Billing System

[Erich Zigler]

Dave Johnson wrote:

> Can anyone recommend an Accounting / Billing  System for ISPs

Basically it all sums up in. All Accounting / Billing Systems suck, some 
just suck less then others.

Im not trying to be cheeky but I've tried a good number of them. Here 
are my experiences.

BillMax - Runs on *BSD, and other *NIX platforms, good base install, 
etc. The interface while powerful is complex, and can be daunting to 
some users.

FreeSide - It's OK. If you dont mind doing every thing yourself. Ivan is 
a decent enough guy but he is a BOFH, so just keep that in mind.

OptiGold - It's decent. Unfortunatley it runs on FileMaker which should 
be burned in the bowels of the deepest hell. I believe all the issues 
I've had with the application would be solved by going over to SQL, but 
I dont see that happening. Make sure that when you talk to their sales 
force that you are very explicit in what you want. We weren't and had to 
shell out a lot more money then we planned on. Also having to have at 
least 3-5 FileMaker licenses just to run the software is a little 
outrageous in my opinion. If you go with OptiGold be sure to pick up 
OptiSkin it makes life worth living.

Platypus - I've heard good things, but the licensing leaves a lot to be 
desired. If you are ever bought out license does not transfer as an asset.