LightStyles Selects Savance to Streamline Business Operations

LightStyles, a lighting distributor and showroom located in Cornelius, North Carolina, selected Savance Enterprise’s ERP Software to help the business prepare for growth. Skip Hulett, Owner of LightStyles says “Selecting an ERP is a massive decision, but since making it, I have never second-guessed myself with that with the decision to move forward with Savance Enterprise ERP Software.” Skip — who has been the Owner of LightStyles for the past six years — says one of the most important factors driving his decision was Savance’s knowledge of the industry and commitment to doing business the way LightStyles does business. “Savance listened to our feedback and our business needs and customized the areas of the software we needed,” explains Skip.

With its new Savance Enterprise ERP System, LightStyles will be able to streamline processes, gain better control of warehouse operations, improve accuracy, and capitalize on fast order entry to meet the demands of an aggressive growth trajectory. In addition, LightStyles will enhance its content by utilizing XO Logic to integrate with the new ERP platform. This powerful combination gives the lighting distributor the ability to showcase rich product data and industry-specific information to feed sales orders and quotes, eCommerce, and professional proposals.

“Savance’s vast experience in the electrical distribution industry parlayed well into what we need as a lighting distributor. On top of that, their pre-implementation support and follow-through have been outstanding,” says Skip. “There is no doubt they are knowledgeable at what they do. For me personally, being able to continue to interact with the same person who sold us the solution, is also meaningful and beneficial. We know what it takes to build strong relationships and I believe that Savance values their customers the same way, all the way through the process from beginning to end.” 

To learn more, visit the Savance Newsroom. 

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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BAT Industrial Products Increases Sales With Phocas

BAT Industrial Products manufactures, imports and distributes industrial, hydraulic hose, valves and fittings for mining, agriculture, irrigation, transport, food processing and other industries. The Blacktown, Australia company serves more than 60 distributors across the nation with some 25,000 line items focused on the safe and efficient transfer and control of air, water, gas, food, fumes, chemical and petro chemical products. 

With such a vast network of distributors and a large catalog of products, keeping track of customers’ buying habits is critical for this medium-sized business. Recently, BAT recognized that it was losing a percentage of its customer base, particularly across specific categories. The company was using a business intelligence tool for reporting, but it was not user friendly and the process of producing report to find out when and where customers were dropping off was a long and arduous task. 

“Customers typically don’t tell you when they start to purchase from another supplier,” said Scott Hudson, Managing Director at BAT Industrial Products. “You need to be able to find out for yourself, to ask the right questions and find what areas need improving. If you don’t know that, then it may be too late. If you’re not on the ball, customers will spread out their purchases into the market and cut out categories all together.” 

This was the situation for BAT when they decided to deploy Phocas Business Intelligence. While the company has only been using Phocas for a short period of time, the impact has been quickly felt, particularly with the sales reps.

Hudson uses Phocas during BAT’s Friday meetings to understand the company’s status with customers. BAT also has a large TV screen on the company’s main floor, which displays a Phocas Dashboard with sales for the day compared to last year; top 10 customers compared to prior year; and customers won, lost and dropping off. Hudson recognizes that there is a lot more than can be done with Phocas, from accounts dashboards and CRM activity to inventory management and purchasing. He also believes that Phocas will help the company generate more business. “We have already started to target categories that are down, and our sales reps are starting to ask why,” said Hudson. “Phocas is still new to us, but our sales reps are using it every day, and we are using our data to improve sales.”

Learn more at the Phocas Newsroom. 

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Easy Living Home Elevators Increases Sales With NetSuite

As one of Australia's most trusted providers of home elevators, Easy Living has grown into a complex operation over the past 22 years, comprising six separate businesses, four offices and over 100 staff members. Easy Living's finance team had to manually input data from each business entity in each state, making monthly reporting time consuming and prone to error. 

Easy Living chose NetSuite’s cloud ERP because it wanted instant access to reports, an automated inventory management system and it wanted to free up time for value-added tasks, relieving the pressure on its finance team.  

The business went live with NetSuite in April 2020. Having followed established ERP implementation best practices, CEO and founder Robert Pizzie is now able to look back and identify some of the key reasons the ERP implementation plan went so well. 

“Definitely put the time into producing a specification document, which makes sure that it sets the goals of what you want to achieve in the system,” he said.  “We found that really, really important and so glad we took the time to produce that.”

The business is already seeing tangible benefits, with month-end reporting taking just six days—down from two weeks—freeing up more time for the CFO and finance team to focus on innovation and expansion.

"With NetSuite, it's just been seamless," Pizzie said. “The fact that we are now in a position where we can grow and scale the business is amazing.” 

Read more on the NetSuite blog.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Pod Pack Doubles Volume of Business with IQMS

Established in 1996, Pod Pack partners with roasters, distributors, and brokers to identify and provide solutions in the single-serve beverage market. From its start in a 400-square-foot facility located in New Orleans, Pod Pack has expanded to operate in 45,000 square feet in Baton Rouge. 

At the time, the manufacturer relied on fully manual processes to manage its operations, but it soon became clear that this strategy would not scale to meet the company’s future plans. A review of enterprise resource planning ERP solutions led Pod Pack to select the DELMIAWORKS (formerly IQMS) manufacturing ERP system. The DELMIAWORKS manufacturing ERP system provides Pod Pack the real-time insights and automated processes required to ensure quality and compliance, maximize productivity, and provide a superior customer experience.

Because Pod Pack serves the food and beverage (F&B) industry, quality and regulatory compliance are top priorities. The manufacturer is Safe Quality Food (SQF) certified, kosher certified, and participates in regular U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews. Beyond following regulatory rules and opening up to audits from government agencies, Pod Pack also has to comply with requirements and audits from customers.

The traceability features that help Pod Pack manage regulatory audits also helps it to manage inventory. The manufacturer handles consignment products where customers give Pod Pack their coffee and entrust the company to process it correctly. Using DELMIAWORKS, everything that comes in the door gets a label and barcode, which is tracked like a license plate throughout the facility. As a result, Pod Pack managers can tell a customer where anything is within the facility at any time.

“When we tracked inventory using Excel spreadsheets, it would take weeks to reconcile each and every month,” recalled Marion Gray, Pod Pack CFO. “Now we can tell you down to the last hour what's in our inventory, and watch all that inventory movement. It's just light years ahead of where we were before, and it is so much easier to manage what we do day in, day out.”

Return on Investment:

• Doubled the volume of business without doubling headcount
• Recall and traceability reports are generated in minutes
• Hourly inventory updates
• Financial closings reduced from 25 days to 3 days
• Weekly reports on manufacturing production has improved employee performance.

To learn more, visit https://www.iqms.com/erp-success/food-manufacturing-erp-case-study-pod-pack

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Reyes Beverage Group Streamlines Logistics With Episerver

Headquartered in Chicago and operating out of 23 warehouses across the United States, Reyes Beverage Group provides wholesale distribution of a large assortment of beers including  brands such as Heineken, Corona Extra and Coors Light.

Reyes needed to modernize their customer ordering platform. This consisted of making it easier for wholesale customers to get what they need with increased self-sufficiency. While an existing system was in place, customers tended to go around the portal and call on Account Managers directly.

Reyes Beverage Group chose Episerver to support their ambitions; the Episerver Digital Experience Cloud enables Reyes the ability to scale and support the marketing team through its ease of use.

Episerver integrated RBG’s back office systems directly into the new system to enable more control over pricing and inventory, providing 360-degree coverage on the backend ordering process. The capabilities of the Episerver Digital Experience Cloud have allowed Reyes' 70,000 retail accounts access to the most efficient means to create orders and monitor their accounts.

Deploying Episerver Commerce led to an 18% increase in portal usership. This is complemented by a 28% increase in product pages views, indicating stronger than previous engagement and interaction. By deploying the Episerver Digital Experience Cloud, Reyes has encountered a 7% increase in internal site search usage.

With its updated digital infrastructure, Reyes will continue personalizing the buying experience for customers. Using more complex personalization will allow for real-time upselling and cross-selling opportunities.

An area of future focus will be to expand its multilingual offering – adding an even more personalized experience to customers as they expand their territories. Live chat and voice enablement are also in Reyes’ future plans to enhance the customer experience.

Learn more on the Episerve website. 

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Radians Solve Complex Data Challenges With Infor

 Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, Radians creates safety solutions — including masks, gloves, glasses, hard hats and respirator wipes — for the industrial safety and construction, public safety, sporting goods, hardware, DIY, and lawn & garden markets. The company’s decision to replace its legacy system with a new Infor Cloud technology suite will help propel it strongly into the future.

The value, capabilities, and benefits of the new software go far beyond easy access to centralized data and higher rates of customer serviceability. Radians will be able to better manage performance, risk, and the impact of business decisions across multiple departments, including supply chain logistics, sales and marketing, product data, finance, networking, and warehouse and cartonization functions.

In addition to CloudSuite Distribution Enterprise, Radians also selected Infor CloudSuite WMS, a Leader in the 2020 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems. The streamlined, holistic supply chain suite will help Radians ensure on-time deliveries and efficient warehouse utilization, while improving purchasing goals and reducing inventory costs.

Radians is also implementing Infor Dynamic Enterprise Performance Management (d/EPM). Combining modern intelligent business tools and financial performance management capabilities into one solution, d/EPM will enable Radians to consistently report with confidence, measure past and current performance, and forecast future activities.

To learn more, visit the Infor Newsroom.  

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Alfa Laval Drives Excellent Service With IFS

 

Founded in 1883, Alfa Laval is a Swedish company working in the areas of Energy, Marine, and Food & Water. The company provides expertise, products, and service to a range of industries in some 100 countries. With 17,500 employees, the company is committed to optimizing processes, creating responsible growth, and driving progress.

Driven by a long-term, company-wide initiative, Alfa Laval’s search for a modern solution for remote guidance took on a new urgency as the impact of COVID-19 made itself felt.

To ensure service levels and business continuity in areas where travel is banned or social distancing is required, the company selected IFS Remote Assistance. The solution allows two users to collaborate and interact in real-time—whether that’s supporting technicians in the field or customers directly.

“We chose IFS based on its strong technology and the long-term vision of the company," said Jens Pulczynski, Manager Global Service Operations, Alfa Laval. "Our customers have been 100 percent satisfied with the introduction of IFS Remote Assistance and impressed by the way it enabled us to continue serving them. As we recover from the crisis and return to more normal operations, we are convinced that our use of the solution will evolve from business continuity to business transformation.” 

Elni Kullmer, Managing Director, IFS Nordics, added, “Across all industries, we are working with forward-thinking companies like Alfa Laval. Eliminating unnecessary travel, improving customer service efficiency, and providing tools for remote work are things that will continue to benefit all service-oriented businesses long after the immediate threat of the virus is gone.”

Find out more at the IFS Newsroom.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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American Metals Supply Enhances Business Performance with Epicor

American Metals Supply Co., Inc. is a wholesale distributor of sheet and coil steel, prefabricated duct and fittings, and a complete line of HVAC products. As a third-generation family-owned and now woman-owned business, they have been serving HVAC contractors since 1962. Today they have revenues of over $100 million and eight locations across the Midwest, serving twelve states, all while relying on Eclipse technology advancements to support this growth.

Successfully selling 300K tons of steel in a 12-month period requires having a close eye on sales results. American Metals Supply has used Epicor Data Analytics (EDA) to seamlessly integrate with Eclipse to pull information into dashboards that they can use to quickly view their sales activity.

When the COVID-19 crisis hit in early 2020, they were able to quickly adapt by using EDA to modify their dashboards and monitor new metrics to drive even more efficiency. Using analytics to closely monitor A/R data, including metrics such as days to pay, week over week receivables, and existing credit limits, they improved cash flow by reducing ADP by over three days.

Using the right information in an easy-to-access format, gave the company the ability to avoid reducing headcount, unlike so many of their peers in this challenging market environment.

American Metals Supply does not have a showroom. Approximately 90% of their business is done via delivery. In addition to EDA, American Metals Supply has used other third-party solutions that have been integrated into Eclipse.

Having an eCommerce presence, powered by Eclipse partner Second Phase, allowed them to serve customers quickly without customers dropping by their facility. Utilizing iPads with an app from a solution partner, Innovo, each driver has their own device, removing the need for paperwork and customer contact, while increasing efficiency and flexibility.

"Eclipse has helped us become so efficient in purchasing that we can finish purchasing in half a day and spend the second half of the day working on projects that help us move forward" - Brandon Gregory, Supply Chain Manager, American Metals Supply

 

Read more on the Epicor website.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Binkelman Corp Improves Processes With Enlighten.Net

Binkelman Corp is a total solutions parts distributor headquartered in Toledo, Ohio that services the glass, automotive, agricultural, steel, mining, and energy industries. In addition to parts procurement and customization, they fabricate parts, service and maintain implemented parts, and offer training.

Needs

With many operations and customers, Binkelman Corp creates numerous documents that need secure and accessible storage. Before incorporating Enlighten.Net’s Digital File Manager (Net.DFM), Binkelman Corp spent valuable time searching for poorly stored files. Net.DFM’s large Cloud storage capabilities and easy-to-use interface impressed Binkelman with its efficiency and organization.

Improvements

Since implementing Net.DFM, Binkelman Corp has experienced more efficient document handling, faster processing of invoices and audits, improved document retention, and far fewer instances of misfiled or lost documents. “I always talk about your software to other people,” says Purchasing Inventory Control Manager, Mike Juliano. Internal communication also improved with Net.DFM as employees can “easily pass documents into different views and set alerts when documents are moved.” Improved sorting and filing changed a 4 person job to a 2 person job allowing for more productive use of employee time. Binkelman was also able to save money by eliminating 6 cases of paper per month.

Outcomes

Net.DFM’s secure storage and easy-to-use layout has organized business for Binkelman Corporation so they can focus their time on helping customers.

Read more on the Enlighten.net website.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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On Time Supply Enhances Inventory Management with Distribution One

From high-quality tools to warranty repair service for air compressors, pneumatic tools, and more, On Time Supply is a distributor in the wholesale hardware industry. On Time Supply relies on the supplementary integration between Distribution One’s comprehensive ERP-ONE software and Amazon for accurate online inventory management and fast order processing.


Integrating ERP-ONE with Amazon provides auto-processing of orders as well as inventory auto-adjustments. The connectivity between Amazon and ERP-ONE has saved On Time Supply up to 2 hours of order processing time savings every day. When viewed on a monthly scale, this equates to a full week of productivity savings.


On Time Supply has also realized productivity improvements relating to their inventory. Under their manual method, the process of maintaining accurate inventory levels on Amazon required 4-5 hours of active daily oversight. After integration, ERP-ONE provides Amazon with real-time inventory levels to reconcile new changes to stock without employee interaction.


Another key component of On Time Supply’s success has been its ability to maintain accurate inventory levels between its storefront and Amazon. If a drill is purchased from the physical storefront, the adjusted information transfers from ERP-ONE to Amazon to ensure the correct product amounts are displayed. Having this inventory auto-update capability is crucial to successful marketplace selling as Amazon does not tolerate order cancellation rates over 2.5% due to out of stock items.


Read more on the Distribution One website. 

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Danbury Plumbing Supply Stays Competitive With DDI

Danbury Plumbing Supply has served the Greater Danbury area in Connecticut since 1910. With a 6,000 square foot kitchen and bath showroom plus additional office/wholesale location, communication and accuracy became key components to everyday operations. According to T.J. Hunt, president of Danbury Plumbing Supply, his vision for Danbury Plumbing was the creation of a single software solution that supported his entire supply house.


Hunt began his search for a new solution by speaking to surrounding area plumbing supply houses. Hunt was impressed with the feedback and called Adam Waller, president of DDI System. “After speaking to Adam, I could tell that DDI understood the plumbing distribution industry."


“Within 24 hours, DDI engineers migrated our inventory and customer data into DDI. The next day we were up and running - eager to maximize the solution’s functionality. DDI’s software has totally automated our operations and decreased the chances of human error. In addition, information is available instantly right from the counter terminals.” Showroom sales staff is quickly alerted to incoming product shipments. “When an order arrives at our warehouse, an email is generated by DDI and sent to the appropriate salesperson,” said Hunt. “We can then alert the customer of the available product.” 


Danbury Plumbing enthusiastically takes full advantage of DDI’s customer history database. “When a customer comes into the showroom, regardless if a purchase is made, we enter their information into the system. If a customer does not make a purchase, DDI reminds our showroom staff to make a follow up call.”


Danbury Plumbing has realized impressive ROI with the DDI System's distribution management software.“Without question, the DDI System was responsible for more than doubling our sales numbers by streamlining our business practices and creating sales efficiencies.” “With DDI, our business has been vastly improved with efficiencies in customer service, shipping and revenue monitoring. Our employees can view the same screen with all items entered in one central location — right at their fingertips! DDI truly powers our entire business.”


To read more, and access additional case studies, visit the DDI Newsroom.


For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Nor-Cal Supply Secures Lot Control And Traceability With Computer Insights

Founded in 1950, Nor-Cal Supply Company has an established reputation as a niche supplier of Aerospace and Aircraft fasteners per AN – MS – NAS – NASM specifications. Their Quality Management System meets the standards of MIL-I-45208 and MIL-I-45662 and they’re an approved supplier for NASA Ames, NASA Armstrong, Rolls- Royce Engine Services, Sandia National Laboratories and many more.

With millions of parts on hand and extensive sourcing capabilities, their longevity in the aerospace industry is due to their customer service, dependability and product knowledge. Says Sam Anderson, President said, “Since implementing The Business Edge™ from Computer Insights we have been able to maximize our customer service because we have all the information at our fingertips. Not only can we see what parts are available, but we also have immediate access to the Certifications that are available with each part. The Certifications automatically go out with the parts each time they are shipped. Additionally, if the customer loses the Certs, a quick call or e-mail will get the Certs replaced immediately. We have instant access to all the Certs for products that have been shipped with complete lot control and traceability.”

Sam also added, “With The Business Edge™ we found that we are able to keep much better track of our inventory and usage. The result is that our in-stock percentage of often used products has improved dramatically, while we reduced our overall investment in inventory. The system even has an interface to ILSmart.com (an inventory sourcing network) so that we can more easily find the rarer parts.”

Learn more about Computer Insights and The Business Edge by visiting their website.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Kele, Inc. Optimized Stocked Products With Blue Ridge

Located in Memphis, TN, Kele Inc. has been a worldwide distributor of over 300 Building Automation and HVAC/R manufacturers for over 30 years. Kele also manufactures the Precon and Kele brands of products. Kele offers unique delivery options including shipment scheduling, additional instructions for installation and a UL-Listed panel shop on site.

By utilizing Blue Ridge Forecast, Kele has been able to position and price inventory smarter. Blue Ridge’s cloud-native supply chain solutions combine intelligent science with robust automation and price optimization, empowering distributors to react to complex change with untapped precision and efficiency. Distributors and retailers use Blue Ridge to proactively understand the financial impact of each purchasing decision before they make it – bringing more certainty, more speed and more assurance to the value chain. Leveraging powerful data sets, machine learning-driven recommendations, and even pricing simulations, Blue Ridge customers like Kele are winning new opportunities and reducing the cost of keeping customers happy.

Kele's Results After Implementing Blue Ridge Forecast:

• In stock products +20% 
• Purchase orders -20% 
• Service Levels increased 
• Inventory Investment maintained 

 To learn more visit the Blue Ridge website.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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Knit-Set Canada Enhances Inventory Control With Blue Link

Based in Montréal, Knit-Set Canada Ltd. is an importer of ladies’ sweaters. Knit-Set works with a number of designers to create sweaters inspired by looks seen on international fashion runways. The sweaters are manufactured in Korea and then shipped to Montréal for distribution to a variety of retail locations across Canada.

Sweater styles change year to year, so Knit-Set needed an integrated IT system to provide management with real-time, accurate information about product SKU’s. As well, the company wanted to improve employee productivity within a secure environment, to prepare for anticipated growth. The company was running a number of disconnected software programs and paper-based processes to manage inventory, sales orders, purchasing, tracking of shipments, accounting information and financial statements. The outdated software in use for order entry and accounting applications was minimally supported and could no longer be upgraded. The system in place was not accessible by reporting and analysis tools. Inventory management and shipment tracking were performed using manually updated spreadsheets. Purchase orders were manually produced using Microsoft Word.

“We buy our goods in U.S. dollars, therefore, letters of credit must be checked and double-checked to ensure accuracy,” says Manfred Sandler, V.P. Finance, Knit-Set Canada Ltd. “We needed to track and manage data pertaining to letters of credit and provide real-time reports, to allow our employees to focus on key tasks that impact the business, instead of tedious manual exercises.”

Blue Link / Microsoft Results

The integrated IT solution developed by Blue Link Associates Limited, a Microsoft® Certified Partner, has helped Knit-Set improve productivity across the organization. Access to comprehensive, accurate and up-to-date information is enabling employees to focus on key tasks instead of tedious manual work. Duplicated data-entry has been eliminated, saving staff 10-15 days per month in time.

Better visibility into product status is also helping to improve customer service. Knit-Set has improved its bottom line by providing management with access to timely and accurate information needed to make sound business decisions. The result is better visibility into inventory status, which helps ensure that sales obligations are fulfilled, while also maximizing inventory turnover and reducing the costs associated with warehousing excess product. “Ensuring we don’t have overstock is important to our business because leftovers mean reduced revenue – typically we have surplus inventory at the end of the season,” says Sandler. “Having access to inventory information helps us identify and sell any surplus, and enables us to plan for the following season because we can clearly see what colors and styles sold well.”

With the help of the solution implemented by Blue Link Associates Limited, Knit-Set Canada Ltd. has accrued the following tangible benefits:

• Saved 10-15 working days a year 
•  Improved inventory management 
• Reduced travel costs 
•  Improved security 
• Eliminate manual processes 

Learn more on the Blue Link website.

For the 2020 Distribution and Manufacturing Software Guide:

http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2020_Distribution_Manufacturing_Software_Guide_Interactive.pdf?utm_source=DownloadElectronic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2020Guide

Visit our website to learn more about the Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services at http://www.software4distributors.com and to use our Vertical Markets Matrix, visit http://www.software4distributors.com/compare/default.aspx.

Also, read our 2019 Mid-Year Supplements at http://www.software4distributors.com/downloads/2019_Mid_Year_Supplement_Blog.pdf?utm_source=DownloadPDF&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=2019Supp.

Developed through a partnership with Industrial Supply, Contractor Supply Magazine and Brown Smith Wallace Advisory Services, these 12 page Supplement Guides provide valuable, independently researched information. Each Guide details software company information, identifies vertical markets, highlights functions and technology features, new developments to the software package, shows graphs of the user range, basic entry price point, sales channel (how and where the software is sold), along with company contact information. The Supplement Guides provide everything you need to know when beginning your software selection and evaluation process.

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