At that point, it can be used with the Promedix Web site. This is a potential boon for buyers who have been reluctant to use the Internet for bigger purchases since there was no way to bridge legacy inventory and purchasing systems to the Internet. According to Wyatt, director of health-care solutions at Peoplesoft, the company also signed a formal partnership with OmniCell Technologies Inc., a supplier of electronic hospital supply management products, to integrate its systems. The Peoplesoft ERP software is linked to the cabinet via a LAN and automatically orders more supplies whenever the stock of a certain item gets low. Meanwhile, Neoforma has inked a vast array of contracts, linking itself with other health-related Internet sites.
Users are positive but realistic when it comes to the online future.
As Fedele of Susquehanna Hospital System sees it, the Internet will not become the exclusive means of ordering products. Purchasing will come from a mix of sources,'' he predicts. The Internet is just one tool.'' While many vendors would like all purchases to be online, purchasing managers contend that there will always be a need to meet with people, negotiate prices, see new products in person and build relationships. John Strong, president and CEO of Consortia Catholic Resource Partners, a group purchasing organization of 250 hospitals, agrees.