CHRAW asked the same questions used in a similar survey conducted by the Northamerican Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Wholesalers Association, whose results were sent to CHRAW members in February.

Of the 35% of responding members, electronic data interchange is the least- used technology and only half of the firms have a company Web page. About half use standard industry-specific business software packages, while 36% use custom programs.

The majority of members are committed to move ahead on such initiatives as standardized computer technology, EDI, bar-coding and vendor-managed inventory; some have already achieved these initiatives. Respondents also agreed that CHRAW should take an active role in promoting these initiatives to the overall membership, including adopting e-commerce standards and continuing and enhancing efforts already underway.