MRP and Planning System Implementation Support Case Study

Company Overview:  

 A mid-sized consumer goods distribution company based in the United States, supplying products to retailers. 

Situation / Problem Statement:  

Since its founding, the company operated without an effective ERP system, relying instead on spreadsheets that lacked data governance controls. This led to risks of inconsistency, typos, and employee-specific processes. As they expanded, they recognized the need for a robust ERP system to streamline operations and improve data accuracy. However, they lacked in-house ERP expertise and sought an experienced partner to support successful ERP implementation and train their team. The company selected Waypost Advisors to assist with implementing their MRP, purchase order placement & payment, and advanced planning system. 

Actions / Activities 

The Waypost team began work after the ERP system was selected and initial onboarding was complete, collaborating with a separate system integration partner to achieve company goals. The focus was dedicated to process mapping, continuous improvement, co-designing effective tools, and data accuracy.  Adding our Advisor alleviated the workload on the supply chain team, allowing them to concentrate on core responsibilities.   

Waypost Advisors Objectives 

• Guide the team through ERP implementation steps and set clear expectations. 

• Document existing processes, such as material replenishment planning (MRP), purchase order management, and advanced planning (forecasting, optimal stocking, and ordering). 

• Facilitate process alignment, improvements, and training. 

• Cleanse data and recommend optimal settings for efficient system use. 

• Translate business requirements and outcomes for the System Integrator (SI) to ensure effective ERP design and functionality. 

• Collaborate cross-functionally to design custom ERP configurations. 

• Conduct data cleanliness analysis and reporting. 

• Assist in creating testing scripts, perform user acceptance testing, log improvements, and support post-go-live operations. 

• Provide additional system training for the supply chain team. 

• Project management for supply chain activities, ensuring adherence to project timelines and goals. 

Waypost documented processes and created one-point lessons to assist with future training and onboarding. By managing the heavy-lift of implementation through post-go-live, Waypost helped the supply chain team transition smoothly until the ERP system became a seamless part of daily operations. 

Conclusion 

Adding an experienced ERP deployment partner improved the ERP implementation process and significantly reduced team stress, allowing the company to fully utilize their ERP system post-go-live without time-consuming workarounds. 

At Waypost Advisors, we specialize in supporting companies looking to enhance supply chain management and ERP utilization. Our team brings industry expertise to optimize costs, minimize inventory, and empower teams. With our innovative, best-fit practices, we help companies achieve sustainable results. Partner with us to streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and boost customer satisfaction. Contact Waypost Advisors today to begin your roadmap to supply chain success.