Quantem Corp., located in Trenton, is a 40-person company which manufacturers electronic temperature controls units for the agriculture industry. These units provide climate control in facilities, which hold livestock. The company was founded twenty-five years ago and is privately held by Chris Bromberg.
New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc. (NJMEP) contacted Quantem and set an appointment for a visit from a NJMEP field agent. Jim Schulz, a New Jersey MEP field agent, visited Quantem and explained about NJMEP and our services to manufacturers. During the initial assessment, the economic value of an effective website was demonstrated to Quantem, and they expressed an interest in having a website developed to market their product internationally. They agreed that this would improve their marketing, and provide the best market exposure based on their funds that they had budgeted.
Using the NJMEP resource database, Jim located a New Jersey firm, AIS, to create a website that would fit the needs of Quantem Corp. Mike Hollan, president of AIS, personally worked on this project, and from the date of the initial appointment, the website was completed within two months. This was the first phase of three for the website development. Phase One consisted of determination of the needs of the website and the creation of a website. The website represents the product and directs people how to purchase the product and contact a salesperson. The capability of expanding the site was built into the site, so there will not be any down time when the site is expanded.
Interoffice activities – such as communications – email are now available. They are also using the Internet for market research.
NJMEP and AIS continue to work with Quantem on the expansion of the site for Phase Two and Three. Phase Two consists of e-commerce, where customers will purchase items or replacement parts. There will also be an extranet, for current customers and suppliers to do business with Quantem. The customers will type in their account number and place their order. This will save on costs for Quantem, because it will not involve a salesperson. This phase will take three to four months.
Phase Three makes the website “truly global” according to Mike Hollan. The site will be duplicated in four languages, Spanish, French, Portuguese and German. When logging on to the site, customers will be able to choose which language they would like to use. This will allow customers to purchase items in their national currency.
Based on the completion of Phase One, there is an increased number of leads and greater awareness of Quantem. “This has been a great assistance since we do not have an outside sales force,” stated Bob Thompson, Operations Manager for Quantem.
Mr. Thompson added, “We chose to work with NJMEP because of their superb support and knowledge.” NJMEP continues to work with Quantem to complete Phases Two and Three of the website.