Giardino Group puts Asset Intelligence on the menu.

• Existing asset spreadsheet replaced after becoming ‘unwieldy’
• Fixed assets controlled across 57 café/restaurants
• Asset Intelligence system ‘a thoroughly worthwhile investment’

Giardino Group, one of the fastest growing café/restaurant chains in the UK, has selected Asset Intelligence from FMIS to manage fixed assets across 57 cafes/restaurants and Head Office. Previously, the Group operated an asset spreadsheet designed in-house.

Having decided that the spreadsheet approach had become overly complex, Michaela Fisher, Company Accountant for Giardino Group, set about investigating alternatives and reviewing the leading Fixed Asset software packages.

“The spreadsheet solution had originally been designed to cope with 20 outlets, but after growing to 57 outlets, despite adding additional formulas and tables, the spreadsheet had become increasingly unwieldy.” Michaela Fisher explains. “We looked at all the contenders but, more importantly, we asked around. Those who knew FMIS and Asset Intelligence had been very impressed.”

After a thorough evaluation, Giardino Group selected the Asset Intelligence Fixed Assets module from FMIS. According to Michaela Fisher, because the Group’s asset management requirements were not particularly complex, ease of use and first class support were critical factors. “Implementing the Asset Intelligence system could not have been easier. Transferring the data from our spreadsheet was surprisingly simple and the training and support from FMIS has been everything we hoped for. Whenever we did experience any problems, FMIS were extremely helpful and supportive”.

Whilst the Giardino spreadsheet was no longer viable, managers at Giardino have been impressed by a number of factors of switching to a dedicated fixed assets application.

“We recognised the need but we have been impressed by the additional benefits that have accrued. For instance, the ability to run batch updates and the ability to forecast future depreciation have proved valuable.

“Excel has many applications, but I would recommend any organisation with more than just a handful of assets to make the switch. Full audit trails, the elimination of errors, the ability to run a range of reports and the built-in data validation have been proven to be of great comfort. Whereas our spreadsheet system constantly produced errors, with Asset Intelligence we can just run the report, knowing the numbers are right. It’s a great feeling”

Commenting on the deal, Martin Hakes, Managing Director of FMIS, said “We’re delighted that Giardino Group has found the system so effective and easy to use. Our biggest competitor is still the humble spreadsheet and we are always pleased when clients discover the difference that application software can make in managing their Fixed Assets.”