They found that they could keep using terminals and printers that still worked fine, and could add the additional word processing and spreadsheet software they needed, and give their software support firm the tools needed to continue development of business applications. The system, called a Model C10 was selected for 32 users. The company provided ACS with a full system backup tape, and ACS converted the software in Virginia while we waited for IBM to deliver the new system. Quaker's system was delived by John Ratke, Joe Cisar, and John Bloxton from ACS, and after some preliminary training was left for Quaker testing. About two weeks later, over the weekend, the data was transfered by ACS over the weekend and Quaker City Produce was live on the new system on Monday morning.
Quaker is pleased.
The new system works perfectly, and disruption to their business was minimal. Next, we hope to help Quaker with Internet opportunities, and bringing the function of the new system closer to the loading dock. The reports are readable by business persons familiar with basic computer terminology. You can expect to see more from hardware and software companies about this in the next few years. We'll feature solutions to this in future newsletters.