Information Technology

The communication systems, fax and email, are all on our intranet as well as systems like marketing information, container inventory, import documentation, finance, and tanker documentation control.

The mentioned systems are all custom developed for local needs with built in EDI links when they need to interface with our Principals systems.

All our email correspondence with our Principals is on our intranet and saved in multiple locations..

Our intranet is accessible nationwide for all our offices. In addition, we run finance and export documentation software provided by our principals for their specific reporting needs.

We also have EDI links for container control with our Karachi Port container yard. Our bankers have also installed EDI links within our accounts department to monitor balances and expedite remittances.

Most of our applications are either developed in house or provided by Principals. Our servers and workstations operate on Linux and most databases have been developed in MySQL.

Brief Overview

Hardware :

	•	Two Servers with 13 GB storage, 256 MB memory.
	•	One Backup servers to share the load and replicate data.
	•	Thirty four Workstations.
	•	Panasonic PABX with all telephone lines, including fax on flexible line allocation. System is monitored by web based accounting system.
	•	Mobile telephones for access to key personnel. Some phones have GPRS for internet access.

Software :

	•	AMS : The Anchor Management System is designed to keep all ISO9002 related procedures in electronic format to allow users easy access to information and making changes to procedures a painless task.
	•	ABLT : Anchor Bulk Liquid Tanker- Software system designed to automate and record all documentation for handling tankers under our agency. System also maintains and tracks contracts for molasses bought under our agency.
	•	Inventory : AEC, Anchor Equipment Control software is designed to keep track of the location of all containers and whatever stage of operation they are in. Complete history of all transactions is available. System was created in 2000.
	•	Import Documentation System : Our custom developed system is fully compliant with Karachi Customs IGM format and KPT EPAS format. All data is uplinked by EDI to the relevant departments. Line EDI data is automatically converted to local requirements and all management reports are produced accordingly. It also maintains track of all transshipments by directly reading transshipment messages and transferring containers to the appropriate vessel. The system also tracks all charges and prints all reports, receipts and container documentation.
	•	Listserver : We have a listmanager to maintain different large email lists so can update a large audience with information. We maintain lists of exporters, importers, forwarders & clearing agents, and internal working groups.
	•	Communication : All our staff have email access.
	•	General Ledger : Accounts General Ledger package specially modified for shipping purposes allowing us to maintain several accounts, including agency and multiple principals accounts. System allows us to print all relevant accounts reports as well as voucher and receipts.

Backup

Our servers are backed up with rotating tape backups, with backups on-site and off-site for full disaster planning. In 1999, we were able to recover from a office fire within 5 days although all our paper records and computers were destroyed.

Also, we have a 40 KVa F.G. Wilson backup generator for our office so as to prevent any service interruptions. We also have a smaller generator for our Karachi Port container yard office. We feel it important that all air conditioners and other systems work properly during the summer months when there are frequent breakdowns. This enables us to give guaranteed service to our principals as well as local clients.