Best practice Wemhöner Surface Technologies GmbH & Co. KG

‍

The challenge

But despite innovative strength in production, C-parts procurement was still characterized by manual processes and a lack of integration just a few years ago. Until then, the degree of digitization in this area was rather low. Traditional emails and paper-based order requirements dominated day-to-day business — with correspondingly long processing times and high administrative costs. With the clear goal of increasing transparency, efficiency and speed, Wemhöner launched a comprehensive digitization project.

The challenges were clear: Eliminate media breaks, shorten processing times and collaboration between users, accounting, incoming goods, IT and controlling improve. With the decision to redesign the entire procurement process using the simple system e-procurement platform and a direct ERP integration Wemhöner laid the foundation for a comprehensive transformation.

Simple system proved to be an important partner that not only provided the technological platform, but also significantly supported the implementation with extensive process and project experience. Particular attention was paid to involving all parties involved. Internal stakeholders were actively involved in the change process early on — a measure that proved decisive for the high level of acceptance of the new solution. Suppliers also supported the change, by adapting quickly to the new platform.

Technical challenges were solved efficiently through close cooperation with the simple system support team.

‍

Key success factors of the project

• Faster turnaround times: Order processing times dropped from an average of six to seven working days to just one to two working days.
• Process cost savings: Benchmark analyses enabled cost savings of up to 30 percent in individual areas.
• Holistic view of processes: Not only purchasing, but also accounting, goods receipt, IT and controlling were involved at an early stage. As a result, interfaces and follow-up processes could be seamlessly integrated.
• ERP integration as a key: The direct connection of the B Procurement Platform to the ERP system laid the basis for continuous, automated processes — from ordering to receipt of goods to invoice verification.
• Employee-oriented implementation: Acceptance was built up in a targeted manner by clearly communicating benefits and actively involving all users in the implementation.
• Suppliers as partners: The quick willingness of suppliers to join the new platform proved to be an important success factor.
• Full transparency of processes: The status of an order can now be viewed at any time, and approvals can even be processed on the go via smartphone.

Particularly remarkable: Employee satisfaction also benefited from digitization. Thanks to the new tools and simplified processes, all departments involved report a significant reduction in work and greater efficiency in day-to-day business.

The acceptance and success of the project show that digitization is successful when all parties involved are involved and processes are thought through consistently. With simple system, we have found a partner who understood our requirements and implemented them together with us.

Ralf Seipt
_{Head of Purchasing/Materials Management}

‍

The Wemhöner Surface Technologies that make this year celebrates its 100th anniversary, has taken a significant step towards the future by digitizing its C-parts procurement.

The results speak for themselves: reduced processing times, increased efficiency, reduced costs and satisfied employees. At the same time, the project shows that digitization in purchasing is not an end in itself — but a strategic tool for ensuring a company's competitiveness in the long term.

Anyone who is open to change, thinks processes holistically and consistently focuses on integration will also successfully shape the next steps of digital transformation.