Services
Custom Programming
4GL Solutions reacts very quickly to any Client's request for a custom program within STEEL MANAGER III metals management software. SM3 is written in a fourth generation RAD (Rapid Application Development) language, so changes can be made quickly and inexpensively. Our custom programming fees are extremely reasonable.
Training (On-site, classroom, web)
4GL Solutions is committed to the proper training of your staff to insure the full power of STEEL MANAGER III can be utilized by the Client. Should additional training subsequent to the initial installation be desired, training sessions can be done on-site, in a classroom setting or on-line via GoToMeeting.
Data Migration
The migration of your company data from your legacy system to STEEL MANAGER III metal service center software will be conducted by 4GL Solutions and is included in the initial license fees. We have extensive experience in all types of data migrations.
Implementation / Project Management
4GL Solutions has considerable experience in conversions from most of our major competitors. The process of implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, such as our Steel Manager III metal industry software, is challenging, sending your company down a long road of beneficial, although sometimes demanding, changes. The good news is you'll gain lasting benefits for your company's operations.
4GL Solutions and the Customer's management team will discuss in detail both 4GL's and the Client's responsibilities during the implementation project including the following:
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Hardware & Software requirements
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Documentation
Documentation will be sent to the client regarding the take-on of the client's Customer, Vendor, Products, Operators (users), security, processing settings, Chart of Accounts and Mandatory Chart of Accounts in MS- Word documents and MS-Excel spreadsheets for each. In addition, questionnaires regarding payment terms used, Salespeople identification, Buyer identification, shipping terms, credit terms will accompany the documentation.
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Logos and forms
Our client's corporate image is important to 4GL Solutions and 4GL Solutions will work with the client to create forms that reflect the client's logo and required documentation; such as Purchase Orders, Sales Orders, Packing (Delivery) Slips, Invoices, Credit Notes, etc.
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Training
The "train-the-trainer" process is used by many companies to implement their new products and is one which 4GL Solutions highly recommends.
4GL Solutions understands the importance of training - the success of a 4GL installation depends on the training of your staff. 4GL Solutions works with your team to ensure a successful install.
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Project Management Leaders
The implementation process needs constant review and it is critical that an individual who can devote a significant amount of time and energy become the client Project Leader. The client Project Leader should be the highest level resource available to the client. Frequently, controllers or general managers take on this role. The Project Leader should be able, and willing, to commit nearly 100 percent of their time to the project during the implementation cycle. A Project Leader will not only lead the Core Team of users, but will be responsible for ensuring that all elements of the process are managed efficiently and effectively. This person is solely responsible for the success of the installation and training at the client site.
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Implementation Timetable
Prior to starting the implementation process, it is necessary to establish a comprehensive schedule for the Steel Manager III metal distribution software implementation. The average implementation cycle will take between 2 and 3 months depending on the scope (size, number of Warehouses, nature and complexity) of the company.
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Business Process Review
Frequently, clients attending the Core Team training sessions have found that their current business processes can be improved dramatically through the use of the capabilities of Steel Manager III (SM3). Key information and procedural requirements for each department should be documented and brought to the attention of the Core Team members prior to the start of training.
4GL Solutions strongly recommends all clients perform an extensive review of their existing processes and procedures with their existing software environment. This is a great opportunity to ensure that redundancies are eliminated, that critical issues are noted, and that the Core Team members have a clear understanding of the implications of their respective functional areas on the rest of the company.
Hardware configuration
4GL Solutions is an authorized Dell distributor and as such will obtain a server on the client's behalf that meets the current and future requirements for Steel Manager III metals management software. 4GL Solutions chose Dell servers due to their dependability, quality and service availability options.
Red Hat Linux and the required necessary server application(s) will be installed and configured to the client's networking specifications by 4GL Solutions on their premises.
Additionally, recommendations will be made for Client Workstations (PCs), data fax modems, printers, networking and VPNs, and Bar Coding & Scanning.
Technical Services: Take Your Business Online
Taking your business online will give your sales staff more time to sell by allowing customers to retrieve their own Mill Test Reports (MTRs), obtain product specs, get a quote, and even check the status of an order. E-Business is growing at a rapid pace with every passing day - 4GL Solutions can get your company up to speed with Steel Manager III (SM3) inventory control, barcoding, distribution and metals management software.

