The best solutions often arise from necessity. For example, 15 years ago, Giel Wijgergangs and Jebbe Sluiter came up with an automation program for the bicycle industry that is as smart as it is easy to use: CycleSoftware. “We would like to see even more major brands supply their data to DST.”
CycleSoftware's system works like a website and offers retailers a 24/7 overview of every part of their business operations. From registering sales to importing packing slips and planning repairs. DST supplies the standardized article data. “It obviously makes a huge difference if you have worked in a bicycle shop yourself and regularly ride a bicycle,” says Jebbe Sluiter. “Then you know exactly what is going on on the supplier side, but also what the customer wants.” CycleSoftware uses DST because optimal uniformity in item information contributes to speed in service and customer satisfaction, especially in the bicycle industry.
What exactly is CycleSoftware?
"An automation model that allows retailers to view their stocks at a glance anytime and anywhere, even when there are multiple branches. An additional advantage is that you do not have to put all the stock in the store, so you can make better use of presentation space. The system is industry-specific and developed with a view to the many repairs that are carried out. Nowhere is the diversity of items supplied by different suppliers as great as in the two-wheeler industry. While in other industries work is mainly brand-related, this is not the case here. General Automation systems fail precisely in this area. We have dived into that gap with CycleSoftware.”
How does it work?
"The retailer takes out an annual subscription to the software and pays a fixed amount per month. A package is set up and installed. The system is fully integrated within the industry. This means that the supply and stock of more and more suppliers is visible - and can be ordered directly. So you can place your orders from your own system."
By using DST's item data, you can achieve a match between the customer's idea and the actual stock you have much faster.
And what does the system offer online?
"You can link a webshop to it, so that your customer has a direct view of the collections you offer. We also work with partners such as ANWB and KiesKeurig. This collaboration is mainly aimed at the growing popularity of e-bikes. For example, consumers can use ANWB's e-bike comparator to find out which bike suits him or her. The link with our system then immediately offers a view of the shops in the region that have the ideal bike for a test ride. The growing interest in this Comparison sites, also thanks to the aforementioned link, generate extra visits to stores. Moreover, this should not be underestimated, as it prevents disappointment for potential buyers. If you think you have finally found the ideal e-bike after an online search, you don't want to say no, right?
You use DST in the system. Why?
"By using DST's article data, you can achieve a match much faster between the customer's idea and the actual stock you have. Everything comes together. Choose an e-bike again. Thanks to DST's uniform article data, you can filter exactly by brand, size, color, number of gears and, for example, the weight of the engine. The latter becomes possible when all suppliers of the bicycles fill in the article data neatly and completely. Unfortunately, this is not yet the case. Standardization of article information prevents noise on the line. That is pleasant for the customer and the retailer.”
Do you see the advantage of delivery via DST?
"Yes, certainly. In that context, I would like to see even more major brands supply their data to DST. The bicycle industry is in full swing, but the full range is still not visible. That is a missed opportunity, in my opinion."