Lynx Optics www.lynx.co.za a specialist distributor of optical gear such as binoculars, riflescopes and night vision equipment – has implemented Sage 300 ERP (formerly known as Sage ERP Accpac) to streamline its workflow and gain deeper insight into business performance. The company ran the DOS version of Sage 300 ERP, namely Accpac Plus for some 20 years, but switched to a rival package when it decided to put in place a system with a modern graphical user interface. However, Lynx Optics was not satisfied with the performance of the replacement package and started seeking an alternative that would give it the financial transparency and control it required.

After meeting with Sage ERP Africa business partner, Synergy Group, Lynx decided to return to Sage 300 ERP because it was familiar with the software and was confident that the package would meet the needs of its business. “We are a small company, but it seems that we have some unusual business needs,” says Michael Rogers, Managing Director at Lynx Optics. “We looked at the various options, and decided that Sage 300 ERP would be the best fit for our needs. We didn’t want an infinitely adjustable and complex system, but we did need a solid solution that can grow with our business” Sage 300 ERP is a perfect fit for the nuances of Lynx’s importing and distribution operations, he adds. “There are many complications that can arise in our business model that you might not be able to anticipate unless you’re involved with importing goods at a nuts and bolts level,” says Rogers.

“With import duties, freight and warehousing costs, and so on, it can be very difficult to get a clear view of your costs and profitability. We do real costings, something that not every package we evaluated could easily accommodate.” Lynx has implemented an extensive set of Sage 300 ERP functionality, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, order entry, general ledger, cashbook, and purchase orders. Together, this adds up to a complete and integrated solution that has enabled Lynx to speed up workflow by automating operations, says Rogers. ”Our productivity has increased fourfold,” he adds.

Says Ashley Regenass, Synergy Group CEO: “Guaranteeing customisation, high performance, ease of integration and reliability, Sage 300 ERP was the right option for Lynx. It offers the balance of customisability and affordability that a growing mid-sized business with complex needs requires.” Jeremy Waterman, Managing Director at Sage ERP Africa says that Sage 300 ERP connects a company’s entire operation with a single, integrated solution that provides greater visibility into the business. “Sage 300 ERP contains the power and tools to help companies like Lynx Optics see the business in a new way so they can improve productivity and accelerate growth,” he adds.