FAQ
How many years of experience does SEM Applications, Inc. have in the guardianship industry?
SEM Applications, Inc. has been an industry leader in guardianship and fiduciary information software since 1997. The program was originally developed for the Holt County Missouri Public Administrator — the developer’s father. Recognizing the potential impact of a proven guardianship and fiduciary information system across the industry, Stan launched SEM Applications, Inc. to share the guardian reporting software with other public administrators across the state. The guardianship software quickly became a coveted tool for individuals and organizations, both public and private, in Missouri and beyond. In 2008, SEM Applications took the functionality of the original client/server (desktop) application and launched SaaS services — an enhanced web-based version of the application accessible from a secure hosted server.
The popularity of the guardianship program is widespread, and our company has grown significantly over the last 25 years. Today, SEM Applications, Inc. supports thousands of users ranging from individual family guardians to state-wide organizations and serves customers in more than 30 states.
How can I know that my data is secure?
The EMS web application uses a 256 bit SSL certificate and is verified by Secure Trust Corporation. EMS is hosted with an SOC 2 & 3 (HIPAA compliant) provider with 5 fully redundant data centers. Our hosting facility provides Redundant UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems and backup generators to ensure the uptime of our data centers. Unmarked facilities, biometrics, video surveillance, and three layers of NOC monitoring provide our clients with the highest levels of security.
Three-tiered system login, password change/complexity prompts, and IP restriction options coupled with User Rights and Access controls secure login and create system permissions to offer multiple layers of security and appropriate separation of duties.
How much is an EMS subscription? What is included in my subscription?
EMS is web-based Software as a Service that is priced per active case per month. Rates are dependent on the number of active cases and the version of the conservatorship software most appropriate for your needs. The monthly per-case subscription rate includes online training, technical support, closed case storage, server maintenance, data backups, system enhancements and more. Typically, costs range from four dollars to six dollars per month per case before applicable discounts. No upfront purchase fees or license agreements are required. Our Pricing page will tell you more.
What is NOT included in my subscription?
IT/networking solutions, custom report development, customer requested system modifications, data conversion that falls outside the SEM Applications, Inc. subscription services. Review our Service Level Agreement for subscription details and the pricing page for additional, a la carte services. Contact our sales team for a quote.
How long does it take to get started?
The implementation process and timeframe vary based on the needs of your office. Smaller offices looking for an out-of-the-box implementation can begin using EMS immediately. Typically, we suggest that all new customers attend an online web demonstration to see an overview of the EMS application before launching a free 30-day trial. Then, a signed user agreement is all that is required to launch your subscription. Offices with two or more staff, more than five active cases, or those moving from a legacy system are strongly encouraged to purchase an implementation package to provide project management and personalized training to ensure a smooth transition. Implementation timelines can range from two to 12 weeks. As with most changes, you will experience a learning curve; however, our staff is here to make the transition as seamless as possible. Regardless of the length of the journey, it begins with the first step. Click here to Get Started today.
Can I access my data in EMS without an Internet connection?
If the Internet connection at your current location is unavailable, you won’t be able to access EMS. But, with mobile access, you can connect to EMS on your smartphone or tablet using your device’s 3G or 4G service. Portable WiFi devices and Hot Spots can also provide connectivity.
Do I have to sign a long-term contract to use the EMS application?
No. All EMS users must have a signed Service Agreement on file with SEM Applications, Inc. to start their monthly subscription to EMS. No long-term commitments are required. Although it is our goal to build lasting relationships with our customers, the Service Agreement is a month to month contract.
What happens to my data if I cancel my EMS subscription?
A 30-day written notice is required to cancel your EMS subscription. Customers that choose to close an EMS account should plan to export client data from EMS via Excel and/or PDF prior to the termination of the subscription.
What are the system requirements for EMS?
Because EMS is a web-based application, there is no specific hardware required. To use EMS, you will need an internet connected device (broadband recommended, the faster the better) with an installed web browser (Mozilla Firefox recommended; Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer supported). Adobe PDF and Excel are also recommended.
Check printing requires a laser printer with MICR toner and blank check stock.
What happens if I need help?
SEM Applications, Inc. provides technical support and online training as defined in our Service Level Agreement. Phones are answered live during business hours (8 am to 5 pm Monday –Friday, CST) and support emails are monitored daily for prompt response. EMS Tech Support Specialists use Citrix GoToMeeting and GoToAssist to provide individual assistance and issue resolution. After hours emergency support is also available.
How can I import data from my current system(s) to the EMS application?
SEM Applications, Inc. offers several options for migrating data from existing systems. Traditional data migration services, including extraction from the legacy system, conversion, mapping, and migration, are available at $150 per hour. We also provide a spreadsheet import as a lower cost alternative. The spreadsheet import places the burden of responsibility for data extractions and spreadsheet completion on the customer, reducing the out of pocket cost significantly. Financial data from Quicken and/or QuickBooks may be imported at no cost via the import tools within EMS.