit - in real-time. The result is the capability to more quickly spot opportunities and problems as they arise.