Megabytes

What's In a Name?

Irvine, Calif.-based Wynne Systems unveiled a new name for the hosted version of its RentalMan software product. Previously known as ASP (Application Service Provider), the software is now titled SaaS (Software as a Service). RentalMan is a fully integrated enterprise resource planning application for the rental industry, enabling users to meet business challenges ranging from accurate equipment tracking and workflow to full back office functionality. More than 50 clients leverage Wynne Systems' application hosting service, which allows users to access and run the RentalMan suite of applications, residing on a Wynne Systems-owned and operated IBM mid-range server, via secure private connections.

“Many of our clients want the real-time collaboration and integrated functionality RentalMan provides, but without the expense of buying and managing a server, group of servers or keeping their software current as IBM, Wynne Systems and our partners introduce revisions and upgrades,” said Mike Stilwagner, vice president of Wynne Systems. With SaaS, Wynne Systems owns and manages the hardware, and all software upgrades are free and handled by its staff. Renaming the product SaaS was purely a marketing-driven decision.

Wynne Systems wanted a descriptive name that more clearly describes the proposition to clients and prospects. “The value proposition itself — access to the full and current version of RentalMan via a secure private network with reduced IT costs and complexity — isn't impacted at all by the name change,” said Stilwagner.

High Reach Business Goes High Tech

Metrolift Inc., a full-service provider of aerial lift equipment and services launched its new website, Metrolift.com. The easy-to-navigate site was created to be a useful resource for Metrolift's contractor and industrial customers who primarily work in the Chicago area. The site features specification sheets for rental products carried as well as a complete listing for its entire fleet, including floor loads and tire type. Additionally, the site enables customers to contact Metrolift's rental or sales departments to request quotes or information at any time of day. The site also features dozens of useful links providing customers with industry news, weather forecasts and even local gas prices. Metrolift is planning a second phase of the site that will allow customers to check account balances, see what equipment they have on rent, reprint contracts and access other account information. Metrolift is No. 103 on the RER 100.

Website Rising

Sunbelt Rentals launched a state-of-the-art website that offers a comprehensive suite of online tools allowing customers to easily manage their account throughout the complete rental lifecycle. The site, located at www.sunbeltrentals.com, features a dynamic equipment search, the ability to make equipment reservations, request equipment pick-up or a service call, and manage and maintain jobsites. Customers may also review and reprint open invoices, pay invoices online, save, schedule and print custom reports, and manage all their equipment on rent. This new tool ultimately helps clients manage their rental activity. Visitors can view detailed information on jobsites and equipment, and they can even see the weather. Sunbelt Rentals is No. 4 on the RER 100.

Submit new technology, computer products and websites for consideration in Megabytes to Katie Eagan Ernzen at kernzen@rermag.com.