Case Studies > SYSPRO Case Study KWALU

SYSPRO Case Study KWALU

Company Size

200-1,000

Region

America

Country

United States

Product

SYSPRO Financials
SYSPRO e.net Solutions
SYSPRO CRM
SQL Manager
e.net Manager

Tech Stack

Microsoft Platform
SQL 2000
Unix Platform
Bar Coding
Email Integration

Implementation Scale

Enterprise-wide Deployment

Impact Metrics

Cost Savings
Customer Satisfaction
Digital Expertise
Productivity Improvements

Technology Category

Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Exchange & Integration
Functional Applications - Enterprise Resource Planning Systems (ERP)

Applicable Functions

Business Operation
Quality Assurance
Warehouse & Inventory Management

Use Cases

Inventory Management
Predictive Maintenance
Process Control & Optimization
Supply Chain Visibility

Services

Software Design & Engineering Services
System Integration
Training

About The Customer

Kwalu, based in Ridgeland, South Carolina, custom manufactures highly durable furniture for hospitals, schools, hotels, and numerous other business entities. Founded in 1984, the company’s modular product line enables customers to mix and match different styles of frames with various choices of upholstery to create uniquely customized designs that are as beautiful as they are durable. Kwalu also offers coordinating wainscot, handrails, corner and wall guards, and wall coverings to complete the look each client wants to achieve. Kwalu furniture and associated products use a processed material that captures the beauty of wood but is far more durable. The patented process, developed by Kwalu, involves the production of high-impact resistant polymers that mimic wood grain. The graining appears throughout the product, enabling the sanding of scuffs, scratches, and other damages without the need to re-stain or re-finish the surface. Kwalu prides itself on the fact that the modularity of its products makes the company a single source for designers and facilities. Kwalu also believes the durability of its products is unmatched in the furniture industry and commensurately offers a 10-year warranty covering both finish and construction. Kwalu’s roster of customers numbers well over 10,000. The company’s orders are generated both nationally and internationally from a network of dealers, independent representatives, and distributors.

The Challenge

When MIS Manager Erwin Bartsch joined Kwalu some seven years ago, he ‘inherited’ the currently implemented software, SYSPRO, running on a Unix platform. Rather than seek a new software solution, Bartsch decided to work with SYSPRO to determine whether there was a need to replace the system. Kwalu faced unique requirements, a high degree of customization, and exponential growth. The company needed a solution that could handle these challenges effectively.

The Solution

The more Bartsch worked with the solution, the more he felt it to be ideal for Kwalu. Today, 24 concurrent users work with SYSPRO running on a Microsoft platform on top of SQL 2000. The company’s manufacturing plant and two warehouses tie into the corporate office computer through a bonded T1 connection. Bartsch believes there is no reason to switch from SYSPRO. “SYSPRO continues to be an innovator in software development and continually develops its product to keep pace with technological advances,” he says. “SYSPRO keeps up with the demands of our business.” He also feels this assessment is validated by the number of awards SYSPRO continues to win. Bartsch says SYSPRO accommodates the company’s unique requirements. He likes the adaptability of the product, the add-on modules, bar coding, SQL, and email integration. He also appreciates the ability to customize the software through SYSPRO e.net Solutions and is anticipating using it to automate information sent to customers regarding the status of their orders, delivery dates, billings, and other similar data.

Operational Impact

SYSPRO has helped to improve efficiency at Kwalu. “SYSPRO is a single integrated solution that is easy to learn and use,” Bartsch says.
SYSPRO e.net solutions enabled Kwalu to write its own proprietary bar code program that integrates directly into SYSPRO MRP, allowing real-time inventory levels, automatic ‘kitting,’ and review of product progress along the manufacture/assembly line.
Kwalu has reduced excess stock inventories and lowered operating costs. These savings have enabled the company to gain new business by adopting a more competitive pricing structure.
Real-time tracking determines if an order is on schedule, averting potential delays and eliminating partial or split shipments, resulting in substantially reduced shipping costs and increased customer satisfaction.
SYSPRO permits a more effective use of personnel. Without the automation provided by the software, it would take 2-3 full-time employees to manually enter data.

Quantitative Benefit