Propane Distribution System to optimize company’s entire distribution lifecycle

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Propane Distribution System

Introduction

GTA Propane Ltd., a leading propane supplier in the Greater Toronto Area, required a robust and efficient web-based system to manage its propane distribution operations. The company needed a centralized platform to track propane intake, storage, distribution, and sales to taxi fleets and other commercial vehicles. SlashTime developed a custom Propane Distribution System, providing real-time data tracking, automation, and reporting functionalities to streamline business operations.

Business Challenge

Before implementing the Propane Distribution System, GTA Propane Ltd. faced several operational challenges:

  • Manual tracking of propane intake and storage, leading to errors and inefficiencies.
  • Difficulty in managing gas-filling trips and keeping accurate records.
  • Lack of real-time sales tracking, making financial reconciliation complex.
  • Limited visibility on propane distribution to taxis and commercial vehicles.
  • Inefficiencies in invoicing and financial reporting.

A modern web application was required to automate operations, improve record-keeping accuracy, and enhance business productivity.

The Solution: Web-Based Propane Distribution System

SlashTime developed a scalable, cloud-based web application to optimize GTA Propane Ltd.’s entire distribution lifecycle. The platform allows the company to efficiently track propane intake, distribution, and sales, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and business goals.

Key Features and Functionality

  1. Propane Intake & Storage Management:
    • Logs propane received from suppliers and updates storage levels in company tanks.
    • Real-time tank capacity tracking with automated alerts for refill requirements.
  2. Gas-Filling Trip Tracking:
    • Records each trip made for filling company tanks.
    • Tracks vehicle details, quantity transported, and timestamps for operational visibility.
  3. Propane Distribution System:
    • Automated tracking of propane dispensed to taxis and commercial vehicles.
    • Sales recording with vehicle details, quantity sold, and price per liter.
  4. Real-Time Sales Monitoring & Financial Management:
    • Tracks total propane sold, revenue generated, and outstanding payments.
    • Generates automated invoices and sales reports for business transparency.
  5. User Role & Access Management:
    • Multi-user access with role-based permissions for security and control.
    • Admins can configure pricing, add new users, and manage business rules.
  6. Reporting & Analytics:
    • Daily, weekly, and monthly sales reports with revenue trends.
    • Comprehensive propane stock reports to ensure proper inventory management.
  7. Integration with Payment & Accounting Systems:
    • Seamless integration with third-party accounting tools for financial reconciliation.
    • Secure payment processing for commercial clients.

Technology Stack

  • Backend: ASP.NET Core 8 with Entity Framework for secure and scalable data handling.
  • Frontend: React.js for an interactive and responsive user interface.
  • Database: Microsoft SQL Server for structured storage and fast data retrieval.
  • Authentication: JWT-based authentication with role-based access control.
  • Hosting: Cloud-based deployment for high availability and remote access.

Implementation Strategy

  1. Business Requirement Analysis:
    • Conducted workshops with GTA Propane Ltd. to identify operational pain points.
    • Defined key features and required automation processes.
  2. Agile Development Approach:
    • Developed the application in iterative sprints, incorporating feedback at every stage.
    • Created prototypes and tested workflows before full implementation.
  3. Data Migration & System Integration:
    • Migrated historical propane sales and distribution records to the new system.
    • Integrated financial tools to streamline accounting and payment tracking.
  4. Training & Deployment:
    • Provided hands-on training for employees and stakeholders.
    • Rolled out the system in phases to ensure smooth adoption and minimal downtime.

Business Impact & Results

The deployment of the Propane Distribution System significantly improved GTA Propane Ltd.’s efficiency and operational oversight. The key benefits include:

  • 30% improvement in operational efficiency through real-time tracking and automation.
  • Reduction in manual errors, ensuring accurate propane inventory and sales data.
  • Faster invoice generation, improving cash flow and payment collection.
  • Enhanced visibility into propane distribution, allowing for better resource planning.
  • Scalable solution, enabling business growth without additional administrative burden.

Conclusion

By partnering with SlashTime , GTA Propane Ltd. successfully transformed its propane distribution management through digital automation and real-time tracking. The Propane Distribution System continues to optimize operations, enhance accuracy, and support future scalability, reinforcing SlashTime’s expertise in delivering industry-specific IT solutions. The project stands as a testament to the power of custom web applications in modernizing traditional business workflows.