Ilford Imaging, a world leader in the field of photographic and digital imaging, is implementing System Software Associates` core product BPCS Client/Server version 6.0.04 as an integral part of its strategy to unite its global operations.
In addition to uniting its operations in 12 countries, SSA`s ERP system`s rapid implementation will ensure that Ilford Imaging is Year 2000-compliant.
Operations in the UK, the US, Switzerland, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, France, Italy, Australia and Canada perform different functions and depend on IT systems which until now have been from diverse sources. These functions range from the manufacture of chemical raw materials through the coating and finishing of film and paper for imaging applications to the customisation of advanced digital printer and photographic technology. BPCS Client/Server will enable the Ilford Imaging Group to unify its worldwide business operations under one central database at its corporate headquarters in Cheshire, UK.
Ilford required an ERP solution that could unify its IT systems and prepare it for the Year 2000. Ian Parsonage, worldwide systems project manager of Ilford`s global project, says: "Around the world, Ilford Imaging sells 6 500 products to over 15 000 customers. It is our mission to be one of the world leaders in imaging. To maintain our competitive advantage, we needed a solution that could integrate all our business processes rapidly and with little modification."
"We are committed to BPCS, because it offers us a solid foundation for our business development, we expect to see a return on investment within 19 months," added Parsonage.
In a strategic move, the Ilford Imaging US business has replaced its existing ERP financials and has implemented SSA`s Configurable Enterprise Accounting (CEA) solution. Some key factors in this decision were the flexibility and configurability and the desire to achieve a rapid implementation. Michael Williams, Ilford US project leader, says: "In fact, we started the project in early March 1998, had a model database in less than a month and the whole system went live, on schedule, in less than four months."
The implementation of BPCS Client/Server is under way in the UK and Switzerland and will go live at the end of 1998. Additionally, BPCS Client/Server will be rolled out across Europe, North America and Australia during the first half of 1999.
The investment will include an upgrade to BPCS 6.0.04 as well as an installation of almost all BPCS modules from supply chain to financial and manufacturing to sales and distribution. SSA`s technology enables Ilford Imaging to adopt best-of-breed applications such as forecasting tools and document management systems, which can be fully integrated into core BPCS.
Derek Nickless, engagement manager of SSA, concludes: "We have developed a very strong relationship with Ilford Imaging, which has enabled us to develop a totally tailored customer centric solution. The ERP market is moving towards a more flexible, dynamic solution, which can be implemented rapidly and easily at the most cost effective price for the customer."
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