Columbia Ultimate Enhances Software for European Collections

VANCOUVER, WA ? Columbia Ultimate, a leader in collections management software, today announced the availability of The Collector System 2003e. This release includes two new modules designed specifically to meet the requirements for collecting money in the U.K. and European markets.

?With the addition of the Field Agent Management Module and Legal Module to The Collector System, our clients will have a completely integrated solution distinguishing it as the only software with all the tools necessary for effective European collections,? said Spencer Taylor, general manager, Columbia Ultimate U.K. operations. ?The new modules augment a system already equipped with multi-currency functionality, as well as the option for an integrated predictive dialer with call blending capability.?

The Field Agent Module automatically assigns accounts to the appropriate collection agents based on postal code, type of service required (commission-based or fee-based) and agent availability. The agency can send instructions to the field agents by letter, fax, e-mail or text message to a mobile phone, as appropriate. When a result code is assigned ? defining ?next steps? for the account ? the system automatically determines the pre-defined course of action and calculates the client’s charges and fees for collecting.

The Legal Module is designed to help track an account through the legal process in the U.K. The system enables collection agents to easily transfer data when electronically filling out small claims forms or other court documentations. Integration to Microsoft Publisher has been added to allow printing of the many specific, detailed forms required in the U.K. court system.

Both modules include user-friendly graphical interfaces. Additional improvements include a new feature, called Action Matrices, that merges key elements of The Collector System such as workflows, macros, and postings into a single ?point and click? action set, and free-form text capabilities.

A total of 17 enhancements are incorporated into the 2003e release, further strengthening the system to efficiently manage the collections process.

About Columbia Ultimate
Columbia Ultimate is the No. 1 ranked provider of full-service software, support, and training for collection agencies ? the most demanding users of software to collect money. Customers running Columbia Ultimate software also include government agencies, utilities, hospitals, banks and retail companies. Founded in 1979, Columbia Ultimate is headquartered in Vancouver, Wash., with offices in Georgia and Warrington, U.K.