User Solutions Inc. has released Resource Manager version 2001, a low-cost add-on to the familiar Excel spreadsheet. This planning and scheduling solution is easy to use for small to medium sized firms, yet has powerful reporting and open integration for larger operations. Resource Manager 2001 helps manage resources such as manpower, materials and work centers in near real time. For the first time, end users can use familiar desktop tools to deliver products and services on time, reduce cycle times and inventory shortages, plan labor and work center requirement, and track schedules.

Resource Manager 2001 has a new APS Module that features detailed work center calendars that can be adjusted at any time. A Flow Manufacturing option has been added, allowing for variable transfer sizes for work center processing. New reports, which can be generated, sent and recieved via e-mail, Palm Pilots and over networks, are ideal for communicating key portions of the master schedule.