Brilliant Accounting, the tried and tested accounting software application developed by Softline group company Brilliant Business Systems, is headed for the retail market following the signing this week of an agreement with the national computer hardware and software retailer, Incredible Connection.
Pete Whalley, Brilliant sales and marketing director, expects the software to be available from Incredible Connection`s 18 outlets countrywide from August 26, when the retail entry of the product will be officially launched.
"Our rationale here is to make the product more widely and easily available, combining the selling power of Incredible Connection with the support power of our value-added service provider (VASP) network. At the same time, the options that are being given will provide a win-win situation for all involved - end-users, retailer, channel and supplier.
Whalley added that Brilliant would provide VASPs with support and service leads of retail purchase end-users requiring support. These end-users would be based within the dealer`s specific geographical areas of operation.
Incredible Connection merchandise executive Dave Hirsch said it was a unique concept to bring retail into the selling of a licensed software product: "The way it has been structured is right in line with our business philosophy of adding value for our customers. Like Brilliant, we want to keep our customers for life.
"With Brilliant Accounting on our shelves we not only have a world-class product to sell but also the means to offer customers a total solution as far as accounting software is concerned, meeting the needs of individuals and very small businesses right through to the top end of SME organisations."
Hirsch added that Incredible Connection was placing new focus on the SME market with the six new stores opening this year all having a dedicated SME area carrying quality products -- including Brilliant Accounting -- suitable for that specific market. "The SME areas are an extension of our drive to make things easier for our customers and add value. Brilliant is an important part of that."
Brilliant`s plan is to make Brilliant Accounting available at Incredible Connection outlets for R99. This gives purchasers a 15-day trial period with access to not only the central accounting package but also all nine add-on modules. The R99 price includes an option to book, at no extra charge, the services of an on-site business consultant who will assist in the selection of a total accounting solution that best suits each purchaser`s specific needs.
After the trial period purchasers are in a position to make a qualified decision. They may either book a full demonstration of the software and its capabilities before making a final decision; or subscribe to the annual software and service agreement. Those who confirm their purchase after the free 15-day trial merely telephone Brilliant and obtain a code extension. The code is tailored to the individual user`s needs, covering whatever combination of modules is required.
The user then also obtains free on-site installation, free unlimited telephone support for the full year, free upgrades, updated tax tables and program revisions. A further differentiator from other packages is the entitlement to a one-day training course as part of the initial fee.
"Finally, if after all this the client is still not satisfied, Brilliant offers a Solution Guarantee, whereby the client may return the package within 90 days and obtain a full, unconditional refund on the agreement, " said Whalley.
"Our overall motivation is simple. "We are not selling a box, we are selling a business solution and all of the support services that go with maintaining that solution at peak performance. Why should anyone have to take a chance with a software package that is responsible for something as critical as the financial reporting of their business?"
Brilliant`s retail strategy, Whalley concludes, is founded on the basis that the greater the retail sales, the more support and service work and revenue generating opportunities Brilliant will be able to pass onto to the channel service providers. "It is win-win for everyone."
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