Portage Bay supports a wide range of clients using custom developed systems as well as VIMS, our case management and billing system for vocational rehabilitation counselors.

These systems are generally mission critical applications for our customers and require a high level of availability and reliability. In recognition of this, we offer a support program designed to maximize long term reliability and utility with a predictable cost.

Services provided to all program members:

Automated Backup Monitoring
A module in your database will monitor the backup system and email the status to Portage Bay Solutions on a daily basis. Any backup system problems will be immediately reviewed with the client.

Compilation
Many of our client’s systems run in 4th Dimension’s interpreted mode. This allows for quicker on the fly changes when necessary. However, the compiled mode leads to a more stable system. Whether running interpreted or compiled, all database systems of support program members are compiled prior to each release to insure maximum stability.

Upgrade and Expansion Licensing Costs
All database engine licensing costs are including in the support program fees, thereby eliminating unpredictable periodic software upgrade costs.

Priority Response
Members of the database support program will receive priority response on programming work or in cases of system problems.

Code Base Synchronization
In the long run, this is perhaps the most valuable service available in this program. We routinely work on systems for a variety of clients, and have similar modules and functions in many of these systems. Over time, we may fix a bug in one client’s system that may affect another system, or we may add a feature that would be useful in all clients’ systems. For support program members, we maintain a common core set of functions, thereby improving reliability and utility.

Optional On Site Services:

Regular Data File Analysis and Preventative Maintenance
On an annual, semi-annual, or quarterly basis we will perform the following routine maintenance items:

• Drop and re-build all data indexes. This assures optimum performance and helps eliminate the possibility of corrupt indices.
• Analyze your data file with 4D Tools and DataCheck (industry standard applications for 4D data file testing and maintenance)

Backup and Transaction Logging Review
On an annual, semi-annual, or quarterly basis, we will review the backup system and recommend any changes or improvements that may be warranted. In addition, a test restore will be performed to insure the backup system is performing as intended.

The database support program is available on an annual basis and billed quarterly. Please call or email Portage Bay for pricing information.

We are excited about this service and know it will have a positive effect on the usage, reliability, and safety of our client's database systems.