Switching from Act! Pro to Act! Premium Cloud (APC) might seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve avoided CRM fees for years. While it’s nice to dodge recurring costs, perpetual licensed programs inevitably become obsolete. The recent deprecation of SQL 2014 is a prime example of this.

There are many compelling reasons to consider upgrading to APC, especially when the Premium Desktop application is still available, and we've listed the top eight below: 

1. License Limitations: Act! Pro licensing is no longer available, so you can’t add new users. Act! Premium Cloud supports team growth without these restrictions.

2. Access Anywhere: Unlike Act! Pro, which is limited to local use, Act! Premium Cloud offers web access, Internet syncing, and a terrific new mobile app. This allows your team to access the database anywhere, on any device.

3. Advanced Security: Act! Premium Cloud provides enhanced security features, enabling managers to control access to individual records and fields. Administrators can also restrict data deletion and export permissions, and logins can be controlled by Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

4. API Functionality: Act! Pro is a standalone desktop application with no extensibility. Act! Premium Cloud includes a robust Web API for integrating your database with websites, lead generation tools, and other productivity tools.

5. Performance Tracking: Act! Premium Cloud includes built-in Insight reporting and dashboards for tracking individual and team performance, which is crucial for strategic decision-making. It also offers Dynamic Pipelines for managing and reporting on sales opportunities.

6. Enhanced Features: Act! Premium Cloud offers many advanced features, such as custom tables, SMS integration, click-to-dial phone fields, and enhanced Outlook integration. 

7. Compatibility and Support: Most Act! Pro versions face compatibility issues with newer operating systems and software, such as Windows 11 and SQL 2014. Act! Premium Cloud offers updated versions of the Premium Desktop client to ensure compatibility, but also a fast, secure, and robust online solution, eliminating the need for software installation.

8. E-marketing Integration: Act! Premium Cloud includes an out-of-the-box marketing automation with various upgrade options. Act! Pro lacks native email integration, aside from mail merges with compatible Outlook versions. Some third-party add-ons are available but often come at a higher cost and with limited CRM integration.

Considering these points, Act! Premium Cloud is generally the better choice for businesses needing greater flexibility, more robust features, and scalability. If these factors align with your business needs, upgrading to Act! Premium Cloud would be a worthwhile investment.