Real-Time Warehousing with Business Central
This FMCG supplier designs, sources, and manages children’s products for the European and US markets, supporting sales, product development, and operations teams.
The business needed to move beyond Sage 50 Accounts and a separate warehousing system, improving performance, real-time visibility, stock control and scalability for international growth.
Qi migrated the business to Dynamics 365 Business Central Essentials with Qi JobTrack for barcode data collection. The result was real-time reporting, stronger lot and serial number control, improved warehouse efficiency and a scalable cloud ERP platform ready to support future expansion.
The Challenge
This Home Counties based business was using Sage 50 Accounts Professional alongside a separate warehousing system hosted on Azure. This setup led to intermittent performance issues and did not provide the necessary real-time, accurate information across the business. With plans to expand in Europe, the Senior Management team needed a central system accessible by non-UK subsidiaries. The company required a browser-based ERP solution with a strong focus on warehousing efficiencies.
Specific Requirements:
- Effective lot and serial numbering for a fast-moving pallet-based operation.
- Real-time support for First in First Out stock management and drop shipments.
- Multiple users working simultaneously on a pick with logically set up product locations.
- Comprehensive reporting, fixed assets, and clear pre-payment functionality for the Finance Team.
- Ability to handle complex and rapidly changing price lists.
The Solution
Business Central Essentials + Qi JobTrack for Bar Code Data Collection
Key Benefits:
Core Functionality of a Modern ERP
Robust financial management, supply chain operations, and project management capabilities.
Scalability and Flexibility
Cloud-based solution accommodating growth and evolving needs.
Seamless Integration
Enhanced productivity and collaboration through integration with Microsoft products like Office 365.
Automated Updates and Cloud Software
No need for manual upgrades, saving time and resources, and eliminating server hosting requirements.
Development and Compliance
A clear data audit trail ensuring high quality standards and compliance with trade and quality associations.
The Process
Demonstration and Proposal: Qi conducted detailed demonstrations and facilitated a customer visit focused on warehousing. Following this, a clear and transparent proposal was submitted.
Data Migration: Qi used their specialist toolkit, MigrateNow!, for full data migration from Sage 50 Accounts.
Customisation and Training: Business Central was tailored to the specific roles within the team, using custom cues and personalisation. Full training sessions ensured staff were well-prepared.
Go-Live and Support: After data validation and a final out-of-hours data migration, Business Central went live. Dedicated Qi support was provided during the transition.
Internal Project Management: An internal project manager coordinated with Qi, ensuring training and follow-ups were conducted effectively.
The Outcome
Enhanced Reporting
Real-time data is now available across the entire business, improving decision-making and operational efficiency.
Improved Efficiencies
The new system supports efficient lot and serial numbering, real-time inventory management, and comprehensive financial reporting.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
The cloud-based solution is scalable and flexible, positioning the customer for future growth and expansion without the limitations of legacy systems.