Buyers' guide to software for purchasing
By Staff -- Purchasing, 7/15/1999 2:00:00 AM
Here is a listing of software companies that provide tools to automate a variety of purchasing tasks. For more information from the companies listed, phone and fax numbers, as well as e-mail addresses, follow.
Adonix. Adonix X3 is, the company says, "a highly functional enterprise resource planning system, engineered to be easier to install and maintain, easier to use, and easier to personalize and extend than traditional ERP systems, thereby saving time and cost and reducing implementation risks." Software is suited to mid-size companies. Tel: (412) 963-6770; Fax: (412) 963-6779; E-mail: info@adonix.com.
Allen Systems Group. ASG products focus on improving productivity and performance of IT systems. Features include systems management, legacy system enhancement/maintenance, repository management, data movement, service delivery, and asset management. Tel: (800) 932-5536; URL: www.asg.com.
Alliance Manufacturing. Alliance provides MRP and MRP II systems for small to mid-size manufacturers. Alliance systems are designed for quick implementation, fast MRP/CRP calculations, and rapid order entry. Links to several accounting programs allow for a faster, smoother implementation. Tel: (800) 490-2520; E-mail: sales@alliancemfg.com.
American Business Systems. ABS offers a complete line of integrated accounting, inventory, order-processing, and purchase-order management software for AIX, Netware, unix, and Windows/NT. The P/O module is designed for companies that need to monitor up-to-date purchasing and receiving information. Key features include: multicompany processing; fast inquiry, including quick access to expected deliveries; and comprehensive reports ranging from Overdue Products, Invoice Matching, and Customer Notification. Tel: (978) 250-9600; Fax: (978) 250-8027; E-mail: sales@abs-software.com.
American Management Systems. Procurement Desktop takes advantage of the latest technologies to provide a flexible, comprehensive system for all phases of the purchasing life cycle. Procurement Desktop uses both client/server and Web architecture to leverage technical infrastructure. With Procurement Desktop, users may realize benefits of lowered costs, increased productivity, improved customer service, and streamlined payment processing. Tel: (800) 841-6713; URL: www.amsinc.com.
American Software. econ/Purchasing extends legacy purchasing systems beyond the walls of the purchasing department and provides access to authorized users via the Internet or company intranet. With its intuitive screen format, econ/Purchasing provides MRO buyers with capability to create new POs; copy from previous orders; view, inquire, and update outstanding orders--all from any site with Internet access. econ/Purchasing provides simplified receipt processing, with ordered goods reaching end users in a timely manner. Tel: (800) 726-2946; Fax: (404) 264-5206; E-mail: ask@amsoftware.com.
American Tech. PurchasingNet-SQL is an enterprise Web-based procurement software package designed for mid-size to large organizations. System includes cross-platform, thin-client, Web-based requisitions; direct orders; POs; and desktop receiving. PurchasingNet-SQL features a proven, mature "back office" capability that streamlines purchasing activities. System can be integrated with SAP, PeopleSoft, Clarus, Infinium, or other legacy systems. Optional Budgeting, Asset Tracking, and Inventory Control modules are available. Tel: (732) 946-8844, x150; Fax: (732) 946-3102; URL: www.purchasingnet.com.
Analytics. Analytics provides purchasing with analysis techniques and contract leverage tools to advance procurement to a strategic level. With the company's Contracts & Negotiation System, users have capability to coordinate purchases globally, instantaneously, and at low cost. Features include data migration, purchase categorization, and supplier rationalization. Analytics has been in a strategic alliance with PriceWaterhouseCoopers since 1993. Tel: (203) 318-0400; Fax: (203) 245-3501; E-mail: info@analytics.globalsourcing.net.
Aphelion. Electronic Competitive Procurement (ECP) software is developed for procurement pros and engineers in the process industries. ECP combines software, data, and the Internet to automate the purchasing cycle. It enables complete control and conduct of purchasing activities interactively with suppliers over the Internet under full security. ECP combines the user's database of suppliers with that of PetroPages Online Buyer's Guide. Tel: (281) 333-9800; Fax: (281) 333-9816; E-mail: ecp@petropages.com.
Aspect Development. Aspect's decision-support technology optimizes the inbound supply chain--that part of the supply chain where products are developed and parts and materials are sourced. Called Component and Supplier Management (CSM), the technology helps users leverage purchasing power and rationalize the supplier base. Tel: (800) 734-7279; E-mail: info@aspectdv.com.
Baan. Supply Chain Solution (SCS) suite, which may be implemented separately or fully integrated with an ERP system, includes BaanSCS Planner, BaanSCS Demand Planner, BaanSCS Scheduler, and BaanSCS Execution. BaanSCS provides software, consulting, and implementation services to help optimize supply chain planning, production synchronization, and execution control. The company also provides logistics systems through its caps Logistics line including: BidPro, TransPro, and RoutePro. Tel: (888) 452-7962; Fax: (630) 645-2385; URL: www.baanscs.baan.com.
Bellwether. Purchasing Management xtra (PMX) is a modular purchasing system that includes the following modules: Purchasing (with supplier management, PO generation, PO history, and management reports); Receiving (receipt entry, open/overdue order tracking, and supplier performance ratings); Requisitions (requisition entry and automatic conversion to POs); Inventory (inventory balances tracked at multiple inventory warehouse locations); Request for Quotations (RFQ generation for preferred suppliers, supplier bid entry, and conversion of successful suppliers' RFQ to PO); Accounts Payable Interface (online matching of invoice to the PO and receipts, and transfer of "matched" to invoices to AP system for payment); Fax (POs and RFQs faxed directly to the supplier's fax machine. PMX can be implemented in modules or as a complete system. Tel: (502) 426-5463; Fax: (502) 423-8963; URL: www.bellwethercorp.com.
Business Systems of America. orders plus software provides users with the following modules: customer, prospect, and supplier management; contract management; document management; inventory control; quotations; order entry; invoicing; point of sale, service tracking; purchase orders; and receiving. Optional modules include: bill of materials, serial/lot number tracking, contract pricing, custom label/bar code printing, job costing, remote order entry, and customer equipment tracking. Tel: (800) 764-4272; Fax: (704) 549-0908; E-mail: sales@ordersplus.com.
Cambar. Cambar Software develops distribution and warehouse management software applications that together provide an integrated system to the customer for his or her supply chain execution needs. control ii Order Management System is designed to handle high-volume, high-demand order processing environments, while CSW Warehouse Management System provides space and inventory control for warehouses of any size. Tel: (843) 747-4900; Fax: (843) 554-2970; URL: cambarsoftware.com.
Cincom Systems. Control is a portfolio of business applications that addresses the complete business cycle of companies that build and service complex products. Supporting assemble-to-order environments, Control encompasses activities included in business planning, business acquisition, contract order management, engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and remanufacturing operations, cost management, finance, and after-market support. Control addresses such critical issues as product configuration, engineering change management, tracking materials and materials by contract/project, and reporting to regulatory agencies. It also supports the needs of multinational companies by providing distributed multisite implementation and multiple currency, regulation, and language options. Tel: (800) 2cincom; URL: www.cincom.com.
ClientSoft. ClientSoft's middleware and wireless e-solutions provide benefits of client/server and Internet technologies, without making changes to existing host-based systems. Open integration architecture and implementation services "help save time, effort, and money," ClientSoft says. Linking real time into new e-business processes helps leverage core systems investment. Tel: (914) 785-9000; Fax: (914) 785-9001; URL: www. clientsoft.com.
Command Line Corp. CLC-PM4/PM5 is a real-time multiuser PC-based purchasing management system. Y2K-compliant customizable system provides extensive histories of interactive transactions by item, supplier, PO, and receiver. Inventory, purchasing, and supply item masters are user defined. System creates POs automatically or semi-automatically for repetitively ordered or one-time-only items including multisite delivery points, different due dates, quantities, and prices. Electronic approvals can be linked to budget or departmental authority, with automatic routing. Internet/intranet-capable system also accommodates advance payments, credits, freight charges, taxes, ERS (pay on receipt), etc. Tel: (732) 738-6500; Fax: (732) 738-6504; E-mail: commandlinecorp@worldnet.att.net.
Commerce One. The Commerce Chain Solution, comprising Commerce One BuySite and Commerce One MarketSite, enables companies to reduce operational costs and increase efficiency by automating the entire indirect goods and services supply chain. Tel: (800) 308-3838; URL: www.commerceone.com.
CommercePath. AVT CommercePath Software Group supplies communication systems that integrate with enterprise applications, such as SAP, Oracle, Baan, and PeopleSoft. Servers provide high-volume delivery and receipt of business-critical documents such as POs, invoices, and order acknowledgments in a variety of formats including fax, e-mail, EDI, or delivery over the Internet. Tel: (800) 600-4329; Fax: (503) 968-9601; E-mail: solutions@commercepath.com.
Commerce Software. PurchaseSQL is a Windows-based client/server purchasing and requisition management system. Requisitioners select items from the Master Item catalog or generate new items. Items also can be searched from external supplier databases or can be accessed using cd-rom. System automatically creates a formal req that can be routed through an approval process before being released to the Purchase module. PurchaseSQL provides tools to research potential suppliers, generates RFQs, selects suppliers, and issues POs. It routes all PO information to the Receiving module. It provides an Automatic Shipment Problem Report module, which enables the receive to fax or EDI a report to a supplier. Receiving data is routed to the shipment module so items can be delivered to the initiating requisitioner. System creates an export file of AP and GL financial data which can be imported into most accounting systems. PurchaseSQL is being redeveloped in an intranet/Internet environment with an expected launch date later this year. Tel: (800) 447-7172; Fax: (914) 59 2-2109.
Component Control. Quick Quote & Quantum Control automate inventory management, quotation preparation, sales and purchase processing functions for parts distributors and suppliers. They provide traceability and help to improve decision-making processes. Modules include Sales & Purchase Orders, Sales Exchange, Quotation, Repair Orders, Bar Code, Kitting, Contact & Fax Manager, Currency Management, Security, and Report Writer. Tel: (800) 278-7585; URL: www.componentcontrol.com.
Computron Software. yorvik purchasing is part of an integrated system that includes maintenance management and inventory. Requisitions, once approved, generate POs based on user-selected criteria and system-generated supplier performance data. System supports generation and analysis or RFQs that can be converted into single/blanket orders or contracts. Receiving, three-way invoice matching, and expediting capabilities also are provided. Tel: (906) 405-2169; Fax: (905) 673-3037.
Concur Technologies. CompanyStore, a full-featured intranet-based procurement system automating purchasing processes across the enterprise, enables employees to easily order supplies and services while tracking the information and order status from their desktops. The product allows companies to establish levels of approval, control the products and services offered, define ordering limits, and streamline workflow. Tel: (425) 702-8808; Fax: (425) 702-8828; E-mail: info@concur.com.
Corporate Strategic Services. aesop Software is a Windows-based purchasing system which automates the purchasing process in either a standalone or front-end environment. Key to the process is an embedded electronic catalog, featuring items sourced by either the client or CSS; as well as customized controls for ordering limits and approval chains. Minimal tracking and no IT support is required. System is totally scaleable for number of users and catalog items. Tel: (614) 760-9280; Fax: (614) 760-9285; E-mail: info@css-inc.net.
Credit Card Solutions Inc. CCSi offers The P-Card Solution software to automate all internal aspects of a company's procurement-card program. Software includes functions for streamlining: ordering, reconciliation, card & supplier administration, and receiving. Automation helps build volume in a p-card program, and helps reduce costs of managing it. Software works with MasterCard, Visa, and American Express and interfaces seamlessly with ERP and legacy financial systems. Tel: (509) 943-7998; E-mail: solution@p-card.com.
D&B. D&B Supplier Assessment Manager combines what purchasing operations know about their suppliers with dynamic D&B information. Software helps reduce the supplier base, detect high-risk suppliers, leverage relationships with interrelated suppliers to achieve the best performance terms, and more. Tel: (800) 513-8930; Fax: (973) 408-6618; URL: www.dnb.com/purchase/ppur chas.htm.
daly.commerce. daly.commerce provides e-commerce-enabled enterprise software for distribution organizations. The Application Plus and commerce@work product lines support all major processes of a distribution organization including Internet commerce, sales & order management, warehouse logistics, purchasing and inventory management, and financial management. Tel: (401) 752-4286; E-mail: lstrazzante@dalycommerce.net.
Datacor. Datacor offers ERP software designed from the ground up to meet specific needs of the chemical industry. Datacor's Chempax is installed in more than 400 chemical businesses worldwide and is backed by 18 years of industry-specific experience. A fully integrated manufacturing, distribution, quality, customer service, regulatory, and financial software package, Chempax offers "out-of-the-box" installation, "quick" deployment, ease of use, and a pathway for future modifications. Tel: (973) 822-1551; Fax: (973) 822-3976; E-mail: datacor@datacorinc.com.
Descartes Systems. Energy, the company's product family, can be implemented to manage every phase of the order-to-delivery cycle, and can be integrated with a range of business enterprise systems. URL: descartes.com.
disc. disc provides automation systems for industrial distributors, manufacturers' reps, and job shop manufacturers. Purchasing and inventory control tools help users track what to buy and when to buy it, and also tells which items give the best return. disc's inventory management features may help to increase gross margin return on investment by 50%. The system allows users to define stocking strategies and performs calculations based on the user company's rules. Tel: (800) pic-disc; Fax: (860) 678-8601; E-mail: mktg@disclink.com.
Dynamic Software. qpii Gold v99 is a Y2K compatible purchasing management and inventory control systems for Windows 95/98/NT workstations. Originally developed in 1987, the latest qpii release helps institutional, government, manufacturing, and MRO purchasing organizations of all sizes manage their entire procurement cycle more efficiently. Single-user, multiuser network, client/server, thin client, and Internet-enabled versions are available. Tel: (800) 627-1218; Fax: (803) 407-0466; E-mail: dynamic-sw@usa.net.
E3. E3 systems feature store level, DC and VMI replenishment, inventory management, and collaborative planning. Systems work alongside existing ERP and other internal systems with "no disruptions." Tel: (770) 424-0100; Fax: (770) 424-0050; URL: www.e3corp.com.
Falcon Software Services. Blue Chip MRO Materials Management System is a purchasing and inventory control system designed with requirements of MRO inventories in mind. System supports the procurement cycle for both stock and non-stock materials, from creation of the requisition through the bid process, purchase, receipt, and issue from stock. System features simple operation and on-screen help. Included modules are Requisitions, Request for Quote, Blanket Contracts, Purchase Order, Stock Room Control, Tool Kitting, Bill of Materials, Receiving, Cost Center Accounting and others. Tel: (270) 575-9870; E-mail: falcon@ldd.net.
Fleming Systems. FSC's cmms product, $Site, is a client/server system that features online scheduling of maintenance crews, consignment inventory, bid/quotation management, contract purchasing, and vouchers from receipts. $Site was developed using VB and supports SQL Server, Oracle, and Sybase db products. Tel: (800) 596-3437; Fax: (807) 622-4251; E-mail: cansales@flemingsystems.com.
Focus Forecasting. Software has applications in central purchasing operations of multilocations with thousands of items. It includes forecasting, truck restrictions, daily review, electronic order creation, supplier report cards, purchasing measurement, inventory reduction, and service improvement. Tel: (724) 586-2200; URL: www.focusforecasting.com.
Fogle Computing. FCC Stockroom Inventory is a multiuser system that monitors supplies inventory and allocates usage to departments. Software has particular applications in situations where items are issued from inventory, rather than sold--forms, tools, and office supplies. Companion, FCC Purchase Order automatically generates rough draft POs for low-stock items. Purchasing history is maintained. Layout of the PO is user defined, including company logo. Tel: (800) 845-7594; Fax: (828) 697-9944; E-mail: foglecomp@a-o.com.
Geac SmartEnterprise Solutions. Mainframe and client/server procurement software that goes beyond automating inefficient processes allows users to eliminate unnecessary steps and enhance the speed and efficiency of the purchasing operation. Users gain proficiency and flexibility, eliminating redundancy with software designed to allow common functions to be used across all applications. Integration of accounts payable, inventory, and purchasing functions provide convenient access to information needed to make informed business decisions and direct operations effectively. Tel: (800) 808-3327 (option 6); Fax: (404) 239-2939; E-mail: tim.h.riley@geac.com.
Harbinger. Through Harbinger's Knowbility content management system, the company helps enterprises and suppliers benefit from instant access to accurate data, whether that data is contained in an online catalog, or used by ERP, ecat, or legacy systems. Knowbility gives data form, fit, and function so that logical and intuitive queries can easily find spare and maintenance repair and operations parts. Tel: (864) 322-5190; E-mail: info@harbinger.com.
Infinium. Infinium Purchasing and Inventory systems handle repetitive and non-repetitive purchasing. Features include multi-currency, auto-sourcing, internal/external notes, multi-shiptos per line, multi-accounts per line, EDI, fax, and e-business Web capabilities. System can be integrated to most financial systems. Tel: (800) 725-7668; E-mail: jackie_thomasson@infinium.com.
informs. Advanced Government Purchasing System (agps) is designed by government purchasing professionals for the business of government purchasing. All classical government purchasing functions have been automated in agps--from requisitioning through payment approval. agps allows centralized and/or delegated purchasing activity. Basic system can be customized as necessary. agps interfaces to financial systems and e-commerce systems. Tel: (334) 277-0372; Fax: (334) 277-0557; E-mail: andy@informs.com.
Intelisys. Intelisys Electronic Commerce Internet-based procurement systems link buying organizations with their suppliers to streamline and automate the purchase of non-production goods and services. Authorized buyers can search, select, and place catalog orders from a desktop browser. Customized enterprisewide workflow eases order approval, receipt, and supplier payments to reduce both cycle time and processing costs. Tel: (888) 294-4PRO; Fax: (212) 638-8478; E-mail: info@intelisys.com.
Intuitive Manufacturing Systems. MRP9000 is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for discrete manufacturers, enabling business management with a single, integrated software system. Tel: (425) 821-0740; Fax: (425) 814-0195; E-mail: info@mrp9000.com.
Ironwood. FIX software provides requisitioning, purchase orders, inventory control, warehousing/distribution, forms control, print on-demand, and electronic item control. Requisitioning includes approval levels based on dollar volume, electronic form fill, and print items with real-time inventory update. Pick lists interface to shipping systems and docutech equipment for large print on-demand quantities. Lock stock items generate re-order notices to item owners. Tel: (905) 829-4495; Fax: (905) 829-3010; E-mail: aasys@interlog.com.
JBA. System 21 software is an integrated financial, manufacturing, and distribution business software for AS/400, unix, and NT platforms. JBA's purchase management application is a management and operational system for the control of POs, receipts, and invoices, and provides a supplier database to assist informed buying, tighter quality control, and simpler purchasing administration. Tel: (800) jba-intl; Fax: (847) 590-8164; E-mail: jcrawford@jbana.com.
Kehlbeck. With applications in industry, government, and services, Purchasing Information Center 98 takes all the information a buyer has on his or her desk, in his desk, or in a file cabinet and stores it for instant access on a PC. Options within the program include: Supplier, RFQ, Purchase Order, Receiver, Material Analysis, Business Contacts, and Administration. Tel: (502) 228-3636; Fax: (502) 228-6068; E-mail: kehlbeck@aol.com.
Legacy Systems Research. Cost-Benefit Analysis tool helps buyers and their internal customers by ensuring that a solid business case exists for important software decisions. Software provides life-cycle costing tools formerly available only to financial analysts to personnel at all levels of expertise, in a graphical user interface. The tools works in five basic steps to walk the user through the cost-benefit process and documents the results in professionally formatted reports with graphs. Software has applications in make-or-buy, outsourcing, policy impact assessment, proposal evaluation, information, technology procurement, feasibility studies, and more. Tel: (800) 920-1409; Fax: (208) 522-5401.
Logistics PRO. Functionality of this warehouse and transportation management system includes: receiving, locating, put away, cycle counting, transfers/adjustments, dock management, inventory planning, productivity tracking, returns, order allocation/replenishment, picking, freight rating/routing, shipment planning/execution, ASN/pick and pack, manifesting, freight auditing, and management reporting. Tel: (219) 272-8500; URL: logisticspro.com.
Loren Data. An Internet applications service provider (ASP) has designed eGOV.net for government buyers and sellers at all levels. eGOV.net provides a customizable suite of tools for servicing contracts, request for quotes, request for proposals, government purchasing cards, electronic catalogs, and other commonly used procurement instruments. eGOV.net is a 100% Web-based system that uses leading-edge technology to give users immediate access to more than 6000 EC-capable suppliers without need for additional software. Tel: (310) 827-7400; E-mail: info@egov.net.
LS DataNet Systems. LS Business and Manufacturing software is a multiuser integrated package for materials and resource management. Network compatible Windows software manages requisitions, POs, supplements, quotations, blanket orders, releases, contracts, approvals, suppliers, expediting, receipts, stockrooms, assets, invoices, appropriations, charges, personnel, chemicals, and more. Features include Internet/intranet access, passwords, authorities, audit trails, word searching on all previous orders, online catalogs, faxing, remote operation, and client server databases. Reports available include asset listings to supplier analyses. Tel: (205) 977-6023; Fax: (205) 298-1522; E-mail: ls@lsdatanet.com.
Macola. Progression Series 7.5 is a fully integrated suite of financial, distribution, and manufacturing modules for Windows. Purchase Order and Receiving module enables users to analyze the quality, accuracy, and promptness of the delivery of all purchased materials. Features include print POs, change POs, and process cancellations; report scheduled receivings; enter and edit POs and receivings; purchase materials to be drop-shipped directly to customers; analyze supplier quality, performance, and price variance. Tel: (800) 468-0834, ext. 550; Fax: (740) 382-0239; E-mail: response@macola.com.
Made2Manage Systems. Made2Manage is an enterprise resource planning system designed for use by small and mid-size manufacturers on the Microsoft Windows NT and BackOffice platform. Made2Manage serves a range of industries, including fabricated metal products, industrial machinery and equipment, computer and office equipment, transportation products, and rubber and plastic products. Tel: (800) 626-0220; Fax: (317) 872-6454; E-mail: info@made@manage.com.
Manufacturing Information Systems. MISys/2000 may be an alternative to cumbersome and expensive manufacturing systems. It performs advanced functions small to mid-size manufacturers need in a Windows-based environment. The core module, Level 1, provides Inventory Control, Multilevel Bills of Material, BOM revision control, and integrated Purchasing. Additional levels provide Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Manufacturing Orders, Shop Floor Control, Routings, Bar-coding, and more. Tel: (802) 457-4600; Fax: (802) 457-4602; E-mail: sales@misysinc.com.
Manugistics. Manugistics applications allow use rs to optimize the supply chain across a spectrum of industries from raw-materials suppliers, through manufacturing and distribution, to delivery of finished goods. Manugistics applications can be implemented quickly and deliver a near-immediate return on investment. Measurable results include revenue growth, lower operating costs, maximized asset return, and reduced need for working capital. Tel: (301) 984-5263; Fax: (310) 984-5370; URL: www.manugistics.com.
Marcam Solutions. This process ERP software company provides manufacturers with specialized agile business systems that help enable them to continuously improve operations while realizing lower total cost of ownership. Marcam's ERP system, Protean and prism, address unique requirements of the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. Avantis provides maintenance management, inventory control, and procurement to capital-intensive industries. Tel: (800) 9marcam; Fax: (617) 965-7273; URL: marcam.com.
Marell Legal Products. Purchaser's Contract Forms contains 68 in-depth contracts for a variety of commercial transactions from product, service, and capital equipment to software, contract manufacturing, and facility contracts. ConTrack: A Contract Management System helps users manage contracts and suppliers and keep on top of key dates and deliverables. Tel: (310) 372-7632; Fax: (310) 372-0572; E-mail: lsmarell@earthlink.net.
Metasystems. icim ERP system provides comprehensive management information that allows an organization to optimize its resources. With icim's standard implementation methodology, icim can be up and running with minimal effort. Tel: (216) 561-9111; Fax: (216) 561-9272; E-mail: sales@metasystems.com.
MicroMain. MS2000 integrates maintenance management, work requests, preventive maintenance, purchasing, and inventory control into a single computerized maintenance management suite. MS2000 utilizes Symbol Technology's SPT 1500 laser barcode reader and 3Com's Palm III to provide maintenance departments with paperless work orders, inspections, and barcode-enabled physical counts. Tel: (888) 888-1600; URL: micromain.com.
Mikrofax. TBA-Power is an MS-Office-compliant modular purchasing management system. Converting the full extent of the purchasing cycle from Web-enabled electronic requisitioning to raising POs and invoicing, including receiving, inventory, and commitment/budget accounting. Tel: (561) 361-4803; E-mail: contact@mikrofax.com.
Optum. Core warehouse, transportation, and deployment capabilities of the Optum SCE Series optimize supply-chain actions to deliver users personalized logistics services and tailored products. Tel: (704) 423-7202; Fax: (704) 423-7383; E-mail: jbrown@optum.com.
Palmas Development. purchasing plus+ is a family of 12 fully integrated software modules designed to facilitate purchasing and related supply-chain management functions. Single-user, multi-user, and client/server versions are available for 32-bit operating systems such as Windows 95, 98, and NT. Modules include purchasing, receiving, invoice approval and A/P interface, inventory control, requisitioning (with electronic approval), bill of materials, asset management, preventive maintenance, forms management, request for quotation, faxing, Internet, and e-mail connectivity kti. Tel: (800) 506-3366; E-mail: info@palmasdev.com.
Pilgrim Software. Supplier Focus software features--including a complete receiving inspection system and closed-loop corrective action mechanisms--link to most popular ERP systems and allow users to control all aspects of receiving and supplier quality operations. Tel: (813) 915-1663; Fax: (813) 915-1948; URL: pilgrimusa.com.
PolyDyne Development. PolyDyne develops global software applications and supply chain management tools for the electronics manufacturing industry. E-commerce systems help drive supply chain communication--from design and production to component distribution, and include a secure value-added network for facilitating immediate transfer of data via the Internet and EDI. QuoteWin, DesignWin, SupplyWin, SupplyWin Enterprise, and PolyNet integrate with MRP/ERP systems and manage planning and operations execution throughout the supply chain communication network. Tel: (512) 343-9100; Fax: (512) 343-9297; Email: info@polydyne.com.
ProCard. ProCard provides software and Internet business applications for purchasing, travel, and fleet card programs. ProCard systems include custom accounting interfaces, business rules audit, comprehensive reporting, automatic cost allocation, advanced travel and purchase features, and a suite of administrative tools and technical support services. ProCard has an array of business applications including PVS, PVS Net, and Pathway. Tel: (303) 279-2255, ext. 222; Fax: (303) 279-1044; E-mail: pskarston@procard.com.
ProcureNet. OneSource's Web-based user interface provides users with access to online catalogs and spot-buy services, allowing them to locate and purchase products from approved suppliers and to request goods not found in catalogs. The OneSource suite includes OneSource Procurement, a desktop requisitioning and purchasing application; SmartCatalog, a parametrically searchable electronic catalog engine; and PurchasePlace, a catalog of more than 400,000 sourced and priced MRO items maintained by ProcureNet. Tel: (800) 677-5677; Fax: (860) 677-7157; E-mail: info@procurenet.com.
Purchase Pro. Program streamlines the entire internal and external procurement cycle--from request to order, to payment--for both the buyer and the supplier. Purchase Pro features an e-catalog system from which buyers can access suppliers' products and shop online. Tel: (702) 316-7000; Fax: (702) 316-7001; URL: www.purchasepro.com.
PurchaseSoft. PurchaseSoft includes analysis and reporting features which permit users to accurately measure the value of an intelligent purchasing system: better supplier management, greater leverage with suppliers, reduced acquisition costs, and improved operational efficiencies. Tel: (612) 941-1500; Fax: (612) 941-0066; E-mail: info@purchasesoft.com.
Purchasing at a glance. purcha$ing at a glance for Windows is a PC/LAN software program designed by purchasing managers of non-manufacturing companies for reducing operating costs and streamlining everyday functions of the department. System provides the features, functions, and tools to facilitate the distribution, ordering,and billing of supplies and services to cost centers. Program includes reporting, requisitioning, quote generation, purchase orders, receiving, and distributing. Tel: (800) 792-7224; Fax: (843) 529-5712; E-mail: sales@paag.com.
Purchasing on-line. Software is designed to provide the time and information necessary to negotiate prices, reduce inventory, and improve quality. System eliminates paper requisitions and internal expediting by allowing requisitions to be entered and their status reviewed from any workstation. Requisitions are automatically queued for approval. Three levels of approval are provided with redirecting capability. Buyers may automatically attach line items or an entire requisition to a PO. System includes a suggested commodity-coding scheme that provides for simple retrieval of non-stock items. Non-stock purchase analysis reports suggest items to be considered for stock or blanket POs. Tel: (800) 388-3914; Fax: (305) 294-4230; E-mail: sales@mfgedp.com.
Purchasing Solutions. first rate evaluates each supplier's performance in comparison to other suppliers using existing data from the user's computer system. It identifies performance trends, generates letters, reports, and graphs trends on individual suppliers, commodities and the entire supplier base. first rate separates acceptable from unacceptable suppliers on a "cost basis," which can be used to justify expenditures on a "total cost" instead of reliance on "low bid." In addition, it provides detailed analysis of overall and commodity spending and receiving patterns. Tel: (503) 617-1525; Fax: (503) 617-1629; E-mail: info@ps.to.
Remedy. Purchasing@Work automates the purchasing process for improved supplier management, and accurate, decision-based spending. Users can optimize economies of scale by driving buying volumes to a smaller supply base and refocusing purchasing department efforts--encouraging strategic buying of MRO goods and services. Based on the Remedy@Work suite of enterprise applications for automating the employee workplace, the software is available for unix and Microsoft NT and integrates seamlessly with ERP financial applications as well as Web browsers and database products. Tel: (650) 903-5200; Fax: (650) 903-9001; URL: www.remedy.com.
Renaissance Software. java/java "Internet Application Systems" address Web-based inventory, purchase order, demand management, order fulfillment, and warehouse management requirements. Renaissance's next-generation product suite, e-Supply Chain Management (e-SCM) extends information-sharing capabilities to employees, customers, and suppliers, and allows visibility into the entire distribution network. Tel: (800) 281-2639; Fax: (516) 466-3341; E-mail: marketing@ rensoftinc.com.
Requisite. Requisite provides users with electronic catalog creation and content management systems that enable rapid and effective deployment of desktop procurement applications. Tel: (303) 474-2200; Fax: (303) 474-2211; URL: www.requisite.com.
ReSKU. Software combines portable PCs and bar codes to manage inventory in a warehouse. ReSKU tracks and scans materials through receiving, put away, order picking, shipping, and material movement, helping to reduce errors and lost inventory. ReSKU also supports cycle counting, fifo, replenishment, and most common inventory management principles. Tel: (888) ReSKU-RF; URL: www.resku.com.
ROI Systems. ERP software for midsize discrete manufacturers eases planning and production, purchasing, sales and service management, accounting, configurations, and engineering at one or more facilities. Software supports JTI, high-volume repetitive, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing. Cognos software and data warehousing provide fast, out-of-box management reporting. Tel: (800) 544-7849; URL: www.roisycinc.com.
SAP. SAP provides companies of all sizes with business systems that help deliver "a better return on information." SAP products and services integrate an organization from financials and human resources to manufacturing and sales and distribution. This integration helps enable users to optimize supply chains, strengthen customer relationships, and make more accurate management decisions. Tel: (800) 872-1727.
Sherkin & Associates. Windows-based software helps ensure raw materials are delivered on time, and in complete and usable condition. By capturing data on actual deliveries, it quickly "weeds out" poor performers and identifies corrective action. It is currently installed in both single- and multi-plant environments and can be linked to most existing systems. Also: Software that helps reduce packaging costs. It checks prices, compares box design to determine best value, and develops accurate numbers for estimating purposes. Tel: (416) 760-8386; Fax: (416) 760-0408.
Smart Manager. Smart Manager targets small to mid-size manufacturers with its ERP system. The system has applications in make-to-order, job shop, and repetitive manufacturing environments. Product line features include estimating, sales order processing, production order processing, job costing, inventory control, real-time labor tracking, finite capacity tracking, sales force automation, product configurer, and fully integrated accounting. Tel: (800) 255-8221; URL: www.smartmanager.com.
Software Arts. pc/MRP is a year-2000 compliant, Windows-based MRP, inventory, and accounting package. pc/MRP comes standard with 10 integrated modules: Purchasing, Inventory, Sales Orders, Work Orders, Bill of Materials, Invoicing, Stock Room, Receiving, Address Book, and Accounting (GL, AP, AR). The purchasing module allows users to enter, edit, print, fax, duplicate, and audit POs. POs also can be automatically created based on MRP requirements. More than 100 different purchasing reports can be generated including ISO 9000 supplier performance, consolidated MRP, and purchase price variance. Options modules are available. Tel: (408) 248-6445; Fax: (408) 247-8610; URL: www.pcmrp.com.
Supplystream. Supplystream develops Supply Chain Cost Management Tools to measure, monitor, and manage the total cost of ownership and total acquisition costs while automating the procurement process. Software tools such as Autonet, Autotran, and AutoQ help optimize inventory levels, lower transaction costs, and measure supplier performance. Tel: (315) 531-9108; E-mail: sale@supplystream.com.
Tangible Vision. Imprimis is an ERP/Manufacturing Execution System that supports multi-country, multi-facility, and multi-language environments, and addresses make-to-stock, make-to-order operations. Key purchasing features include purchase requisitions with multilevel authorization, automatic conversion of purchase reqs to POs, stock reorder planning, automatic creation of POs from stock reorder plan, automated purchasing/credit card payment, centralized purchasing capability, supplier certification, and supplier performance tracking. Tel: (630) 969-7517; Fax: (630) 969-7523; E-mail: sales@tangiblevision.com.
tradex. tradex Commerce Center is an integrated system for enabling Internet-based commerce processes. tradex Commerce Center helps businesses lower operational costs and increase service levels by automating buying and selling processes. With tradex Commerce Center, users can help to enhance commerce activities by extending internal procurement processes, creating multi-buyer/multi-seller digital marketplaces or outsourcing services, and enabling supplier-hosted buying centers. Tel: (888) 4 tradex; Fax: (813) 222-5658; E-mail: info@tradex.com mailto:info@tradex.com.
Trilogy. Buying Chain is a scalable, e-commerce application that helps companies to automate their purchasing process and to control employee spending. Buying Chain leverages the Internet to provide one-stop shopping for users purchasing requirements. Its network includes partnerships with Office Depot, sabre bts, and pcOrder.com computer resellers, among others. Tel: (512) 425-3100; URL: www.buyingchain.com.
TSA. TSA offers two Windows-based purchasing management software products, Gateway C/S and P.O. Express. Gateway C/S is a large-scale system for enterprise procurement management or distributed purchasing; P.O. Express is designed for small to mid-scale purchasing operations of specialty buying groups. Software uses client/server technology, allowing users to electronically control every aspect of the purchasing operation. Features include: Internet/intranet requisitioning and approvals, multiple order types and revisions, RFQ processing, supplier management, receiving, inventory control, asset tracking, invoice matching, import/export capabilities, AP interface, EDI, and e-mail notification. Tel: (800) 388-1415; Fax: (717) 691-5690; E-mail: info@tsagate.com.
Virtuo. Virtuo is an ERP procurement system that features budget validation, multi-catalogs, FAX/EDI orders, multi-warehouse inventory management, invoice matching, asset management, bar code management, and interface to an enterprise accounting system or Virtuo suite of financial applications. Virtuo is a client/server multi-platform system including Windows. Tel: (450) 973-8077; Fax: (450) 973-9281; E-mail: marcelt@virtuo-cio.com.
Walker Interactive Systems. Walker is a global provider of financial, operational, and analytic software applications that help users to better management business performance. Walker packaged applications and services are used by companies in the banking, financial services, paper, transportation, and utility industries. Tel: (800) pick walker; URL: www.walker. com.
WIZNet. The eCommerce Portal is an Internet community where businesses can search, source, and negotiate with each other on a range of products and services. The eCommerce Portal delivers the same form, fit, and function of conventional paper catalogs, but in a paperless environment, allowing businesses to reduce the time/complexity of the supply-chain management process. Tel: (800) 297-5377; E-mail: sales@wiznet.net
Survey: Supply chain risks decreasing
10/01/2009Buyers' guide to software for purchasing
07/15/1998
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