a la mode releases TOTAL 2010

This sixth generation hailed as the easiest, smartest, most affordable appraisal forms software to date

Oklahoma City, OK – a la mode today introduced TOTAL 2010, the newest version of its industry leading appraisal forms software. With its extremely intuitive interface, low price, and focus on simplicity, TOTAL 2010 is ideal for appraisers who have thought about switching to the industry-leading WinTOTAL but didn't want all the "bells and whistles". This new version takes a "back to basics" approach.

"When we started work on the new forms engine for TOTAL, over three years ago, we had a single goal in mind – to build the most simple, cutting edge, and affordable formfiller on the market. There's a huge sense of relief in that we've accomplished just that", said Adam Calvery, a la mode's VP of appraisal products. "We're thrilled about the possibility of adding new appraisers to our ranks who felt that the old WinTOTAL generation was too sprawling for their tastes. TOTAL 2010 on the other hand is really tight."

As a measurable example of the difference, Calvery pointed out that TOTAL 2010's installer is barely 70 megabytes in size, whereas the prior WinTOTAL Aurora was over 500 megabytes. Even the older Athena version of WinTOTAL was over 175 megabytes to download.

TOTAL 2010's evolution was heavily influenced by the appraisers that work with a la mode's Labs group (www.alamode.com/labs). Labs appraisers work directly with the programmers and product managers to be sure any new software is precisely what appraisers need.

"It's been exciting to see the changes we asked a la mode to make come to life. Many appraisers have long thought that the last few versions of WinTOTAL had too much in them for their own use. They like the company, but wanted a really simple and inexpensive program to fill out forms, which is a huge component in our job", said Woody Fincham, appraiser and Research Fellow in the a la mode labs. "I've used TOTAL 2010 for some time and I can honestly say that for appraisers wanting a basic program, it's the best out there in my opinion. And a la mode is the one software vendor I believe truly listens to appraisers. I've seen it first hand, over and over."

There are a plethora of new features including identity verified secure signatures using SureDocs technology, a simplified process for starting new reports, fast vertical forms scrolling and jump-to thumbnails, true dual monitor support, and many others. All of the features are packaged in a clean, shockingly intuitive interface, and it's the first and only appraisal program to earn the "Compatible With Windows 7" logo.

TOTAL 2010 is on sale for only $99 by itself during the introductory period, or just $299 bundled with a one-year Silver support membership (including maps, phone support, and updates) plus an XSite to generate non-lender business and a Mercury Network membership to connect to lenders and AMCs nationwide.

Calvery loved the new aggressive pricing. "We want to help as many appraisers as possible. Anyone who gives the $299 bundle a shot won't look back, because switching to us costs even less than maintaining basic services with their current vendor, and yet they get a better formfiller plus an incredible support and marketing bundle, all from a software company clearly in tune with their real needs. Unfortunately, the other software vendors are a day late and many dollars short right now. I'd hate to be them."

Calvery further noted that even after the introductory special expires, the $299 standalone retail price will still make it the most affordable major appraisal program on the market.

For more information, visit www.alamode.com/TOTAL2010.

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About a la mode

Founded in 1985, a la mode develops desktop tools, mobile tools, web sites for real estate professionals, mortgage brokers, and appraisers. a la mode's flagship product, WinTOTAL form-filling software for appraisers leads the residential appraisal industry. a la mode's Mercury Network, a vendor management platform for lenders, provides the most experienced local appraisers in an HVCC-compliant, easy-to-use loan ordering and management application. a la mode's mission-critical products are used by hundreds of thousands of appraisers, agents, inspectors, and lending professionals to complete the nation's real estate transactions. The company's state-of-the-art offices are located in Salt Lake City, Oklahoma City, and Washington, DC. To learn more, visit www.alamode.com.