Software

Starring role

Electrical contractors are facing a major overhaul of how they deal with tax payments under new regulations from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), but Star Payroll Professional software can lend a hand.

Under the new Construction Industry Scheme, contractors will have to produce monthly returns covering all subcontractors. The HMRC is keen that returns and verification requests are submitted online, so contractors should check that their payroll systems will be able to meet the new rules. Star Payroll Professional software has been recognised by HMRC for online submission of monthly CIS returns (CIS 300) and verification requests.

Star’s software controls the entire process. When setting up an individual’s record, there will be a choice as to whether the person has PAYE or subcontractor status. The record creation procedure automatically assigns NT tax codes and NI letters of X to subcontractors. This means subcontractors and PAYE employees can be handled in the same datafile and employers can receive management reports which show employee data both separately and combined.

Verification of the subcontractor can be done by simply clicking on Star Payroll Professional’s online verification button. The number and date is recorded and the appropriate tax is deducted on the next calculation.

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The right tool for the job

Luckins has released a new Purchase Order module to complement its Software Toolcase range for electrical contractors.

The new module will help contractors reduce the administrative cost of materials procurement and provide information to help maximise buying power and ultimately improve profit margins.

Using a buying list created from an estimate or data taken from the Luckins database, users can create purchase orders priced using up-to-date price and discount data. Orders may be linked to a project, enabling the contractor to see a constantly updated snapshot of committed costs.

Once the order has been placed, the contractor can capture delivery information from the supplier’s Goods Received Notes, automatically highlighting over or under deliveries and calculating the expected invoice value.

Software Toolcase Purchase Order comes equipped with a range of standard report formats. Bespoke set-ups can also be added.

In addition, a range of analysis tools and reports are provided, enabling the contractor to calculate rebates due and to analyse spending by any combination of supplier, manufacturer or project.

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High definition

BCS Global has recently announced its Virtual Presence High Definition (HD) service.

The facility provides high definition multi-point video conferences that are fully interoperable with other HD systems, but also connects standard definition conference rooms, telepresence suites, video appliances, webcams and 3G videophones.

The solution includes an unlimited use video calling plan, customised screen layouts, complete end-point and directory management, reduced international calling rates and detailed billing.

Enquiries 172