RS Components (RS) the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc, the global multi-channel provider of industrial and electronic products and solutions, has launched a unique procurement solution – RS ConnectPoint. The single sign-on touch screen kiosk connects engineers within maintenance, production and facilities to multiple services – from sourcing and purchasing to accessing technical advice and managed inventory solutions – right from the ‘shop floor’. This is a significant step for the business in launching a unique value-added service that has been developed to make customers’ MRO purchases easier.
RS ConnectPoint is powered by Raspberry Pi, and gives users a single terminal sign-on via a ConnectPass QR code or pin number. It is connected to RS Live Chat, giving access support with an RS agent for help with orders, enquiries and technical advice. RS ConnectPoint also links with the RS Local Network, meaning users can interact with their designated RS Local branch for tailored support. This support includes part identification, Managed Inventory Services and Custom Order Solutions. Transactions in PurchasingManager, providing control over purchasing limits and spend across multiple users, can also be made via RS ConnectPoint.
Pete Malpas, Managing Director, Northern Europe, explains: “RS ConnectPoint is a simple, convenient solution through which customers can source technical information and advice, and access the full range of products via description or code. Image recognition functionality is also being tested in BETA software, for instances where the part name or code isn’t known.
“RS ConnectPoint is a unique and innovative solution born from our mission to make our customers’ lives easier, and follows a successful pilot scheme earlier this year. The solution is ideal for manufacturing, building, maintenance and public sector environments such as universities, OEM production and processing plants, including food and pharmaceutical,” he adds.
RS believes procurement and operations professionals within relevant organisations can benefit significantly from this service, saving time in procurement, and achieving efficiencies around purchasing with the capability to integrate Managed Inventory Services and Custom Order Solutions.
Pete concludes: “This new solution illustrates our commitment to continually evolve our value-added services proposition, developing innovative solutions to make our customer’s lives easier. RS ConnectPoint can help save time and money, reduce downtime and streamline processes. These are important factors for procurement and operations professionals trying to create efficiencies that lead to bottom line savings for the organisation.”
More information about RS ConnectPoint is highlighted in this video.
