Company Profiles - Hardcat
Hardcat |
| A Hardcat asset control system sells every three days across the world, making this Melbourne company a true global leader. |
| http://www.hardcat.com |
The story so far |
| In the 1980s, Dan Drum noticed a common problem of many organisations while selling a documentation system he’d developed. “They didn't know what equipment they owned or where it was,” he said. “I did some research and was astounded to find there was nothing in the market that gave organisations real control of their fixed assets.” Dan’s idea was to create a software system easy to install and use that provided a lot of choice and a wealth of detail. Users pick and choose Hardcat modules that best fit their requirements and they can easily be integrated into existing systems or installed as a complete end-to-end solution. The first Hardcat system Dan launched in 1986 gained immediate market acceptance. The company’s first big global sales came in the United States and United Kingdom, and the rest of the world followed. Today, Hardcat sells in 45 countries and over 2,000 of the world’s largest organisations rely on its products to manage their assets, including defence forces, airlines and major corporations. Thousands of small to medium sized enterprises across every sector also use Hardcat to keep track of what they own. “Our continued success is built on the quality of the product,” said Dan. “Hardcat suits any size organisation and can be operating within a few days or weeks. It provides unsurpassed detail about the equipment an organisation owns, where it is and how it’s performing.” In addition to its software systems, Hardcat also has a respected services division, which provides leading consulting, asset audit and related services across the world. |
Reaching new markets |
| Hardcat sales are growing as organisations look for more ways to improve performance. “We've seen tremendous growth over the last five years in our traditional markets, as well as across emerging markets in Africa, the Middle East and the Asia Pacific region,” said Dan. “Much of this growth is because organisations have realised that improving their asset management brings immediate and ongoing benefits. “Hardcat is also more than just software – we provide a complete solution and the methodologies we've developed over the last 20 years are just as important as the technology. We’re the market leader because we’re still providing what others can’t.” |
Why Melbourne, Australia? |
| Melbourne makes an ideal base for the global headquarters of Hardcat. “Melbourne has one of the world’s strongest economies and the diverse ICT sector is supported by the government,” said Dan. “Melbourne also has the advanced infrastructure and highly skilled workforce we need, and we’re never far from our markets here and visit them regularly.” While Hardcat has offices in the UK and USA, Dan likes coming home to Melbourne. “Melbourne is recognised as one of the world’s most liveable cities and I enjoy its sophistication and relaxed outlook. We've struck the balance in Melbourne between working hard to achieve and still enjoying life.” |
The future |
| Dan predicts fixed asset management will move from its niche position to a mainstream market as it becomes mandatory for organisations to better control their equipment. “You’d be surprised how little control many major companies have over their fixed assets,” he said. “They’re now turning their attention to it and our market growth is everywhere across every industry.” After 20 years leading the way, Dan is watching the world catch up. “I've always wondered why people didn't see the obvious benefits of asset management, so it’s nice to see more taking notice,” he said. “I’m enjoying the business more today than ever.” |
