Implementation Checklist

Pre-Installation Steps

Hardware Implementation

Server computer that meets the System Recommendations

Set monitor resolution to at least 1024x768

Reliable internet access to download installer

Operating system is updated with latest service packs and updates

QuickBooks Integration

Install a Supported Version of QuickBooks on the same computer as the Fishbowl server

Enable class tracking in QuickBooks if applicable

Decide how frequently you will export information to QuickBooks

Verify that all data in QuickBooks is accurate and make any needed changes

Login to QuickBooks as Admin and switch to single user mode

Print instructions for integration from Fishbowl’s accounting configuration

Install Fishbowl

Installation

Download the installer to install the latest version of Fishbowl

Select "Server with Client" to install on server or Client Only on all other workstations

Create a new Fishbowl Database

Start Fishbowl Server and Client. Use the client to login (username & password= admin)

Company Set-Up

Determine the number of workstations the Fishbowl client will be running on

Determine how many people will have access to Fishbowl

Configure users, user groups, and access rights for Fishbowl modules

Set appropriate payment terms for your customers

Determine how many locations you have and set up appropriate warehouses

Determine the functionality of each needed location and configure appropriately

Enable class tracking in Fishbowl if applicable

Assign locations to proper location groups

Determine if you will need a product tree (to apply pricing changes by category)

Create classes as needed (Location, Enterprise or Type of Product)

Determine if you will use serial numbers, expiration dates, or other tracking

Determine if you need to create any custom fields

Determine which units of measure (and conversions) you will need

Restart Fishbowl server and Fishbowl client

Create a scheduled database backup in the Schedule module

Select a Payment Gateway.

Post-Installation Steps

Create Inventory Locations & Units of Measures

Complete the initial startup wizard in Fishbowl and enter appropriate data

Set up needed location groups

Set up needed locations, delete any that are unused

Enter applicable units of measure

Enter unit of measure conversions as needed

Edit information on carriers that are applicable and add needed vendors

Enter new terms offered to customers and by vendors

Add company logo to be used on Fishbowl reports

Integrating with an accounting system

Set up or modify payment terms

Go to accounting module to and select an accounting integration

Enable class tracking within QuickBooks if applicable

Bring in company information if applicable

Bring in inventory items if applicable

Bring in vendor (supplier) information if applicable

Bring in customer information if applicable

Set the  Accounting Integration module options

Import data into Fishbowl

Review the Imports and Exports that are available in Fishbowl. Data can be entered manually, imported from QuickBooks, or imported from Excel/CSV.

Export the CSV templates and follow the instructions to import data into Fishbowl.

Assign Individual Parts to Locations

Assign individual parts to locations

Move parts to their locations using the Inventory Move Import

Make sure the spreadsheets are formatted correctly

Verify inventory quantities and make needed changes

Set up User Groups and Access Rights

Create new user groups

Assign user group rights

Create new users and enter passwords

Assign users to user groups

Enter Tax Information

Add tax agencies

Add tax rates

Assign the classes you are going to use (Location, Enterprise or Type of Product)

Create a bill of materials

(Option 1) Create a bill of materials

(Option 2) Import a bill of materials using the Bill of Materials import.

Set the Auto Create option where applicable

Purchasing Module Group

Update vendor information

Enter information on parts purchased from vendors

Review the module options for each module in the Purchasing group

Refine the Materials Module Group

Make sure all parts are entered into Fishbowl

Use the Part import to update multiple parts

Make sure all parts are properly classified under the Details tab

Enter in any defined custom fields you might use

Check any options that will be applicable for each part

Associate each part with the vendors that sell it

If applicable, set the default vendor for each part.

Import pictures if you are going to use that feature on various parts and products

Assign default locations for each part

Review the module options for each module in the Materials group

Go to the Sales Module Group

Create needed customer groups in the customer module

Assign customers to groups under the groups tab

Assign default salesperson to manage customer accounts

Set up needed pricing rules on a customer, customer group, or product basis

Set up any discounts that are used

Review the module options for each module in the Sales group

Fishbowl Reports

Open the Reports module in the General group

Verify that reports information is accurate

Contact Fishbowl reports team for any report modifications or custom reports

Review the  Reports module options