Size
$5M – $10M
Situation
The client was using a customized, on-premise version of SAGE MAS 200 – a mid-market accounting system. This system was integrated with a proprietary database that they sold subscriptions to. Due to heavy customization, the accounting system had been unable to keep up with the updates to the software and consequently, had developed several technical glitches over time.
Not only did the client want to replace the accounting system, but they also wanted to move from their existing CRM (Customer Relationship Management software) to SalesForce, and integrate it with the new accounting system and their proprietary database. In addition to solving current issues, the client wanted to start offering pay-per-use services to self-service customers and accept real-time payments from them.
Due to the complex integrations and simultaneous implementations of both – accounting and CRM systems, the project had several reversals before GUILD was engaged to manage the project.
Approach
GUILD put all technical work on hold to first get buy-in from all stakeholders on the new process workflow. We spoke to the process owners to arrive at the AS-IS and TO-BE process views (with automated and manual steps). These were then presented to the entire team and we facilitated a rich discussion on what changes must happen.
Once the TO-BE process was agreed, we worked with the client’s in-house technology architect to create the visual representation of the technology stack. Due to the complexity of the project, the TO-BE map and the technology stack had Phase 1 and Phase 2 versions.
Once Phase 1 scope was final, we provided the technical team with the business requirements and limited our activities to advisory work.
Results
The buy-in for process changes and the phasing of the implementation provided the much-needed alignment for the technical team to break the stakeholder logjam.
The documents and diagrams created by GUILD served as business requirements for the technical implementation team.
We have anonymized some information to retain clients’ confidentiality. The results are real and we will be happy to talk to you about our past work. Email us at [email protected] or call (808) 729-5850.