SHIPNOW COMPLETES WILLIAMS-SONOMA SMALL-PARCEL SHIPPING PROJECT
Software system boosted capacity to 200,000
packages a day while cutting costs
CHICAGO--June 11, 2001--ShipNow, a developer and marketer of parcel
shipping software, today announced the completed implementation of its
high-speed, enterprise-connected automated shipping system for
Williams-Sonoma.
Williams-Sonoma is a $2 billion company with 380 stores and 6 catalog
operations, and is one of FedEx`s top global accounts. The company,
which often ships over 200,000 packages a day, wanted to utilize
FedEx’s new ground service. ShipNow was recommended because of the
complex issues involved, including speed, enterprise visibility,
customer service, and non-disruptive installation.
ShipNow`s primary software product, DI Server, is designed to work
well with other enterprise software and carrier interfaces. Its
multi-threaded, parallel processing architecture provides stability
and scalability, and its judicious use of XML facilitates interaction
with other enterprise applications.
In the interests of efficiency, the system was designed with a single
point of interface for all shipping automation. This meant that
Williams-Sonoma’s multiple distribution sites were centralized, making
it possible to cut software-processing time by one-third. This was a
key step toward achieving the growth capacity it needed.
ShipNow worked closely with Williams-Sonoma to create the business
rules that would streamline the shipping logistics process and improve
customer service. Given the company’s busy and complex shipping
environment, the business rules made carrier service selection based
on delivery commitment, distance, customer shipping request and
negotiated rates. ShipNow also implemented rules managing cutoff
dates, time for service availability, seasonal rates, and new service
areas.
Williams-Sonoma also decided to have ShipNow expand its package
tracking capabilities, which had the double benefit of enhancing
customer service and saving money through improved control. Another
advantage to the new system was the increased quality and flow of
management information throughout the enterprise.
The project was completed in less than two months, and ShipNow’s
gradual implementation made for a smooth transition to the new system.
Williams-Sonoma estimates that the new system will save them $500,000
during their peak quarter.
ShipNow’s small-parcel shipping software helps companies efficiently
ship large volumes of parcels to and from domestic and international
locations. Clients that have adopted ShipNow’s enterprise-class parcel
shipping system include top-tier companies such as Williams-Sonoma and
Autodesk. Benefits include savings, productivity, customer
satisfaction, shipping speed and visibility. ShipNow has offices in
Palo Alto, Chicago and India. For more information visit
www.shipnow.com or call 312-587-2800.
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CONTACT: ShipNow
Nick Farina, 312/203-3232
nfarina@shipnow.com
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