SupplyNet manager aims to streamline B2B sales

By TOM CLARKE

The business-to-business information technology operations now beginning to emerge will be a lot more stable than their business-to-consumer predecessors, according to IT specialist Garry Fissenden.

He has just been appointed managing director of SupplyNet, an electronic procurement hub that enables companies to buy and sell goods and services online, thus streamlining their purchasing and saving time and money.

Mr Fissenden says there are a "whole bunch" of differences between an organisation like SupplyNet and online retailers such as Flying Pig.

"One of the biggest differences is that our customers are businesses and in order for our system to work we have to integrate very closely with their business processes," he says.

"It's a very complex process and there's a lot of work in getting the system operating to everyone's benefit, and to change the processes of these companies so they can integrate with SupplyNet.

"There's also the genuine purchase and process savings we can offer. We get the best possible price we can for products through the aggregation of buying and by controlling rogue buying, and as well we save costs at the processing end."

All participating companies share in the savings.

Mr Fissenden says SupplyNet will supply companies permanently or from time to time. Its service is suitable for firms of all sizes.

SupplyNet's software was developed by a United States company, Commerce One, which is a partner in the local operation. The system works via the internet and Mr Fissenden says it is an evolutionary step.

"Everything on the net so far has been mainly business-to-consumer - this is the first real and really strong business-to-business case.

"It has the potential to create very large market places which are just interfaces between businesses.

"Once you have an interface between businesses then there's a whole lot of other things you can do with it. I strongly believe this is the way of the future."

Mr Fissenden has a background in IT and banking. He was general manager technology and operations with ASB Bank, where he was credited with leading the bank to the forefront of technological practices within the banking sector.

Other recent appointments at SupplyNet include Frank Anderson, who becomes general manager sales. He was head of country for PeopleSoft New Zealand.

Brent Baldwin becomes chief technology officer and Phil Wilkins is chief financial officer. Both men were with GSB SupplyCorp Group.