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AcuSport Scores a Direct Hit With iWay B2B Suite
Technology Category
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Exchange & Integration
Applicable Industries
- Retail
Applicable Functions
- Logistics & Transportation
- Procurement
Use Cases
- Inventory Management
- Supply Chain Visibility
Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
AcuSport, a leading distributor of hunting and shooting products, was facing challenges with its existing system for exchanging business documents with partners and integrating its internal information systems. The company was using custom interfaces to exchange item information, pricing updates, inventory status, purchase orders, and other documents. As business volume increased, developing these interfaces became increasingly complex and time-consuming. The company was also using a packaged electronic data interchange (EDI) system from Gentran that was cumbersome and expensive. AcuSport was looking for a solution that would allow it to quickly integrate trading-partner documents with its software applications.
About The Customer
AcuSport is one of the leading distributors of outdoor and shooting sports products in the U.S. Based in Bellefontaine, Ohio, the company distributes products from more than 250 worldwide manufacturers to independent retail business owners. AcuSport thrives in its industry due to its tight, well-integrated business processes, both internally and externally. The company's focus on information technology sets it apart in its industry. One of its goals is to provide information to independent retailers, adding value to their businesses. By providing easy access to reliable information, retailers can efficiently access information, place orders, and generally make better overall business decisions.
The Solution
AcuSport decided to standardize on iWay Software for all business-to-business (B2B) and business process automation (BPA) processes. The company replaced its old EDI system with iWay interfaces based on standard protocols. iWay's B2B Suite was used to connect an iSeries-based e-commerce application called e-OnLine to a product information management (PIM) application where the distributor maintains all item master data and product specifications. AcuSport also created interfaces with FedEx to automate proof of delivery and electronic cash on delivery (COD) transactions. The company also uses iWay to communicate with manufacturers by sending purchase orders, receiving invoices, and confirming vendor inventory status. iWay's BPA capabilities were also used to simplify application-to-application interfaces in connection with the ERP system.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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