PeopleSoft acquires Demand Flow software from JCIT

PeopleSoft has acquired JCIT International`s patented Demand Flow software to boost its capability in lean enterprise software for manufacturers.

JCIT International is the leader in Demand Flow technology, a lean manufacturing methodology. Demand Flow technology, combined with PeopleSoft`s supply chain solutions, will enable customers to improve agility, reduce inventory levels, and eliminate waste in their organisation and across their supply chain.

Demand Flow technology enables lean production and mixed-model methodologies required to become a demand-driven organisation. For example, manufacturers of high-technology, medical devices, consumer products and industrial products will be able to support changes in mix and volume on a daily basis while reducing operational costs.

"Lean technologies can provide manufacturing companies with valuable efficiencies," says Brian Zrimsek, research director, Gartner. "Lean manufacturing, enabled by technologies that integrate to supply chain applications, manufacturing applications and the enterprise backbone, will provide manufacturing companies with strategic advantages to eliminate waste and improve margins."

"Companies that focus internally on inventory and cost can no longer compete. Manufacturers must become demand-driven to survive," says Mike Evans, MD of PeopleSoft South Africa. "With this acquisition, PeopleSoft will deliver technology, consulting and education that enables companies to transform themselves into demand-driven enterprises."

The Demand Flow product is immediately available from PeopleSoft in limited release and is expected to be generally available in 2004. PeopleSoft and JCIT International plan to conduct joint marketing exercises on software, training and consulting services.

JCIT International has trained and educated more than 85 000 students in Demand Flow technology and has implemented the methodology successfully in more than 3 200 companies around the world, including GE, American Standard, John Deere and Boeing.