Frequently Asked Questions - CityTax FAQ's


Does your software interact with other applications?

All of the CitySuites applications including CityTax have been designed for maximum interoperability with other systems.

Do you have one version for smaller entities and another for larger entities?

Because of its design, CitySuites applications can serve organizations of all sizes with the same software program. With a single version, support and enhancements are simplified enabling ISSI to provide the very best in customer care.

Can we use one database and share it with all of the users?

CityTax was designed to support a multi-user environment. With a single database, users can easily be added as your organization continues to grow.

What type of database does CityTax support?

Borland Interbase is reccomended for small entities that do not have an IT staff or the second option is Microsoft SQL Server for those sites that already have adopted this database as a standard.

How long has your company been in business? How long have you been developing software?

Innovative Software Services, Inc. was established in 1998 with product development starting in 1995. A privately-held company, based in Eaton Rapids, MI, our company has enjoyed consistent growth and now has customers in six states.

How many users can I have on the software?

You may add as many users as your organization deems necessary. The only limitations would be related to your networking environment and the number of concurrent database user licenses.

What kind of training is available?

Innovative Software Services, Inc. (ISSI) is committed to providing superior educational services for our clients.  In addition to a thorough, process-driven training program during the installation, ISSI also provides a number of other continuing education programs including refresher training, industry seminars and our user group gatherings.  We also provide a quarterly newsletter to our clients to keep them up-to-date on relevant news, software enhancements and upcoming future events.

What kind of support is available?

Serving our clients is the lifeblood of our business.  To support our clients, we use a combination of telephone support, the internet and on-site service.  Our hotline service is manned from 8:00 – 5:00 (EST) Monday thru Friday with after-hours support available with advance notice.  We often use the Internet to gain access into your system (with your permission, of course!!!) that allows us to quickly diagnose and troubleshoot whatever problem or question you may have.  If it’s required, ISSI will go directly to your site ensuring that issues are resolved quickly and professionally.  In the age of voice mail and automated attendants, you will always have the comfort of talking to a live human being when you call ISSI.

Do you have online help available?

All of the CitySuites modules have help systems built right into the system.  With a click of a button, you will get the help files associated with the portion of the program you were in.  It is simply the most effective help system available.

What are the hardware requirements necessary to run your system?

Harware requirements are dependant upon the number of users that will be utilizing the software. With that said, the specifications are very minimal and usually do not require you to purchase additional or new hardware.

Will your software work with any operating system?

The software will run on any Windows platform supported by Microsoft.

Can I use your software from a remote location?

CitySuites products are designed with maximum flexibility in mind as it supports remote access.  Contact our Network Specialist team to discover how remote access can be used in your system.

How many licenses do I need to buy?

One and only one.  All of the modules within CityTax are provided for you.  Even if there are certain features you may wish to use at a later date, you have the comfort of knowing there are no extra expenses.

Does your software allow us to write custom reports?

All of the CitySuites products have a powerful and user-friendly report writer built into the program.  With minimal training, you’ll be able to get the information that you need in a format that meets your needs. In addition there CitySuites ships with a multitude of standard reports.

We’re a small entity. Can we afford your software? Do we need all of the features?

CitySuites products were designed to operate according to your business rules and practices.  This structure has made the products equally effective for large and small organizations alike.  While smaller organizations may not require all of the features within the software, it’s comforting to know that the capabilities are available to you.  The price structure for CitySuites products are based primarily on the size of your organization so it’s affordable for all sizes.

Is there a demo I can install and try?

Because the system does require some level of training in order to effectively use the system, ISSI does not provide a demonstration CD.  However, ISSI or one of its authorized resellers will gladly provide the assistance for you to have the “hands-on” experience.

How much do I have to pay for software upgrades?

Software upgrades are included as part of your service agreement.  ISSI believes that customers that continually grow with the software are our best customers.  To help support this belief, ISSI has made it as easy as possible to stay current with the latest software release.

Is there a fee for technical support?

There are no fees associated with technical support as they’re included as part of your service agreement with ISSI.

How do I install the software and how long will it take to get up and running?

Installation is performed by a fully trained CitySuites technician or one of its authorized partners.  Since the installation is done by an experienced technician, software installation generally takes less than a day.  Our comprehensive training program expedites the time necessary to get up and running making you an experienced user in no time at all!!!

How do I get my old data into the new system?

Before any data is brought over to your new system, our conversion team meets with you to discuss your data conversion needs.  These conversations are used to determine what information is crucial to your operation and what is not.  It’s a good rule to bring over only the information that is necessary.

Can we make custom changes to the system?

Under most circumstances, the table-driven structure of CityTax makes custom programming unnecessary.  In those rare instances where a modification is necessary, our staff will discuss the issue with you.  If it’s simply a good idea that will benefit many of our customers, it’s been our policy to make these modifications at no charge at all.

Is source code available?

Source code will be made available to you in the unlikely circumstance that ISSI ceases operations.  Provisions have been made to place the source code in escrow.  Complete details on this subject are included as part of our contracts.

Can I produce letters, invoices, etc.?

With the built-in word processor, you can create and easily produce letters and communications of all types.  You can store the documents that you use regularly and automatically generate the documents based on your rules.

What version of Windows do I need?

CityTax supports all Microsoft supported Windows operating systems.

How much does your system cost?

System costs vary by location and depend on many factors including number of users, amount of data converted and amount of training required. As a general rule, our pricing structure allows smaller organizations to pay less for the system making it affordable for everyone.

How can I see a personal demonstration?

Contact Innovative Software Services, Inc. and we’ll be happy to come to your location or provide a demonstration over the internet.  Our presentation will be tailored specifically for your organization and is designed to be interactive.  We understand that every organization is a bit different as we’re looking to address the needs that are most important to you.