Electronic Data Processing

Computers play an integral part in AWTA Ltd operations. Specialised software integrates on-line data from the sampling line, through the testing process to the issue of Certificates. Laboratory instruments and balances are connected to the computer system. Samples, sub-samples and specimens required for the testing process are identified by bar codes. Virtually all presale test information is transmitted electronically to wool brokers for inclusion in sale catalogues. At the conclusion of the sale, brokers advise AWTA Ltd electronically who purchased each lot and the test data is then transferred electronically and/or in hard copy to the buyer.

The system comprises large mainframe computers, personal computers and other data capture devices linked through local and wide area networks. The laboratories in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle; the regional offices in Brisbane and Adelaide; and the AWTA Ltd Head Office are all linked through these networks. As well as its use for the operations, the electronic data processing systems are vital for the accounting and management functions of the Company.

AWTA Ltd has also developed WOOLINK® as an information system for our customers. Key features of WOOLINK® include:

• Calculation of Objectively Matched Lots (OMLs) and Combined Certificates for export consignments.
• Advance notice of the specification of most of the wool coming on to the auction sales in a 2-week period.
• Key Test Data on production and the specification of all tested wools in Australia, state by state, with a historical database of 9 years.
• A range of electronic selling systems such as Tender, Spot Sale and Offer Board facilities.