elero & BE-terna: Automation specialist implements new ERP system with BE-terna

Trust in BE-terna’s know-how and experience

The manufacturer of automation and control solutions for privacy and sun protection systems had already migrated the areas of Finance and Controlling to Dynamics 365 with the support of a different system integrator back in 2019. Steffen Brenner, Head of IT (elero GmbH) recalls,

Once the implementation phase of the finance modules was complete, I felt that we needed to find a new partner to take the next step with regarding the areas of Production, Warehousing, Purchasing etc. And specifically, a partner with more extensive experience in the area of product configuration.

During the selection process in 2020, BE-terna impressed with its comprehensive expertise in implementing ERP projects in discrete manufacturing and especially with its know-how and experience in the field of metal fabrication. The fact that the team had already completed similar implementation projects in terms of company size and the handling of different production methods also spoke in BE-terna’s favour.

When it came down to it, BE-terna simply presented the better proposal with the most relevant references. But the team’s overall approach also impressed us and we were confident from the outset that BE-terna possessed the experience and know-how needed to successfully implement our project,

explains Enzo Viola, CEO of elero GmbH.

Implementation during the pandemic

The lessons learned from the pandemic are manifold and have had a long-term impact. Most importantly, the Covid-19 experience has shown that remotely conducted workshops are definitely viable and can be used effectively.

I would never have thought that remote working would be such a matter of course for us during the ERP implementation! I don't think we would want to do it any differently now; it has worked so well and the results are positive across the board,

 concludes Enzo Viola.

Both sides have benefited from increased efficiency as decision-making processes have become quicker and less bureaucratic, and an advisor is just a phone call or chat message away. Nobody is forced to wait for the next scheduled in-person meeting to discuss pressing issues. However, it remains undisputed that direct contact between both parties is indispensable and of great value when it comes to making the digitalisation project a success.

There is no denying that an implementation project can be a lengthy undertaking that challenges employees, management, and partners in equal measure. In spite of the pandemic, the entire elero team shone with drive and motivation during the first phase of the digitalisation project, positively surprising Managing Director Enzo Viola,

I’m proud that our employees approached the project with openness and motivation from day one. The cooperation and communication between our IT team and BE-terna is excellent. I’m in no doubt that this will continue to be the case until our Go-live in March 2022.

About elero:

Roller shutters without the need for manual operation – this was the simple concept that inspired elero’s launch in 1964. The company has been one of the world's largest manufacturers of drive and control technology for roller shutters, venetian blinds, awnings and roller doors for more than 50 years. As a global player, elero sets standards in the field of intelligent, sustainable building automation. Since 2011, the company has been the Nice Group’s premium brand for automation solutions in the privacy and sun protection system sector. Elero employs a total of more than 400 people at its two German locations in Schlierbach and Pößneck and has representative offices around the world.