Mar 6, 2025
Alkaloid Marks Half a Century of Information Technology
50 YEARS AGO, ALKALOID’S ICONIC COMPUTER CENTER STARTED IT'S OPERATIONS
In February 1975, the information technology division at Alkaloid was officially launched, aiming to transform processes from analog to digital using the so-called "mini" computers from the Burroughs L-3000/4000 Series.
"These machines are compact in size, but have significant memory capacity and problem-solving capabilities, leveraging all the benefits of integrated circuit technology,” explained Trajche Mukaetov, the founder and then-director of the company’s so-called “Computer Center”, in an article for the Alkaloid newsletter.
These "mini" computers, weighing 186 and 227 kilograms respectively, stored data on magnetic disks with 40 tracks and a capacity of 1280 words (64 bits per word). The system also used a punch card reader and puncher, which are now on display at the Museum of Alkaloid.
The former computer center, being a crucial element of the institution, was essential to the core of all business operations of Alkaloid AD Skopje, both domestically and internationally. In a symbolic celebration of this five-decade milestone, the current employees of the Trajche Mukaetov Information Technology and Telecommunications Center invited retired employees who had contributed to this division from its early days, honoring their efforts
In July 2007, Alkaloid became one of the first Macedonian companies to implement the SAP/ERP system independently. The company has since introduced or is in the process of introducing various systems and advanced tools for data analysis, including: DMS (Document Management System), BMS (Building Management System), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), CDS (Chromatography Data Systems), LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System), MES (Manufacturing Execution System), and DAS (Document Approval System).
Alkaloid continues to focus on investing in digital technologies that enhance efficiency, speed up decision-making, and improve accuracy across all areas of its operations.
This holistic approach to digitalization has made Alkaloid more adaptable, enabling it to meet the evolving demands of the global market while laying the groundwork for long-term growth and increased competitiveness.