A system that automates repetitive tasks in the sales cycle is gaining traction among importers and exporters who can now free up management and sales teams to focus on customer development, strategic planning and marketing, according to Cape Townbased iRoot, which was developed by GoIntell, a division of the GoGlobal group.
iRoot is described as “a new generation fully integrated export/import sales system that integrates real-time stock-data with full accounting capabilities and financial audit reporting”. It is a bolt-on to Microsoft Dynamics NAV, an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that is fully compliant with auditing protocols, which means that a separate auditing system is not needed.
Items are identified by a unique number, with iRoot tracking all financial transactions during the sales process from pack house to the consumer using the id number. It provides real time access via various platforms, including mobile, to information on stock for sales people and finances for management.
This allows executives to monitor business processes, margins and KPIs from their mobiles, according to iRoot. Loading management is done within the system with real time stock updates and links to shipping schedules, enabling accurate load planning. iRoot allows importers and exporters to control the complete cost chain, from budgeted costs through to final reconciliation before payment is made to suppliers.
Forecasting functionality allows the business to plan and monitor specific orders matching the supply and demand daily. Individual contracts with both suppliers and customers can be captured on the system, which can then be used to manage the process to ensure there is full compliance, according to the company. Provision for flexible payment terms and accurate payment due date data assist with cash flow planning. The software can be hosted on-site or in the cloud.
