i2B Procure to Pay Software
Frequently Asked Questions
What is i2B Connect?
i2B Connect is a web application that manages your suppliers and orders. You can access it from any web browser, and so can your suppliers. The software, and your data, is stored securely in the cloud.
So what exactly is 'the cloud'?
The cloud or ‘cloud computing’ has essentially become a metaphor for the Internet. It often refers to software and hardware that are sold as a service, via the Internet, meaning that end-users don’t have to make those big investments.
What is SaaS?
SaaS stands for Software as a Service. Often referred to as “on-demand software” it is a software delivery model in which software and associated data are centrally hosted on the cloud. SaaS is typically accessed via a web browser.
Do I need to install the application?
No, you can access it remotely from any web browser.
Did i2B Connect used to be called eSRM?
Yes, eSRM is now called i2B Connect to reflect the substantial changes we have made to the company and the product. eSRM involved software installation on your network whereas i2B Connect is SaaS.
Is i2B Connect a stand-alone application?
No, it sits between your ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), or similar, system and your web browser – the ham salad in your software sandwich. You need all three elements for it to work.
What is ERP?
Enterprise Resource Planning. It is business management software that manages all aspects of your business – production, manufacturing, sales, marketing, inventory etc. It shares data across all your departments to give you a real time view of all your core processes. We integrate with any ERP system that can provide a CSV file extract.
Which ERP systems does i2B Connect work with?
SAP, Oracle, Lawson M3, Movex, SyteLine, and Navision to name but a few. We are yet to find an ERP system which we cant integrate with.
How does i2B Connect work with my ERP system?
Data is extracted from you ERP system, usually via a CSV file, on a specified frequency e.g. daily or hourly and uploaded into a secure 24×7 Oracle database. That data is pulled across so that you can view it in the i2B Connect application.
How much money will it save my business?
It’s difficult for us to say because many factors are involved and we don’t know your business, yet. You could try our savings calculator to get an approximate figure but we are confident that you will make substantial savings across the year.
How much time will it save my business?
Again, it’s tricky to put a number on it but, once you’ve learned how to get the best out of the i2B Connect application (it’s pretty straight forward) you should be increasing time efficiency by 20-25%. This will free up your time to spend on the important things like cost-saving and developing better relationships with your suppliers.
Will i2B make my life easier?
Guaranteed! Your IT department has to do a little bit of work up front but, after that, it’s plain sailing. Just imagine a world without the need for printing orders, sending faxes, using spreadsheets to track order status, sending emails and making telephone calls to chase suppliers? A world where suppliers can view all of your orders in one place and receive email reminders.
We think you get the picture but, in a nutshell, you will improve productivity, efficiency, control, reporting ability, supplier relationships and employee morale. You will decrease manual tasks, lead times, risks, mistakes and frustrations.
What does i2B Connect cost?
How long does an implementation take?
Not long at all. We will tell you what format we would like your data, you send it to us, and we take care of the rest. Once a price band and payment terms have been agreed, you will be up and running in a few days. You have to move quickly in business these days.
What is the cost to a supplier?
There is no cost to the supplier, all they require is access to the internet and an email address.