Nexus operates under a fully integrated Enterprise System from Canadian-based MAVES International.  The MAVES software package allows for significant customization by our programmers to specifically suit the requirements of our Customers and in-house users.  This ongoing customization has allowed our team to create a truly unique package.  As such, we have donned it the “Phoenix” System.

Phoenix is designed to operate as one cohesive data tracking system, from product receipt to the final delivery at the end user's receiving dock. The WMS (Warehouse Management System), TMS (Transportation Management System) and OMS (Order Management System) are fully integrated to effectively manage inventory from product receipt to the ultimate destination. In addition, the Warehouse and Transportation Systems interface real time with our financial software.

The System employs Radio Frequency technology for barcode reading and verification, passive directed put away, inventory tracking and reporting (down to the serial id and location level), and stock rotation (FIFO is the default). 

On-Line Inventory and Shipment Tracking

The Nexus web site is the source for reliable, up-to-the-minute, accessible information.  Phoenix provides hourly updates to the Nexus website, allowing Customers to view delivery status and inventory levels online. Clients can e-mail this data to Customers or other members of the organization, which proves helpful for inventory reconciliation purposes. Passwords and login ID’s are assigned so that authorized members of a Client’s organization can search for the data they desire.  Order tracking is also available on-line, and in cases where Nexus manages the shipment of the order, an image of the signed POD (Proof of Delivery) can also be accessed.

EDI Capabilities

Nexus’ inventory management System can interface with multiple EDI transaction sets in order to automate and streamline communications between Nexus Logistics Centers and Customers.  The use of EDI allows both Nexus and Customers to be informed of changes in inventory and shipment status in a real time environment.

EDI allows Nexus to serve Clients in a more efficient and effective manner.  Nexus has the ability to send and receive EDI transmissions on an automated basis.  Standard ANSI X12 transmissions sets and EMBARCs are available. Nexus can also comply with custom sets upon request. 

Nexus is capable of sending all of the EDI transactions listed below:

Nexus offers multiple ways to transfer EDI transactions.  Following are the available communications methods in use:

• Value-Added Network Connection (VAN)
• Direct Modem Connection
• Virtual Private Network Connection (VPN)
• Internet AS2 Connection
• File Transfer Process Connection (FTP) 

RF Scanning

Radio Frequency (RF) Scanning allows Nexus to retrieve data quickly and provide Clients with accurate and timely feedback in regards to their specific products inventory and movements.  Nexus’ RF technology is capable of reading multiple format types, enabling Nexus to read a multitude of different barcode variations to gather data.  Clients realize the following benefits from RF technology:

Accuracy- RF scanning increases accuracy by eliminating the human error associated with manual entry due to misread labels, keying error, and/or mislabeled items.

Ease of Use- Nexus RF technology today is easy for operators to use, and easy for Customers because many variations of labeling can be accommodated. 

Uniform Data Collection- Diverse compliance standards and standardized bar code symbols ensure that bar code information is captured and relayed in a fashion that is universally understood and accepted.

Timely Feedback- RF scanning bar codes promotes timely feedback for data which enables decision making and analysis based on current information.

Improved Productivity- RF scanning improves operational efficiency, automating tasks, enabling labor resources to be utilized in better ways to drive more efficiencies of scale within an operation.

Dual Systems

Nexus has extensive experience in operating Client Systems and currently has several Client Systems in-house at multiple facilities. To preserve inventory accuracy and for enhanced shipment tracking ability, it is usually wise to employ the Nexus Phoenix System in conjunction with outside Client Systems. Dual manual entry in separate Systems is not ideal; therefore Nexus significantly reduces or eliminates the need for manual double entry by finding creative and effective ways to interface with each Client’s System. For example, Nexus can successfully convert e-mail shipping notices or excel files into EDI, thus eliminating the need to manually enter data into the Phoenix System.  Another example of a creative solution provided by Nexus is the use of VPN communication as a link to the Client’s System as a cost-savings alternative to installing new lines and equipment on the premises.

After the Nexus team has implemented the most effective communication scenario, Nexus will introduce the Corporate Training Team to and document the Systems and processes required for the operation of the Client’s System.  The Nexus Corporate Training Team then works with Operations to approve the process and train employees.  A Client-specific procedural handbook is created and is audited and updated regularly with any program changes.

Auto-Faxing and Auto-Email

The Phoenix System can be programmed with the fax numbers and e-mail addresses of Customer and Consignee contacts.  Notifications can be sent automatically when receivers are confirmed in the System, outbound orders are confirmed as shipped from the warehouse, or when high priority orders are updated with new status information by the Nexus Track and Trace Team.  Various reports can also be e-mailed automatically on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis as desired by Customers.