GCE-Elpar, a subsidiary of the JSE-listed Super Group, and automotive electrical parts distributor, runs its entire financial management and stock control system, countrywide, on a Pick-based application of Linksoft Software. The software has been fine-tuned to deliver information on parts availability within seconds.
GCE holds 10 000 line items of stock at seven branches around the country and generates 1 200 to 1 500 invoices daily. Each invoice lists up to 100 products. The system generates more than 2 000 documents daily.
GCE has used its Pick-based application for about 15 years, since it initially switched from a bureau service to in-house computerisation. The company currently runs Advanced Pick on SCO Unix and IBM hardware, with 70 decentralised users accessing the central system using dumb terminals linked to head office in Johannesburg via Diginet lines.
'It`s a solid, 'A to Z` management system with extensive cross-reference functionality,` says GCE MD Clive Sher. "GCE`s business is inventory-intensive. Pick Systems and its Value Added Reseller (VAR) LinkSoft Technologies have provided a fully integrated, cost-effective management system that is also highly flexible and adaptable.`
According to Sher, GCE was among South Africa`s Pick pioneers, receiving priority service in exchange for facilitating system building. 'Over the years we`ve tailored the system to suit our requirements and are fully committed to a Pick-based system,` he says.
The financial management and stock control system generates bills of material and handles inter-branch transfers, tracking stock throughout. Furthermore, it is fully integrated with GCE-Elpar`s debtors, creditors, general ledger and other business systems.
Branches in Germiston, Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Pretoria run mirror systems, ensuring total compatibility.
As well as maintaining 15 years worth of cross-referenced data, the system runs an electronic catalogue for access by telesales staff and buyers.
Other functions include handling importing and lead times, as well as calculating monthly averages for optimising stock holdings.
Buying for the chain is done on a centralised basis, with all stock channelled through head office in Johannesburg.
"In addition to an easy-to-read menu, the Linksoft software is a valuable source of management information," says Sher.
Annual Pick upgrades ensure that GCE keeps pace with technology developments, with future plans including the introduction of Windows.
GCE has worked with LinkSoft Technologies CC for six years and, according to Sher, LinkSoft has delivered 'exceptional customer service`.
'There`s a good spread of knowledge in the company, so LinkSoft serves as a one-stop shop, providing expertise in any field required.`
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Pick Systems Africa
Pick Systems Africa is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pick Systems Inc., based in Irvine, California. Pick Systems is a leading developer of multi-user, multi-value database management system (DBMS) software. A pioneer in the industry, the Company introduced its first multi-value DBMS in 1973. An IBM Business Partner, Pick Systems markets its database solutions world-wide through a network of more than 250 value-added resellers (VARs) supporting 2,000 VAR-developed applications. Pick Systems` primary markets, served through the Company`s network of VARs developing industry-specific vertical applications, are manufacturing, distribution, medical, financial services and wholesale/retail.
About GCE-Elpar
GCE-Elpar is a subsidiary of the JSE-listed Super Group, a major player in transport, truck rentals, motor, automotive components and financial services. The Super Group achieved the distinction of being among the top 100 listed public companies within the first year of listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
About LinkSoft Technologies CC
LinkSoft Accounting Software was established in 1990, and has, since then, expanded and developed with the changing face of the South African motor spares industry. The integrated modular information and business management system addresses the requirements of small and large concerns operating in the retail or wholesale market. LinkSoft runs on various operating platforms including Windows NT, Pick, AIX and various flavours of UNIX. The system is continually being upgraded to produce and maintain a product tailored to clients` needs. LinkSoft Technologies has branches in Johannesburg and Cape Town, enabling it to provide customers with the best possible service.
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