Software provider eyes export mart

Jupiter Systems, Inc., a local software provider, has set its sights on the export market for its homegrown business solutions.

The firm, which introduced its Enterprises Resources Information and Control (ERIC) system in 1987, has already penetrated the Southeast Asian market for its enterprise-wide software.

ERIC consists of 16 highly integrated modules that automate critical areas in the management function including manufacturing, distribution, financials and personnel.

"Tapping the world market forms part of our vision to transform JSI into a world-class company, and ERIC into a world-class product," said JSI chief operating officer Fermin Taruc.

"Eric enjoys a unique competitive situation in that every few other software, here or abroad, have the sophistication, breadth and scope of our product at the same price-point," he said.

To date, ERIC is applied in over 700 enterprises all over Asia, notably in the Philippines, Indonesia, Hong Kong and China. Among its most recent international clients is PT Darya Varya, one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in Indonesia. ERIC was chosen over solutions offered by more well-known international software-solution providers after going through a thorough evaluation process.

Taruc said the enhancements to ERIC are in continuous development. "A number of our clients are successfully using our e-commerce solutions integrated into the core ERIC ERP system. We are also very excited about Mobile ERIC, which works on Palm OS. The next version of our product, scheduled for commercial release by the first quarter of next year will be fully Web-enabled. We are also exploring linking our system to other technologies like WAP," he added.

JSI, according to Taruc, makes its market inroad by sharpening on its core advantages: ease of use, competitive pricing, and client-centered solutions and methodologies. "We want our clients to work with us as partners in the fulfillment of their strategic operational objectives," he said.

To support its expansion, JSI is currently rationalizing its network of distributors and partners in the regional market. "We’d like to make sure that we remain close and accessible to our user base. While we are evaluating business partners to represent us in several territories outside our base in the Philippines, we are also looking into the possibility of investing in setting up direct subsidiaries in countries where market size and customer base justify," Taruc added.

JSI, founded in 1985, is a member of the i-Vantage Group, a conglomerate composed of information technology-focused firms.