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The Glazing July 08 1 |
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Keeping the Sun Shining
These days, businesses need to react quickly and effectively to changing market conditions and for the last three years, Ab Initio's software programme, Adminbase, has done precisely that for Sunfold Systems.
 When the Norfolk based company opened for business in 1989, its Managing Director, Mike Rawlings, saw that trading conditions were not too bright. ‘This was not a good time in the UK, as raging inflation, along with businesses having great financial strains, gave a knock on effect to the industry,’ he stated. ‘However, we persevered and gradually architects took note and began to use the concept of folding sliding doors. In fact, we were the first to introduce them to the UK. They saw the benefit of added space and light, but still the window industry dragged their feet.’
That was then. Sunfold now has a thriving business for its wide range of aluminium folding sliding doors, windows and roofing systems and has added further to its portfolio with the advent of pre-finished complete internal doorsets, high security front doors and staircases. It trades throughout the whole of the UK and beyond with some international contacts as far away as the Caribbean.
However, in a highly competitive market place, the need to improve efficiency and performance is paramount; something that the correct software package can help achieve. An initial contact was made at a trade exhibition between Mike Rawlings and the Ab Initio sales team. ‘Due to Adminbase growing out of the window trade it was felt to be the correct software for us,’ explained Kevin Farrow, Design and Sales, Sunfold Systems. ‘We were attracted by the capabilities of the system to aid us managing our business from sales through to installation.
‘Over the three years it has taken us some time to learn how to make the system best work for us and this learning still continues even up to now as we tailor its abilities for our own use. But we are now seeing good benefits from both the system and the changes that we have made.’
Those benefits have included a massive improvement in lead controls, sales development, internal communication, job control and completion as well as customer service. The Full Version of AdminBase covers all areas of lead and contract management, including installation diaries, purchasing control, job costings, commissions and service calls.
As the package has been developed by people who have actually worked in the double glazing industry, there is little customisation required. ‘Ideas from thousands of our customers have also been incorporated into the software, so many features will be new for businesses to try,’ said Rhonda Ridge, Director, Ab Initio. ‘With Adminbase all information is stored in one place. For example, you only have to enter lead details once. You can have instant access to up to date information of the status of your leads and the ability to quickly produce appointment and quotation letters along with various analysis reports to help you keep track. Furthermore, all historical leads are stored for future mail shot campaigns.’
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