The Future of Sage 500 ERP
For years now, rumors have swirled around whether Sage will sunset Sage 500 ERP and when. Sage has stated that they are not sunsetting Sage 500 and that there will be “no forced migrations” from the product. However, the simple fact of the matter is, the future for Sage 500 will likely be determined by Microsoft, not Sage.
THE IMPACT OF MICROSOFT VB 6.0 ON SAGE 500
Sage 500 (formerly called MAS 500) was built from the ground up using Microsoft SQL Server, Visual Basic 6.0 and Microsoft Office technology. Microsoft VB 6.0 was first released way back in 1991 and gets limited support from MS today. New applications are not being developed using VB 6.0, but Microsoft itself has many applications that rely on the code, so they are keeping it compatible with Windows releases—for now. Once this effort stops (currently slated for 2022), there will be no good viable path forward for Sage 500 ERP.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR SAGE 500 CLIENTS RIGHT NOW?
It means that while there is no immediate need to migrate off Sage 500, clients should be thinking about replacement options and considering migrating at their own pace. It also means if you want to stay on Sage 500 for the foreseeable future, we are here to support you. However, if you do so, we recommend that you upgrade to the latest version (currently v2021) to use the newer versions of SQL and Windows Server and other tools.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM NET AT WORK
Net at Work has a large number of Sage 500 clients and we are here to support them for as long as they want to remain on Sage 500.
And while we support Sage’s stance of ‘no forced migrations’, we also understand the importance of planning ahead. So, if you want to explore your migration options we are here to help. Over the past 6 years, we have helped dozens of clients find their next ERP solution.
For those ready to explore options, we have created a process that allows us to better understand your currents needs. Your company has grown and changed in the years since you implemented Sage 500. The review process will enable us to understand those changes and ensure your new ERP software will fit your current and future needs.
For more information about migrating from Sage 500 to your next ERP, please view our recorded Sage 500 End User Meeting.
To speak with a Sage 500 advisor about the future of Sage 500 and your options, please contact us.
WRITTEN BY TOM DIETERLE
Tom has been supporting Sage 500 clients since coming to Net at Work in 2005. He has over 25 years of experience been working with Sage products (ERP, CRM & HRMS) in areas of financial, distribution and manufacturing. Tom is responsible for establishing and building customer relationships and ensuring customers are satisfied with their Net at Work experience. He provides high-level technical support and works to resolve any customer dissatisfactions. He is the primary point of contact for his clients and connects customers with specific teams to address specific requests.
