History

Affable Technology Services (ATS) is a boutique systems consultancy practice created to help retailers get value out of investments in technology. 

The ATS consulting practice has been formed within Melhawk Computer Solutions Pty Ltd. 

Melhawk began operations in 1986 as a software house, developing computer software for various Australian businesses. 

As a software house, Melhawk's principal, Mr Julian Josem, analysed business requirements, developed system design specifications, and oversaw the development and implementation of solutions within its clients.

Often, a turnkey approach was taken; Melhawk supplied the hardware and software, and took responsibility to implement the resulting solution.

The company became a market leader with its POSitive Point of Sale software, having sold, installed, and delivered the solutions into approximately 5,000 registers across the country.  The company was very successful and worked in partnership with the major hardware vendors to jointly satisfy small, medium, and large retailers.

In September 2001, the company sold its Intellectual Property to another firm, and changed focus to deliver services rather than product.  It focused on aligning its services with client needs, and is now totally driven by client objectives rather than by motivation to achieve sales of products.  

As the saying goes, when all you have to sell is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.  This is a fundamental problem with many software houses today.  They get so caught up in their own solutions, they often cannot see past them - this requires an experienced and objective head.  

Retailers often need external assistance when changing (or contemplating changing) their systems. 

Instead of trying to force a single solution to solve every problem, ATS has the luxury of researching the entire market to find the best solution for its clients. 

Having been involved in the selection of systems for a long period, and continually researching technology for its clients (including some of Australia's premier retailers), the ATS consulting practice offers unparalleled value - affordable advice based on expert knowledge in systems, retailing practices, and business processes  Services include:

ATS understands retailing very deeply.  We are as passionate about retailing as our clients!  

Our expertise covers many aspects, including:

Our projects have been varied - we have worked with businesses in many different retailing sectors:

ATS provides professional services - we help clients get value out of their technology investments rather than on supplying the technology itself. 

Principal Consultant, Julian Josem has 30 years of knowledge and experience servicing the technology needs of Australian businesses.  Julian lectures at Monash University on Retail Technology, and teaches Retail Management Princples.  He contributes to retail industry activities, and has been instrumental in the success of the annual National Retail Forum, the conference that runs alongside Retail Business Technology.  

Now, businesses themselves can have this experience and knowledge as part of their management team.

ATS is completely independent.  With its knowledge and contacts within both the IT and retailing industries, ATS is ideally placed to assist businesses get maximum value from investments in technology.

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