RSM Resources

Successful software implementation enables distributor to focus on expansion efforts.

Managing the growth of your business is highly complex. These complexities increase when your software systems are not integrated. Here’s how one company used our IT consulting services to implement a software solution that not only integrated their systems, but also helped to grow their business.

The challenge
With an emerging Internet business, Tool King -- one of America’s largest tool distributors -- needed more sophisticated technology to improve the accuracy of their inventory quantities.

One of the Tool King’s primary challenges was that their point of sale system was not integrated with their accounting system. As a result, the distributor did not have real-time inventory data and had to implement a costly ‘safety stock’ system that helped to ensure in-stock inventory levels.

As the company grew, the older system was no longer able to keep up with the increased customer demands. Placing purchase orders and adding new items to inventory was becoming increasingly difficult. And with their flourishing Internet business, decreasing the time involved in processing Web-based orders was a key concern.

Like most successful companies, Tool King wanted to focus their resources on managing the growth of their business -- not on managing paperwork to track orders and receipts. The distributor determined that updating their IT systems was essential to redirecting their focus.

The solution
Working with RSM McGladrey consultants, the Tool King implemented Microsoft Great Plains® software.

First our consultants met with the Tool King’s key network and accounting staff to fully understand their business, systems and challenges.

After developing a project plan, budget and timeline, RSM McGladrey began implementing the financial and distribution software.

“During the implementation process, we created specialized reports using the new software to help the client better manage their purchasing decisions,” says Joan Varga, RSM McGladrey IT consultant-Denver, Col. “In addition, we provided training that was tailored to their specific needs and industry.”

“We give our clients the tools to be self-sufficient, but we also remain available to answer questions and address concerns,” Varga explains. “This creates a healthy balance in our partnership.”

The results
With the implementation of this system, the Tool King has become a top-rated Internet retailer.