PSEBs new software to up SMEs efficiency

KARACHI: Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has successfully developed open source Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, styled as Auto Plus, for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in readymade garments, hosiery, automotive parts and accessories, textile processing and surgical instruments' verticals, Board officials said here Thursday Developed under PSEB's project, in collaboration with Pakistan Association for Automotive Parts and Accessories' Manufacturers(PAAPAM) and 15 of its more far sighted member units, four unique ERP software's have been developed by member companies of PSEB. This ERP software's have been designed to improve the productivity of SME units. The PSEB initiative also aims to allow the local software companies to gain expertise in the development of ERP solutions for the local manufacturing industry and to promote the use of open source technology. The newly developed ERP software has been successfully implemented at a model unit, 'Kortech Industries' in Lahore. Using this technology, Kortech Industries has now automated all its processes from customer order to the delivery of goods. The implementation of ERP software has resulted in an 87 % reduction in time and a 70 % reduction in human resources needed at the model unit. Official stated that the product is now being implemented at 14 additional PAAPAM units. After implementation in 15 member units of PAAPAM, the product will be available, free of cost, for over 250 other member units of PAAPAM. The additional units will only have to pay the cost for implementation of the software. SME BSF (Business Support Fund) has approved to provide 50 % funding for the implementation cost. PSEB has initiated this project in order to help SMEs to increase their operational efficiency and become more productive, thereby resulting in increasing Pakistan's exports. Presently, according to a World Bank study, SMEs in Pakistan are not operating at their full potential. The SMEs in Pakistan employ around 80 % of the total workforce, but contribute only 35 % to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).PSEB is a government agency mandated to promote Pakistan's IT industry, including software, services, hardware and call centers, locally and globally. PSEB regularly sponsors its member IT companies to participate in International Trade Shows and Exhibitions to help Pakistani companies showcase their capabilities and develop lucrative business contacts.-APP