Powerful Mobile Finance Management with Spb Finance 1.0

[Jason Dunn]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.pocketgear.com/software_detail.asp?id=10803&associateid=204' target='_blank'>http://www.pocketgear.com/software_...associateid=204</a><br /><br /></div>Spb Software House, the company I work part-time for, has released Spb Finance 1.0 today. The press release is below, and you can <a href="http://www.pocketgear.com/downloads.asp?product_id=10803">download the 15 day trial</a> or <a href="http://www.pocketgear.com/software_detail.asp?id=10803&associateid=204">purchase it for $19.95</a> [Affiliate]. I'm biased of course, but the pre-release feedback we received on Spb Finance was extremely positive, and I think this is one of the better financial management programs on the market today.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/finance240x320.gif" /> <br /><br />"Spb Software House announces the release of Spb Finance 1.0, the most powerful personal finance management platform ever created for the Pocket PC. Pocket PCs are powerful mobile tools, but often the software isn't designed to match the potential of the device, or designed to rely on a desktop computer for functionality. Spb Finance is a stand-alone financial management application capable of managing all aspects of personal finances without the use of a desktop PC application. Some of the features of Spb Finance include a powerful register view, transactions splits, customizable auto-complete, reports, budgets, customizable categories and classes, and data encryption. Multiple currencies are supported, as is a Today-screen plugin that allows for quick, at-a-glance data. Data can be imported from Quicken-compatible QIF files.<!><br /><br />The reporting feature of Spb Finance is particularly powerful: users can use visual charts and graphs to examine net worth, account balances, profit and loss statements, income and expense categories, monthly categories, and transaction reports. Reports can be customized, allowing the user to choose from which accounts, categories and classes are included. The reports can be displayed in four different ways: pie chart, bar graph, line graph or table view.<br /><br />Security is vital where personal financial data is concerned, and while the Pocket PC's password protection is adequate for most instances, Spb Finance offers an additional layer of protection using AES (Rijndael) encryption. The password must be provided each time Spb Finance is loaded in order to access the data, and all transactions are stored in this single file. Data is secured from loss in another way: by placing the single data file in the Pocket PC's My Documents folder, if the user has file synchronization turned on in ActiveSync, he or she will automatically be backing up his or her financial data.<br /><br />Spb Finance will be localized to several languages upon release, including German and French. A free 15-day trial can be downloaded, or Spb Finance can be purchased for $19.95 USD, from <a href="www.spbsoftwarehouse.com">www.spbsoftwarehouse.com</a>.<br /><br />**** About Spb Software House **** <br />Spb Software House is a software development company, specializing mainly in Pocket PC software. Founded in 1999, the company offers advanced software solutions for use in a wide range of scenarios. <br /><br />**** Further Information and Downloads **** <br />Further information regarding Spb Finance 1.0 can be found on our Web site: <br /><a href="http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/">http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/</a> <br /><br />Features demonstrated through screen shots: <br /><a href="http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/screenshots.html">http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/screenshots.html</a> <br /><br />A free 15-day trial can be downloaded from the Spb site: <br /><a href="http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/download.html">http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/download.html</a>

[m@rio]

Just download the trial... it looks great. I was looking to find a way to replace Mastersoft Money because I'm with some space problems and Mastersoft Money is huge, I think I just found what I was looking for :D


hugs,
mari0

[petvas]

I am using Cash Organiser Deluxe 2003 and I am very happy with it. It would be great to see a comparison review between all Financial Software...

[CESkins]

I am using Cash Organiser Deluxe 2003..It would be great to see a comparison review between all Financial Software...
I agree with petvas. It would be great to see a comparison review. I too am using CO Deluxe 2003 (http://www.inesoft.com/eng/index.php) and so far it is the most feature rich financial program for the PocPC and can sync with desktop versions of MS Money. Having won numerous awards for best financial software year after year, IMHO it is the standard by which financial software should be judged.

[ctmagnus]

I personally use Pocket Quicken as it does record-level synching with desktop Quicken. The only two drawbacks imo: 1) It doesn't do invoice-style transactions the way desktop Quicken does. You have to enter the invoice entry on the desktop and sync; the entry then shows up as an uneditable split in Pocket Quicken. 2) It doesn't sync budgets.

[nz0eBoy]

Jason, do you know if they plan to provide an ActiveSync 'portal' for MS Money?

I was not aware of Cash Organiser Deluxe - this looks like the program I may have been waiting for.

Does anyone know if M$ plans on releasing a version of Money for Windows Mobile 2003?

[petvas]

You can find info about Cash Organizer Deluxe Here (http://www.inesoft.com)
It is the best Financial App for the Pocket PC and it deserves much more publicity...

[Jeff Rutledge]

You can find info about Cash Organizer Deluxe Here (http://www.inesoft.com)
It is the best Financial App for the Pocket PC and it deserves much more publicity...

I've looked at this and it does look like a nice piece of software. But $35 for the ability to sync it with the desktop??? That's outrageous! That's over $50CDN. I have spent the cash on expensive apps when I thought it was warranted (Textmaker as an example), but no way would I spend that on a sync plug-in. Add that to the $30 for the app itself and you're looking at $65US.

I'd consider $30US a fair price for both pieces.

If it comes down to a reasonable cost, I'll look at it. Otherwise I'll make do with Pocket Money.

[petvas]

I understand that pricing is high... Cash Organizer is the best application and the ability to sync with Money is great... It is my favorite program after Pocket Informant 8)

[dh]

I've used both Cash Organiser Delux and Mastersoft Money, but I must say I downloaded the Spb Finance and I rather like it.

The interface is the cleanest of the three and since I'm not interested in a desktop version I think this could well be the one I keep. I don't need a ton of options, just a simple reliable way to keep track of things.

I've always liked the Spb applications, but none has ever quite met my needs before.

[bbarker]

I am using Cash Organiser Deluxe 2003 and I am very happy with it. It would be great to see a comparison review between all Financial Software...
Yes, it would.

The comparison would need to differentiate between stand-alone programs such as Spb Finance and Cash Organizer Deluxe, and those designed as extensions to desktop products such as Money and Quicken.

[CESkins]

The comparison would need to differentiate between stand-alone programs such as Spb Finance and Cash Organizer Deluxe...
bbarker CO Deluxe can be used in both stand-alone mode or in conjunction with MS Money via the CO Sync Module. I am using CO Deluxe & MS Money 2003 flawlessly. :) I agree with petvas that Cash Organizer should get way more press than it does...every time someone releases a new financial software package everyone seems to rave about its features...in most cases almost all the features being raved about are already part of CO with more offered.

[Jeff Rutledge]

The comparison would need to differentiate between stand-alone programs such as Spb Finance and Cash Organizer Deluxe...
bbarker CO Deluxe can be used in both stand-alone mode or in conjunction with MS Money via the CO Sync Module. I am using CO Deluxe & MS Money 2003 flawlessly. :) I agree with petvas that Cash Organizer should get way more press than it does...every time someone releases a new financial software package everyone seems to rave about its features...in most cases almost all the features being raved about are already part of CO with more offered.

But how can you justify the expense? I'm asking seriously. I would like a strong financial application on my PPC (Pocket Money doesn't cut it), but I am having real difficulty with the concept of paying $35US for the ability to sync. To me, this should be included as part of the functionality of the app itself. Any other app I know that has a sync conduit included doesn't charge extra for it.

I know you can buy them bundled which is basically the same thing. So then I find myself "What's so special about this software that it's over double most other PPC offerings?" I haven't found an answer yet.

Like I said before, I think about $30US is a reasonable price for this app including the sync conduit. To you folk who have used it: Can you sell me on why it's worth the other $35? I am keeping an open mind. I'm just not sold.

[MarkWorsfold]

I read a review in PDA Gold that said the currency is dollars and that other currencies can be added with exchange rates. This is fine if you live in America and spend dollars.
Does anyone know if you can change the default currency to say UK pounds?

Cheers,
Marc

[vassiliphilippov]

Does anyone know if you can change the default currency to say UK pounds?

Yes, USD is just default currency. You can assign any currency as a home currency. Read more at in Spb Finance FAQs:

"14. How do I change my home currency?"
http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/faq.html#a14

Vassili Philippov
Spb Software House

[MarkWorsfold]

Hi Vassili,

Thank you for your lightning fast response! Do you wear a costume with a logo on the chest?
Excellect program. I have now purchased a copy. I really like the clear easy to use interface and advanced features. Even us British people can understand it! :wink: I have been trying to maintain a spreadsheet and sync'ing it but it's really unwealdly.

I take my hat off to you guys at spb!

Best regards,
Marc

[vassiliphilippov]

Just to clarify about Spb Finance and synchronization with Money and Quicken.

Spb Finance is a stand-alone Pocket PC program that does not synchronize information with Money and Quicken. It is the first product in a family that will consist of 3 versions (editions). There will be 2 special editions that we will release soon:

Spb Finance Money Edition (for synchronization with Money)
and
Spb Finance Quick Edition (for synchronization with Quicken)

I hope that the following diagram will explain Spb Finance family:
http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/finance/images/diagram_600.gif

Vassili Philippov
Spb Software House

[ikesler]

But how can you justify the expense? I'm asking seriously. I would like a strong financial application on my PPC (Pocket Money doesn't cut it), but I am having real difficulty with the concept of paying $35US for the ability to sync. To me, this should be included as part of the functionality of the app itself. Any other app I know that has a sync conduit included doesn't charge extra for it.

I know you can buy them bundled which is basically the same thing. So then I find myself "What's so special about this software that it's over double most other PPC offerings?" I haven't found an answer yet.

Like I said before, I think about $30US is a reasonable price for this app including the sync conduit. To you folk who have used it: Can you sell me on why it's worth the other $35? I am keeping an open mind. I'm just not sold.

I have to say that I agree. That is a lot of money for an application.... and then to add the sync cost on top? That seems a little odd to me. It is a great app......... but when apps like PI are priced lower........ I think it looks a little funny! Just my opinion.

[ikesler]

Just to clarify about Spb Finance and synchronization with Money and Quicken.

Spb Finance is a stand-alone Pocket PC program that does not synchronize information with Money and Quicken. It is the first product in a family that will consist of 3 versions (editions). There will be 2 special editions that we will release soon:

Spb Finance Money Edition (for synchronization with Money)
and
Spb Finance Quick Edition (for synchronization with Quicken)


Vassili Philippov
Spb Software House

Will users be able to upgrade to that? For a discounted price/free?

[JonathanWardRogers]

Will users be able to upgrade to that? For a discounted price/free?

I'd like to know that as well. I will purchase this immediately if I know I can upgrade to the Money version when it is released. While I don't need a desktop app, my wife uses Money extensively, and I need to keep in sync or I get in trouble. :oops:

[bbarker]

Just to clarify about Spb Finance and synchronization with Money and Quicken.

Spb Finance is a stand-alone Pocket PC program that does not synchronize information with Money and Quicken. It is the first product in a family that will consist of 3 versions (editions). There will be 2 special editions that we will release soon:

Spb Finance Money Edition (for synchronization with Money)
and
Spb Finance Quick Edition (for synchronization with Quicken)
Vassili,

Will the Money or Quicken sync be a seamless process, with no user action required, or will it be a QIF-type import and export?

[bbarker]

But how can you justify the expense? I'm asking seriously. I would like a strong financial application on my PPC (Pocket Money doesn't cut it), but I am having real difficulty with the concept of paying $35US for the ability to sync. To me, this should be included as part of the functionality of the app itself. Any other app I know that has a sync conduit included doesn't charge extra for it.

I know you can buy them bundled which is basically the same thing. So then I find myself "What's so special about this software that it's over double most other PPC offerings?" I haven't found an answer yet.

Like I said before, I think about $30US is a reasonable price for this app including the sync conduit. To you folk who have used it: Can you sell me on why it's worth the other $35? I am keeping an open mind. I'm just not sold.

I have to say that I agree. That is a lot of money for an application.... and then to add the sync cost on top? That seems a little odd to me. It is a great app......... but when apps like PI are priced lower........ I think it looks a little funny! Just my opinion.
Actually that wasn't my quote. JR said it.

[Jeff Rutledge]

Just to clarify about Spb Finance and synchronization with Money and Quicken.

Spb Finance is a stand-alone Pocket PC program that does not synchronize information with Money and Quicken. It is the first product in a family that will consist of 3 versions (editions). There will be 2 special editions that we will release soon:

Spb Finance Money Edition (for synchronization with Money)
and
Spb Finance Quick Edition (for synchronization with Quicken)

I hope that the following diagram will explain Spb Finance family:
&lt;snip>

Vassili Philippov
Spb Software House

Thanks for the info Vassili.

I have a question regarding the Money sync abilities. To me, the ability to enter Scheduled Bills &amp; Deposits is a feature lacking in most of these financial apps (as I understand them).

What Money considers a "Bill &amp; Deposit" is a regularly scheduled financial transaction (ie. Paycheck, cable bill, mortgage payment, etc.).

Let me explain how I'm doing it now with MS Money on the Desktop and Pocket Money on my iPAQ. I'll use the example of my phone bill.

My phone bill is a monthly payment of about $80 that is due on the 20th of each month. It is added to my scheduled Bills &amp; Deposits in Money on my Desktop. When I get my phone bill, I pay it online, often before the 20th. I can access this Bill in my Money's Bills &amp; Deposits section on my desktop, change the date to today and change the amount to $79.56 (or whatever the exact amount is). Money (Desktop) registers this transaction into the correct account and then moves the next scheduled transaction forward a month. So far so good...

The problem is that I can't do the same thing on my iPAQ as Bills &amp; Deposits aren't synchronized. The only option I have is to enter a new transaction for $79.56 to my phone company. But when I sync up, the desktop doesn't recognize this as a scheduled transaction so it doesn't move the next phone bill payment up a month.

Is this something that will be included with SPB Finance Money Edition?

(Hope that made sense).

[bbarker]

Vassili,

Another question about the Money syncing process. Does it sync Money's budgets?

[freitasm]

I've posted a review of Spb Finance for Geekzone and noticed the fact that it'll not sync at record level as mentioned here before.

However it's also to be noticed that this program is not a complement of a desktop solution, but rather "the" solution in itself.

Users of Spb Finance are actually moving the finance controls from the desktop to the PDA. It's a paradigm shift. Have it with you anywhere, not only a snapshot of your dekstop but the real thing.

That's why I didn't post about this issue in our review, but I've e-mailed Jason about this before.

[bbarker]

I've posted a review of Spb Finance for Geekzone and noticed the fact that it'll not sync at record level as mentioned here before.

However it's also to be noticed that this program is not a complement of a desktop solution, but rather "the" solution in itself.
Yes, but Vassili Philippov of Spb Software House announced above that they are coming out with versions that sync with Money and Quicken. Wouldn't those versions have to sync at record level?
Users of Spb Finance are actually moving the finance controls from the desktop to the PDA. It's a paradigm shift. Have it with you anywhere, not only a snapshot of your dekstop but the real thing.
I would at least want a desktop program as a companion to the full product that's running on the PDA. (This really is a paradigm shift!) I would want to be able to print reports.

Another issue is online updating with my bank. Money and Quicken can do that; I assume Spb Finance cannot. I wish the PPC version of Money could do it directly. For now I sync with my bank on the desktop version of Money and then sync desktop-Money to PPC-Money.

[adbosch]

Mastersoft Money handles repetitive transactions (aka standing orders / automatic entry of periodical fixed expenses and income e.g. monthly, yearly, etc. transactions). I can't find this feature in Spb's soft.
This has always been a decisive factor for me in considering this kind of program. Did I miss something in the evaluation version or is this feature really missing?