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Software providers update coffee service operators on system capabilities Growth and profitability were two of the key themes at the recent Coffee Summit presented by the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cherry Hill, N.J. Hence, nobody was surprised when a panel of software executives presented an overview of what software can do nowadays to make OCS more profitable. The panel included representatives from four companies and was moderated by Michigan State University Prof. Michael Kasavana.

First to speak was Warren Philips, president of Validata Computer & Research Corp., who emphasized the importance of ongoing software education for operators. “It (software) has evolved from a paper-based system to the most automated, integrated system,” he said. “No matter where you are in the evolution of your business, there are strengths and weaknesses of your organization.”

“Good systems will help you knit things together on a daily basis and reinforce good habits by your employees,” he said.

Areas where software can help operate more efficiently are: route scheduling, route reporting and account profitability.

Philips noted that route mapping tools have come down in price.

The benefits of flexible route scheduling include changing stops and knowing what product needs to be replaced at what rate, he said. These benefits will save the driver time and allow him or her more time for sales.

Philips said a routing program can yield a 22 percent gain in efficiency.

A route reporting program will help monitor driver accountability. “We can give route supervisors an excellent view of what happened and what did not happen on the route,” he said.

Cliff Fisher, national sales manager for MEI’s MEI/Easitrax group, said one of the key benefits a good software should provide is shortening accounts receivable days outstanding. Others include improved accountability, greater efficiency, and enhanced employee retention.

He noted that handhelds can yield an 85 percent time savings in back office activities, including accounts receivable.