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With the many challenges facing the independent vending operator these days, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that significant progress has been made in operational management tools. So much, that even the smallest operator can work more efficiently and achieve greater profits.
Last month, technology expert Gene Ostendorf reviewed the functions of the two primary technologies that have evolved in the last decade, multi-drop bus (MDB) and data exchange (DEX). This month, we examine how a technology novice can utilize DEX.
Even if the company is operated by one individual, DEX can allow the owner to understand what’s happening in the machines much faster and with greater accuracy than by relying on physical inventorying.
The only operation that does not stand to benefit from implementing DEX is the one that does not plan to grow; the owner is close to retirement and is planning to sell or liquidate.
DEX is a tool that will keep the company organized, allow it to operate efficiently, and help achieve maximum business results.
WILL IT BECOME OBSOLETE?
Many operators worry that if they invest in technology, the technology will become obsolete. The fact of the matter is that with DEX, equipment manufacturers have created a uniform electronic code that will enable operators to add new features to their systems for many years to come. Once a vending operation’s information management systems are organized in a way that supports DEX, the company will be able to utilize future DEX-based benefits.
DEX HARDWARE VARIES
DEX is a tool that provides a new level of accountability at the machine, route and warehouse. The hardware that supports DEX includes handhelds, in-machine telemetry receivers, and telemetry. Operators have many choices in tools that support DEX.
Most operators utilizing DEX use handhelds. Technology has made it possible for operators to bypass handhelds and use remote machine monitoring instead. However, not all remote monitoring systems at the present time are compatible with all vending management software products.