As a rapidly growing company a few years ago, Chipco Computer Distributors faced a series of challenges that are common among computer wholesalers, distributors, and resellers. Chief among them: the need to empower its sales reps and arm them with comprehensive real-time inventory information. Chipco also needed a better handle on its inventory for other reasons, including warranty tracking, returned merchandise, and inventory shrinkage. In addition, Chipco was looking for an efficient e-commerce solution that would provide customized pricing for individual customers.

Chipco's previous business-management software wasn't up to the task as the company continued to grow so it began researching alternatives and ultimately selected Everest and the software to meet its needs. Chipco sales reps have become far more efficient as they can now see complete inventory status on-screen while speaking with customers and prospects. They can also suggest alternate or substitute components.

Chipco's inventory management processes have greatly improved since implementing Everest. Chipco relies heavily on serial-number tracking of its thousands of SKUs. This enables them to track components and assembled computers for more effective warranty tracking, inventory management (and shrinkage prevention), better kitting and assembly, improved fulfillment, and improved RMA processing. Using Everest, Chipco has reduced its inventory levels by 20 percent and helped us cut its RMA process time in half. To meet changing customer demands and expectations, Chipco used Everest e-commerce functionality to create a sophisticated business-to-business web store. Chipco is able to display special prices on its web store for its premier resellers and standard prices for other visitors. Plus, resellers are able to place regular orders at any time without the involvement of Chipco's sales staff. Thanks to Everest, Chipco has gained a much needed advantage in a highly competitive market with tight margins.