ShelterBox has chosen to implement Access Dimensions to facilitate the continued growth of the organisation. Access, which has many years of experience working with the not-for-profit sector, will provide ShelterBox with real-time reporting and effective management information to reduce costs and give management a clearer idea of how well the charity is operating.
Michael Johns, head of finance for ShelterBox, said, “ShelterBox is fast growing, successful and unique in the aid world. We fill a niche role and aim to be a world leader in the provisions of disaster shelter within the next five years. The approach of the charity is ‘keep it simple –do it now’ and we needed a back-office solution which reflected that – Access Dimensions seemed to fit the bill.”
ShelterBox wanted a solution that could provide management and stock control information and manage increasing volumes; three years ago it was sending out 5000 boxes a year – it is now up to 25000 boxes. “We’re going to have access to real-time reporting so that every user will have the latest accurate information on demand,” continued Michael. “Previously reporting had been time-consuming and much of the information was outdated as soon as the report was generated. Now it will be much more effective, enabling us to drill down into the data, providing greater visibility of information and allowing us to make more informed management decisions.”
In addition to Access Dimensions, ShelterBox will also be using Dashboard allowing the management team to log on from around the world, which is particularly useful when attending disasters in remote locations. Darren Clifton-Jones, account manager for Access, said, “The Dimensions system is the perfect fit for ShelterBox, allowing them to improve their management reporting capabilities and stock control, while also introducing Microsoft Office integration and Dashboard. ShelterBox donors track their boxes when they have been despatched to disaster areas around the world; we’re providing a stock control solution that will integrate this with the warehouse.”
