Who are Gryphon?

Gryphon Auction Systems is part of Gryphon Computer Support Ltd, a computer technical support company now based on The Lizard in Cornwall.  Trading since 1995, we specialise in working with small businesses and individuals to help them get the best out of their PC’s.

We have developed extensive expertise in managing Auction Sales through our work with several auctioneers over the years.  Gryphon Auction Systems is now a major part of our business.

Why was AIMS written?

AIMS Fine Art version was originally created for Clevedon Salerooms in 1998, an auctioneer based in Clevedon, just south of Bristol, to replace an old DOS based system.  We worked closely with them to develop a comprehensive system suitable for a small auctioneer, that was easy to use and one which would develop as they did.

They have grown to arguably be one of the leading auctioneers in the West Country and AIMS has grown with them. Our work with other auctioneers has lead to other developments, enabling us to to extend and expand it's range of features.  AIMS can easily be customised to suite your particular needs too.

We developed AIMS Commercial version (now renamed AIMS 2020) in 1999 in response to a request from Commercial Auctioneers.  Our biggest customer has been Sportingold Auctions, a leading sports memorabilia auctioneer.  We provided them with AIMS in early 2003 and have worked closely with them ever since.  AIMS 2020 is now our primary suite and has been developed so that it is suitable for auctioneers of all type, including many Fine Art auctioneers. 

AIMS Lite is a basic version of AIMS and was developed because there was a need for a low cost yet competent package for new or small auctioneers.  It is an  ideal starter packages and provide an easy upgrade path to the more powerful AIMS packages.

All versions of AIMS will work with the HMRC's Auctioneer's Margin Scheme, as well as sales where VAT is charged on lots and auctioneer's charges. 

All versions of AIMS are Microsoft Access applications.  We chose Microsoft Access as it is a powerful database development package which can quickly produce and amend/customise office applications.  Microsoft Access is a seperate software package and can be bought as a part of the Microsoft Office package.  We recommend subscribing to Microsoft Office 365, where you pay a small monthly fee and can install Office on up to 5 PCs.  Please note that there are various levels of subscription and you need to ensure the one you sign up to includes Access as several don't.