Microsoft and enVista Corp. have joined with Wine Management Systems (WMS) in creating a hosted enterprise resource planning (ERP) application for the wine industry. WMS is a provider of applications, delivered under the software-as-a-service (SaaS) model, that track all winery activities from the vineyard through production, bottling, inventory management and regulatory compliance. It has created the ERP system based on Microsoft Dynamics AX, available on-demand via a monthly subscription model. The tool allows small and mid-sized wineries and custom crush facilities to acquire the same business management and financial reporting capabilities enjoyed by larger wineries. Components of the system include financial planning, accounts payable and receivable, general ledger fixed assets, cost accounting, invoices, order entry, bills of lading, inventory management and allocation, and customer service portals. EnVista filled the role of supply-chain services provider, helping WMS to evaluate and implement Microsoft Dynamics AX as a hosted application for its clients. In another company announcement, enVista has published a second edition of "Supervising on the Line: A Self Help Guide for First Line Supervisors." The volume offers leadership skills and tools, including common-sense tips for managing employees in a distribution environment. The book's original author was labor-management pioneer Gene Gagnon. EnVista president Jim Barnes updated and published the new edition at the request of the Gagnon family.

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