supplyht.com, July 2002 57 accurately and quickly.  EDI customers can receive notice when the order has shipped, detailing exactly what’s on the truck and when it will arrive. The company launched its newly re- designed web site (www.charlottepipe.com) with a special, password-protected Ex- tranet that allows distributors instant access to their account information.  With the new web site, distributors can: • Check orders and overall account sta- tus, including shipping data • Search for orders by date, sales docu- ment, P.O. number, material number or customer name • Track shipments • Check back orders • View invoices and credits • Receive proof of delivery “We know distributors and customers are busy,” said Bill Morris, e-business di- rector.  “Our goal is to make it as easy as possible to do business with Charlotte Pipe and Foundry by offering a number of con- venient ways for customers to quickly get the information they need.” Improved navigation and redesigned graphics make the new web site easier to use. In addition to the Extranet, the web site offers customers up-to-date price sheets, di- mensional CAD drawings for products, and in-depth technical information, all in mul- tiple formats.  The site also offers a “stay up-to-date” feature where users can register to receive regular updates from Charlotte Pipe, including automatic price sheet up- dates.  Future development will allow customers to place orders from the Char- lotte catalog right from their desktop PC. “Along with our Fax-On-Demand serv- ice, the new web site reduces transaction costs by providing customers with value added services that make them more profitable,” Morris said.  The new Fax-On-Demand Information Service makes it easier for cus- tomers to quickly access information they need, such as price sheets,  MSDS sheets and more.  Customers can call 1-800- 745-9382 to order information.  In minutes, the requested documents are faxed directly to the customer. Charlotte Pipe also has devel- oped a complete set of AutoCAD drawings in 2-D and 3-D that are available on CD or on the web site. The CD includes all the product specifications and technical data that plumbing engineers and OEMs need to design their systems. “Everything at Charlotte Pipe is de- signed to work together seamlessly, from our products, to our operations, to our people,” Hardison said.  “We’re the only company that manufactures plastic pipe and fittings to the middle of the spec range as defined by ASTM for a tight, reliable fit every time. We call it the TrueFit™ System. Using pipe and fittings from Charlotte and following our seven simple steps to a no- leak  joint  means  you’ll  work  more efficiently, with fewer callbacks. That’s a sure way to save money and add value for your customers.” According  to  Hardison,  the  Quiet House® System is also something you won’t find anywhere else because Charlotte is the only company that makes PVC and cast iron pipe and fittings. When used together in a waste piping system, customers get high performance that combines the best features of sound-deadening cast iron and economical PVC.  Builders and homeown- ers will appreciate that it’s twice as quiet as an all PVC system, yet very affordable. An experienced group of officers pro- vides effective leadership for Charlotte Pipe and Foundry. Combined, the 12- member team has more than 230 years of service   dedicated   to   the   company. Through their commitment to the compa- ny and by working together efficiently, this team ensures that Charlotte Pipe is on track to serve our customers' needs. “As we look forward to our second cen- tury of business in the plumbing industry, we face new challenges,” Hardison said. “But the one constant set by our founder, W.F. Dowd, remains the same: Make the best products you can, and back them up with excellent service.” Contact Charlotte Pipe and Foundry at P.O. Box 35430, Charlotte, NC 28235.  Or call  us  at  800/438-6091  or  fax  us  at 800/553-1605. Visit   us   online   at www.charlottepipe.com. Circle 28 Our Disamatic Molding Machines produce high- volume, world-class castings.