The company had been using the same CODA software as an accounts and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) package for the past 14 years. The software was hard to learn to use, out of date and almost out of support. Ultimately, it was holding back the company’s growth. They needed to produce detailed reports on its activities both for the regulator, where it has a significant market presence, and as part of the usual stock management, accounting and reporting.

The client needed a product that could be implemented rapidly and which would give managers better information and insight into the business. They also needed a product that could, if required, be extended to output reports that were SAP-compatible so that local results could be rolled up into the parent company’s accounts easily.

Solution
Avanade implemented two core modules, one for finance and the other for procurement and stock management. By capturing each and every transaction, the company can monitor stock levels more effectively and ensure that working capital isn’t tied up on warehouse shelves. Efficient stock tracking and accounting helps the company provide statutory and financial reporting. Avanade also provided consultation and user education. The project embraced three ERP systems within the business. The objective was to have a single chart of accounts, making reporting easier and more consistent.

Results
The main benefit was, of course, the fact that an out-of-date system had been replaced with a new, efficient one. The rapid implementation was, in itself, a gain because it reduced disruption to the business.

Avanade deployed specialist consultants in each area of the project. Because Avanade started with Microsoft Dynamics AX and then added their own components and add-on modules, the software was much more user-friendly than the package it replaced. Avanade involved end-users during the design and implementation to ensure user acceptance and a smooth switchover from the old system to the new one.

Thanks to consistent solutions management teams now get reports from all three business units in the same format - letting managers focus on making decisions rather than the details of accountancy. By deploying new ERP software in less than six months, Avanade has put their client on the fast track to increased business effectiveness.