KwaZulu-Natal-based Gold Circle Racing and Gaming Group has implemented leading enterprise business solution SAP R/3 for more accurate and rapid determination of results from its numerous profit centres.
The Group was formed to consolidate the trading activities of three race tracks - the Durban Turf Club, Clairwood Turf Club and Pietermaritzburg Turf Club - as well as two training establishments in Summerveld and Ashburton in the Natal Midlands, which are operated under three additional companies.
"In addition, the betting arm of the Group falls under TAB KwaZulu-Natal, and operates over 150 of its own wagering outlets," says Stuart Gardner, Gold Circle financial accounts manager. "Plus, Gold Circle provides computer power to Operation Jumpstart, which operates Natal Lotto through approximately another 170 outlets."
Gold Circle's decision to select the SAP solution, using SAP's own consultants for the implementation, was based on the need for access to its wagering system, as an average of 1 500 postings per day are automated. It also meant the company could utilise its existing RM1000 Unix-based system and was not required to purchase additional hardware. "By implementing the SAP solution, we ensured Year 2000 compliance," he explains.
Gold Circle's implementation began in earnest Mid-May last year (1999) and went live within two and a half months on 1 August. Says Gardner: "Our SAP project went live on time and, at this point, is expected to be within the overall budget."
According to Gardner, one of the main advantages of the new system is the opportunity for growth. "This is critical for Gold Circle, specifically in light of a potential merger with Western Cape Racing. A further future benefit is we can utilise additional R/3 modules such as human resources and materials management, without any compatibility issues."
Chris Holden, KZN regional manager at SAP Southern Africa believes the Gold Circle implementation is a major coup for SAP SA Consulting as the sales process was extremely competitive. "This project has allowed SAP SA Consulting to demonstrate its ability to understand, incorporate and adapt to the customer's changing business requirements. The Gold Circle implementation enhanced our credibility and highlighted our previous experience to enable an effective solution.
Says Holden: "The final analysis of the project is more than satisfactory, both from a client and consulting perspective. Together we have achieved the objectives and results we set out to accomplish in a very short timeframe, and this project has set the platform for incorporating Gold Circle's expanding business requirements utilising SAP R/3."
Says Gold Circle CEO, Ken McArthur: "There was a great team effort in the installation, and we look forward to the benefits SAP will bring to the company."
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