 DPS/Real-World Solutions: Pharmaceuticals
Lowes Wholesale Drug Agencies
Bahamian Distributor Leverages Data in Integrated System
One of the largest distributors of pharmaceutical and sundry supplies throughout the Bahamas, Lowes Wholesale Drug Agencies Limited was challenged to find a integrated business solution to meet their requirements and a technology partner who could provide consistent, quality support. Their decision was to install a new IBM AS/400 and DPS Extend Distribution and Financial Management Software application across their five companies and 17 branches.
Lowes had some unique business operation requirements, ranging from the way their remote sales reps enter orders to reconciling the landed cost inventory values with the shipping company and suppliers. Lowes Project Manager Ms. Valerie Lowe remarked, " DPS took the time to understand what was needed to accomplish our goals and consulted with the company to define where the software needed to be modified."
The biggest benefit Lowes has noticed from DPS Extend to date is the Inquiry and Search/Retrieval system. Ms. Lowe described an inquiry where the sales, invoices, cash received, and inventory dollars display on one screen. This is extremely helpful, according to Ms. Lowe, because it provides all of the information needed to see how the business is doing — not just as of yesterday — but month-to-date and year-to-date as well. Lowes's sales staff used to page through books of product numbers and descriptions. Now they just enter a keyword or a portion of the item description and a list pops up for them to make a selection.
Lowes has made tremendous strides toward a completely integrated environment. The transition has been smooth due to the comprehensive online help included with DPS Extend. It is simple to use and available with a keystroke. Ms. Lowe remarks, "If you can read, then you can do it!"
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