Three New Barloworld Optimus Tools

A new carbon optimisation tool that has already resulted in a 28% reduction in carbon emissions coupled with a 9% decrease in costs in real-life proving trials, is one of three new Barloworld Optimus tools recently launched.

CAST-CO2  - the natural successor to its forerunner CAST-FE (Footprint Estimator) draws on well-proven technology not only to calculate carbon emission, but also to map-out best-case supply chain optimisation in terms of carbon footprint. As the critical issues of carbon emissions and corporate social responsibility take on a massive new global urgency, extensive proving trials have already returned results including 28% reduction in carbon emissions alongside a 9% decrease in transportation costs.

CAST v10, the latest version of the companys network modelling application now enhanced to make this latest version significantly faster than previous CAST releases, Vista-compatible, and with the latest GIS data particularly in Asia, Africa and the Americas.

CINO (Combined Inventory and Network Optimisation). A supply chain optimisation tool with the potential of unlocking huge supply chain cost and effectiveness gains across the entire supply chain. Specifically developed to combat the potentially fatal downside of multi-sourcing and multi-echelon inventory flow CINO also features the ability to build and compare complete what if? scenarios.

According to the Solihull-based company, 60 new software and consultancy deals notched-up last year, as well several key new contracts already clinched during 2008, have dramatically underlined the spiralling need for greater supply chain planning and responsible carbon emission strategies.

Rising interest rates, escalating fuel prices and a slow but marked move to be seen to reduce carbon footprints in the wake of growing public pressure are all combining to make companies take a long, hard look at their supply chain inefficiencies and thats the chief reason behind our success commented Barloworld Optimus Managing Director Kevin Boake.

He said that volatility and uncertainties in a number of key operating areas have prompted an increasing number of companies to review their supply chain strategies and forward-planning procedures, and that the trend is set to continue at least for the foreseeable future.

The  speed of change in global markets, rocketing fuel prices, the growing industrial aspirations of China, Russia, India and other regions, and the after-shock of the US credit crunch are all combining to force companies to face up to the major benefits that can be achieved through effective supply chain planning and management, he says.

Rising interest rates and fuel prices have sparked-off a growing realisation that theres a clear, direct correlation between effective supply chain planning and ultimate financial success, and companies are now in no doubts that they need to be able to react quickly and effectively to constant changes or risk financial failure all elements particularly suited to our expanding product portfolio