Ward Manufacturing Selects Profile Systems ProSAIM-R- Automated Replenishment Software

Business Wire, Jan 25, 2002

Business/Technology Editors

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 25, 2002

Ward Manufacturing has selected Profile Systems' ProSAIM(R) software and @SAIM web-based replenishment interface to automate and streamline the replenishment of their inventory in customer and manufacturer representative's warehouse locations. One of the nation's leading manufacturers of cast and malleable fittings and WARDFLEX corrugated stainless steel gas piping, Ward Manufacturing chose ProSAIM after an extensive RFP process.

First developed in 1994, ProSAIM facilitates a high level of trading partner collaboration by automatically creating replenishment orders for customers warehouses and distribution centers by monitoring daily usage and creating orders based on mutually defined inventory turn and service level targets. As part of the decision making process, Profile Systems utilized ProSAIM to generate a customized stocking plan for one of Ward's targeted distributor warehouses using actual historical data for proof-of-concept.

ProSAIM utilizes state-of-the-art database and file management technologies and has a number of unique features and functions. They include a graphical user interface and rules-based management that are designed for ease of use by a supplier's non-technical customer service and logistics personnel, and which allow for rapid integration of new partners, products and replenished locations. With authorization by Ward, @SAIM, Profile's web-based interface will provide secure, password-protected access and visibility into the replenishment process for Ward's customers and key internal sales and customer service staff over the Internet.

"After a comprehensive review of five vendors, we concluded that ProSAIM was the best solution to meet our long term needs," says Rick Stauffer, VP of Materials for Ward Manufacturing. "ProSAIM will deliver against those needs by improving supply chain efficiency, increasing collaboration with our key trading partners, and reducing our transaction costs. We expect to realize a rapid return on our investment."

"Profile Systems welcomes Ward Manufacturing as a customer," says Edward Mallen, President & CEO of Profile Systems. "During the vendor review process, we demonstrated to Ward quite clearly that ProSAIM is a proven solution that delivers value, and that Profile Systems goes the extra mile for our customers."

About Profile Systems

Based in West Springfield, Massachusetts, Profile Systems is a privately held developer of product data and supply chain management solutions for business-to-business electronic commerce. Founded in 1994, the company's products include MasterDepot(R) product data management and synchronization solution and ProSAIM(R) Supplier Assisted Inventory Management software for automating replenishment. The company's customers include Johnson Controls, Dana Automotive, Osram-Sylvania, Hubbell Incorporated and The Stanley Works among others. For more information, visit the Profile Systems web site - www.profilesystems.com or call 413-737-2000

About Ward Manufacturing

Founded in Blossburg, Pennsylvania in 1924, Ward Manufacturing is a leader in the American pipe fitting industry. Ward Manufacturing's product lines include WARDFLEX corrugated stainless steel gas piping, standard and extra heavy malleable fittings, pipe unions, plugs & bushings, beam & "C" clamps, standard cast iron pipe fittings, flanges, companion flanges, flange unions, flanged fittings, and cast iron drainage fittings. Ward's products are distributed to wholesalers through manufacturers' representatives within the U.S. and Canada as well as to other countries. Ward Manufacturing is a "Pro Product Line" manufacturer of the PHCC. For more information, please visit http://www.wardmfg.com