Support turnaround time drastically reduced

An effective computer system is crucial nowadays if a company is to run a successful business, according to JL Koekemoer, executive of software providers, Ship-Shape. “In establishing an efficient company, the management has to assess the company requirements, and look for system partners who can deliver them,” he told FTW. A problem is that, having originally got what they needed, too many companies fail to realise the continuing need to upgrade their systems. “Some companies stick to what they have been using since the year dot,” said Koekemoer, “without investigating what is out there. “Chances are there is more modern and advanced software available (like Ship-Shape) that keeps up to date with the changing times and delivers what their clients require of them.” And the company has continued to perform well, despite last year’s global slump, according to Koekemoer. “Our software sales have continued to enjoy growth – albeit smaller than pre-crisis years – across the country,” he added, “despite the lack of activity experienced by the industry over the past year.” He also noted that all the hype surrounding the Soccer World Cup had effectively shielded the SA freight industry from the massive downturn seen in other countries since late 2008. “However, it also has to be acknowledged that the departure of this left a vacuum,” said Koekemoer. “Fortunately, the state of the economy hasn’t prevented us from powering full-steam ahead to stay abreast of the latest developments in the market – especially with the continuous changes emanating from SA Revenue Service (Sars) linked to its modernisation programme.” He also suggested that, in the ever-changing world of technology, it is hard to stay on top of new developments without a trusted systems provider. “Because of this, we have to be dedicated to our clients’ needs,” said Koekemoer, “and spare no effort in resolving systemrelated issues. “We also have to be at the forefront of the latest electronic data interchange developments, and be able to offer a full spectrum of reliable EDI services – including live tracking via the Internet from anywhere in the world.” An effective system provider also has to recognise the level of maturity the Internet has reached in the past four or five years. “With more accessible broadband connections,” said Koekemoer, “support turnaround time has been drastically reduced.” He suggested that this now requires a system provider to operate a form of remote control. “We are now able to troubleshoot a remote site in real time over the Internet, as well as ensuring that critical updates are distributed and applied instantaneously across our entire client base.”