Full Sail Partners Blog | Evan Creech-Pritchett (2)

Human Capital Management is a critical aspect of the architecture and engineering (A&E) industry, as it plays a pivotal role in attracting, retaining, and developing skilled talent to drive business growth. The 44th Annual Deltek Clarity Architecture & Engineering Industry Study highlights key challenges and initiatives related to HCM in the A&E sector. In this blog, we will touch on some findings regarding HCM trends to understand how A&E firms can enhance their HCM strategies to stay competitive and succeed in today's dynamic market. 

Focus on Developing and Cross-Training Existing Staff  

With staffing challenges persisting and the cost of new hires on the rise, A&E firms must shift their focus towards developing and cross-training their existing staff. The Clarity study indicates that the number of firms reporting more open positions in 2022 fell compared to the previous year. To encourage this trend, these professional services firms are increasingly turning their attention to internal talent development to meet project demands effectively. 

To address this challenge, these professional services firms should invest in robust training and development programs that empower employees to acquire new skills and take on more responsibilities. By cross-training staff, A&E firms can create a more versatile workforce capable of delivering projects across different disciplines and specialties. Additionally, these efforts boost employee satisfaction and reduce turnover, leading to a more stable and productive work environment. 

Finding the Right Solutions and Tools for Talent Acquisition 

Acquiring the right talent is an ongoing challenge for A&E firms. This year’s Clarity study highlights difficulties in finding time and budget to select the best technology solutions that can identify and accelerate candidate selection. To address this issue, professional services firms like architects and engineers should explore innovative talent acquisition tools and techniques to widen the candidate pool and streamline the hiring process. 

Furthermore, implementing an efficient applicant tracking system (ATS) can help manage job postings, track candidate applications, and streamline the recruitment workflow. Also, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in talent acquisition can provide valuable insights for identifying qualified candidates and predicting their potential fit within the organization. 

Offering Competitive Compensation 

In a competitive talent market, A&E firms are facing increasing pressure to offer attractive compensation packages to attract and retain top talent according to the 44th Clarity report. The cost of new hires is rising, and employees are seeking competitive pay and benefits to align with their skills and experience. 

To remain competitive, these professional services firms should regularly review their compensation structures, benchmark against industry standards, and consider geographical variances in salary offerings. Moreover, investing in compensation management tools can facilitate data-driven decision-making and ensure that salary offers are competitive and fair, reducing the risk of losing potential candidates to competitors. 

The Availability of Good Candidates 

Based on this year’s Clarity study, while the turnover rate has stabilized, the availability of qualified candidates remains a challenge. A&E firms should focus on nurturing and developing existing talent while seeking external candidates to fill open positions. Upskilling, cross-training, and offering career development opportunities are essential to position firms for growth. 

Furthermore, creating a strong employer brand through targeted employer branding initiatives and robust employee value proposition (EVP) can help attract diverse and skilled candidates. These professional services firms can additionally leverage their existing employees as brand ambassadors to promote the company culture and highlight growth opportunities within the organization. 

Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Programs  

The 44th Deltek Clarity study emphasizes the growing importance of DE&I initiatives in these professional services firms. Many A&E firms acknowledge the need for DE&I programs but are unsure about how to measure and implement them effectively. 

A&E firms should start by conducting a DE&I assessment to identify areas for improvement and set specific goals for enhancing diversity and fostering a more inclusive workplace. Creating an inclusive work environment requires ongoing efforts, including diverse hiring practices, inclusive leadership training, and regular monitoring of DE&I metrics to measure progress. 

Learn More about HCM Trends from the 44th Deltek Annual A&E Clarity Study 

As seen from the findings of this year’s Clarity report, Human Capital Management is a critical factor in the success of architecture and engineering firms. By focusing on developing existing staff, implementing effective talent acquisition tools, offering competitive compensation, nurturing good candidates, and building robust DE&I programs, these professional services firms can position themselves for growth and stay ahead in a competitive market. Additionally, leveraging technology and data-driven strategies can further optimize HCM efforts, leading to improved employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and overall business success. As the A&E industry evolves, firms that prioritize and invest in their human capital will be better equipped to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for future growth.  

For more details on HCM Trends from the 44th Clarity Study, read the entire report. 

In light of the recently unveiled 44th Annual Deltek Clarity Architecture & Engineering (A&E) Industry Study, we now have the opportunity for an in-depth exploration of its key sections, beginning with a comprehensive analysis of the Business Development Trends. In this dynamic industry, architecture and engineering firms are faced with the challenge of navigating a landscape marked by both strong growth prospects and increasing competition. To stay ahead, these professional services firms must adopt a more strategic approach to capture planning, leverage internal resources effectively, and nurture client relationships.  

Here in this blog, let’s delve into some of the key insights and initiatives from the 44th Clarity A&E report that will drive success for these professional services firms seeking sustainable growth and a competitive edge in the market. So, what are some of the latest trends shaping the future of business development in the architecture and engineering sector? 

Revenue Growth Forecast 

This year’s Clarity study predicts a robust but more conservative revenue growth forecast for architecture and engineering firms. While the industry remains strong, A&E firms need to be cautious and strategic in their pursuit of revenue growth. This calls for more careful capture planning and leveraging internal resources effectively to build momentum for future growth. To achieve success in this landscape, these professional services firms must align their strategies with the changing market dynamics and economic conditions. 

Identifying New Prospects and Increased Competition 

Qualifying potential clients that align with an A&E firm's strengths is a persistent challenge in the industry. As markets evolve, firms must be more selective in targeting pursuits that align closely with their offerings, talents, and resources. Simultaneously, they should diversify into markets that align with their long-term business goals. The 44th Deltek Clarity study also highlights increased M&A activity, leading to larger firms with greater resources. This poses a dual challenge for A&E firms, as it both intensifies competition and opens opportunities for collaboration through strategic networking and teaming. 

Time to Nurture Client Relationships 

With the market poised for continued growth, nurturing existing client relationships becomes paramount according to this year’s Clarity study. A&E firms must invest in fostering strong and lasting connections with their current clients. This involves understanding their needs, providing exceptional service, and identifying opportunities to add value. In addition, these professional services firms need to innovate and find creative ways to attract new prospects, leveraging their existing business development talent to cultivate new leads. 

Challenges and Initiatives 

The 44th Deltek Clarity study identifies several challenges faced by architecture and engineering firms. Time constraints, limited resources, and the increasing cost of competing for projects are significant hurdles. To address these challenges, A&E firms are adopting cross-training initiatives. By empowering internal staff to handle business development tasks, these professional services firms can effectively utilize their resources and create a more robust and adaptable workforce. 

Furthermore, implementing a formal go/no-go process is another crucial initiative that A&E firms are focusing on. This process allows firms to evaluate potential projects more objectively, considering factors such as staffing levels and internal business metrics. By making informed decisions on project pursuits, these professional services firms can improve their win rates and optimize their use of resources. 

Net Revenue Growth Forecast 

This year’s study highlights a decline in the net revenue growth forecast for 2023 compared to the post-pandemic high of 17.6% in 2022. While the forecasted growth of 10.2% remains positive, A&E firms need to carefully monitor market conditions and adjust their strategies accordingly. This reduced growth forecast calls for a more cautious and strategic approach to business development, ensuring that firms maintain a strong financial performance despite the changing market dynamics. 

Marketing Techniques and Future Outlook 

A&E firms are employing a mix of marketing techniques to reach and engage their target audience based on the 44th Deltek Clarity report. It notes that social media and client-specific marketing continue to be top strategies, providing these professional services firms with avenues to showcase their expertise and build strong relationships with clients. Additionally, as in-person events become safer post-pandemic, trade shows and exhibits are regaining importance as effective marketing opportunities. 

Looking ahead, A&E firms must remain adaptable and open to emerging marketing technologies. As the industry evolves, these professional services businesses need to embrace digital strategies and explore new avenues to reach potential clients effectively. 

Learn Even More About Business Development Trends for A&E Firms 

The 44th Deltek Clarity A&E Industry Study provides valuable insights into the current and future business development trends in the architecture and engineering sector. By adopting strategic planning, nurturing client relationships, and making the most of their internal resources, A&E firms can navigate the changing landscape and ensure sustainable growth in the competitive industry. Embracing a diversified marketing approach and staying receptive to emerging technologies will position these professional services firms for success in the dynamic architecture and engineering landscape. For more details on Business Development Trends, read the full report. 

Deltek has recently unveiled the 44th Annual Clarity A&E report, providing an exclusive glimpse into the 2023 outlook of the Architecture and Engineering (A&E) Industry. Overall, while growth may cool down from 2022's excitement, the construction and engineering sectors remain optimistic. Challenges like rising costs, staffing shortages, and inflationary pressures are driving firms to focus on staff retention, development, and diversity initiatives. 

Furthermore, with limited resources, strategic project selection is key. Though investment in supporting technologies has dipped, firms are revving up plans for tech implementation. Despite costs, A&E firms still shine with solid net revenue growth and improved operating profit. Here, in this blog, we will do a quick review of the overall trends seen from the 44th Annual Deltek Clarity Study.

Technology Trends

Firms are prioritizing strategic technology plans, cybersecurity, and business process improvement to achieve digital maturity and address challenges such as rising costs and talent management. While there is a desire to make strategic technological improvements, the report indicates a disconnect between goals and implementation, with firms relying on manual data entry instead of leveraging technology solutions effectively.

Data and cybersecurity remain the top IT operations challenges for firms, with cyberattacks posing a significant threat. Rising technology costs and the need to prioritize applicable trends also hinder technology adoption. However, firms are aiming to transform their use of technology, leveraging it as a competitive advantage and fundamentally changing how their businesses are run and the services offered to clients. Overcoming these challenges and maintaining a harmonious relationship between technology, project execution, and company strategy will be crucial for firms to emerge as the most competitive in the industry.

Business Development Trends

Firms face increased competition and fewer awarded proposals, necessitating strategic planning and resource utilization for conservative revenue growth. To address this, firms should focus on qualifying clients aligned with their strengths, diversify into favorable markets, and nurture existing client relationships with skilled BD talent and technology.

The A&E industry remains strong, but rising costs and staffing challenges require diligent pursuit of strategic opportunities for sustainable growth. Firms can enhance their focus by implementing formal go/no go processes, leveraging CRM solutions, and adopting hybrid BD models combining a dedicated staff with seller/doer approaches. Emphasizing opportunity evaluation and internal collaboration can benefit smaller firms. Adapting to market changes, investing in technology and talent, and prioritizing client relationships is crucial for firms to thrive in the evolving business landscape.

Project Management Trends

The 44th Annual Deltek Clarity report reveals that project managers (PMs) face challenges in gaining visibility into project management KPIs and lacking the necessary tools to manage them effectively. While there is a positive trend with more projects staying on track for schedule and budget, staffing shortages continue to hinder project performance. To tackle these issues, firms should invest in internal project manager training, better project management tools, and training for the next generation of project managers.

Staffing challenges remain the top obstacle for A&E firms, impacting project delivery and potentially causing burnout among existing staff. To address this, firms are focusing on internal training and upskilling current employees. However, comprehensive training and professional development are crucial to equip PMs with the required skills. Additionally, improving project information management, quality control, and collaboration can enhance project performance and mitigate risks. Emphasizing both financial and non-financial KPIs, along with leveraging project technology and financial tracking tools, can lead to improved project outcomes and profitability.

Human Capital Management Trends

A&E firms are focusing on developing and cross-training existing staff to meet project demands amid challenges in staffing and rising hiring costs. They prioritize succession planning, performance management, and talent nurturing to improve retention. To address talent acquisition challenges, firms are re-evaluating position requirements, considering trainable candidates with complementary skills, and offering competitive compensation. Engaging diverse candidates, providing upskilling opportunities, and championing operational tools are crucial for attracting and retaining talent.

In the competitive talent landscape, firms must strategically attract and retain employees by adapting to evolving workforce preferences, such as remote work options and positive company culture. They shift engagement strategies, offer visible career development plans, and track key performance indicators related to employee management and retention. By implementing these approaches, firms aim to improve their talent acquisition processes and support project profitability.

Financial Management Trends

Firms achieved significant financial success in 2022, surpassing their bullish goals and delivering improvements in operating profit. They effectively leveraged direct labor costs and subconsultants to drive revenue growth, outpacing growth in headcount and wages. Strategic investments were made during favorable economic conditions, resulting in strong revenue growth and improved financial metrics.

However, firms are facing several financial challenges that need to be addressed to sustain their performance. Finding and retaining qualified staff remains the top concern, although firms have been successful in leveraging their workforce and achieving high net revenues per employee. Increasing profitability and managing growth are also key areas of focus. Firms are refining their strategies, utilizing technology and process improvements to reduce project delivery costs and balance out rising labor costs.

To maintain their financial performance, firms need to prioritize the overall health and satisfaction of their workforce. Retaining and developing impactful talent through cross-training and internal promotions are crucial. Additionally, driving timely project completion, effective billing, and collection processes are vital for capturing revenue and maintaining cash flow. Investments in business process improvements and financial management training for PMs are key areas of focus to sustain growth and manage financial returns.

Continue to Gain Valuable Insight into the A&E Industry

The 44th Annual Deltek Clarity report continues to provide valuable insight into the Architecture and Engineering industry. In this most recent study, firms are advised to prioritize technology adoption, strategic business development, effective project management, and talent management to be successful. Embracing technology trends, addressing staffing challenges, and focusing on financial management are key areas of focus for sustainable growth and profitability.

By leveraging the recommendations from the Deltek Clarity report, firms can navigate market changes, enhance their operations, and stay competitive. For more information, the entire Clarity report can be downloaded for a comprehensive view. However, don’t forget to keep an eye out for our future blogs where we will be quickly reviewing each trend of the report in more detail.

At Full Sail Partners, we are thrilled to present our second blog post on the highly anticipated update of Deltek Vantagepoint to version 6.0. With each iteration, Deltek Vantagepoint has solidified its position as the trusted solution for organizations across various industries. Now, with the launch of version 6.0, we are poised to revolutionize the way professionals like you plan, execute, and track projects.  

With a comprehensive suite of features and enhancements, Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 empowers professional services firms like yours with unparalleled insights, streamlined workflows, and a more intuitive interface. We are confident that this latest iteration will pave the way for project success in the modern era. In this blog post, we will continue to provide you with an overview of what's new in Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0, giving you a glimpse of the exciting possibilities that await you. 

Contents

• Mobile
• Mobile CRM
• Mobile Time & Expense
• My Preferences
• Planning
• Project Review
• Projects Hub
• Purchasing
• Reporting
• Search
• Timesheet, Expense Report, and Approval Center

Mobile

In the latest update to Vantagepoint 6.0, several mobile enhancements have been introduced to improve security, language compatibility, and server support for the mobile application.

• Disabling the Vantagepoint Mobile URL Deep Link Feature: To ensure enhanced security and mitigate potential risks, the deep link feature of the Vantagepoint Mobile application URL has been disabled. As a result, when you access a Vantagepoint Mobile application URL, you will now be automatically redirected to the Deltek screen. From there, you can conveniently download the latest mobile application and copy the application URL as needed.
• Hiding Help Links in Vantagepoint Mobile Applications for Non-English Languages: In adherence to the software documentation laws of countries outside the United States, help links within the Vantagepoint Mobile applications will be hidden if a language other than English (American or International) is selected. This change ensures compliance with translation requirements for software documentation. Consequently, help links on screens such as Server URL (Connection Help), Menu, and Settings will only be available when English (American or International) is the selected language.
• Touch Server Upgrade to PHP 8.1.14: To maintain optimal performance and compatibility, the Touch Server component of the Vantagepoint mobile application has been upgraded to support PHP 8.1.14. This update ensures that the mobile application operates smoothly with the latest PHP version, enhancing stability and overall server performance. 

Mobile CRM 

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces several enhancements to Mobile CRM, providing users with expanded capabilities and improved functionality on the go. 

• Support for Date/Time Fields: Date/Time fields created in the Screen Designer of Deltek Vantagepoint are now accessible in Vantagepoint Mobile CRM. These fields can be found on the Misc/User-Defined (UDF) tab of all hubs. Users can conveniently add dates using the calendar icon, specify times using the clock icon, or directly input date and time values using the keypad. Please note that if one field is populated, both fields require input. 
• Support for Phone User-Defined Fields (UDFs): Phone UDFs created in the Screen Designer of Deltek Vantagepoint are now available in Vantagepoint Mobile CRM. On the Misc/User-Defined (UDF) tab of all hubs, users can add or edit phone numbers in the designated Phone UDF field. Tapping a phone number allows for quick initiation of a call. 
• Display of Pre-Award Number Field: Mobile CRM now includes the Pre-Award Number field, which displays the project number assigned at the time of project creation. If pre-award numbering is enabled and a pre-award number is assigned to the project, the Pre-Award Number field appears below the Number field on the Details screen of Projects. This field is read-only and does not appear on the Add Project screen. The Pre-Award Number field adheres to the field properties set in the Screen Designer of Deltek Vantagepoint. 

• Support for User-Defined Fields in Activities: User-defined fields (UDFs) created for the Activities hub in the Screen Designer of Deltek Vantagepoint are now accessible in Mobile CRM. On the Misc/UDF tab of the Add Activity screen and Edit Activity screen, users can view and interact with the UDFs associated with activities. 
• Improved Add Projects Functionality: The Contacts and Firms hubs in Mobile CRM now offer an enhanced Add Projects function. Users can expect more consistent behavior and a streamlined process that ensures proper business logic is applied. 
• Start and End Time Fields for all Activity Types: Mobile CRM now includes Start Time and End Time fields for all activity types. These fields are available regardless of whether a reminder is set for the selected activity type, providing users with greater flexibility and accuracy when managing activities. 
• Support for Image Icon Configuration: To comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) laws of EU countries, the Edit link on the image icon of Contacts, Firms, and Projects is hidden if the image icon was configured to be locked in the Screen Designer of Deltek Vantagepoint. This ensures that when the image icon is locked, users cannot add new photos or replace existing ones in the records, safeguarding data privacy and protection.  

Mobile Time & Expense

In our ongoing efforts to enhance your experience with Mobile Time and Expense, we are excited to introduce two new features that will simplify your time and expense management.

• Viewing Benefit Hours: In Mobile Time and Expense, you can now conveniently view the summary of your benefit hours or absence accruals. By tapping and selecting the "View Benefit Hours" option, the Benefit Hours screen will be displayed. This screen presents a comprehensive overview of your PTO/personal, Sick, Holiday, and other types of benefit hours accumulated or used throughout the year. The "View Benefit Hours" option can be found on all Timesheet screen menus, allowing easy access to this valuable information.
• Improved Date Navigation: Efficiently managing to start and end times by day is now easier in Timesheet Hours. The Start/End Times screen offers an improved date navigation feature through a user-friendly date carousel. With the date carousel, you can swiftly navigate to a different day or tap on a specific day, reducing the number of taps required to enter time across multiple days. This enhancement streamlines the time entry process and allows for quicker input of time.  

My Preferences

In the My Preferences section, you have the ability to personalize your Vantagepoint experience to suit your needs. Take a look at these two new features that will help enhance your experience.  

• Preferred Application View: This is a new option on the General tab of My Preferences that is used to specify the preferred view that displays in all of Vantagepoint’s applications that support both Detail View and List View. 
  

• Role-based User Education in the Application: Vantagepoint now displays targeted in-app information about feature enhancements, common tasks, and communications based on your selected role in the new My Education Interests field on the My Preferences dialog box. 

Planning 

With the newly incorporated support for units on the Units tab and the ability to enter contract amounts on the Contract tab, Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 empowers you to create meticulous and comprehensive project plans. 

• Support for Units in Project Planning: To facilitate comprehensive project planning, Vantagepoint now includes support for units on the Units tab within Project Planning (Hubs » Projects » Plan). With this enhancement, you can plan and manage units, enabling you to develop more detailed project plans. 
• Enter Contract Amounts for Unit Planning: In Project Planning, the Contract tab now allows you to specify the portion of a compensation amount allocated for units in regular or promotional charge-type projects. This enhancement provides a more detailed breakdown of amounts while planning your project, giving you better visibility and control over financial aspects related to unit planning. 

Project Review 

With the integration of planned units into the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) grid and the addition of the Total Billed field in the Revenue section, you can now conduct a more comprehensive analysis of your projects. These enhancements enable you to track and analyze planned unit quantities alongside other essential project metrics, while providing a clear and concise overview of the total amount billed for each project. 

• Planned Units in Project Review: In the Project Review form, any planned amounts for units within the project are now integrated into the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) grid located at the bottom. This inclusion allows for a more thorough assessment of project performance, enabling users to track and analyze planned unit quantities alongside other critical project metrics.
• Total Billed Field in Project Review: Within the Revenue section of the grid, a new Total Billed field has been introduced. This field provides a clear and concise overview of the total amount billed for the project. By displaying this information in the Project Review form, users can quickly assess the project's financial status and track invoiced amounts in a more streamlined manner. 

Projects Hub 

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces a powerful new feature called Pre-Award Project Numbering, designed to streamline project management and enhance workflow flexibility. This feature allows users to set up Vantagepoint to support different numbering systems for pre-award (in-pursuit) projects and awarded (won) projects, enabling project numbers to be changed upon award. 

To enable the Pre-Award Project Numbering feature, navigate to the Numbering form in Settings » Workflow » Numbering and select the "Update project number when approved for use in processing" checkbox. This configuration option provides greater control over project numbering and helps align project management practices with specific organizational requirements.  

Purchasing 

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 brings significant enhancements to the Purchasing module by making various purchasing applications available in the browser application for improved accessibility and usability. Here are the updates. 

• Purchase Requisitions: Previously located in the desktop application, Purchase Requisitions is now accessible in the browser application.
• Purchase Orders: Similar to Purchase Requisitions, Purchase Orders have been moved from the desktop application to the browser application.
• Items: Formerly known as the Items Master application, it is now available in the browser application under Purchasing. This change provides a centralized location for managing items within the purchasing workflow.
• Item Review: A new addition to the browser application, the Item Review application allows users to review item-related details and associated purchase requisitions and purchase orders.
• Receiving: Also newly introduced to the browser application, the Receiving application streamlines the receipt management process.
• Option to Enable Purchasing Applications in the Browser Removed: With most purchasing applications now accessible in the browser application, the option to enable Purchase Orders in the Web Application has been removed from the Modules form in Settings » General » Modules.
• All Purchasing Reports Now Available in the Browser Application: The entire set of purchasing reports can now be accessed and utilized in the browser application under My Stuff » Reporting. This comprehensive collection includes reports such as Request for Price Quote Status, Purchase Requisition Form, Purchase Order Detail, and more.
• Improved Loading Speed for List View: Performance optimizations have been implemented to enhance the loading speed of List View within the Purchase Orders and Purchase Requisitions applications. Users can now enjoy a more efficient and seamless experience when working with large datasets.
• User Interface Enhancements for Receiving and Item Review Applications: In Vantagepoint 6.0, the Receiving and Item Review applications have undergone user interface improvements to provide a more consistent and intuitive user experience. Here are the notable changes:
• Receiving Application: Accessible in the browser application under Purchasing » Receiving, the redesigned form aligns with the visual elements and layout found in the browser application. It incorporates common search functions, displays item names from the Items application, offers actions for reporting, and provides enhanced capabilities for managing receipts and line items.
• Item Review Application: Available in the browser application under Purchasing » Item Review, the updated form features a revamped user interface consistent with the browser application design. It offers search functions, displays item names, enables the review of purchase requisitions and purchase orders associated with an item, and provides direct access to relevant records.
• The complete Item Review application can still be accessed within the desktop application under Purchasing » Item Review, ensuring compatibility with existing workflows and providing flexibility for users.

Reporting 

Take a look at these new game-changing features in the reporting section that make reporting a breeze. 

• SyncCustomReports Switch: With the release of Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0, a new feature called the SyncCustomReports switch has been introduced. This switch enables the synchronization of custom reports between the Vantagepoint (transaction) database and the Vantagepoint server database. By using the SyncCustomReports switch, you can ensure that any custom reports you have created or modified are accurately reflected in both databases. This functionality is equivalent to the Synchronize button found on the Custom Reports tab in the desktop application's Utilities » Report Administration section. 
• Workflow Report for Webhook Action: The Webhook Action within the Settings » Workflow » Application Workflows now supports a workflow subreport. You can generate a comprehensive report for this webhook action by clicking on either the "Print All Workflows" or "Print Workflow" options. This report provides detailed information about the workflow process, helping you analyze and track the actions taken within your application workflows. 

Search 

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 brings exciting updates to the search functionality, delivering an enhanced user experience for building, editing, and navigating searches. Let's explore the key improvements that will empower you to find information more efficiently.  

Improved Layout of Search Dialog Box: The Search dialog box has undergone a restyling to offer a clearer presentation of information and facilitate the building and editing of both standard and advanced searches. Key layout and styling changes include:

• A new grid header at the top of the Search dialog box, clearly displays the Select Search drop-down list, a set of Actions, and the Advanced Settings toggle. 
• The removal of the Show Preview toggle. 
• When the Check SQL button is clicked, Vantagepoint provides a SQL Where Clause status message. Validated queries are indicated by a shaded message in the Vantagepoint toolbar, while invalid queries are highlighted in red at the top of the Search dialog box. 

Enhanced Search Navigation and Record Selection Pane: Efficient navigation and record selection are vital for a seamless search experience. Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 offers the following improvements: 

• Records Selection pane: The Records Selection pane now enables users to quickly add multiple records or all records to an ad hoc Selection search. Instead of relying on the Multiselect toggle, users can now select checkboxes for multiple records and click “Done” to promptly create an ad hoc Selection search. 
• Select All button: A new Select All button has been introduced to include all records in an ad hoc Selection search. By clicking this button, Vantagepoint automatically navigates to the Search Navigation Control for the ad hoc Selection search. 

• Direct record navigation: Users can conveniently navigate to a specific record by clicking any area to the right of the record's checkbox. This direct navigation feature speeds up the process of accessing a record's form. The Saved Search Control displays the saved search used for record navigation, along with its record number, in the paging control. 

Timesheet, Expense Report, and Approval Center 

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces an update that enhances the visibility of employee assignments in the Timesheet, Expense Report, and Approval Center areas. If you have the Resource Planning and Time & Expense modules, you can now easily access employee assignment information directly from the following sections: 

• My Stuff » Timesheet
• My Stuff » Expense Report 
• My Stuff » Approval Center 

By opening the employee card within these areas, you can conveniently view and review an employee's assignments that have remaining estimate-to-complete (ETC) hours. This feature eliminates the need to switch applications and navigate to the Resource View form, providing a seamless experience within the current application context. 

The Assignments tab within the Employee Card dialog box allows you to explore the employee's current and future assignments across different projects. You can define the forecast range and customize the type of values displayed in the calendar period columns. These values may include planned hours, scheduled percentages, and utilization percentages. With this information readily available, you can quickly assess an employee's workload and upcoming commitments without leaving the application. 

Looking for More? 

Want to hear more about Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0? Be sure to check out our first blog to get the full picture of all things Vantagepoint. Still not enough? Check out our webinar on the new features of Deltek Vantagepoint and stay tuned for more content in the future! 

In the ever-evolving landscape of project management software, Deltek Vantagepoint has established itself as a trusted solution for organizations across industries. Now, with the much-anticipated release of version 6.0, Deltek is set to revolutionize the way professional services firms plan, execute, and track their projects. Building upon its solid foundation, Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 focuses on three key themes: improved visibility, enhanced user experience, and better project planning.

With a comprehensive suite of features and enhancements, this latest iteration promises to empower professional services firms with unparalleled insights, streamlined workflows, and a more intuitive interface, ultimately paving the way for project success in the modern era. Here’s an overview of what’s new in Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0.

Contents

• Expanded APIs
• Enhanced User Control
• Improved Dashboards
• Draft Invoice Approvals Made Easier
• Employee Visibility Increased in Hubs
• New In-Product Guides
• Updated Interactive Billing
  • Streamlined Period Start/End Date Changes for Submitted Draft Invoices
  • Warning Message for Voiding Invoices with Applied Payments
  • Additional Columns in Invoice History
  • Invoice Template Editor in the Browser Application

Expanded APIs

Deltek has expanded the range of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) available to users. These new API endpoints not only facilitate the exchange of information but also adhere to the existing validations and restrictions, ensuring data integrity and compliance with security requirements at the application level.

Enhanced User Control

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces a game-changing feature that enhances user control and flexibility within Connect for Outlook and Connect for Gmail - the ability to customize contact, firm, and project records in the contextual pane. This new functionality allows users to tailor the information displayed in the pane according to their specific needs and preferences.

With this customization capability, users can handpick which fields, including user-defined fields, are included for each record type in the contextual pane. Whether it's contact information, firm details, or project specifics, individuals can choose the relevant data elements that they want to have readily available at their fingertips. This level of customization empowers users to optimize their workflows and focus on the specific information that matters most to them.

Improved Dashboards

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces several new and improved features related to dashboards, providing enhanced customization and functionality. Here are some key highlights of the dashboard-related updates:

• New Columns and Role-Based Security for Employee Dashpart Base: In addition to user-defined fields, several new columns are now available for the employee dashpart base, including City, Country, Firm Name, Hire Date, and more.
• New Role-Based Security Settings: These settings can now be applied to dashpart bases and their columns, allowing administrators to control access to specific dashparts and columns based on user roles.
• Find Dashparts Efficiently: The new Quick Find field in the Dashpart Library enables users to search and find available dashparts more efficiently, based on dashpart titles.
• Memo Dashparts for Notes and Announcements: The new memo dashpart allows users to post notes, reminders, warnings, announcements, URL links, or images directly on a dashboard. Rich text formatting is supported for enhanced customization.
• Updated AR Comment Column for AR Detail Dashpart Base: AR comments are now displayed at the Invoice grouping level, eliminating the need to expand transaction lines. Users can add AR comments directly from the Invoice group level.
• Drill-To Indicator for Dashparts: Dashparts associated with another dashpart as a drill-to action now display a drill-to indicator icon in the Dashpart Library, enhancing the user experience and navigation.
• New Columns for Project Dashpart Base: The project dashpart base now includes additional columns such as Weighted Percent Complete, Total Compensation, Committed Purchase Order Expense Billing, and Committed Purchase Order Expense Cost.
• Enhanced Filter Selection by Organization: When creating or modifying dashparts with the Account or Account Detail dashpart bases, users can now apply filters by an organization more efficiently. The update allows the selection of parent-level organizations, making it possible to choose all sub-organizations simultaneously.
• New Predefined Dashparts: Several new predefined dashparts are available for use in dashboards, including Top 10 Clients - Receivables, Top 10 AR by Billing Client with Drill To, Weighted and Estimated Fee by Stage with Drill To, and Pursuits by Probability with Drill To.
• Updated Predefined Dashboards: Certain predefined dashboards have been updated to display the Employee Utilization This Year dashpart instead of the Utilization dashpart, providing more relevant and up-to-date information.
• Custom Multipliers for Calculated Fields: Users now have the ability to configure the multiplier field for percentage data types when working with calculated fields in the Dashpart Designer.

Draft Invoice Approvals Made Easier

With the appropriate role security access rights, users can access the Supporting Document dialog box and print all supporting documents to a single file with ease. To activate the feature, navigate to Settings » Security » Roles, click the accounting tab, and in the Billing Security: Interactive Billing and Invoice Approvals section select the Allow Changes to Support Documents checkbox.

Employee Visibility Increased in Hubs

When accessing a record in Vantagepoint, you can now have increased employee visibility:

• Orange Outline: If other employees are currently editing their record, their picture icon is highlighted with an orange circle, indicating their active editing status. The picture of the person actively editing the record is always displayed first.
• Blue Outline: For employees who are viewing the record, their picture icons are outlined in blue.
• Info Bubble: Clicking on an employee's picture icon opens an info bubble that provides additional details about the employee.
• Email: By clicking on an employee's email address directly from the form, you can conveniently send an email message to that employee. Vantagepoint seamlessly opens your email application for a smooth communication experience.
• Microsoft Teams Chat: If you have enabled the Microsoft Teams Chats from Deltek Vantagepoint option in Settings » General » Communications, you can initiate one-on-one chats with team members directly from Vantagepoint. Simply click on the Microsoft Teams Chat option to start a chat conversation.

New In-Product Guides

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 includes a myriad of new guides to help everyone from the newest user to the most seasoned Vantagepoint veteran. The in-product guides are as follows:

• What’s New in 6.0
• Search Dialog Restyling
• Search Navigation Improvements
• Resource Management Reporting
• Invoice History Columns
• IQ Integration
• Undock Project Structure

Updated Interactive Billing

Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 introduces several valuable updates to the interactive billing module, enhancing the user experience and providing additional functionality for managing invoices effectively.

Streamlined Period Start/End Date Changes for Submitted Draft Invoices:

Previously, changing the period start or end dates of a submitted or approved draft invoice in the Invoice Presentation Dates section of the Billing Session Options dialog box required resubmitting the invoice for approval, even though these date changes did not impact the included transactions. In the latest update, you now have the flexibility to choose whether to resubmit the invoice after modifying the period start or end dates.

By updating the dates in the Billing Session Options dialog box without altering the transaction bill-through dates, you can save the changes without resubmitting the draft invoice. The new "Save" button allows you to update the period dates without the need for reapproval. However, if you modify both the period start/end dates and the transaction bill-through dates simultaneously, resubmission for approval is still necessary.

Warning Message for Voiding Invoices with Applied Payments:

When voiding an invoice from the Invoice History tab in the Interactive Billing form, a new error message now appears if there are any applied payments associated with that invoice. This prompt gives you an opportunity to review the applied payments before proceeding with the voiding action, ensuring accuracy and preventing unintended consequences.

Additional Columns in Invoice History:

The Invoice History tab of the Interactive Billing form now offers additional columns to provide a more comprehensive view of each invoice. The newly added columns include Amount Due, Amount Paid, Applied Retainer, Credit Memos, Invoice Total, and Retainage. These columns provide quick access to important invoice information such as amounts and payment status, enabling better invoice management and analysis.

Invoice Template Editor in the Browser Application:

With the latest update, the Invoice Template Editor is now available directly within the browser application. The Invoice Template Editor form empowers users to create and update invoice templates, which determine the format and content of invoices. This enhancement simplifies the customization process, allowing for easy modification and customization of invoice templates to meet specific business needs.

Looking for More?

If you’re looking to get your hands on even more Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0 updates, then we have got a lineup for you! We are excited to announce that our next webinar “What’s New in Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0” will be held live on Wednesday, June 7th, at 1 pm ET. This webinar will delve even deeper into Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0, providing you with comprehensive information to maximize your project management capabilities.

Additionally, stay tuned for our follow-up blog next week. Here we will review even more exciting features that will further enhance your project management experience with Deltek Vantagepoint 6.0. At Full Sail Partners, we are committed to keeping you informed and empowering you with the latest advancements in project management software.

As we begin a new year, it’s important to look back and reflect on the past. What better way to do that than to watch the top 5 Deltek Vantagepoint mini demos from last year? 2022 was a bit of a grab bag, so this list includes everything from features that have been in Vantagepoint for a while to add-ons for the programs we use every day. Without further ado, here are the top 5 Deltek Vantagepoint mini demos of 2022!  

#5: Utilizing the Search Functionality 

The search functionality is one of the most overlooked features in Deltek Vantagepoint. There are categories of searches: standard searches, my searches, shared searches, and legacy searches. Standard search has a few different types of searches, such as the selection and active search, and generally apply to a variety of the hubs throughout Vantagepoint. My searches are your personal searches that you have saved for future use. Shared searches are ones that have been shared with you by your administrator or other power users in your firm and serve to create a standardization in your searches. The last type of search, legacy searches, is one that only applies to firms that made the switch from Deltek Vision to Deltek Vantagepoint. These are read only, so they will need to be rebuilt in order to modify them. 

Want to learn how to make and utilize these different types of searches effectively? Take a look at our demo here: Utilizing the Search Functionality. 

#4: Redistribute Planned Project Hours 

More often than not, a project’s budget and schedule change throughout its life cycle. Luckily, Deltek Vantagepoint allows users to easily adjust a project’s plan to fit their needs. The first step in this process is to change the dates for the project. After the dates are in order, the planned hours for the project should be changed. Some extra columns like contract and planned billing might be needed to determine the amount to adjust the planned hours by, so make sure to enable them when doing this step. 

This function is easy to use and saves a huge amount of time for everyone! For a step by step walkthrough on redistributing planned project hours, check out our demo here: Redistribute Planned Project Hours. 

#3: A Small, but Mighty Enhancement with Saved Views 

In previous iterations, Deltek Vantagepoint would save the last list view that you were in when you exited the program. Then when you re-opened Vantagepoint you would be returned to that same list view. In the Vantagepoint 5.5 update, a new feature has been added that allows multiple list views to be saved. This enhancement is useful in many areas such as hubs, expense reports and even interactive billing. Take a look around and find where saved views can help you! 

For a more in-depth look at how to create these lists and put them to use, watch our demo here: A Small, but Mighty Enhancement with Saved Views. 

#2: Introduction to Contract Management 

 The contract management tool in Deltek Vantagepoint is a fan favorite. It is useful for taking all the guesswork out of compensation with detailed breakdowns of how the total amount came to be. To get the absolute most out of this feature, it is imperative that the “Project Entering Method” is set to “Lowest Level Only” and “Synchronize Contract Values to Project Compensation” is set to “Yes.” Contract Type and Contract Status should also be configured in labels and list area. 

There are many more features and functions in the Contract Management tab. To hear about them all be sure to tune into our demo here: Introduction to Contract Management. 

#1: CRM Contact Accessibility Directly with Outlook 

Having to flip between two applications to find a contact is tedious and tiresome. Instead of wasting time trying to track someone down, connect Deltek Vantagepoint to your Outlook inbox. With this enhancement, Outlook will provide information from Vantagepoint on the contact, as well as information on related contacts. If there is no contact in the system, Vantagepoint will give the option to create a new contact and fill out the relevant fields. Projects can even be created from Outlook! 

There’s more than meets the eye with this upgrade. Watch our demo to see what you’re missing out on and how it works here: CRM Contact Accessibility Directly with Outlook. 

What’s Up Next? 

We hope you’ve enjoyed our blogs, Deltek Vantagepoint mini demos, and other content this past year! We’ve been cooking up a bunch of new content for 2023, so keep an eye on our social media accounts for more announcements. Looking forward to another productive year with you! 

It’s hard to believe that it is already so late in the year. It feels like not so long ago we were trying to beat the heat with cool drinks on sandy shores. But now the weather is beginning to cool down and the leaves are changing color, and that can only mean one thing: time to hunker down and manage the firm’s holiday contact list! Hopefully, this process has already been started but if not, this article shares a couple of tips on how using Deltek Vantagepoint features and functions can help maintain the firm’s holiday contact list and keep it clean for the future.  

Data Clean Up 

Before getting into the nitty gritty of data cleanup, let’s do a quick review. Every contact needs to have at least five parts: contact name, job title, firm name, email address and firm address. These five fields are standard in Vantagepoint, and with this information, marketers can build basic lists to use for both email marketing and direct campaigns.  

Then there are pieces of contact information that can be considered “nice to have.” These include attributes like market, rating, source, contact owner, mailings and segment type. These are not essential to the contact, but they can help narrow down who they are and what exactly the contact means to the company. 

Once marketers have identified their must-have and “nice-to-have” contact fields, head over to Vantagepoint and view the contact in list view. Using this Vantagepoint feature, allows marketers to quickly see what contact data is missing or outdated. See the screenshot below. 

This feature isn’t just in the Contacts hub either, so be sure to look for it in other hubs that may need some cleaning up as well.  

Send More Emails  

To avoid ending up with a bunch of old contacts, the best advice is to send more emails! Of course, don’t just spam the contacts, because that would just drive them away. Instead, think about sending newsletters weekly and/or monthly. By sending regularly email marketing campaigns to contacts, marketers will get contact information back such as bounced email addresses. This piece of information could indicate that the contact has moved firms or retired. Doing this throughout the year will help make the effort of creating holiday contact lists less daunting.  

Create Marketing Campaigns for Segmented Lists 

In the same vein as the last tip, use Vantagepoint Marketing Campaigns for list segments. To do this, create a new Marketing Campaign record with the name “List-Holiday Card,” for example. Then associate different contacts based on their segments (whether it be geographic, demographic, etc.) to add them to a list aka the Marketing Campaign record. With these new marketing campaigns more emails can be sent, and as contacts are created and updated, they can be added to different lists. 

Monitor New Contact Creation with Scheduled Reports 

Another good practice is to have Deltek Vantagepoint monitor what new contacts were created in the database. Deltek Vantagepoint allows the user to send scheduled reports of what contacts were created in a set period of time (i.e. weekly, monthly, etc.). When these are set up, a report will be sent to the user consisting of all the new contacts and will include who initially created the contact and if there is any missing information that needs to be added. In the case that any of the aforementioned key fields of the contact are missing, the user can follow up with the contact creator and ask them to fill out the required information. This feature can also be used for projects and employees, but in our case monitoring contacts is best. 

Use Workflow Warnings and Errors for Must-Have Contact Information 

Finally, make sure you are using workflows to your advantage. These workflows can be set up to indicate errors and warnings when a contact has missing information. Warnings will simply alert the user that the contact needs more information, but they will allow the contact to be saved nonetheless. Errors on the other hand will completely stop the user from saving the contact. Both of these options are effective ways to keep a contact list clean but be sure to choose which one to use carefully.  

See these Contact Management Tips in Action  

These are just some ways to utilize the Deltek Vantagepoint system features and functions to manage contacts, even outside of the holiday season. To see these features in action, click the image below to watch a replay of the webinar, A Modern Approach to Managing Holiday Contact Lists. 

In an age where technology is intertwined with every aspect of life, it is more important than ever to keep data protected. Since passwords are practically the keys to everyone’s livelihood both professionally and personally, if they fall into the wrong hands then there’s no telling how much trouble this could cause for everyone connected to them. By neglecting to follow proper password protection protocols, companies have unintentionally been responsible for their own data breaches and even those of their business partners. That’s why employees and leadership at professional services firms should use these five tips to help strengthen their passwords and keep security protected.

Tip #1 – Use a Unique Password 

Let’s say someone at the firm has been hacked and an unapproved person has gained access to a password. That’s already a concern, but the effect is multiplied tenfold if that same password has been used on other accounts at the firm. Once the password has been discovered, there will certainly be an attempt to use it wherever possible to get into even more of the unprotected accounts. To prevent this from happening, a completely different password should always be used on every separate firm account. 

Tip #2 – Resist Easy to Guess Passwords 

This one should be obvious, but one would be surprised by how many people use passwords like “12345” and “password” just because they are easy to remember. Personal information such as birthdays, pets’ names, and street addresses should also be avoided. To be safe one should use a password that is more random. A good password should have more than eight characters and contain numbers, special characters, uppercase letters and lowercase letters.  

Tip #3 – Be Very Cautious When Asked to Share Passwords 

Avoid scammers at all costs. Scams come in many forms - some may be emails, some may be phone calls, and some may even impersonate a friend, co-worker, client or relative online just to get access to a password. Some of these scams may try to create a sense of urgency, so always stop and remember to think it through carefully. Consider why that person would need this information, and if the person reaching out is unfamiliar, then do not continue with the contact. Here’s the golden rule to follow for not getting scammed: never give away a password.  

Tip #4 – Keep Software and Browsers Up to Date 

Keep the firm’s web browsers, applications, and operating systems up to date. If there’s an exploit to be found, it’s on an older version. It is not necessary to update to the newest version as soon as it is out, but it is generally a good idea to move to the newer versions as soon as possible. Some applications will come with a pre-set password. These should always be changed, even if they are randomly generated. If there is worry about exploits in newer versions of programs, then do research before the decision is made to update. Software companies will generally release patch notes for users to check before they update. 

Tip #5 – Use Two Factor Authentication or a Password Manager 

Two factor authentication requires a third-party app that will require approval for sign-ins. Once logged into an account, a notification on your authenticator app will be received where entry is approved or denied for whoever is logging in. Password managers are a bit more complex but will ensure safety just the same. Once logged in, the password manager will generate random passwords for the user. With these, only one password will need to be remembered to get into the manager, and it will take care of the rest. For extra safety, feel free to use both in tandem. 

Bonus Tip - Stolen Password.... Now What?

So, how can someone at a professional services firm tell if a password has been stolen? More importantly, what can be done about it? 

Well, the best way to identify if a password has been compromised is to watch for suspicious activity. The critical indicators can be anything from strange posts or questionable emails on firm accounts to even small subtle changes in personal information that seem off to the user. Some applications will inform the user when there is an unusual activity, which is especially helpful in these situations.  

Once there is evidence that an account has been breached, the first thing to do is immediately change the password. If this account is tied to others, those accounts should also have their passwords changed and be reviewed for any confirmation of hacking. One should also inform other firm staff and business partners of the breach to proactively prevent any other data breach complications. 

Stay Diligent and Safe

Professional services firms are not alone in the need to protect security, but with the expert knowledge that they are hired for, data breaches can have long term negative effects on both the firm and clients. These five tips should help strengthen firm security and protect its valuable data and clients. It’s a scary internet world out there, so it is important to keep both professional services firms and their staff safe so they can continue to work hard!  

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