Client Success Story
Industrial Manufacturer Simplifies Complex Systems and Processes, Builds a Stronger Global Supply Chain
Industry: Manufacturing
Solution: Dynamics 365 and Power Platform + MCA Connect Connected Blueprint™, WarrantyCONNECT™, and modern data platform
Introduction
Simplifying complexities and unlocking innovation is every manufacturer’s goal, but outdated systems and processes often get in the way. Such was the case for one Fortune 200 multi-industrial manufacturer.
With 82 divisions in 52 countries, the manufacturer’s products touch everything from bridges and wind turbines to deep-sea oil rigs and aerospace technology. However, disparate systems and disconnected processes within divisions undermined the company’s mission of providing excellence through innovation.
Challenge
One of the global manufacturer’s divisions leads the welding industry by building advanced, solution-focused products. This division struggled with multiple systems, convoluted processes, and a lack of alignment with other business units. The result was a rigid and overly complex supply chain with limited visibility into manufacturing operations, risks, and performance. On top of that, they struggled to drive adoption of, and gain expected value from, their customer relationship management (CRM) software.
Solution
To help the welding division gain quick wins while simplifying complexities, our team launched a three-phase business transformation project. Today known as Connected Blueprint™, these quick-hit strategy engagements help companies drive business outcomes with a cross-solution approach.
Phase 1
The division’s most immediate problem was the impending expiration of their CRM software. They wanted better functionality but weren’t sure how to get it. Despite an inflexible timeframe of just two months, we successfully replaced the company’s third-party CRM with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales, unlocking new value and capabilities.
Phase 2
To provide one reliable source of data, we integrated our modern data platform, then known as DataCONNECT™. To streamline the divisions’ process workflows for more than 150 monthly claims, we implemented our registration and claims solution, WarrantyCONNECT™. Our Modern Platform Management team supported the implementations from start to finish and continues to provide ongoing support.
Though the pandemic disrupted original go-live plans, we quickly ramped the company up on Microsoft Teams, transitioning to a virtual project and going live without further delays. We also overcame multiple changes in resources and successfully managed several independent software vendors involved during the project.
Phase 3
To optimize the last mile of the manufacturer’s value chain, we brought another four divisions online. To help the company save additional time and resources, we also developed a Power App solution that automated sales order entries.
Results
Through the multi-phase project, the global manufacturer:
Built a stronger global chain with a consolidated modern manufacturing platform, streamlined processes, and real-time visibility.
Automated critical workflows to increase efficiency of sales order and warranty claims processes.
Drove better business decision-making with real-time data and dashboard visualization
Optimized customer experiences while preserving each division’s unique qualities
Thanks to our uniquely integrated strategy, implementation, and management methodologies, the manufacturer’s welding division seamlessly transitioned from one project phase to the next.
From strategy and implementation to manufacturing intelligence and managed services, the company leveraged MCA Connect’s full-service portfolio to simplify the way they do business.
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.
