A Cape-based technology consultancy has successfully created one of SA`s first Macromedia Flash-based business applications for Master Currency. The system is also among the first worldwide to leverage Flash technology, and supports Master Currency`s mission-critical point of sale application.
Global Vision is a leading SME that successfully outbid large multinational technology companies for the business of Master Currency in 2002. Master Currency - a black owned company, of which Rennies (and ultimately BidVest) is a major shareholder - is a respected leader in the field of currency exchange. The company recently began operating independently of the Rennies infrastructure.
According to Global Vision director, Wayne Powell, Master Currency issued a challenging brief to upgrade its software programs to the latest technology, but without necessitating an upgrade to its existing computers and printers.
"That demanded a Web-based, totally scalable solution. Also, the company wanted an open solution as it didn`t want to be locked in to any one platform," he explains.
While it had previously used the systems of its parent company Rennies, Master Currency was looking for a system that would provide an improved service at its point-of-sale operations, scale across its existing and planned branches, and offer a rapid deployment window when opening new offices.
Master Currency managing director Ari Jacobson explains that the organisation presently has 18 branches in SA but has plans for new offices throughout Africa.
"As an independent organisation, we are able to operate more rapidly and without delays in a market that we believe we are better equipped to handle," he says. "As such, we required a system that could be up and running in just a matter of hours, and therefore enable us to commence operations rapidly to capitalise on new market opportunities.
"The solution designed by Global Vision delivers some remarkable attributes. Using Macromedia Flash - which is most often associated with non-business functionality such as that on Web pages - and Microsoft Web services, the point-of-sale application can be deployed in just one hour to new premises.
"The benefits of this system are tremendous; our computer systems don`t have to be replaced, while we get the functionality and flexibility we demand as to deliver on service obligations as a customer-focused organisation," Jacobson adds.
Furthermore, the system allows each Master Currency branch to operate independently, while reporting 24/7 to the Cape Town head office. "Support required for the system is minimal as the system has been designed to look after itself. Upgrades, too, have been catered for without business interruption - it takes just 15 minutes to get the system to the latest version," he says.
Jeremy Matthews, MD of Macromedia distributor Dax Data, says this application demonstrates the capability of Macromedia Flash MX as a versatile and robust client-side code execution environment.
"By combining the best of desk top usability with the benefits of Web-based deployment and a small footprint, Global Vision has utilised the inherent capabilities of Flash in a creative way to build and deliver a highly functional business application," he adds.
In a parallel project, Global Vision also implemented its Chain Software Intranet Portal Server, a locally developed portal product that dovetails with the Master Currency POS application.
"Because most users on Master Currency`s system view documents but don`t require functionality to edit them, the portal removes the requirement for licensing of expensive productivity applications," Powell explains.
This has resulted in a R500 000 annual saving on licensing.
"Together, the two systems have created a complete browser-based service that delivers the business functionality required by Master Currency, while avoiding expenditure on licensing fees deemed unnecessary by the company.
"By applying technology innovatively, we have created systems that are reliable, functional, and above all, cost-effective. This addresses the most pressing needs of many businesses today, which is for technology that doesn`t break the bank, but rather delivers business functionality that can deliver the competitive-edge," concludes Powell.
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