Sage Software launched the newest version, ACT! 2010 on September 1 amid much fanfare from beta testers and ACT consultants.  Our own testing validated their enthusiasm.

The most pleasing feature is the new design of the interface.  Prior to the new design the interface seemed to be stuck in a 1990's world.  Not sure why it took this long for Sage to roll it out but it will make new users (and old) embrace a more user-friendly application and allow them to navigate the most important features in less clicks.  Our feeling is less clicks is better.

Another feature that is sure to get attention is the social media integration with such popular sites as Facebook, LinkedIn and others.  While many people are still trying to get their heads around social media, the folks at Sage didn't want to wait around while they figured it out.  We're big fans of social media and we'll write some articles/blogs about how it can be leveraged using ACT! 

There are too many more features in ACT! 2010 to list here but the other one that needs to be highlighted is the new and improved Sales Opportunity module.  The long-time ACT! user will appreciate the improvements made to this module which includes being able to create custom fields beyond the standard eight (8) fields in previous versions.  Most of our clients had to think long and hard and prioritize the top 8 custom fields.  Also, the opportunities layout can be completely customized to fit a company's needs. 

We'll have more on ACT! 2010 in future articles.