Australian cloud accounting software vendor Gem Accounts is entering the United States. It's coming with the usual accountant and reseller programs and monthly subscription pricing. What's I'm curious about is how much revenue opportunity there is for the channel. The product is priced at $129 per month per company for all features and unlimited users. Let's look after the sale: "From there Gem manages the client and billing - and pays you monthly a trailing commission on the client for the life of the client."

Blackbaud created a three-tier program of certification for Raiser's Edge users. The new offering from the Charleston, S.C.-based nonprofit software vendor is designed to create a professional development program for users of the fundraising package, who can qualify at the Associate, Professional, and Master levels. Called Blackbaud Certification in The Raiser's Edge, the program has an exam with more than 600 certification questions. Those certified can display the achievement through a certificate, certified seal certified icon and use of bCRE as a professional designation. The Associate and Professional exams are $199 each while the Master's exam fee is $299. The entry-level exam tests skills in navigation, data entry, record management (constituent, gift, and action), batch entry, optional modules. Those seeking Professional-level recognition are examined on in-depth knowledge of query, mail, reports, dashboards, exports, action tracks, events, memberships, volunteers, tributes, prospect research, alumni records, and The Giving Score. Master-level applicants are queried on expert knowledge of The Raiser's Edge, including: configuration, administration, SAP Crystal Reports, and development of policies and procedures to define data consistency practices. Registrations are being accepted for the first two tests while the Blackbaud website shows the Master test is coming soon.