Interview with Brian Ferris, Demand Planning Project Implementer

Read an interview with Brian Ferris of Oakland Packaging and Paper after they upgraded their Purchasing System with OverDrive Solutions’ Demand Planning.

 

Oakland Packaging and Paper is a leading distributor of packaging materials, packaging equipment, janitorial and sanitary maintenance supplies, and food service disposables and is based in Richmond, California.

 

Paul Proulx of OverDrive Solutions interviewed the Oakland Packaging Project Implementer, Brian Ferris and the comments are printed below.

 

Paul: How many buyers are using OverDrive’s Demand Planning?

Brian: Seven.

 

Paul: Has there been or do you expect any improvements in buyer productivity? If so, can you mention anything specific that comes to mind?

 

Brian: Yes there has been improvement.  In regards to "stock purchasing" the same amount of purchasing takes 70% less time to do.

 

Paul: Has there been or do you expect any improvements in fill rates or turns?

 

Brian: Fills rates have gone up, especially on items which were more difficult to plan for, seasonal, sporadic, and we are never out of Steady Items.  Turns are up, and panic buying is way down.

 

Paul: Is the solution beneficial and relevant to your business objectives?

If so, in what way(s)?

 

Brian: Yes, it allows our purchasing staff to spend less time on 'Stock" buying and more time on other projects, such as merchandising.

 

Paul: Any features/functions that you or the buyers have found particularly useful?

 

Brian: The rounding feature is excellent, it saves a tremendous amount of time and keeps the inventory balanced.

 

Paul: Do the users think the software is user friendly?

 

Brian: Very User friendly, simple, and not overly complex

 

Paul: Is the interface from/to A+ satisfactory and useful?

 

Brian: Quick, simple, easy, not a lot of hassle involved.

 

Paul: Has the training gone as planned?

 

Brian: Starts slow, picks up momentum fast. Once people get the hang of it, they want to get off the old purchasing program as soon as possible.

 

Paul: Would you recommend this solution to others?

 

Brian: Absolutely, the software is great and Overdrive Solutions is a joy to work with.  They know their product, stand behind it, and listen to any suggestions that may improve the software.  We are eager to take a look at other products they offer.