September 2009 

New Feature for CounterPoint Software Created by Mariner Business Solutions

WHAT IF YOU COULD...

·         Improve the accuracy of your customer database 

·         Decrease the time it takes to add new customers to your loyalty program and customer database

·         Reduce waiting time for customers at your register

·         Instantly calculate age verification for tobacco or alcohol products without the cashier's involvement

NOW YOU CAN!

            With Mariner Business Solutions' "Customer Driver's License Add On Feature" 
 
Simply scan the bar code on the back of your customer's driver's license and the MBS created Customer Form in CounterPoint will automatically be filled in and the customer database will be updated. No sensitive information is encrypted on the state issued barcode giving your customers peace of mind regarding identity theft and the information you need for concise marketing and customer information. 

Requirements:
·         CP SQL V 8.3.8 (or higher)
·         Symbol DS9808 Scanner
·         Customer Driver's License Add On Feature by MBS

 Contact Mariner Business Solutions today to learn more about this custom program at      
(303) 692-8200.
***Special offer: Now through October 31, 2009 receive the Symbol DS9808 Scanner & the Customer Driver's License Add On feature by MBS plus configuration and installation for only $499.00 (that's a savings of $125.00!)***

Your Next Move When Business is Down

If revenue is at least flat, tweak your marketing to focus on how customers can save money. If you still have cash or a credit line, consider capital improvements.
By Karen E. Klein
 
There's no arguing the fact that these are trying times, and not only for entrepreneurs. Most business owners have never seen an economic downturn as deep and as persistent as the one we've experienced for more than a year. Indeed, the downturn started more than two years ago for many small companies.
"This is a scenario most entrepreneurs never imagined. It's a real wake-up call to see your life savings dwindle to half. Many [business owners] wonder if they're even going to survive. It's taken the wind out of their sails," says Mark Rittmanic, chief executive of ForteONE, a business consultancy based in Northbook, Ill.
In one sense, a routine recession can mercifully winnow weak companies that probably would not be successful over the long term. But a prolonged downturn like the one we are experiencing challenges even solid small companies with positive track records...Read more here

Tech Tips 

Solutions for Maintaining Your Computer System

Backup any data you cannot afford to lose.
The time to backup is when you create something you can't afford to lose. Backups should be scheduled daily. You need to physically check your backup solution often.

Solution:
Mariner Business Solutions offers an online backup service.  There is no need for you to worry about your backup, we do it all for you.  Contact MBS at (303) 692-8200 for more information.

The greatest enemy to your computer is heat.
Heat causes the internal components and chips to wear out. Heat also lowers the performance of your system. The first thing to check is the ventilation around your system. Many of the standard computer desks force you to place your computer in an enclosed cabinet.

Solution:
If your system is in an enclosed space, cut a hole in the back of the cabinet behind your cooling fan. This will allow it to draw cool air into the system. Your system should have at least 4in of space to the rear, with no clutter, loose paper, etc., to block the flow of air into the computer. The second thing you can do, is to clean the dust from the inside surfaces of your system. Do this at least twice a year and your monitor once every 2 years. Make sure that you clean the blades of the cooling fans. Clean the power supply fan, the CPU's cooling fan and the case fan (if you have one) as well.

Do not lose valuable information due to power outages and power spikes.
An unexpected power disruption could cause data loss.

Solution:
You should have a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for your computer.
A UPS with a line conditioner is preferred. A UPS can be used to provide uninterrupted power to equipment, typically for 5-15 minutes until an auxiliary power supply can be turned on, utility power restored, or equipment safely shut down.This will also protect your computer from low and high voltage occurrences. A UPS is far superior to a surge protector and will save your computer from almost any power type of disaster. 
*** If you don't currently use a UPS Mariner Business Solutions can provide you with this important piece of equipment.  Contact MBS at (303) 692-8200 for a quote.

How to Get Support

One number is all you need to provide the help you require should you have a support issue with your CounterPoint system.  The number is (303) 692-8200.  Please note that Mariner Business Solutions normal support hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Mountain time.  After hours support hours are 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm Mountain time weekdays, and all day on the weekends and holidays.  Dial (303) 692-8200 to reach the after hours support person.  Select menu selection 5 from the automated attendant to be connected with the person on call after hours.
You can also go to the Mariner Business Solutions website and log a non emergency support issue online:
Support Request 
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We need your feedback as well as any suggestions you may have for future issues. Please email your comments to katheb@marinerbusinesssolutions.com. Also feel free to forward this newsletter to anyone you may know that may benefit from the services Mariner Business Solutions provides. We look forward to providing you with useful topics and information to enhance your business.
 
Wishing you much success,
The Mariner Business Solutions Team
(303) 692-8200