If its a back up on a memory stick or disc, then the version you are backing up to has to be the same version ie V14 or the version has to be newer. With Sage you can't back up one version say V14 and then stick it on your machine which may only be a V12. in other words you can't go backwards.
So check out what version they had and was it an 'Instants' or maybe line 50?
HTH
-- Edited by Amanda on Tuesday 1st of May 2012 08:55:19 PM
I have been sent a sage back-up for Sage Instant. I seem to be able to restore the backup - then no sooner has it successfully restored and I go to the company module or to maintenance or try to access anything the software crashes and throws me out.
I don't know Sage Instant, but from a general IT point of view, a couple of points spring to mind.
First, do you have an earlier version of the program than the version the backup was saved from? It may be that new data fields were added in the later version and your version doesn't know what to do with them. This potentially can even happen if your version is simply not the same number.
First-and-a-half, if you don't have the latest version, can you upgrade (ideally for free)?
Second, can the backup be made in a format other than the default whatever-it-is? Look for things like CSV, Excel, XLS, RTF, XML, or something described as a text-based backup. Also see if there is an "Export" option (as opposed to a "backup"), which tends to be in a format that is more universally readable. Then get the backup redone in the new format and try "Import" on your software.
No, I mean is the version that you are currently using a different (specifically, earlier) version than the one the backup was made on. You may not know, of course, but if you can ask whoever gave you the backup to check.
On many applications, the convention is to give the version number on the "About" page, usually accessible from the "Help" menu option. Assuming it doesn't actually say in the title bar, packaging, etc.
Its definately instant - i can get it into v.15 by restoring over an existing company - it then crashes when i try to access anything in sage. it won't even allow me to put it in v.12 or earlier - its driving me potty!!