Software Enables Suppler Customer Data Integration

Milwaukee,WI--Catalyst International, Inc. a provider of supply chain execution (SCE) solutions have announced two new products that improve supplier compliance and inbound productivity by providing ASN and labeling capabilities via the Internet. CatalystConnect Supplier Link and CatalystConnect SL are part of an open-architecture based solutions suite, Supplier Link supports OAG (Open Application Group) XML interface standards. The system can be easily integrated with any warehouse management system or enterprise application, to ensure supplier information is automatically shared and synchronized.

CatalystConnect Supplier Link facilitates electronic integration between suppliers and customers. It enables an organization to support electronic integration with suppliers that are not able to - or choose not to - use EDI documents to transmit advanced shipping information to the purchaser. It also provides the option to print customer specific carton shipping labels with UCC128 barcodes and the necessary packing slips - all via the Internet. The use of UCC128 compliant carton labels and packing lists greatly increases the efficiency of the receiving process and enables pre-distributed cross-dock operation. Supplier Link provides visibility into inbound activities enabling an organization to immediately respond to exceptions.

"For many small suppliers, the investment in manpower, hardware and software to set up their own EDI system is cost prohibitive. Unfortunately, suppliers electing to ship without an ASN, are exposed to potential penalties and risk of customer loss. The electronic exchange of information that CatalystConnect Supplier Link provides, opens the door for relationships with smaller suppliers that were otherwise restricted," said Nigel Davies, Vice President, Development.

Catalyst International based in Milwaukee develops software and solutions that enable companies to optimize the performance of their enterprise supply chains. Catalyst has 24 years of industry leadership in warehouse and logistics software development with an in-depth understanding of ERP systems. Catalyst's global customers include Boeing, Reebok, Office Max, Panasonic, Rayovac, Subaru, and The Home Depot.

Electronic integration is one important way that Wisconsin manufacturers can use technology to retain a competitive advantage - even against foreign-based firms that have lower labor and production costs. Suppliers that can respond immediately to changing customer demands are valued in today's world where speed and customization are becoming top priorities. If more Wisconsin manufacturers adopt technology like this, we will keep and even expand high-paying "manufacturing" jobs in this state , said Mike Klonsinski, executive director, Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership.