A Phased Rollout
To ensure the update is robust, reliable, and ready for business use, the release is being introduced in three phases:
- Phase 1 – Consultant Load Testing
Our Ostendo Support team will commence stress-testing the system in a controlled environment from Monday 15th September. This stage focuses on performance, speed, and ensuring the new framework runs smoothly under real-world conditions. - Phase 2 – Database & Script Testing
Next, our support team will test client-specific databases and scripts. This will ensure customisations in use today continue to function correctly in the Firebird 5 environment. - Phase 3 – Formal Rollout & Documentation
Once testing is complete, the update will be formally released along with supporting documentation. At this stage, our clients will begin upgrading to the new version with guidance and support.
This careful, phased approach is designed to minimise disruption and give businesses confidence that the update is stable and ready.
What’s New in This Update
The update introduces enhancements designed to make everyday work faster, easier, and more flexible. Highlights include:
- Improved stock control – with simple two-bin (Kanban-style) replenishment available for businesses wanting leaner, more efficient inventory management.
- Better process visibility – integrated business process modelling to capture workflows and interactions within Ostendo.
- User flexibility – more options for setting default values, validations, and automated workflow actions to suit your business rules.
- Enhanced security – new password policy controls for organisations wanting stronger safeguards.
What’s Coming Next
Following the initial release, further improvements will be rolled out, including:
- Business Intelligence Dashboards – powerful tools to build and customise your own graphical dashboards, similar to Power BI.
- AI Integration – the ability to tap into leading AI services to support tasks such as summarising notes, improving reporting queries, or simplifying routine documentation.
- NetSuite Integration – real-time connectivity between Ostendo and NetSuite for businesses operating in multi-company or multi-branch environments.
These features are designed to expand what’s possible with Ostendo, helping businesses work smarter and adapt to changing demands.
Preparing Your Business
Right now, no immediate action is required from clients. However, this is a good opportunity to:
- Review processes – think about where bottlenecks occur and how new functionality might help.
- Keep data clean – accurate data always makes for a smoother transition.
- Stay informed – updates on the rollout will be shared as we progress through each phase including some guidance to external IT providers around Cloud app servers.
How We Can Help
As Ostendo partners, we’re involved throughout the testing and rollout process. This means we’re well-placed to guide you through the changes, ensure your setup is ready, and help you take advantage of new functionality.
If Ostendo was the last reason for maintaining a terminal server, then you can now start to consider if your server is redundant. Every client network environment is different; hence we suggest you discuss this with your external IT.
If you’d like to talk about how this update could benefit your business, we’d be happy to help.
Michael Graham is a Partner specialising in business systems, operational workflows, and cost accounting. Direct, honest, and analytical, he helps clients optimise their systems, improve operational efficiency, and make informed financial and strategic decisions across diverse industries.
