Adaptive Planning Express Edition Version 5.0 is a versatile, on-demand system designed to be used for budgeting, forecasting and reporting. This program is aimed at small to mid-size nonprofit organizations that want to automate their financial planning and reporting processes within a single application.(http://www.adaptiveplanning.com)

Express Edition 5.0 is a multi-user application and includes nonprofit specific functions. This is a free, open-source, entry-level version of Adaptive Planning's business performance management software. They also offer commercial versions which include the Corporate and Enterprise Editions which offer expanded features and additional support.

In Use
Advance Planning Express Edition 5.0 has new capabilities and is easier to navigate and use. This version includes modeled sheets which makes it easy when planning assumptions for the non-profit organization. It also contains global sheets which allow different departments to work closely together and have secure access to information.

The design and layout is user friendly. The worksheet drop down menus and layout is similar to Excel which makes creation of formulas familiar. Adaptive Planning Express 5 has new administrative features including structure import capabilities, password management, formula assistant and a 'Get Started Assistant'. This system stores all your budgeting applications in one central location which is easily manageable.

Technology employed
Adaptive Planning Express 5 is Web-based. It is compatible with 32 bit Windows Operating Systems including NT, 2000, XP and Vista. It is also compatible with all POSIX including, Linux, BSD, and UNIX.
Internet access is also required to use the software.

Ease of use, configuration, and deployment
Express Edition 5 is a Web-based application making is easy to use, configure and deploy. This system can be remotely accessed from anywhere using the Internet.

Recap
For the mid size non-profit organization that is looking for a simple solution to providing a central location for collaborating budgets, reports and analysis for multi-users, the Express Edition 5.0 is an economical answer. The Express Edition is a free application with no license fee needed. Adaptive Planning also offers Corporate and Enterprise Editions which have expanded features and additional support. The fees for these editions vary according to the size and number of licenses needed.

Advantages

• No cost for the basic full access system
• Password Management
• Community support and training guides available
• User friendly

• Commercial editions can boost the cost of the system.