Streamlined product lifecycle, pricing management for distribution
A novel software solution for managing product pricing and lifecycles throughout a manufacturer's distribution chain has been launched by software developer Freshleaf Media. Called DistiSync, the new online software provides a suite of tools for managing and easily sharing product pricing, technical data and documents, and information on the phase-out of products at their end of life.
Additionally, it is designed for customization, allowing functionality to be added easily to handle individual manufacturers' unique requirements - such as product configurators.
"DistiSync started life as a custom solution for an international industrial equipment manufacturer, and has been proven and enhanced over several years," says Freshleaf Media's Katie Theisinger. "It's been shown to save months of effort for a manufacturer." Distributors who already use it cite DistiSync as the 'best-in-class information service', 'best supplier portal - period', and the 'best vendor communications tool'.
The new software was designed initially to replace spreadsheet-based processes for distributor management. The automated features of the tool completely sidestep problematic issues that can easily arise with manually-oriented approaches, such as mishandling version control, inconsistent communications from different departments in a company, and poor security.
In contrast, DistiSync provides a single source of up-to-date information with secure and permission-controlled access to a centralized information repository. It makes it very simple for manufacturers to share product data with subscribers via a distribution portal and email notifications. It incorporates an audit trail of pricing reviews and release cycles, with change history retained and accessible for every item. Plus, it ensures automatic communication of product pricing and status changes that is both consistent and provable.
By using DistiSync, products can be managed throughout their lifecycle, with information and pricing information automatically shared with distributors at all stages – including product updates and end-of-life ordering.
DistiSync provides a suite of five tools as standard: Pricebook, Product Information, Sample Ordering, End-Of-Life Products, and a repository for a distributor's individual Order History and Personalized Documentation. These cater for most common requirements, but Freshleaf Media is also able to quickly add modules or interfaces to third-party tools for handling additional specialized tasks. It has already implemented interfaces for product configuration for example, and for registering and processing e-commerce customers who purchase products directly from the manufacturer.
The new tool can be set up within a few days, and rapidly optimizes internal processes for all parties in a manufacturing organization that deal with distribution chains. The subsequent improved efficiency of communication with distributors can then have a highly positive effect on strengthening bonds with distribution partners.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The November/December issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Kimball Midwest. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dirk Beveridge, Frank Hurtte, and Mike Marks, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
