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FORTE Introduces iOPTIMIZE
Software
Enables system-wide
distribution analytics
August 25, 2005—FORTE introduces iOPTIMIZE software
promises to enable unmatched distribution performance visibility. It
works as a unique DC dashboard and will drive ongoing performance improvements
based on user-specified key performance indicators (KPIs). It is currently
being integrated within working distribution facilities.
iOPTIMIZE is a software module that gathers, analyzes and
provides quick access to performance data pooled from numerous open
data base connectivity (ODBC)-compliant data bases within the distribution
center. These disparate information systems (i.e. ERP, WMS, WCS, MHE,
TMS, etc.) can be any model, made by any manufacturer. This liberal
connectivity is what makes the software module truly unique and valuable
to the distribution segment.
No need for spreadsheets and calculators; with the click of a mouse,
this software system can run a query and instantaneously give near
real-time information, make comparisons or, in many cases, give productivity
per worker per functional area. Because FORTE’s software engineers
simply access the server for software setup, the system information
is owned by the user. This safeguard ensures the data will be maintained
so long as the user’s server is functional.
“There are typically many ‘islands’ of systems and
information throughout a distribution operation, with each person gathering
feedback from the source they trust most,” says Alan McDonald,
product manager and systems consultant with FORTE. “This
software ties those disparate systems together and creates one source
for metrics and day to day performance evaluation. As a result,
more informed decisions are made on a timelier basis, with consensus
from a wider group of people.”
To get started, iOPTIMIZE users identify KPIs with FORTE’s
improvement advisors. Custom-configured queries, which can be written
in SQL or through Access, are written to pull numerous analytics from
the integrated ODBC data base. User-added queries can be configured by
FORTE’s advisors or by an in-house knowledgeable user. Through
these valuable queries, data related to automation and distribution performance
is turned into working intelligence in the form of tables and charts
for specified time periods: months, weeks, days or hours.
About FORTE
FORTE (www.forte-industries.com)
a distribution operations consulting engineering firm, provides turnkey
planning, design, and implementation services for automated distribution
centers. The scope of FORTE’s projects range from reconfiguration,
optimization, expansion, and consolidation of current distribution
facilities, to the development of new, fully automated facilities.
Press Contact
William Taylor, associate director of marketing
FORTE
(513) 398-2800
www.forte-industries.com
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