Problem:
Small retailers face many challenges of how to operate more efficiently to compete with national mega-chains. Papyrus, a small chain of franchise card and gift shops, came to Bytes By Design to improve and streamline the inventory management and sales reporting process. They needed a system that would perform a number of functions. The system needed to track inventory levels; issue purchase orders; accommodate a variety of bar code scanners and formats; import various manufacturer bar code files; generate comparative sales reports; provide capabilities for remote administration; and all the while minimize the need for support staff.

Solution:
Our solution called for developing custom Windows-based applications which are integrated with a Microsoft Access database. Our designs allow for inventory control, bar code management, electronic order processing, statistical reporting, as well as dial-up access from remote sites. In addition, we developed custom bar code reader applications which accommodate a wide variety of bar codes used by the many manufacturers with which the chain does business.

Results:
Papyrus is benefiting from improved operations, as well as better relationships with vendors and partner companies.

Inventory control and sales reporting are faster, easier and more reliable. With easy-to-use screens like the one pictured here, Papyrus staff can get the most from Bytes By Design's software solutions.