Relate Accounts Production is set to retire on 31/12/2023. This means that we will no longer provide access to, support, or release bug fixes, or updates, including compliance updates for the software.
We understand that change can bring about uncertainties, and we’re here to provide you with clear answers and guidance. Whether you’re curious about the reasons behind the transition, the timeline, the migration process, or any other related topics, you’ll find the information you need here.
If you have further inquiries or require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team at support@relate-software.com.
1. When will Relate Accounts Production no longer be supported?
Customer support will come to an end on 31/12/2023. Until then, our dedicated customer support team will continue to provide assistance, address any queries and offer technical guidance.
If you have already renewed your license this year, rest assured that customer support will be provided until the last day of your license term.
Contact Customer Support at support@relate-software.com and for further information on your licence please contact the Payments Services team at
accounts@relate-accounts.com.
2. Will Relate Accounts Production continue to work after the end-of-life date?
Relate Accounts Production is set to retire on 31/12/2023. This means that we will no longer provide access to, support, or release bug fixes, or updates, including compliance updates for the software. To avoid disruption to your business, you need to migrate your data and processes to an alternative accounts production software, such as Surf Accounts Production.
3. Do I need to backup my client’s datasets?
Yes, it is vitally important you backup your data. To back up the SQL database, view the steps on exactly how to do this, by viewing this guide . To individually backup each client’s dataset, in Relate Accounts Production, find the client in the ‘Clients and Accounts’ Screen. Select ‘Backup’ at the top of the screen. You can confirm that you are backing up the correct client by verifying the name in the top right-hand corner before selecting ‘Backup’. After selecting ‘Backup’, save the file in a secure location.
4. My licence for Relate Accounts Production has already been renewed this year. What does the transition mean for my license, which extends into next year?
We will be reaching out to any customers who have already renewed their licence which extends into next year. If you have a valid license, you will continue to have access to your software until the end of the licence period, at which point you will need to transition to an alternative accounts production product.
5. My licence is due for renewal in the next few months. What should I do?
Please contact the Payment Services team on 041 214 0025 / accounts@relate-software.com and they will assist you. Alternatively, the Payment Services team will also reach out closer to your renewal date, to discuss your options.
6. What happens if I encounter issues with Relate Accounts Production after the end-of-life date?
If you hold a valid license, you will maintain access to Relate Accounts Production until the end of the licence period. As a result, if any issues come up after the end-of-life date, you will still rely on our dedicated Customer Support. Our support team will be available to assist you and address any concerns you may have during the remaining period of your licence.
7. What are the key features and benefits of Surf Accounts Production as compared to Relate Accounts Production?
Surf Accounts Production is a cloud software, meaning you can login and access it from anywhere. Some of additional key features include:
For further information, please contact our sales team at sales@surfaccounts.com.
8. How do I migrate from Relate Accounts Production to Surf Accounts Production?
Migrating to Surf Accounts Production is straightforward but does take time. You can import your client dataset directly from Relate Accounts Production into Surf Accounts Production. For more detail, on exactly how to migrate, view this step-by-step guide, and to learn how to get set up on Surf Accounts Production, view our Help Centre. Or speak to our Customer Success team and schedule an onboarding appointment now.
Book Your Onboarding Slot: Surf Accounts Production Booking
9. Will there be any costs associated with switching to Surf Accounts Production?
The costs associated with switching to Surf Accounts Production will vary depending on your specific requirements. To provide you with the most accurate information tailored to your needs, we recommend speaking with the sales team at sales@surfaccounts.com or your dedicated sales contact who will determine the right plan that aligns with your needs.
10. Are there any special offers or discounts available for existing customers transitioning to Surf Accounts Production?
Absolutely! We want to make the transition to Surf Accounts Production as smooth and cost-effective as possible. We offer special discounts for existing customers who are transitioning from Relate Accounts Production or are current Bright customers. Your account manager will discuss the discounts available to you.
11. Will there be any training or resources available to help me get started with Surf Accounts Production?
Yes, we have a newly designed training course that will help you master Surf Accounts Production. The training will cover all the key features, to make sure you maximise the software’s value. It will cover how to get set up on Surf Accounts Production, Trial balance and Chart of Accounts, Nominal Ledger, Compliance Database, Producing Accounts, iXBRL, E-signing, and consolidation and bookkeeping.
You can register for a place on the training course here.
13. What other options do I have if I choose not to transition to Surf Accounts Production?
We understand that transitioning to Surf Accounts Production may not be the right fit for everyone. In this scenario, we recommend considering alternative accounting software options that align to your business needs. We encourage you to explore these options and choose the one that best suits your requirements. Please remember to give yourself enough time to migrate your data to your new software as you may not be able to directly import your Relate Accounts Production datasets to the software.
13. Why is Relate Accounts Production being discontinued?
Discontinuing Relate Accounts Production wasn’t an easy decision as we know many of you have been loyal users of the product.
The rapid evolution of the tech industry over the past two decades has resulted in significant changes, and unfortunately, Relate Accounts Production is unable to keep up as a desktop solution. Consequently, we have made the decision to retire the product and redirect our efforts towards enhancing Surf Accounts Production, now available on the cloud.
The decision allows us to allocate resources towards the development of more advanced and efficient tools that empower businesses and users to work with greater effectiveness. Ultimately, our goal is to provide software that enhances productivity and streamlines operations.
14. When will the sale of Relate Accounts Production cease?
Relate Accounts Production is no longer for sale. Licences can be renewed up to 31/12/2023.
