Some of you may be wondering why I have not been posting much on S2ki for the last few months. (most of you probably do not care!)

The powers that be at my job finally agreed that automation was the only way to gain control of our over-bloated inventory, (yes we have been handwriting receipts at our shop for THIRTY YEARS). So we began the daunting task/transition to full cash register point of sale/inventory management computer system.

I am the closest thing we have to a computer tech-head so I was put in charge of all aspects..research..vendor procurement, hardware...software, etc, etc ..and finally database building and implementation.

I have spent the last three months holed up in the back store-room with two computers and lots of and MANY very long days creating a standard for part numbers, and actually building a database of what we carry from over 180 manufacturers. It has been very challenging for me, I am learning skill sets I had no interest in. AND training old s new tricks (like how to use a computer!) ..probably the hardest part (I swear its a generational thing, sorry J-Pa)

We could not actually begin to use the cash register aspect until we achieved about 70-80% of what we carry in a database with either a UPC/and or ISBN # that a bar code scanner would read. (its basically the 80/20 rule that applies in business so much) This has been big challenge starting from zero> and trying to get somewhere close to 45,000 items.

We FINALLY were ready and went live about three weeks ago with gleaming new iMacs on our counter as cash registers Everyone is excited for this next phase of our business. It has not gone as smoothly as I envisioned at times (you may say I'm a dreamer...) but as I remind my co-workers, you do not go from doing something one way for thirty years to it being perfect overnight. It has been a rough transitional time period for all of us. However, our employees, and customers have been great about it! Everyone is being patient (well most people).

As of yesterday the database of items stands at about 40,000 and growing daily.


I miss the banter and you fine people! So what is going on with your life? I feel so out of touch!

 

Is it Spring yet Mike?

You'd been away so long I was wondering if and when you were going to relinquish your CO title.

Sounds like you had quite the daunting task and managed to pull through with flying colors.

Congrats.

 

I forget, which Mike are you again?

 

Damn Mike, I'm in the middle of something very similar to that. I am in charge of finding, analyzing, purchasing, and implementing a new computer system for our company. The hardest part will probably be importing the old data into a delimited format and getting it into the new database. We are changing from a Unix based system to a Window based system using an SQL database.

 

Ha, I'm actually revamping a database right now. Plus I'm travelling 7 straight weeks to implement new market centers.
Looking for a new job and new place to live as well.

 

Mikey

 

Didn't even notice you weren't here Mike

GL with everything.

 

noooooooooo no microsoft systems...from unix to LINUX!!!! and i totally agree with howard...i'm def looking to get the f outa pa...i can't deal with these winters anymore its ridiculous..NC like i've said before sounds real nice..raleigh area and half a day drive to the dragon...can't beat that in my eyes...

 

Each week I've had a major test over here at Rutgers. I've basically just been studying in between of doing homework, etc. Its starting to get old...I hate test streaks. 3 more weeks and spring break...

 

seems to be the cool thing to do nowadays. I have been searching for a new job and house hunting. I have an offer on the table for a new gig, but the money is not right and the negotiations are going nowhere.