While choosing the right software package depends to a large extent on the industry you`re in and the challenges you want to address, the capabilities of the software solution you`re investing in should be the ultimate driver of your choice.
Keith Fenner, strategic sales director, Softline ACCPAC, uses the example of an ERP solution in the context of mining to demonstrate this.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) for mining has to be about far more than financial information alone. It has to improve a mine`s productivity. This is the advantage an ERP solution specifically tailored for mining should offer the industry - bridging the gap between financial information and production information through a configurable set of workflow and business intelligence tools, providing management with the information they need anywhere anytime.
The efficiency of any mine has to do with the visibility your software affords you. It has to give you both a bird`s eye view of overall exploration and production, while simultaneously allowing you to drill down to the minutest detail: what equipment is where, for example. This means it has to incorporate both the financial and the operational.
This is thus one of the key features offered by Accpac ERP for Mining. By including a wide range of modules from development to exploration through to production and sales, it ensures visibility; enabling accurate data capture and giving management complete control over budgets - that can be analysed to shaft, process, sub-process and equipment.
While this visibility is one of the aspects driving the product`s popularity in the small and mid-market mining industry, it is ultimately the capturing of production and exploration data which Accpac ERP for Mining enables that differentiates it in the market. By incorporating this information, mines now have access to configurable tools to produce cost per ounce and cost per metre reporting.
They are thus kept fully aware of workflows and process capabilities. This provides the links and integration needed between the mine`s head office and its investors. Data required to make significant decisions is available to managers and directors when and where they need it.
The production data capture module allows users to set up an area or operation that costs need to be tracked against, such as shafts, open pit or tailings. Beneath this layer of costs lies a lower level of processing such as shaft sinking, development waste or stopping, depending on the environment, which is then linked back to the top level.
This means that the plant can track the processing of material from all areas, and then link this through to the sub-component of a general ledger account for reporting purposes. The module additionally allows users to specify units of measure for the production data captured such as metres advanced, surveyed tons, hoisted tons, treated tons and carats recovered. They can then capture this as needed - daily, weekly or monthly - and link it to the business intelligence suite.
When it comes to selecting the right application for the job then, I would encourage CIOs to look at what the solution will enable in your company - how it has been designed with the challenges of your industry in mind. A product that goes beyond your straightforward accounting expectations and meets your real needs, is probably a product worth investing in.
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The Sage Group plc is a leading supplier of accounting and business management software solutions and services to 5.5 million small and medium-sized clients worldwide. With over 13 900 employees, the Sage Group comprises market-leading businesses throughout Europe, United Kingdom, North America, South Africa and Australia. Its products and services are sold through a global network of 25 000 reseller partners, 40 000 accountants as well as directly to clients from Sage companies throughout the world. For the financial year ending 30 September 2007, the group`s revenue grew by 30% to lb1,175.6m.
Softline
Softline is a leading provider of accounting, payroll and CRM software solutions to small, medium and large companies. Founded in 1988 by Ivan Epstein, Alan Osrin and Steven Cohen, Softline was established during the formative years of the software industry and listed on the JSE Securities Exchange South Africa in February 1997. Softline expanded to establish a strong position within its area of focus in South Africa and Australia.
Focused on the development of accounting, payroll and CRM software solutions, Softline has a 19-year track record as a market leader. The group has a broad range of products offering users a variety of software solutions to run their businesses efficiently. Softline`s leading brands include Softline Accpac, Softline Enterprise, Softline Pastel (Accounting and Payroll) and Softline VIP. The combination of the group`s product offerings, provide Softline customers with comprehensive, well-branded accounting, payroll and CRM software solutions.
In November 2003, Softline was acquired by The Sage Group plc, an established FTSE 100 company. The group includes market-leading businesses throughout the United Kingdom, Mainland Europe, North America, South Africa and Australia, supplying business software to the small, medium and large business community.
Softline has a solid track record of profitability and cash generation. The group delivers quality accounting, payroll and CRM software solutions that improve the efficiencies of businesses around the world.
Softline ACCPAC
Softline ACCPAC is a global provider of business management solutions including financial, distribution, service management, retail, warehouse management, manufacturing and CRM to the mid range market. Its solutions are delivered to 130 countries exclusively through its global network of solution providers including over 150 throughout Africa. Softline ACCPAC`s product line includes: Accpac ERP, Accpac CRM, Accpac RMS, Accpac Warehouse Management System and Accpac Insight.
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