TMS Information

The TMS is an advanced software system that runs under Windows Server and utilizes Microsoft’s flagship database - SQL Server 2000 – by utilizing Microsoft technology the TMS has a clear future growth path and runs on standard, off-the-shelf, PC’s. Depending upon the customer requirements, the TMS can be configured to run on a single PC through to a multi PC system where each PC is dedicated to a specific function such as a database server. Multi PC systems can be highly fault tolerant and, if one PC fails, another can take up its load with little or no interruption to production.

The TMS database has been designed to not only support a single tannery but also provide excellent support for corporate data consolidation for companies with multiple tanneries. The TMS handles both in-house and contract tanning operations with strict separation of inventory and production data for contract tanners. For multi tannery operations the TMS can provide centralized control of operational parameters such as grading rules. TMS can handle any product type and species, in addition to supporting all operational aspects of a tannery, including:

The TMS utilizes Windows Terminal Services to support in-plant processing stations, connections by local office users and remote access via dial-in lines or the Internet. Terminal Servers provides reliable access to the TMS from anywhere, anytime with security and flexibility. It is a systems access method that is growing and strongly supported by the computing industries biggest player – Microsoft. Access to TMS functions is governed by group membership, which is controlled by tannery management.

The TMS has been created by Systems Engineering Pty Ltd. The same company that developed the Hide Grading System (HGS) that supported Australia’s highly successful Hide Improvement Program. The TMS provides a significant number of advances over the HGS while retaining the ability for end-to-end tracking of product at the individual hide level. Systems Engineering has over 10 years experience in developing and supporting software systems for the tanning industry and has clients throughout Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.

The TMS has an extensive on-line help system to assist in initial user training and training of new staff. The in-plant component is particularly easy to use and caters for the casual worker environment that is common in tanneries. Systems Engineering provides extensive on-site training and support during the implementation of the TMS. Post implementation support is provided by telephone. The previously mentioned Microsoft Terminal Services facility enables Systems Engineering support staff to login and remotely monitor all aspects of the system even to the extent of interacting with a users screen to provide real-time tuition.

New Wave Leathers (Toowoomba, Australia) was the first customer for the TMS. Mr Robert Hein, General Manager had this to say about the TMS:

“The TMS was installed very smoothly and it didn't take long before it delivered improvements both in terms of increased productivity and tighter management of our production processes. The Windows based interface was easy to learn for everyone from the shop floor to the office. Having the TMS' database available for reporting and analysis on any PC in our organisation is major improvement over our old system. Because the TMS so flexible and Windows based, we now have a plant management system that will take us forward well into the future and provides an excellent growth path.”