foodbiz solutions FAQ

FAQ

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Why do we need an automated system?

It is hoped that the system is never used! Imagine how frustrating it will be to try to remember what is required if a recall is required if all you have are bits of paper. It is known that for example the average recall is very labour intensive and costs between $53,737 to $996,866 and that was for the period 2000-2003! And that’s provided everything happens first time, the way it is supposed to. Having an automated system also provides confidence to your customers that in the unlikely event of a recall, they will not be disadvantaged and the recall will happen efficiently and effectively.

Will I need to upgrade my hardware?

Mostly not! Provided you have a computer that can meet the following, we are away!

The following minimum hardware specifications must be met.

Will I need to purchase any other software?

There is some basic software that is required that most businesses already have. Minimum would be:

Windows server 2003
SQL server 2005 (FlowBiz can supply a free SQL server express that will handle up to 15 users)
IIS installed with Active Server Pages support ( Standard with server 2003)
Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel

We already have Microsoft SharePoint why do we need foodbiz solutions?

SharePoint and foodbiz work side by side. There are so many features in foodbiz solutions designed around business process, whereas SharePoint is primarily a content management system designed to handle Microsoft documents. Review the features list and you will see so many additional features from fully automated workflows through to procedure development tools, compliance mapping just to name a few! We do however recognise that business sometimes invests in SharePoint and even though the foodbiz solutions can do so much of what SharePoint does they do not want to re do say there document management. The great news is that foodbiz replicates whatever is in SharePoint so we can work with documents held in a SharePoint environment.

How is the solution installed?

Installation is by an accredited technician, or if you have dedicated technical resource we can advise how to install.
If you already have foodbiz solutions then installation can be done simply. We do recommend you consider engaging an accredited foodbiz solutions consultant or engage directly with FlowBiz to ensure everything is set up and running correctly.
If foodbiz solutions is not installed then any of the foodbiz solutions implementation services will ensure that foodbiz solutions is installed correctly during foodbiz solutions installation.

Is training provided?

There are a number of training packages available. Like all solutions, we do suggest as a minimum training is sought from any accredited foodbiz solutions consultant or direct from FlowBiz.

Can we pay monthly subscriptions?

Yes! Any software can be paid monthly utilising our accredited financial partner BizPay. Check with FlowBiz or your accredited foodbiz solutions consultant for further details.

Does the subscription allow practice recalls to be run for the Recall Process?

Yes... in fact you can run the recall process as many times as you want in practice mode. In this mode, emails and SMS are not sent out.

What is the basic package?

The basis for foodbiz solutions is the core package of Foodbiz which is a full featured product that includes:

Work Centre for Administrators including Scanning system (Requires any Twain Scanner).
Simple to navigate browser interface.
Procedure and Workflow System with Compliance Mapping System.
Document Management System (DMS) with Compliance Mapping System.
Audit and Review System.
Knowledge Base.
Announcements system
Sample procedures, charts and HACCP plans.

Do we need to get someone in every time we change employees to change names?

No! There is a simple to use interface to change users. Generally, the set up is by setting up titles (groups) and allocating people to a title. That way if someone leaves simply delete them from that title and allocate a new person to that title and the new person automatically assumes any roles, responsibilities etc. In fact there is a full administration package installed with the core framework.

Is there a help desk?

If the purchase is direct from FlowBiz then FlowBiz provide a help desk. If the purchase is from an accredited foodbiz solutions consultant then normally first level help desk is through that person. You will be advised as to who your help desk contact is with. At all times you can be assured that you are never left in the dark. Our aim is to guide you through the drama of a food recall in the most efficient and effective manner.