Unico Inc., a global manufacturer of drive products and systems for the motion-control market, said that it has signed a contract to implement IFS Applications business software. The Franksville, Wisc.-based company will deploy the full IFS Applications suite, including applications for supply chain management, financials, engineering and asset management, on a Linux platform.

"IFS' user interface, online documentation, engineer-to-order and demand flow manufacturing functionality, flexibility, and multi-currency and multi-language capabilities were key factors in our decision to implement IFS Applications," explained Jim Cotton, vice president of Finance for Unico. "IFS has the technology, tools, global capabilities and local support we require. The IFS software will enable us to keep pace with our rapid worldwide growth."

"Unico is a leader in the fast-growing market for industrial motion-control products," said Cindy Jaudon, president and CEO of IFS North America. "We're pleased to partner with them in finding innovative ways to improve the efficiency and profitability of their global operations. IFS' lean enterprise helps engineer-to-order manufacturers such as Unico implement processes for continuous improvement while reducing lead times, enhancing customer service and meeting market demands for quality products at competitive prices."

The high-tech industry is one of IFS' targeted vertical markets. IFS offers solutions for companies in the electronic equipment, electronic component and semiconductor industries. These solutions support all business processes, from design and mixed-mode manufacturing to after-sales support and warranty management.

IFS' high-tech customers include Rockwell Automation, Philips Business Communications, NEC, Ocean Design, SiRF, Maxon Motor, Kontron and Olympus Optical.