SupplySentry Answers
What products can I put in SupplySentry?
SupplySentry can be used for almost any plate-room or pressroom consumable. This includes photopolymer plate material, stickybacks, tapes, doctor blades end seals, safety supplies, cleaning supplies, and many more items.
Click to view a list of products we can monitor with SupplySentry.
How much does SupplySentry cost?
SupplySentry currently does not cost anything if you meet the annual purchase criteria other than a basic installation charge (if done by APR).
How do you determine how much inventory to carry in SupplySentry? We have a proven process where we review your current usages and then jointly determine initial minimums, maximums, and reorder points for each item. SupplySentry then has state-of-the-art predictive analytics that we then utilize to optimize the amount to have in stock and when and how much to replenish. The software’s AI engine, driven by what is in essence machine learning, can dynamically reset min/max/reorder points to assist us in managing the supply chain for our customers allowing us to reduce the amount of inventory kept on the floor as well as reduce freight costs.
Is there anything necessary on my end in order to have SupplySentry?
A 110v power outlet for the RFID reader for each location with 24/7 continuous power is required. As well as a Standard IPV4 RJ-45 network drop. A DHCP assigned address for all equipment is required. Note: If static IP addresses are preferred, Supply Sentry will require an IP per device on site.
Is there any danger or concerns to my IT system?
Every IT department has different needs and we take great care in meeting all requirements on a case by case basis. We employ industry-standard techniques such as firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection, and site monitoring to protect your information. Our RFID Appliance installed at a customer site only interacts with our SupplySentry host servers by submitting our customized RFID tag data back to us via outbound port 80. This appliance can easily integrate to your local LAN or specific VLAN as well as be attached to a wireless network via Wi-Fi to Ethernet Adapter. For more detailed information please contact us.
How do you determine when it is time to replenish my inventory?
APR, along with your team, determines the appropriate minimum, maximum, and reorder quantities. Once we have history, the system uses sophisticated economic order quantity formulas to determine the optimum time to replenish also taking into consideration shipping times and freight costs.
Can I install SupplySentry?
In some situations the customer can install SupplySentry. This depends on the needs and configuration of the system. A site survey is done to determine the types of equipment best suited for the environment. The use of cabinets, shelves, or whole room installations is determined by the product types and quantities required, as well as customer interviews to understand buying behaviors and needs. Some customer locations may combine all three of these options.
What if I need more than one location?
We can do multiple locations and configurations if needed.
What if I want to have only some people have access to SupplySentry?
We have a couple of options including a fingerprint reader to control access to products in SupplySentry. We are also working on NCR and facial recognition options.
How long does it take to configure and install?
A typical installation can be completed in one day.
How can I tell how much inventory I have in SupplySentry?
SupplySentry's web-based interface allows you to see what items are in stock, the quantity of each item on hand, the quantity in transit, and the suggested amount needed to replenish their supply.
Does SupplySentry have any reporting capabilities?
The user interface shows you various information and reports displaying what your usage is at by product, and by period. Custom reports can be created if additional information is needed.
Can I see what is in SupplySentry on my phone?
Yes, SupplySentry as a mobile application that allows you to view what you have in stock or in transit on your phone.
Is there a person reviewing my usages or is it all automated?
Although we have developed and utilize sophisticated economic computer-generated order quantity formulas to determine optimum inventory levels, you are also assigned an Account Manager that also looks over your inventory situation on a daily basis to ensure you never run out of product. We also have automated alerts if anything drops below minimum levels that go out to the account manager.
What about freight costs?
We understand that freight is an important part of your total costs. We, therefore, try to optimize our replenishment cycles to minimize freight costs. Typical customers see a reduction in annual freight costs, especially those attributed to the need to overnight items.
Can you tell me if an item is getting past its shelf life?
Because each tag is a unique "license plate" it allows us to know when this item was put in stock at your location. We then track each tag so we have the ability to alert you if an item has been on the shelf too long or if you are not turning your inventory in the most optimal manner.
How much space do we need for a SupplySentry system?
SupplySentry systems are very customizable. The shelving units can range from 4ft wide to 12ft wide with varying heights and depths. There are also times we are able to completely customize a setup and use existing shelving units. Once a site survey is completed we can determine what setup would be the best fit for you.