The extensions in the Banana Accounting Plus software are additional programs that expand its functionality.
They are available online in our Template Store, but must be installed in Banana Accounting Plus directly from the program via the Extensions > Manage Extensions menu.

For convenience, the same Manage Extensions dialog can also be accessed via several commands:

• Import extensions – from the Actions > Import to accounting menu, click the Manage Extensions button.
• Invoice layout extensions – from the Reports > Customers > Print invoices menu, click the Other layouts... button.
• Reminder layout extensions – from the Reports > Customers > Print reminders menu. Continue through the next two screens to find the Other layouts... button.

Most installed extensions (except import extensions) are shown in the Extensions menu.

File-specific productivity extensions

Extensions are often specific to:

• A certain type of file (accounting, address book)
• A specific property

If the currently opened file does not meet the required conditions, the extension will not appear in the Extensions menu, even if it has been installed correctly.

Extension Settings

Some extensions are designed to configure parameters. These parameters are specific to each file and are used by the related extension. The parameters are shown in the appropriate Settings dialog. For example, for invoice layout extensions, the Settings dialog can be accessed from the Reports > Customers > Print invoices menu, by clicking the Settings... button.

Extension Updates

Once installed, extensions are automatically updated by the program whenever a new version is released.

Using a development version

In the Manage Extensions dialog, it is also possible to try out any development versions that are made available.

Banana Accounting Updates

Make sure you have the latest release of Banana Accounting Plus.

Import extensions are additional programmes that allow you to import data exported by other programs, in their specific formats. 
Standard extensions, such as those in the ISO 20022 format, are included with the Professional plan, while extensions specific to certain banking institutions, which must be constantly monitored and updated, are only available with the Advanced plan.

• List of available import extensions

Installing an import extension

In order to use an import extension, it must first be installed locally.

• Go to the Extensions menu > Manage Extensions > Import
  The Manage Extensions dialog can also be accessed from the Import into accounting command.
• Choose the extension you wish to use and click on Install.

Once the extension has been installed it is displayed in the:

• Import into accounting dialogue

Extension Parameters

In some extensions it is possible to change certain import parameters, which can be accessed via the Settings button.

Importing bank statements

The most frequent use of an import extension is to import bank statements into the accounts.

• Actions menu > Import transactions in accounting
• Choose the Transactions table
• Choose the extension to be used for the import.
  • If the extension has not been installed yet, proceed with the installation now.

Request for a new or update Import extensions

If a suitable format for importing data from your bank or other organization does not already exist or is not working, you can ask our developers to create an import extension.
See:

• Import extensions.
• Extension for importing transactions.
• Import transactions from bank statement

In order to create or update an import extension for a specific file format these steps are necessary:

• Our programmers need to receive:
  • An example file of the data to be imported, with some transactions (without sensitive personal information).
  • The exact details of the bank, organization or software that generated the file.
  • Information on the type of data contained (bank statement, invoice data, salaries, etc.),
  • Explanations on the file content type, links to specifications made available by the bank or software producer.
  • The date on which the file was generated.
  • For files exported from other programs, with data structures that are not immediately understandable, an explanation or examples of the transactions that should be generated in the accounts.
• Evaluation of the request:
  • It will depend on the complexity of the development and whether the import may be of interest to other users.
  • A share of the development or upgrade costs may be required.
• We will consider whether to proceed with the creation of the file and if so:
  • We will use the example file sent to us as a reference and for testing, whereby the content will be publicly available.
  • Unless otherwise agreed, the extension will be developed according to the open source method.
  • The extension will generally be available for installation to Advanced Plan users.
• There is no guarantee that the extension will be kept constantly up-to-date.
  Banks often change their file format without giving prior notice.
• Update existing extensions:
  • Over time, the formats of .csv files are changed or modified and consequently the corresponding import filters must also be updated.
  • The old import filters (Banana 9 or earlier) will be made available to Banana Plus users with the Advanced plan after the update.
  • It is possible that some old filters will also work correctly with Banana Plus. In these cases, they can continue to be used without any problems until they need to be updated.
  • Updating a filter is done when users tell us that the current version no longer works correctly.
  • Old versions remain available but are no longer updated or corrected.

Developing your own import extensions

If you are a programmer you can create your import extensions. Please visit:

•     Import Extensions (documentation for developers)

The possibility of creating your own extensions is only available with the Advanced plan of Banana Accounting Plus.

These conditions refer to the creation and use of extensions and templates available in the Banana Accounting Plus Template Store and also visible or installable directly within the program itself.

Terms of Use for Extensions and Templates

The Templates and Extensions available in the Banana Template Store are free of charge.
However, some Extensions can only be used with the Advanced plan of Banana Accounting Plus.

The use of Templates, Extensions, and other material available in the Banana Template Store is subject to the specific licenses and legal conditions of Banana.ch SA, which are considered accepted by the user when accessing the website, viewing the documentation, or downloading/using any content.

Community development

The development of Extensions, templates, and other materials follows a community-based and open-source approach.
What is developed and finalized is made freely available in accordance with the usage licenses applicable to a specific project found at github.com/BananaAccounting.
The Apache 2.0 license usually applies Apache 2.0, but some Extensions may also use libraries that are subject to specific licenses. Users are required to comply with the respective licenses.

The Apache 2.0 license includes the following:

• Possibility to use and distribute the software for any purpose.
• Freedom to modify and adapt the software.
• No guarantee that the application works as expected.
• No liability from the developers for its use, its suitability for a specific purpose, or for any errors or inaccuracies.

The limitation of liability is essential, as it allows users to contribute without assuming responsibility. No one would participate in development or share information if they risked being liable for potential damages. Those who contribute to development and documentation improvements do their best but cannot guarantee the solution will be suitable for a specific context. Moreover, regulations change frequently, so a solution might become outdated.

Therefore, the offering and use are suitable for people who want to verify directly or with their accountant whether what is provided is appropriate for use, regardless of the descriptions and documentation provided.

Requesting new developments

Banana.ch SA has a specific department for support, consulting, and the development of new Extensions and chart of accounts templates.

You can contact us indicating your needs.

• Clearly specify your request:
  • The desired outcome.
    If it's a printout, it's best to provide an example prepared in Excel or Word.
  • The accounting file with the data (preferably sample data) that needs to be printed.
• Quotation and contribution to development costs:
  • If the development is specific to certain needs, the assumption or contribution to the costs is required.
  • Normally, the quote is based on the required development time.
    If the application is of interest to the community, part of the development may be covered free of charge by Banana.ch.
  • The terms of use and license conditions apply.
  • Unless otherwise agreed, developments are carried out and made available in accordance with the Apache 2.0 license (Wikipedia explanation).
  • What is developed may be made available to the entire community.
• Unless otherwise specified, it is assumed that the latest version of Banana Accounting Plus is being used.

Development of import extensions

If there is no existing format suitable for importing data from your bank or other organization, you can request our developers to create a new import extension. For more information, see the page Creating/updating new import extensions.

Support for third-party developers

Banana.ch supports collaborative development with:

• Free support
• Free development license
• Possible financial support.

If you are a developer interested in working on a project, you can contact Banana.ch, presenting your concept in detail.