Jobshop becomes Javelin - new features added

"Several years ago, the collective name for subcontract manufacturers was a Jobshop. But nowadays these same companies are hi-tech, sophisticated manufacturing businesses, so the term 'Jobshop' no longer accurately reflects what our customers do or, indeed, what we actually provide for them, in terms of our software," explains Jobshop general manager Paul Holmes (pictured). While the Jobshop brand remains, the new release is called Javelin. And with the name change comes a switch from the use of the Pervasive database to Microsoft's SQL. "There are several advantages to utilising MS SQL," explains Mr Holmes. "This Platform allows better integration with other software. It will also provide for speed improvements within the 'thinking' programs like MRP and Scheduling. It should prove more scalable and operate more efficiently with larger user accounts. Data access is expected to be easier, and other 'tools', such as MS Query and Excel, can be used. Data structure changes would also be easier in MS SQL, as opposed to Pervasive, allowing for more cost-effective development. MS SQL is also often available as a free download or rolled into the MS server operating systems". Javelin 2011 R1 contains several major new functions, including: [] ISO Approved Part Control. This switchable option locks down critical Part, BOM and Routing information, preventing unauthorised changes. When changes are made, a complete history of what, when and by whom, is generated automatically. [] Project Log. Users can register queries against specific programs in a central file, which are monitored, and responses are added, building into a FAQ library for future users. [] Javelin's own Wiki. Javelin has its own version of a Wiki – a central deposit for user knowledge. Filed against the specific program, procedural information can be accessed "online." [] Serial Number Generation. Serial numbers are now automatically added in sequence, and can be prefixed with any combination of characters. Existing numbers are skipped automatically, allowing the same range to be generated over a number of receipts. [] Partial GRN Inspection. With Javelin, waiting for Goods Inwards Inspection is a thing of the past. The redesigned screen allows the GRN qty to be split into rejects, good items and items awaiting inspection, meaning that good items can be stored and used as soon as they have cleared inspection, instead of having to wait for the balance. There are also a number of other new functions, several of which have been specifically requested by users. "All new customers to Jobshop are automatically taking the latest version - Javelin, and a number of existing Jobshop users are already changing over to it". Those customers preferring to remain with their Pervasive systems can do so and Jobshop will be maintaining a limited development programme into 2012. "After that period we will fully focus development on MS SQL, while continuing to support Pervasive for the foreseeable future," concludes Mr Holmes.