Multi-Site ERP Implementation: CEDO.

Solution.

With our strong expertise in multi-site ERP rollouts, IFS systems, and complex digital transformation projects, Cedo partnered with Optimum to get this project back on track.

We began by stepping back from the implementation to clearly define the “To-Be” state Cedo aimed to achieve. This enabled us to focus on refining processes and identifying gaps in the IFS solution through detailed scenario definitions. The analysis revealed the need for a specialised supply chain planning system better suited to their advanced planning requirements than IFS alone. Consequently, we initiated a separate project to implement the Optimity Supply Chain Management system alongside IFS. We project managed this implementation and provided our supply chain process and solution expertise to ensure the business outcomes were realised.

Tailored Project Planning and Resource Deployment

Optimum PPS developed a comprehensive implementation and resource plan. Working alongside both Cedo’s internal team and system supplier teams, we implemented three key project roles to ensure smooth execution and delivery:  

ERP Project Manager/Solution Manager:

• Provided strategic leadership, managing overall project scope, timelines, and milestones to keep the ERP implementation on track and aligned with business goals.
• Oversaw solution design and development, ensuring that people, processes and systems were fully integrated and aligned
• Acted as the central liaison between the IFS team and internal stakeholders, facilitating clear, consistent communication to align expectations and resolve issues promptly.
• Delivered a proactive risk management strategy, identifying potential project challenges early and implementing mitigation plans to prevent disruptions.
• Designed a robust change management plan to guide the organisation through transformation, focusing on user adoption, training, and sustained engagement.

Supply Chain Project Manager/Solution Manager:

• Directed the integration of Optimity with IFS, ensuring the planning solution delivered advanced capabilities that streamlined production scheduling and supply chain forecasting.
• Applied expert knowledge to align the supply chain management system with Cedo’s specific operational requirements, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness.

Data Migration & Integration Manager:

• Created a detailed roadmap for data migration and system integration, ensuring a clear pathway from legacy systems to the new ERP platform.
• Mapped out existing data structures, identified inconsistencies, and developed a structured approach for cleaning and transforming data for optimal use in IFS.
• Built integration tools that facilitated smooth data flow between IFS and Optimity, enabling real-time data updates and enhanced decision-making.
• Conducted scenario-based testing to validate data accuracy and system reliability, addressing any issues prior to go-live.
• Provided comprehensive technical mentoring to upskill internal staff, building long-term capability for managing future data migrations and system integrations.

Strategic Implementation Approach for Stability and Scalability

We recommended a structured, phased rollout to reduce risk and ensure a smooth transition to the new systems:

• Phased Go-Live: Prioritised core ERP functionality first, focusing on achieving transactional stability before deploying more advanced features, ensuring a controlled and manageable implementation.
• Complexity First: Tackled Germany’s rollout initially, the most complex implementation, to create a scalable, refined process that accelerated subsequent rollouts, including halving the go-live time for France.

Building Internal Expertise

Our approach was designed to transfer knowledge and build confidence within Cedo’s team. This involved:

• Comprehensive Training: Delivered hands-on workshops tailored to user roles, empowering team members to confidently navigate the ERP system and manage processes independently.
• Knowledge Transfer: Created detailed documentation and offered personalised mentoring to embed deep understanding and facilitate independent future rollouts.
• Fostering Engagement: Encouraged proactive participation, instilling a sense of ownership among the internal project team to drive continuous improvement and innovation.

Minimising Disruption to Business Operations

To ensure business continuity and protect customer service levels:

• Rigorous Data Migration Testing: Conducted multiple rounds of error-free test migrations to validate data integrity and prevent operational disruptions during the final cutover.
• Collaboration Framework: Established clear guidelines for cross-time-zone collaboration, promoting effective communication and swift issue resolution to keep the project on schedule.