FAQ
1. What does the acronym "MCMS" stand for?
2. What size and/or type of metal centers use MCMS?
4. What are some of the optional modules MCMS users find most valuable?
6. Can MCMS data connect to my website?
7. What technologies does MCMS utilize?
1. What does the acronym "MCMS" stand for?
A: Metal Center Management System — a suite of software applications designed for the metal service center marketplace by Compusource. MCMS, initially launched in 1988, is utilized by 130 companies throughout North America.
2. What size and/or type of metal centers use MCMS?
A: MCMS is used by metal centers large and small, who process and sell just about any shape of metal in steel, aluminum and most other commercial alloys. We can provide a cost-effective MCMS solution for companies who require 2-200 users, with 1 or multiple locations. Some MCMS customers do very little processing, others cut to length, burn parts from plate, level and slit coil, trepan custom tubing from bars, etc.
A: MCMS is licensed by the module and by the number of simultaneous users required. There is a base package that includes the modules required to buy and sell and do your accounting, and then there are optional modules that may be purchased as makes sense for your specific needs. This licensing model allows you to start small and scale in users and modules as you grow, allowing Compusource to provide cost-effective solutions for service centers of all sizes.
4. What are some of the optional modules MCMS users find most valuable?
A: DMS (Document Management System) allows auto-archiving of any MCMS generated form, as well as integrated electronic storage and retrieval of any documents desired. MC Barcode saves time and personnel when it comes to monitoring inventory. MC Connect provides data access via any ODBC tool, e.g. SQL, Access, Crystal Reports etc. MC Alert monitors your database for critical events, e.g. inventory shortage, late purchase orders, daily or weekly sales volumes etc., and then can email the appropriate person if the critical metric is reached. MC Mult calculates cut lists optimizing material usage when cutting linear items. MC Fab offers salespeople automated calculations of multiple processing costs and sales prices on fabrication orders, so items get quoted and sold profitably.
A: Yes, many of the companies using MCMS have their salespeople using MCMS to check stock, enter quotes and sales orders, enter and manage their own "buyout" purchase orders when needed, provide customer service on open orders, review past sales information with a customer on the phone, provide MTR's on demand and more. Remote access (e.g. wireless internet access) can also allow outside sales reps to log customer contact and sales call information, check order status, enter a new quote, etc. during or after visiting with a client.
6. Can MCMS data connect to my website?
A: Yes. We can typically work with your website designer to interface MCMS data to your website. Typical applications include allowing your customers to check stock, inquire on open order status, enter their own order, and/or request copies of paperwork (e.g. invoices, MTR's) which could then automatically be emailed to them.
7. What technologies does MCMS utilize?
A: MCMS supports Windows and Unix servers and windows clients in a local or wide-area network configuration. User interface options include graphical, character, remote wireless terminal, barcode and more. An ODBC database engine is available allowing data access via industry standard tools like Excel, Access, SQL and Crystal Reports. Web-based dashboards (I.e. Executive Information Systems) and real—time data monitoring tools are also available.