Client Success Story

AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation Boosts Performance and Profitability with ERP Cloud Solution

Industry: Manufacturing

Solution: Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management

Introduction

Imagine running a business that creates cutting-edge technology but relies on an obsolete system to get the job done. That was the situation for AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation, a leading provider of microwave instrumentation products.

The company strives to provide innovative radio frequency (RF) and microwave solutions for applications like electromagnetic compatibility testing and scientific research. But like many manufacturers, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation struggled with an outdated enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that hindered innovation and undermined support.

Challenge

AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation operated on Dynamics AX 2009, an outdated ERP system that Microsoft no longer supports. This lack of support posed a significant security risk and threatened stability and compliance. The company also needed help with siloed data, limited visibility, and inefficient processes that hindered growth and innovation.

To meet customer and business needs, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation knew an upgrade was inevitable. They discussed minimally upgrading AX 2009 but determined it wasn’t feasible with all their customizations.

Happy with Microsoft technology, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation decided to upgrade to Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management, Microsoft’s latest cloud-based ERP solution.

Solution

AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation began exploring potential partners to implement Dynamics 365. They chose MCA Connect because we:

Understand manufacturing’s unique needs and challenges as we’ve spent over 20 years in the industry.
Enable companies to test their systems before the launch and identify any issues or gaps by conducting mock go-lives.
Ensure smooth communication and collaboration with US-based consultants.

Partnering with MCA Connect, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation implemented Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management. The company also leveraged Power BI, a data visualization and analytics tool that connects to Dynamics 365 and other sources.

We are very pleased with the outcome of our ERP upgrade. Throughout the project, we felt that MCA Connect was as invested as we were and did everything they could to make the project successful. Everything went according to plan, and the go-live went smoothly. It’s clear the MCA Connect team cares about our business and our goals, and we appreciate their partnership.

— John Landon, CPA, Manager Operational Accounting, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentationt

Results

Upgrading from Dynamics AX 2009 to Dynamics 365 empowered AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation to:

Improve efficiency and accuracy in cost analysis

AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation can now easily view the breakdown of costs for each product, including materials and overhead. In AX 2009, this task took hours, but in Dynamics 365, the same task takes only a few seconds. By saving hours on manual processes, the company can better optimize its production and pricing strategies.

Enhance customer service and cash flow management

In Dynamics AX 2009, AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation manually sent an average of 40 past-due notices every 30 days. By automating this process in Dynamics 365, the company not only saves about 16 hours per month but also better manages its cash flow, avoids bad debt, and provides better customer service.

Eliminate the security risk and compliance issues

AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation eliminated risks associated with an unsupported system and gained access to regular updates, enhancements, and support from Microsoft.

Remove data silos, improve productivity, and reduce costs

According to a Microsoft report, Dynamics 365 customers can expect to see a 40% reduction in report generation and data analysis costs, a 25% increase in employee productivity, and a 23% decrease in operational costs.

About MCA Connect

Through passion and deep industry expertise, MCA Connect® helps manufacturers succeed by unlocking innovation with actionable business insights. Our strategic solution and industry intelligence help manufacturers gain visibility, improve profitability, and achieve a competitive edge. Contact us today to learn how we can help solve your biggest manufacturing challenges.