A small update has been posted for ASW 9.44.31.  This includes multiple fine tuning requests, a core engine update, and new reports ( active deposits, and tax exempt client list ).  The majority of work involves ASW 10, due for release in 2015.

Can I use a tablet with Auto Shop Writer ?

We hear this a lot, especially with the sales pushes on so many tablets these days.  ASW runs on WINDOWS tablets only.  The full program runs on tablet computers like the Microsoft Surface Pro 3, and the Lenovo Yoga.  These have displays large enough to fit the full ASW program.

In addition, the Microsoft Store has been offering a 7” tablet that works just like the larger models but it is a smaller screen.  It is too small to actually view ASW, but with ASW 10, we will have a custom program that is written for that device ( or other small screen Windows tablets ). 

Android ( ie. Galaxay ) and iPads use different operating systems and are not useable with ASW.

What is Windows 10 and will ASW work with it ?

Microsoft listens, and it has reviewed millions of suggestions from users of the worlds most popular operating system to evolve yet the latest in technology.  Windows 10 works across all types of computers ( servers, desktops, notebooks, tablets, and phones ) with a single, unified operating system.  No one else does this.  The product is “under development” but preview versions are in curculation.  Auto Shop Writer 10 not only works with all existing versions of Windows, but it has also been tested, and works perfectly, with Windows 10.

Can you …… ?

Often people call to ask if we can add a certain feature.  This usually occurs when there is a new task that needs to be handled, or some salesperson wants to claim why their product is better because it does something supposedly unique.  The answer usually ends up with one of the following responses:

• That’s a great idea.  We’ll get it out right away ( usually within a few days ).
• That’s a great idea for ASW 10 ( currently under development and testing )
• Here is how you do that ( because the capability is already included in ASW )
• We’ve considered that, and here are the reasons we have not already included it

Of course, the most important issue here is we want your input.  Send it to support@masterlinksoftware.com and you will get a reply.

Why do you want everything emailed ?

When you call, and notes are taken, they have a tendency to wander off and be forgotten.  Emails receive a written response, and all requests are then tracked in the TO DO system … and never lost.  Emails also are a great opportunity to provide details, very important in understanding the need.

We haven’t had reports of any problems, so no immediate need to provide any updates !

That doesn’t mean new features are not coming.  We will be providing an update in November that will add a couple of new features.

So what is happening at MasterLink ?  Auto Shop Writer 10 !  Yes, we are working on a MAJOR new upgrade to the system.

Why are we doing it ?  Because we have some significant new features we want to add, and we need to do a lot of internal revision to optimize the existing code, and enhance our databases.

Will it be hard to learn ?   Absolutely NOT.  At first glance, it will look pretty much like your existing system, and you will find everything you need right where you found it before.  There is essentially a zero learning curve on existing features, and we’ll provide some new videos for the new features.

What is all this stuff about Windows 10?  Microsoft has announced Windows 10, and yes, we already have a preview version.  It is not planned for release until Fall, 2015, but they want techies to work with it now.  The idea is to blend the best features of Windows 8 with a more popular desktop experience.  It works well now, but it will continue to be refined based on a lot of input.  Microsoft really does want to be responsive to their clients and very fast with their updates and problem fixes.  ASW 10 is already running in Windows 10, and of course it runs on Windows tablets with no problems.  We’ll keep you updated.

What will ASW 10 cost ?  ASW 10 is a major upgrade.  Our policy is to provide it at no extra charge as part of the DPP and Rental plans.  It will hopefully be released in the first quarter of 2015, after extensive live testing.  If you keep your 2015 DPP fees current, you will automatically get it !