Modernisation and overhaul of the system landscape were the motivation for the Masterflex Group, listed developer and manufacturer of connection and hose systems, to part ways with their old ERP solution after 10 years. BE-terna won out with its close-to-standard Microsoft Dynamics 365 solution and additional features and went live in January 2019 according to schedule and within the planned budget.
Best practice in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation
The Dynamics 365 rollout involved clearly stated objectives, outstanding project organisation and straightforward collaboration. A model example of a close-to-standard ERP project.
Fewer special solutions, closer to the standard
One important factor in the decision for the Dynamics 365 solution was implementation close to the Microsoft standard and the desire to thus reduce individual programming.
Thomas Kämpf, Head of Group Financial Control and M&A at Masterflex and project manager for the ERP rollout commented:
While additional programming couldn’t entirely be avoided, we were able to achieve our goal. The new programming approach using extensions, in particular, should solve the usual problems with adjustments.
Future-proof system for the entire group
With Microsoft Dynamics 365 from BE-terna, the company group has been able to access a homogeneous system landscape in the cloud since January 2019.
Implementation close to the Microsoft standard made it possible to do without individual programming in most cases, correct or cleanse master data and streamline and optimise existing processes. Comprehensively mapping all existing business processes in one system has helped to reduce “clutter”.
On time and on budget
The go-live thus took place after only 12 months at the main site in Gelsenkirchen, on schedule and within the specified budget. The rollout to the other subsidiaries operating worldwide will now gradually follow. Clearly defined goals as well as an honest and open communication with our partners at BE-terna enabled an uncomplicated and quick implementation during the introduction of our new ERP system.
New features in the course of Dynamics 365 implementation
Recycling of “data clutter” and less paper
Cleansing and correcting old data and transferring it to new structures and logics is a significant part of each ERP implementation project. For Masterflex, a well-organised implementation plan and the data migration performed single-handedly were essential to the project’s success. But it was not only possible to significantly reduce large data volumes with the new business software; a large number of individually managed Excel lists was also replaced by mapping processes in the system. At Masterflex this affected communication between warehouse and logistics, for example, which is now largely paperless. Communication with the logistics service providers can now also be further automated.
Connections to a digital future
The first Power BI elements were integrated into the new ERP solution during the implementation phase. Masterflex is planning to extend this further. Greater use will be made of SharePoint, Microsoft Flow and PowerApps, above all, so BE-terna’s new business software can also be used with all its advantages for a digital future.
Another goal that could be accomplished by introducing BE-terna’s new ERP at Masterflex was the migration to the cloud, to remain upgradable and well-equipped for future technology issues. It was possible to effectively implement the first version upgrades even during the project.
After the smooth go-live in January 2019, a further update to the newer version is already planned.
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Agile collaboration for the desired project outcomes
Project method eagle pm
The project method developed by BE-terna, eagle pm, combines various agile approaches with decades of experience in ERP implementation and was used for Masterflex. After precise joint planning of the project duration, the key users were intensively involved in the solution design from the outset. Masterflex could thus keep track of both the project progress and user acceptance. Using eagle pm in combination with the outstanding project organisation on the part of Masterflex made it possible to fulfil all work packages in the planned four releases and go live as arranged.
Project results
- Within budget and timeframe
- Correction and cleansing of master data
- Unifying and streamlining processes
- Reduction of individual programming
- Less paper
- Cloud migration
Business advantages
- Homogeneous system landscape
- Process optimisation
- Upgradable solution
- Improved communication between warehouse and logistics
About Masterflex Group
The Masterflex Group is a listed specialist in developing and manufacturing sophisticated connection and hose systems for diverse applications in almost all industries. Six specialists are combined in the Masterflex Group as brand companies for a wide range of connection requirements, represented almost worldwide. As a leader in technology and innovation, the Masterflex Group offers its worldwide customers tailor-made connection solutions. It focuses on “German engineering”, internationalisation, innovation and Industrie 4.0.
