ProfitKey Expands Manufacturing Technology with CIMNET MES Software License

ProfitKey International, an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software-solution provider for the discrete manufacturing sector, announced that it acquired the right to license CIMNET Inc.'s Folders Manufacturing Execution System (MES) version 6.0 software.

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. This agreement strengthens ProfitKey's position among its competitors by providing discrete, make-to-order/make-to-stock manufacturers with an integrated MES/ERP tool, through ProfitKey's software product, Rapid Response Manufacturing (RRM).

The Folders suite enhances the RRM technical product portfolio, adding software modules that track and control engineering changes, and provide statistical process control driving toward the ultimate goal of a paperless company.

"Our current customers will now have the advantage of using one convenient system for all of their ERP needs," says Joe DiZazzo, president and CEO of ProfitKey (Salem, NH).

The Folders programs that execute and coordinate these functions include InfoMaN, WorkMaN, FactMaN and DocuMaN. In addition, other Folders modules can provide statistical process control feedback (SPCMaN), and monitor machine tool data.

Together, they assemble all production information -- ranging from engineering drawings and part programs to set-up instructions and routing sheets -- which is accessed through and stored in a single electronic folder. This method provides for instantaneous access and communication over virtually any network with a point-and-click interface.

ProfitKey will initially sell the product as optional or "stand-alone" modules under the CIMNET label while the Folders suite is fully integrated into RRM. The stand-alone version is available immediately. Expected release of the integrated ProfitKey version is fourth quarter 1999. More than 1,000 customers have implemented ProfitKey software in the United States, Canada and Europe.

CIMNET will continue to support the existing Folders customer base, while both companies retain the ability to further develop Folders on their own.

In order to support the Folders acquisition, ProfitKey also announced that Joseph Vinhais, former president of CIMNET, would join the company as a VP to provide leadership and marketing expertise. Vinhais has spent 12 years within the electronic, automotive and aerospace industries.

He served in various posts at AMP Incorporated, Allied Bendix Aerospace and Textron Lycoming, and led project teams and divisional efforts to implement total quality management and ISO 9000 programs. He has also participated in international technology exchanges with China, Russia, Poland and Brazil.