TruStar Inc., a leading automotive aftermarket distribution group, and the Management Information Systems Group Inc. (MISG), recently launched a new E-commerce initiative called TruNet that will enable all TruStar members to exchange electronic business documents with their suppliers.
TruNet is a Web-based EDI (electronic data interchange) service that enables TruStar members to manage EDI documents through viewing, archiving and searching, thereby generating substantial cost savings throughout their supply chain.
The companies say that TruStar members using MISG/TRANSNET, and other members who have limited Information Technology resources, will realize extended E-commerce capabilities. Regardless of how purchase orders are delivered, suppliers will be able to deliver electronic Advance Ship Notices (ASNs) and Invoices to the TruNet application. TruStar members simply visit the TruStar web site (www.trustarinc.com), access their secure area within TruNet and begin using the various tools available to manage their electronic business documents.
"Our membership has been looking for a solution like TruNet," said Steve Upton, president of TruStar. "MISG's creative development efforts and understanding of our supply chain needs and our collaborative efforts have resulted in an application that will enable our members to significantly reduce errors, costs and time required to move parts along the supply chain."
TruNet requires Internet access and a basic Web browser. The majority of TruStar members meet these criteria, therefore no IT infrastructure costs are required to take advantage of the many B2B E-commerce benefits TruNet delivers.
Suppliers are now able to eliminate much of the direct and indirect costs associated with handling paper documents. They will be utilizing existing IT investments since many suppliers to the TruStar community already have EDI network and translation systems in place.
TruStar Inc., headquartered in Pearland, Texas, is a network of independent warehouse distributors across the United States and Canada. TruStar's buying programs focus on brakes, shocks, chassis and exhaust. At the same time, TruStar has a complete line of marketing elements included in the "Installer's Choice" marketing program.
MISG, headquartered in Research Triangle Park, N.C., is a leading supplier of electronic commerce; EDI and Internet solutions; managed network systems and software; and trading community management to the automotive original equipment, aftermarket and heavy duty and industrial part industries.