MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS
Mobile technology in the work place
With mobile technology becoming more prevalent in the workplace it is vital to develop a mobile strategy to maximise efficiency. Here Russell Marsden, marketing manager at Merlin Business Software, explains why Merlin is hard at work developing mobile apps to complement its software, specifically designed for stockists and distributors in the fastener and fixings industry.
W
hether it’s by conducting meetings using video chat on your phone or capturing orders and electronic
signatures, mobile technology provides multiple means of increasing usefulness. The idea of having a fully-functional
computer on hand at all times has become a reality. With wireless networking, useful applications, and high-speed connectivity, smartphones and tablets are becoming increasingly integral commodities to a productive, integrated lifestyle. The same applies to business. Taking advantage of this technological
advancement through organised use of the correct apps can have a significant,
positive impact on your business’ bottom line. It’s important to consider how you’re currently using technology to promote and sell your products and services, as it’s vastly becoming the first point of call for sourcing products online. Whilst 64 percent of online businesses in the UK believe a mobile strategy is an important factor in their 2013 business success, 60 percent admit they are yet to devise and implement one. In 2012 mobile-ready online businesses
generated more than a quarter of their revenue from mobile. Considering the average online business in the UK generated GB£8.9 million in revenue last year, that equates to approximately
GB£2.5 million through mobile sales. The imminent roll out of 4G networks
across the UK could potentially mean the connectivity we’re receiving to our devices remotely is faster than the average UK home broadband connection – further lending mobile technology to your customers placing orders whilst on-site, but also to implementing a more productive remote workforce. It’s not difficult to understand why.
These devices and tools enable people to work where and when they want and how they feel most comfortable and productive. What’s less clear is whether companies have figured out how to capitalise on this growing trend.
www.fastenersuppliessoftware.co.uk
Epicor launches wholesale distribution ERP solution
Epicor Software Corporation has announced the general availability of version 12.11 of its Epicor Prophet 21® distribution enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution.
21® S window, DynaChange®
pecialising in business software solutions for manufacturing, distribution, retail and services organisations, Epicor’s Prophet features a new sales master inquiry tab creator,
container building functionality, and accounts payable automation with doc-link™ - designed to increase productivity and reduce paper handling. Currently available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and the Caribbean, Epicor Prophet 21 continues to expand its global reach with the addition of country specific functionality (CSF) for Mexico in this new release. The sales master inquiry window
wholesale
(SMI) is a tool for distributors to analyse their customers’ revenues and bookings. Using SMI, the distributor can help discern problems in the sales cycle, identify opportunities, and then take an action. The window presents information that is not available in customer master inquiry, and is a powerful tool for executives who like to manipulate data, for sales representatives looking to understand how their customers are trending year over year, and marketing team members seeking to identify target customers for a campaign. Container building functionality allows
the distributor additional flexibility when dealing with overseas suppliers. By working with suppliers and freight
forwarders, the distributor can help control the flow of goods coming from overseas, by directing which purchase orders and line items should be loaded onto containers for shipment - allowing better management of incoming inventory to meet the distributor’s priorities and stocking levels. “We understand the complex business
challenges facing distributors today, and continue to expand the functionality of the Epicor Prophet 21 ERP solution to empower our customers to drive further efficiencies and innovation in their businesses,” said Malcolm Fox, vice president, product marketing for Epicor.
110 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 81 May 2013
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