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Universal Data, Inc. (UDI) was founded in 1973 as a provider of software to major data processing organizations. Recognizing the need for a lightweight, portable computer terminal, UDI began research and development work in the area of handheld microprocessors. By 1979, UDI was producing handheld terminals on an exclusive and private label basis. The success of the early models led to the development of a family of portable, handheld terminals and associated software, designed to meet a wide range of data collection needs. Their ability to withstand harsh industrial and environmental conditions led UDI terminals to become known as the "Sherman Tank" of handheld computers. UDI's products were so rugged and functional that they, even today, stand as the solution-set cornerstone of the largest retail inventory taking company on the planet, which has purchased in excess of 800,000 handheld terminals and related equipment from UDI for global deployment. Even after 30 years, UDI continues to sell and support their inventory technology. In the technology world, any time a company can maintain a customer for 30 years, it shows a true sign of success and customer satisfaction. As the automatic data collection landscape changed in the 80's from one of hardware-centric "scan guns" to one of a broader "systems level" approach centered about software, so too did UDI's product suite. We wrote and implemented data collection interfaces to many stand-alone application software packages, and ultimately developed our own WMS package called Analyst, specifically designed for the manufacturing industry. Most recently, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software has left the exclusive domain of the Fortune 1000, and has become priced within reach of the small to mid-market sized companies comprising UDI's traditional customer base. To provide our customers with an IT infrastructure that seamlessly supports all elements of business & manufacturing operations, we have established and maintained reseller partnerships with leading ERP developers in this space. Further, in recognition of the oft disastrous consequences companies face in trying to fit their business around prepackaged software (for that matter, hardware too), we have developed a robust, comprehensive, and repeatable methodology that removes risk from IT initiatives: Our Design System Analysis. How has the company benefited from its innovations and investments? Today, Universal Data, Inc. employs some 125 dedicated professionals in engineering, software development, manufacturing, consulting, and administration. With its headquarters on its own 27 acre complex north of Detroit, Universal Data, Inc. is firmly positioned to expand its role in delivering enterprise solutions to companies in the Midwest, and across the country.