CompuServe Thread

new dataTAX version

5 messages in this thread
#49726From: Mark A. DorsettFeb 18, 1992 9:13 AM
I'm with you! I also ordered the dataTax upgrade, but disappointed isn't a strong enough word. I was ticked! They promised a new 2.0 like interface which, according to the readme file, was scrapped due to memory problems with Amigas under 1MB. They didn't even bother to change the icons from 1990 to 1991. This kind of unprofessionalism has got to stop. I'm going to seriously evaluate whether to upgrade this package again. Mark
#49744From: Martin WarnettFeb 18, 1992 12:22 PM
Every year I say I am not going to upgrade DataTax, but I always do as it is the only tax package I have found for the Amiga. Can't bring myself to use an IBM package, maybe next year. They have promised CA state tax forms for the past 3 years, they still haven't delivered. They are supposed to be on the way but… Anyway if you have installed DataTax, don't bother doing your taxes yet you will only be wasting your time. There is a bug fix disk on the way. Amiga users deserve better than DataTax.
#50055From: Derek BuckleyFeb 21, 1992 12:43 PM
Mark- I'm glad I'm not just overly pickey on software. I hadn't really heard anyone else with the same complaints I had, but I guess I'm not alone. I didn't read that part about scrapping the 2.0 interface — I'll have to go look. You're right about stuff like the icon, little things like that really show lack of attention. Did you get the update? I can't figure where the original package came compressed on two disks, but the update comes uncompressed on one — maybe they dropped the workbench files or something. Also, they reverted the electronic filing back to the way it was last year, where you just modem them the file. I asked (on their BBS) for a refund of my $40 for their dataMAIL, because the only reason I ordered it was for the e-filing, and they said their program was REQUIRED for do it directly. Anyway, I'm having the same doubts about upgrading. I use it mainly to do the math for me, and a spreadsheet could accomplish the same thing. I hope another package would come on the market to spur competition! Take care! – db —–> via Whap!
#50087From: Paul GerhardtFeb 21, 1992 8:43 PM
Derek, Let me add my name to the list of those who were GREATLY disappointed in dataTAX91! The reason they needed only one disk for the latest version is that along with the electronic filing they dumped the hypertext help system. Unfortunatly the manual was written with the assumtion that the help system was in place. I found it nearly useless. The whole thing did not inspire confidence. In fact my confidence level in the program dropped low enough that I went back and check the math with a calculator. What a waste of money! -Paul-
#50272From: Derek BuckleyFeb 23, 1992 5:00 PM
Paul, I hear you! I did the same with my calculator. I've come to the conclusion that there is nothing professional about that product — from its appearance to its functionality. – db —–> via Whap!