Ultimate Connection takes Microsoft out to virtual lunch

Staff cafeterias, like so many other retail outlets, are entering the cashless age. Microsoft has taken the lead with its new point-of-service system installed by Ultimate Connection at Microsoft`s new head office in Sunninghill, Johannesburg.

The cashless point-of-service system integrates with the existing IT systems at Microsoft, enabling staff to purchase refreshments at the cafeteria by using electronic access cards. The purchases are recorded on a Web site where members can monitor the status of their account. The cashless system provides improved speed of service, and eliminates the required security and control measures for handling cash.

"Microsoft was faced with a choice of retail systems, but chose ActiveRetail 4 Solomon since it takes advantage of Microsoft`s existing technology infrastructure. The fact that the software was developed in South Africa and the quick turn-around time offered, were driving factors behind the decision to use Ultimate Connection," says Shane van Jaarsveldt, technical director at Microsoft South Africa. "The user-friendly touch screen and quick transaction processing makes life easy for staff members who need to grab something to eat on the run."

"Microsoft can now manage its staff food allowances, and boasts a fast and reliable point-of-service at its cafeteria. The system caters for optimum usage with high transaction volumes over short time periods, processing in excess of 100 customers in as little as 30 minutes," says Neels van Tonder, managing director of Ultimate Connection. "The integration of the cafeteria into the rest of Microsoft`s IT system ensures that accurate information is available to effectively manage the Microsoft operation."

"The point-of-service solution for Microsoft is a fully integrated enterprise resource management application, managing every aspect of a retail business from merchandising, accounting, replenishment, reporting, report distribution and data mining," van Tonder adds.

Earlier this year ActiveRetail 4 Solomon was awarded Microsoft`s prestigious European Retail Applications Developer (RAD) Award for the most innovative solution, beating entries from across Europe, Middle East and Africa. "Winning the coveted RAD award, placed Ultimate Connection firmly on the software development map and showed that South African developers are on par with their international counterparts," concludes van Jaarsveldt.

Products used in this implementation:

• Microsoft Visual Studio 6

• Microsoft SQL Server 7.0

• Microsoft Transaction Sever

• Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0

• Microsoft Workstation NT 4.0

• ADO 2.1

• Microsoft Internet Information Server 4

• Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.5

• ActiveX, COM/DCOM