Moving to 4D v11 SQL

The transition to 4D version 11 SQL has begun and we plan on rolling this version out slowly beginning January, 2009.

Initial findings are exciting, to say the least.

The first thing truly noticeable is the speed. Because 4D v11 is a Universal app, it runs native on both PPC Macs, Intel Macs and Windows PCs. Running it on our Intel Mac has demonstrated up to a 10 time increase in speed in some processes.

We have also discovered new features such as combined indexes which make sorting records virtually instantaneous.

For example, in KIP version 10, if you brought up the patient list, it was sorted by last name unless your search result was less than 50 or 100 patients (or whatever you specified in the preferences). With a combined index on Last Name and First Name, the entire database can be sorted instantaneously.

I am sure as we get more familiar with this new version, many more speed enhancements will be implemented.

In addition, the web capabilities of 4D version 11 allow us to add features previously difficult or unavailable in our current version.

One idea we have involves referring a patient to (let's say) physical therapy. With a click, you should be able to execute a Google search on the 10 nearest therapists to the patient's home in order of proximity. The list might give the distance to the therapist, as well as the name, address, and phone number.

Web capabilities will allow us to integrate more ftp access to KIP as well, and we are looking to integrate things such as off-site backup, or sending us your data file for maintenance with a single click.

We are looking to add scanning of patient records using a desktop scanner, as well. Record scanning should allow the office to scan insurance cards, patient forms, and lab reports, in an effort to move to a paperless office.

We are also hopeful that this new version of 4D will be even faster when accessed remotely via the internet. Once we get up and running, we will give you feedback on this as well.

Much of what we integrate into KIP this new year will be related to the input we receive from you, our users. The more we hear from you, the more the program will become customized for your office.

Look for a demo version of KIP version 11 to appear on our web site around the first of the year.