Understanding Upgrade Paths
Before beginning the upgrade process, it's crucial to identify your current version and determine the correct upgrade path. The following upgrade paths are supported for direct upgrades to version 24:
- Version 23
- Version 22
- Version 20
- Version 18.1.3 (Australia Release)
If you're running any other version of 18, you must first upgrade to version 20.5 before proceeding to version 24.
Pre-Upgrade Preparation
System Requirements Review
Before initiating the upgrade process, thoroughly review the system requirements for version 24. This includes checking:
- Operating system compatibility
- Hardware specifications
- Available disk space (note that upgrades may increase file sizes by up to 200%)
- Database requirements
Essential Pre-Upgrade Steps
- Document Review
- Read the Release Notes for detailed information about the new version
- Review the Installation Checklist
- Gather your Registration Name and 10-digit Sage Client ID
- License Verification
- Log into the Sage Customer Portal to verify your company's entitled applications
- Review the number of licensed users for each application
- Contact your Sage business partner if additional licenses are needed
- Data Preparation
- Run File Doctor on all current files to identify and fix potential issues
- Create a complete backup of all Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate data and program files
- Verify third-party integration compatibility with software vendors[2]
Upgrade Process
Step 1: Installation Preparation
- Ensure no users are accessing the system during the upgrade
- Close all Sage 300 applications
- Verify sufficient disk space is available
- Install any required operating system service packs
Step 2: Software Installation
- Launch the installation program with administrator privileges
- Accept the License Agreement
- Select the appropriate destination for Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate files
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation
Step 3: Data File Upgrade
After installing the new version, you must upgrade all Accounting and Management application data files. The process varies by application type:
Standard Applications:
- Use the Upgrade Files tool from Sage Desktop
- Process files systematically through the upgrade utility
Special Applications:
- Service Management data upgrades automatically upon first launch
- Purchasing and Inventory require special handling at the server console
- Must be performed while logged into the server directly, not through Remote Desktop
Post-Upgrade Tasks
Verification Steps
- Launch Sage 300 to confirm successful installation
- Check the system information to verify the new version number
- Validate all modules are accessible
- Test critical functionality in each module
Data Activation
Some updates require data activation for specific modules due to database changes. If prompted:
- Log into Sage 300
- Navigate to Administrative Services
- Complete the Data Activation process
Special Considerations
Integration Management
If you use integrated products:
- Verify compatibility with third-party vendors
- Check compatibility with other Sage products
- Update integrated systems as needed
Database Considerations
The upgrade may affect:
- Custom report designs
- Third-party applications
- Database field structures
To review new or modified fields:
- Use Report Designer's Available Fields report
- Check Crystal Reports Designer field explorer
Troubleshooting Common Issues
License Administration
If encountering license issues:
- Use the License Administrator tool to manage licenses
- Verify all activation codes are properly entered
- Confirm user count matches your license agreement
Data Access
If experiencing data access problems:
- Verify DSN settings
- Check database connectivity
- Ensure proper permissions are set
- Confirm server accessibility
Best Practices
Backup Strategy
Maintain multiple backups:
- Create a pre-upgrade backup
- Make incremental backups during the upgrade process
- Store backups in secure, separate locations
Testing Environment
When possible:
- Set up a test environment
- Perform a trial upgrade
- Validate all critical business processes
- Document any issues encountered
User Management
During the upgrade:
- Notify all users of system downtime
- Schedule the upgrade during off-peak hours
- Plan for adequate testing time
- Provide training on new features
Maintenance and Support
Regular Updates
After the main upgrade:
- Monitor for product updates
- Install security patches promptly
- Keep integrated systems current
- Review system performance regularly
Support Resources
Utilize available support channels:
- Sage Customer Portal
- Knowledge Base articles
- Business Partner assistance
- Sage Expert Services
Future Planning
Version Management
Stay informed about:
- Future version releases
- End-of-support dates
- Required upgrade paths
- New feature implementations
System Evolution
Plan for:
- Hardware upgrades
- Operating system updates
- Database management
- Security enhancements
The successful upgrade of Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate requires careful planning, systematic execution, and thorough testing. By following these detailed steps and considerations, organizations can minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition to the latest version while maintaining data integrity and system functionality.
Sources: [1] https://cdn.na.sage.com/docs/en/customer/300cre/24/open/UserGuide_24-1.pdf [2] https://cdn.na.sage.com/docs/en/customer/300cre/24/open/ReleaseNotesAcctMgmt_24.pdf [3] https://www.baass.com/blog/tips-tricks-install-product-updates-for-sage-300 [4] https://support.eosgroup.com/support/solutions/articles/5000870701-sage-300-construction-and-real-estate-and-sage-estimating-pervasive-sql-upgrade-paths [5] https://cdn.na.sage.com/docs/en/customer/300erp/2024/open/Sage300_UpgradeGuide.pdf [6] https://bangertinc.com/2022-sage-300-cre-year-end-guide/ [7] https://communityhub.sage.com/us/sage_construction_and_real_estate/f/sage-cre-announcements/229888/releasing-now---sage-300-construction-and-real-estate-version-24-2 [8] https://help.sage300.com/en-us/2023/classic/Content/ReleaseDocs/ReleaseNotes.htm [9] https://help.sage300.com/en-us/2024/classic/Content/ReleaseDocs/ReleaseNotes.htm [10] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCi1DkcFoZM