Introduction:

A food manufacturing company based in Texas that supplies frozen foods to various locations including gas stations faced a pressing challenge. Their current ERP system, augmented by a separate AppSheet application, was not meeting their evolving business needs. The primary shortfall was in material requirements planning (MRP), a critical aspect for their operations.

The Problem:

Despite the additional functionalities provided by the AppSheet app, the ERP system's limitations were becoming increasingly apparent. The most glaring issue was the inadequacy in handling MRP, which is vital for managing inventory and production schedules. This shortcoming was leading to inefficiencies and potential revenue losses, making it a significant concern for the company's leadership.

Initial Approach:

The CEO initially contemplated a radical solution: rebuilding the entire ERP system from scratch. This approach, while comprehensive, promised to be expensive, time-consuming, and fraught with risks associated withbig-scale IT projects. This is the intent with which they approached Raia Technologies.

The Turning Point:

Upon deeper engagement, it became evident that the core issue was not the entire ERP system but the lack of a comprehensive view of crucial data. The company needed a solution that could integrate and visualize data across their existing systems, specifically tailored for MRP.

Solution:

Our proposal was a shift from the traditional approach: instead of an overhaul, we suggested developing a micro app. This app was designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing ERP and AppSheet app, creating a unified, efficient dashboard for MRP. This targeted solution was not only drastically more economical but also faster to implement and tailor-made for the company's immediate needs.

Results and Benefits:

Implementing the micro app led to a direct cost saving of an estimated $125,000, a figure significantly lower than what a full ERP upgrade would have entailed. Beyond monetary savings, the micro app enhanced operational efficiency, improved decision-making with real-time data visualization, and minimized disruption to the company's daily operations.

Future Implications:

This solution also strategically positioned the company for future technology advancements. While an ERP upgrade might still be in the pipeline, the micro app serves as a foundation, reducing the trial and error typically associated with such major upgrades. Additionally, the app's infrastructure and components are designed to be adaptable for future projects, like the development of a client portal.

Conclusion:

This case study highlights the importance of a targeted, ROI-focused approach in technology solutions. By understanding the specific needsand choosing a solution that offered the highest ROI, the company not only saved a substantial amount, but also gained an asset that would facilitate future tech developments. It's a powerful example of how custom technology solutions can provide immediate benefits while setting the stage for future growth.