Introduction
Windoware Pty Ltd, one of Australia’s largest suppliers of custom blinds and furnishings, faced the pressing need to modernize its legacy ERP system. As a key supplier to Bunnings and over 500 retailers, the company’s existing system, SWISH, had been running on a 15+ year-old custom-built Microsoft Access database. Despite its reliability over the years, it struggled to keep up with modern demands, particularly in managing made-to-order products and ensuring seamless operations with partners like Bunnings.
SynergyLabs was entrusted with the critical task of developing a modern ERP solution—one that would ensure compatibility with existing processes, integrate seamlessly with external systems, and enable Windoware to scale its business operations.
Key Challenges
Legacy System Limitations:
The existing ERP, SWISH, was outdated and based on Microsoft Access.
Manual processes such as data entry from scanned forms and email pipelines consumed significant time and resources.
Made-to-Order Product Complexity:
Products required intricate customization, including fabric selection, sizes, and additional options.
The ERP needed to automatically generate accurate bills of materials, pricing, production sheets, and packing slips.
EDI Compatibility:
Maintaining seamless electronic data interchange (EDI) with major partners like Bunnings was critical.
Data Integrity:
Ensuring synchronization between the old and new systems without data loss or operational disruption.
The SynergyLabs Solution
Gradual Development and Migration Strategy
SynergyLabs proposed a phased approach to ensure operational continuity:
Database Migration to the Cloud:
Migrated the existing Access database to a Microsoft SQL Server deployed on the cloud.
Ensured data integrity and real-time availability.
Compatibility Maintenance:
Developed a system where the old and new ERP systems could operate concurrently, ensuring orders were visible across both systems during the transition.
Custom ERP Development:
Created modules for order capture, production planning, inventory management, and shipping.
Designed a custom product order page capable of handling complex configurations, generating bills of material, pricing, and production sheets.
Enhanced Warehouse Operations:
Built a picker application for warehouse staff to streamline order picking processes.
Customer Portal for Order Entry:
Designed a portal enabling customers to enter orders directly, reducing reliance on manual data entry.
Advanced Analytics:
Developed dashboards to track inbound orders, customer activity, production line utilization, and shipping delays.
Outcomes
Operational Efficiency
80% of Orders Entered by Customers: Customers now use the online portal for order entry, significantly reducing workload on support teams.
Streamlined Production Planning: Automated production planning with daily capacity assessments improved manufacturing efficiency.
Real-Time Visibility: Instant access to order statuses reduced customer support issues.
Digitized Processes: Eliminated paperwork across operations, including order forms, production sheets, and packing slips.
Cost Savings
Reduced Inventory Costs: Real-time updates on production and order statuses allowed better inventory management.
Improved Partner Integration
EDI Support: Ensured uninterrupted data exchange with Bunnings and other retail partners.
Why Windoware ERP System Transformation Matters
The Windoware ERP System Transformation demonstrates the value of modernizing legacy systems for businesses with complex, made-to-order processes. By integrating cutting-edge technology with existing workflows, Windoware achieved:
Enhanced operational efficiency.
Significant cost reductions.
Improved customer experience.
Scalability to handle future growth.
Conclusion
Windoware’s $50+ million AUD business was at a critical juncture, requiring modernization to remain competitive in the market. SynergyLabs delivered a seamless migration and modernization strategy, transforming the company’s operations while preserving its legacy processes.
With this new ERP solution, Windoware is now well-equipped to handle growing demand, integrate seamlessly with partners, and deliver unparalleled service to its customers. For businesses looking to future-proof their operations, this case study underscores the importance of partnering with a trusted technology provider to navigate complex digital transformations.
תגובות