One Partner. Complete Business Solutions.
Helping organisations reduce costs, improve productivity and embrace digital transformation through fully integrated Turnkey Business Solutions across South Africa.
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Industries We Serve
Tailored Technology Solutions For Every Industry
Every industry faces unique challenges. Our Complete Business Solutions are tailored to meet the specific operational, compliance and technology requirements of each sector — all delivered through a single, managed partnership.
Industries We Support
Technology Solutions Built For Your Industry
Complete technology solutions for schools: connectivity, smart classrooms, STEM labs, security, printing, teacher/learner devices and managed IT support — delivered as one integrated solution.
Legal cost recovery, document management with Laserfiche, secure printing, practice management integration, telecommunications and cyber security for law firms.
CCTV with AI video analytics, digital signage, multi-store connectivity, inventory systems, energy management and managed network services for retailers.
Production workflow automation, barcode inventory systems, Laserfiche document control, factory networking, industrial WiFi and cyber security for OT environments.
Cloud PBX for guest communication, property management system integration, CCTV and access control, digital signage and backup power solutions.
Fleet telematics for farm vehicles, solar and backup power, IoT monitoring, CCTV for security, connectivity for remote locations and managed IT support.
Affordable managed IT, cloud telephony, business-grade connectivity, print management, cyber security, hardware procurement and energy backup for growing businesses.
Corporate
Enterprise managed print, multi-site connectivity solutions, unified communications, cyber security frameworks, backup power and managed IT services for corporate environments.
Explore each industry page above for detailed solutions, case studies and technology recommendations tailored to your sector. Not sure which industry category fits? Visit our SME page or contact us directly.
Did You Know?
Many organisations spend more time managing different technology suppliers than improving their business. Discover how Altech's Turnkey Business Solutions approach simplifies technology management while improving productivity, reducing costs and supporting long-term business growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Industry Solutions
Q: Which industries does Altech Solutions serve?
We serve a broad range of industries including education (schools and universities), legal practices, retail (single and multi-store), manufacturing and production facilities, hospitality (hotels, lodges, restaurants), agriculture and agri-processing, small to medium enterprises (SMEs), corporate offices, healthcare facilities, financial services, and government institutions. Each industry page on this site provides specific detail on the solutions relevant to that sector.
Q: Are the solutions on each industry page standardised or customised?
Each industry page outlines the typical solutions and common challenges for that sector, but every engagement is customised to the specific client. Two schools, two law firms or two manufacturers may have very different technology needs depending on their size, location, budget, growth plans and existing infrastructure. Our assessment process ensures the solution we recommend is tailored to your unique situation — not a generic package.
Q: Can Altech help if my industry is not listed on this page?
Yes. While we have deep experience in the industries listed, our solutions are technology-based and many are applicable across sectors. If your industry is not listed, contact us directly. We will discuss your requirements and determine whether we can help. Many of our engagements fall outside predefined categories — we are transparent about our experience and will let you know if we are not the right fit.
Q: How does Altech approach a new industry engagement?
Every engagement begins with a discovery phase where we learn about your business, industry, challenges and objectives. We then map the technology solutions that address your specific needs, present a proposal with clear costs and expected outcomes, implement the solution with minimal disruption, and provide ongoing support. Our approach is the same regardless of industry — the difference is in how we tailor the technology to your sector's unique requirements.
Q: Can Altech serve multi-site businesses across different industries?
Yes. Many of our clients operate across multiple sectors or have diverse business units. We design technology solutions that work across different operational environments — for example, a group that runs both schools and hospitality properties, or a manufacturing company with corporate offices and retail outlets. Our turnkey approach is particularly valuable for these clients because one technology partner can manage all their diverse requirements.
Q: How do I get started with a solution for my industry?
Start by exploring the industry page that best matches your business. Each page provides detailed information on the specific solutions, challenges and outcomes relevant to that sector. If you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation or site visit. We will discuss your specific requirements and outline how we can help your business achieve better outcomes through technology.
Complete Integration
Looking for a Complete Business Solution?
Many organisations struggle with managing multiple suppliers, disconnected technologies and inconsistent support. The Turnkey Business Solutions approach from Altech brings technology, consulting and support together under one trusted partner — so you can focus on running your business, not managing suppliers.
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Related Business Solutions
Discover how industry-specific technology integrates with all your business solutions under one complete, managed approach.
Explore the full range of technology solutions available across every industry.
Keep your industry-specific technology running with proactive managed IT support.
Inventory Management Systems & Solutions
Know What You Have. Know Where It Is. Know What It Is Worth.
Effective inventory management is about more than counting stock. It connects purchasing, receiving, storage, stock movement, production, sales, dispatch and financial information so that a business can maintain better control over its inventory.
Altech Solutions helps South African businesses implement practical inventory management technology, including barcode scanning, mobile warehouse solutions, inventory systems, workflow automation, reporting and ERP or accounting integration.
Understanding The Basics
What Is Inventory Management?
Inventory management is the controlled process of purchasing, receiving, identifying, storing, moving, counting, selling and reporting inventory throughout its lifecycle.
A well-designed inventory management process should provide the business with reliable information about:
• What inventory it has
• How much inventory it has
• Where the inventory is located
• When it was received
• What it cost
• Which supplier provided it
• Which batch or serial number applies, where relevant
• Whether the inventory has been allocated, sold or consumed
• Whether inventory is damaged, obsolete or slow-moving
• When additional inventory needs to be purchased
• How inventory movements are reflected in the business's accounting records
The objective is not simply to know how many units are sitting on a shelf. The objective is to create a controlled process that connects the physical movement of goods with reliable operational and financial information.
Why It Matters
Why Inventory Management Matters
Poor inventory control can affect far more than the warehouse. Inventory can represent a significant investment of working capital. Inaccurate stock records can lead to unnecessary purchasing, production delays, stock shortages, customer service problems, unexplained variances and difficulty reconciling physical stock with accounting records.
Effective inventory management can help businesses improve:
• Stock accuracy • Working-capital visibility • Purchasing decisions
• Customer service • Warehouse productivity • Traceability
• Stock replenishment • Production planning • Loss prevention
• Management reporting • Audit trails • Financial information
The Process
The Inventory Management Process
Although every business operates differently, a typical inventory management process follows a controlled flow.
Demand / Requirement
↓
Purchase Requisition
↓
Purchase Order
↓
Goods Receiving
↓
Inspection & Verification
↓
Put-Away & Storage
↓
Stock Movement
↓
Picking / Production Issue
↓
Dispatch / Consumption
↓
Stock Reconciliation
↓
Financial & Management Reporting
The exact process will vary according to the type of inventory, industry, transaction volumes, production requirements, regulatory environment and existing business systems.
Section 1
1. Inventory Master Data
Every effective inventory system starts with reliable master data. A typical inventory record may include:
• Stock code / SKU • Product description • Category
• Unit of measure • Barcode or QR code • Supplier
• Supplier product code • Cost information • Selling information
• Warehouse • Bin or storage location • Minimum stock level
• Reorder level • Maximum stock level • Lead time
• Batch or lot number, where applicable • Serial number, where applicable
• Expiry date, where applicable • Product status
Poor master data can undermine even the most sophisticated inventory system. Technology can help standardise the creation, maintenance and use of inventory master data.
Section 2
2. Purchasing & Stock Replenishment
Inventory management begins before stock reaches the warehouse. Replenishment may be triggered by:
• Minimum stock levels • Reorder points • Customer demand
• Sales orders • Production requirements • Forecast demand
• Lead times • Seasonal requirements
A technology-enabled process can identify when stock reaches a defined threshold and create a replenishment alert or workflow for review. A typical workflow:
Stock level reaches reorder point → Replenishment alert → Buyer review → Purchase requisition → Approval → Purchase order → Supplier confirmation
Section 3
3. Goods Receiving & Verification
Goods receiving is one of the most important inventory control points. When goods arrive, the warehouse should verify the delivery against the relevant purchasing documentation and the physical goods. Depending on the business, this may include:
• Supplier • Purchase order • Product
• Quantity • Unit of measure • Batch or lot
• Serial number • Expiry date • Physical condition
• Quality requirements
Barcode or QR-code scanning can reduce manual data capture and create a digital transaction record. Where a discrepancy occurs, the system should record the actual quantity received and flag the variance rather than simply changing the expected quantity.
Example: Purchase order: 100 units. Actual delivery: 95 units. The system should record the 95 units received and create an exception requiring investigation or follow-up.
Section 4
4. Put-Away & Warehouse Locations
Once inventory has been received and cleared for storage, it needs to be assigned to an appropriate location. A warehouse location may be identified using a structure such as:
Warehouse A → Aisle 04 → Bay 12 → Level 03
The product barcode identifies WHAT the item is. The location barcode identifies WHERE it is. Together, they allow the inventory system to record both the product and its physical location. Warehouse technology can include:
• Barcode scanners • Mobile computers • Tablets
• Industrial workstations • Barcode and label printers
• Warehouse Wi-Fi • RFID where appropriate • Warehouse management software
Section 5
5. Stock Movement & Traceability
Inventory should remain traceable as it moves through the business. For example:
Location A → Location B → Production → Finished Goods → Dispatch
A technology-enabled system can record:
• Item • Quantity • From location • To location
• User • Date • Time • Transaction type • Reason for movement
This creates a stronger audit trail and gives management greater visibility over inventory movements.
Section 6
6. Stock Counting & Reconciliation
Inventory records should be periodically compared with the physical inventory. Businesses may use:
• Annual physical stocktakes • Periodic stocktakes • Cycle counting
• ABC-based counting • Risk-based counting
A barcode-enabled counting process can allow warehouse staff to scan inventory and record physical quantities directly into the system. The system can then compare:
SYSTEM QUANTITY versus PHYSICAL QUANTITY
Where differences occur, the variance should be investigated and appropriately authorised before the inventory record is adjusted. Possible causes include:
• Receiving errors • Picking errors • Incorrect units of measure
• Unrecorded stock movements • Damaged inventory • Production consumption
• Data-entry errors • Loss or theft
Section 7
7. Picking, Packing & Dispatch
When inventory is required for a customer order, the process can move from:
Sales Order → Stock Allocation → Picking → Verification → Packing → Dispatch
A warehouse worker can receive the picking instruction on a handheld scanner or mobile device. The system can direct the operator to the required location. The product is scanned. The quantity is confirmed. The system can then update the relevant inventory transaction. This reduces reliance on handwritten picking lists and manual data entry.
Section 8
8. Inventory for Manufacturing
Manufacturing businesses have additional inventory requirements because materials can move through several stages before becoming finished goods. A typical manufacturing flow is:
RAW MATERIALS
↓
RECEIVING
↓
RAW MATERIAL STORAGE
↓
PRODUCTION ISSUE
↓
WORK IN PROGRESS
↓
QUALITY CONTROL
↓
FINISHED GOODS
↓
STORAGE
↓
DISPATCH
Technology can provide visibility over:
• Raw materials • Components • Bills of materials
• Production orders • Material issues • Work in progress
• Production quantities • Batch or lot traceability • Quality checks
• Finished goods • Production reporting
Inventory Assessment
Is Your Inventory Process Giving You the Visibility You Need?
Many businesses know that their inventory process could be more accurate or efficient, but do not know where to start.
Altech Solutions can assess your current process — from purchasing and receiving through storage, stock movement, counting, production and dispatch — and identify practical opportunities to improve control, visibility and efficiency.
We look at the technology you already have, the way your people work and the business outcomes you need before recommending a solution.
Inventory is both a physical asset and a financial consideration. Effective inventory management therefore requires the warehouse process and financial information to work together.
Section 9
9. Inventory Accounting & Financial Control
Inventory management has both an operational and financial dimension. From an accounting perspective, inventory records need to support the financial reporting process. Under IAS 2 Inventories, inventories are generally measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
The cost of inventory can include costs of purchase, conversion and other costs incurred in bringing inventory to its present location and condition. For ordinarily interchangeable inventory, IAS 2 provides for FIFO or weighted-average cost formulas, while specific identification is used for items that are not ordinarily interchangeable or are associated with specific projects.
Important Note: The accounting treatment applicable to a particular business depends on its circumstances, accounting policies and applicable financial reporting framework. Businesses should obtain appropriate professional accounting advice when determining their inventory accounting policies.
Section 10
10. Inventory Cost & Valuation
Inventory systems can capture and maintain the transaction information needed to support inventory accounting, including:
• Quantities received • Purchase prices • Supplier information
• Stock movements • Production consumption • Cost information
• Sales and dispatch transactions • Inventory adjustments
The accounting system can then apply the organisation's approved accounting policies and inventory valuation methodology. Inventory management technology therefore provides the operational data, transaction history and audit trail that support the accounting process. It is important to distinguish between:
PHYSICAL INVENTORY CONTROL
What inventory is physically held?
OPERATIONAL INVENTORY VALUE
What cost information is associated with that inventory?
FINANCIAL REPORTING
How should inventory be recognised and measured under the applicable accounting framework?
TAX TREATMENT
How does applicable South African tax legislation treat trading stock?
These are related but are not necessarily identical calculations.
Section 11
11. Slow-Moving, Obsolete & Damaged Inventory
Inventory management should identify stock that may require management attention. Examples include:
• Slow-moving inventory • Non-moving inventory • Obsolete inventory
• Damaged inventory • Expired inventory • Excess inventory
• Inventory approaching expiry • Inventory affected by declining selling prices
Technology can identify these categories using transaction history, ageing reports, movement data and other defined business rules. Management and accounting teams can then assess the appropriate operational, accounting and tax treatment. The objective is to prevent inventory problems from remaining hidden in the warehouse.
Section 12
12. Inventory Management & SARS Record Keeping
South African businesses have record-keeping obligations under the tax administration framework. SARS states that taxpayers are required to retain relevant records, books of account and documents and that records must be maintained in an orderly and safe manner and be available for inspection, audit or investigation. SARS also permits electronic record keeping subject to the applicable requirements.
For businesses, this makes controlled digital records particularly valuable. Inventory technology can help retain transaction histories and supporting information relating to:
• Purchases • Goods received • Stock movements • Stock adjustments
• Sales • Dispatches • Inventory counts • Supporting documentation
• Approvals • Exceptions
Important Disclaimer: Inventory technology can support record keeping and control, but it does not by itself make a business compliant with SARS, IFRS or any other regulatory requirement. Businesses remain responsible for determining and maintaining the records and accounting treatment applicable to their circumstances.
Section 13
13. Barcode & QR-Code Inventory Management
Barcode technology provides a practical way of identifying inventory and recording transactions. A typical transaction may be:
SCAN PRODUCT → SYSTEM IDENTIFIES ITEM → SCAN LOCATION → CONFIRM QUANTITY → RECORD TRANSACTION → UPDATE INVENTORY
Barcode systems can be used for:
• Goods receiving • Put-away • Stock transfers • Picking
• Stock counts • Production issues • Finished goods • Dispatch • Asset tracking
For some applications, QR codes or RFID may provide additional functionality. The appropriate technology depends on the product, environment, transaction volume, required traceability and budget.
Section 14
14. Warehouse Mobility
Warehouse employees do not always work at a desk. Mobile technology can bring inventory information directly to the warehouse floor. Solutions can include:
• Handheld barcode scanners • Mobile computers • Rugged tablets
• Smartphones where appropriate • Wireless warehouse networks • Mobile label printers
This can reduce paper-based processes and allow transactions to be recorded closer to where the physical activity takes place.
15. Inventory Workflow Automation
Inventory transactions often involve more than moving stock. They can also require approvals, documentation and exception handling. Workflow automation can support processes such as:
• Purchase order approvals • Goods receiving exceptions • Inventory replenishment
• Stock adjustments • Quality control • Supplier documentation
• Dispatch approvals • Maintenance requests • Inventory-related document management
Altech Solutions can implement workflow automation using technologies such as Laserfiche where appropriate. This can connect documents, approvals, people and operational transactions into controlled digital workflows.
Section 16
16. Inventory & Accounting / ERP Integration
Inventory management should not operate as an isolated system where integration is practical. Depending on the client's environment, inventory technology may integrate with:
• Accounting systems • ERP platforms • Sage • Pastel
• Customer order systems • Procurement systems
• Production systems • Business intelligence platforms
Integration can reduce duplicate data entry and help information flow between operational and financial systems. The exact integration capability depends on the software platforms, APIs, configuration and business requirements.
Section 17
17. Inventory Reporting & Management Information
Good inventory management should turn transactions into useful management information. Typical reports and dashboards may include:
• Stock on hand • Stock by location • Stock movement • Stock ageing
• Slow-moving stock • Non-moving stock • Stock discrepancies
• Reorder requirements • Inventory turnover • Purchase history
• Supplier performance • Inventory adjustments • Production consumption
• Inventory value • Picking and dispatch activity
The objective is to give management information that can support purchasing, operations, finance and strategic decision-making.
Section 18
18. What Inventory Technology Does Your Business Need?
There is no single inventory solution that is right for every business.
A small operation may only need:
• Basic inventory software
• Barcode labels
• Barcode scanner
• Accounting integration
A growing warehouse may benefit from:
• Inventory management software
• Mobile scanning
• Warehouse Wi-Fi
• Location management
• Stock replenishment
• ERP/accounting integration
A more complex warehouse may require:
• Warehouse Management System
• Mobile computers
• Advanced location management
• Batch and serial tracking
• RFID
• Workflow automation
• Real-time dashboards
• Advanced ERP integration
A manufacturing environment may require:
• Raw material management
• Production orders
• Bill of materials
• WIP tracking
• Quality control
• Finished goods management
• Batch traceability
• Maintenance workflows
• Production reporting
Altech Solutions assesses the existing process before recommending technology. The objective is to implement the best practical and cost-effective solution for the business — not to over-engineer the operation.
Section 19
19. Inventory Management Assessment
Not sure where your inventory process is losing time, accuracy or control? Altech Solutions can review your current inventory and warehouse processes and identify opportunities to improve:
• Inventory accuracy • Receiving • Stock movement • Picking
• Replenishment • Stocktaking • Traceability • Workflow
• Reporting • Accounting integration • Document control
We can then recommend a practical technology roadmap based on your current systems, operational requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Inventory Management
What is an inventory management system?
An inventory management system is software and supporting technology used to record, control and report inventory throughout its lifecycle. Depending on the business, it can manage stock quantities, locations, purchasing, receiving, stock movements, picking, dispatch, production and reporting.
What is the difference between inventory management and warehouse management?
Inventory management focuses on controlling and reporting inventory, while warehouse management focuses more broadly on the physical movement and handling of goods within the warehouse. A warehouse management solution can include inventory management as one of its functions.
Can barcode scanning improve inventory accuracy?
Barcode scanning can reduce manual data capture and help ensure that the correct item, location and transaction are recorded. The improvement depends on the quality of the underlying processes, master data, system configuration and staff adoption.
Do I need an ERP system to manage inventory?
Not necessarily. Some businesses can use a dedicated inventory management system integrated with their existing accounting platform. Others may benefit from an ERP platform. The appropriate solution depends on the size of the business, transaction volumes, complexity and existing technology.
Can inventory management integrate with Sage or Pastel?
Integration may be possible depending on the specific software version, configuration and available integration capability. Altech Solutions can assess the existing environment and determine the appropriate integration approach.
What is cycle counting?
Cycle counting is a stock-counting method where selected inventory is counted regularly throughout the year rather than relying only on one large annual stocktake. The frequency and selection method can be based on factors such as inventory value, transaction frequency and operational risk.
How does inventory management help manufacturing businesses?
Manufacturing inventory management can track raw materials, components, production issues, work in progress and finished goods. When integrated with production workflows, it can improve visibility over material consumption, production status and finished-goods inventory.
Does inventory software make a business IFRS compliant?
No. Inventory software is a control and information tool. IFRS compliance depends on the applicable financial reporting framework, accounting policies, estimates, judgements and financial reporting processes. Technology can provide information and audit trails that support those processes.
Does inventory software make a business SARS compliant?
No. Technology can help businesses maintain organised and accessible electronic records, but compliance with South African tax legislation depends on the business's circumstances and its compliance processes. Appropriate professional tax advice should be obtained where required.
How much does an inventory management system cost?
The cost depends on the number of users, warehouses, transaction volumes, required hardware, software functionality, integration requirements, workflow complexity and support requirements. Altech Solutions assesses the existing environment before recommending a solution.
Explore Further
Related Solutions
Explore our complete Warehouse & Factory Solutions
Learn more about Barcode Scanning Solutions
See how our Goods Receiving Systems work
Streamline Dispatch Management and warehouse mobility
Automate Stock Replenishment and Inventory Reporting
Explore our Manufacturing Solutions
See how Laserfiche Workflow Automation can digitise inventory-related approvals and processes
Discover ERP & Accounting Integration and Business Process Automation
Keep systems running with Managed IT Support
Build a reliable warehouse network with Networking & Connectivity
Request an Inventory Assessment
Inventory is more than stock on a shelf. It is information that connects procurement, operations, finance and customer service.
Let Altech Solutions assess your current process and identify where practical technology can improve inventory control, traceability and operational efficiency.
Alan Wakelin
Altech Solutions
Mobile: 083 212 2153 | Office: 010 001 0490
Email: alan@altechsolutions.co.za
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Let's Improve the Way You Manage Inventory
Whether you need better stock control, barcode scanning, warehouse mobility, inventory reporting, workflow automation or integration with your existing accounting or ERP system, Altech Solutions can help you determine the most practical approach.
You do not necessarily need to replace everything you already have. We can assess your current environment, identify the gaps and develop a practical technology solution around your business.