PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0 helps streamline inventory

By Susan Avery -- Purchasing, 4/20/2000

PurchasingNet has released version 4.0 of PurchasingNet-SQL, its Web-based, enterprise-level e-procurement system. PurchasingNet is located in Lincroft, N.J.

With new features such as XML support, automated stock requisitions, and an enhanced browser interface, version 4.0 helps improve usability, streamline inventory process, and increase user and administrative control.

"PurchasingNet offers a complete, end-to-end e-procurement system with both front and back office functionality," says Tim McEneny, CEO and co-founder of PurchasingNet (formerly American Tech). "Version 4.0 sets a new standard with ease of use, cost effectiveness, and a proven reliable performance..."

PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0 helps improve supplier connectivity with added XML support in the catalog update, order transmission and e-mail functions. Supplier catalogs can be downloaded in XML format with PurchasingNet's Catalog Junction middleware, which interfaces with any catalog and eliminates the need to subscribe to a third-party catalog service. Purchase orders and invoices can be sent and received in XML format, in addition to a variety of other standard formats, and e-mails can be sent in either ASCII or XML.

Scans inventory records

PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0 includes a new feature that supports the generation of stock requisitions, streamlining the entire inventory process. When a user requests an item held in stock at a warehouse, the system scans inventory records to see whether the item is currently in stock. If it is, a pick list is generated at the warehouse location, from which the order is easily filled. If the number of items in stock falls below a pre-determined level, PurchasingNet-SQL will automatically issue requisitions to replenish inventory items.

PurchasingNet has enhanced version 4.0's browser interface to increase usability and the level of user control. Users can now set their own criteria for notification of e-mails, such as when a requisition has been approved, a purchase order is issued, or when an item has been received. In addition, leading and trailing text blocks can be attached to requisitions, allowing the user to generate POs with boilerplate information. New personal catalog links speed the requisition process by allowing users to select from a drop-down list of frequently requested items. Users can also edit line items on a requisition after it has been issued, without having to re-route for approval.

Maintain business rules

With PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0, administrators can easily update user profiles and perform master file maintenance through the browser interface. The User Profile Wizard allows administrators to maintain user profiles and business rules with the browser, in addition to assigning Superset catalogs to different sets of users. The company also has updated the master file maintenance to enable catalogs to be updated remotely from any browser interface.

PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0 runs on Windows NT servers and is compatible with both SQL and Oracle databases. The e-procurement system also integrates with most legacy, ERP, and financial software systems. PurchasingNet's Proven Path Deployment Methodology guarantees an 8-12 week implementation, including integration and training.

PurchasingNet-SQL V4.0 is designed for mid-sized to large organizations.

Existing customers with maintenance agreements receive the updates at no charge.

For 17 years, PurchasingNet has helped customers cut purchasing costs by an average of 5% to 15%. For more information, call (732) 946-8844.