Obsolete and heterogeneous IT solutions made it essential for surface refiner WHW to replace its existing systems. In order to map all processes in a single solution, a decision was made to switch to the SAP ERP industry solution Sycor.Surface.
WHW is one of the most influential companies for corrosion protection in Europe. Its scope extends from zinc, zinc alloy and duplex processes to organic corrosion protection coatings. The owner-managed company, which was founded in 1937, has developed into one of Europe’s largest and most capable providers for the protective coating of mass production articles.
WHW began to reorganize its ERP landscape in order to master future challenges more effectively. While WHW had separate IT programs in its departments, which were functioning very well to date, there were some problems with the interplay between individual systems, meaning the IT landscape was not fit for the future. A comprehensive software selection process revealed that SAP ERP was able to cover all requirements and project objectives. WHW chose Sycor and its SAP industry solution Sycor.Surface, for special surface engineering requirements. “Implementing an ERP system was important to us in order to map all business processes in one clear structure. We were using up to 40 software programs before we introduced Sycor.Surface. The cost of keeping all systems current was correspondingly high. The smooth exchange of data represented an ongoing challenge. We were also looking for a solution tailored specifically to the needs of surface refiners,” says Dr. Martin Kurpjoweit, CEO of WHW.
The project objective was to replace the isolated software solutions currently in use by establishing a fully integrated system – from purchasing to financial accounting. “We wanted software that would help our company take a step forward. And it had to be easy to use. Sycor.Surface proved to be the right choice,” explains Patrick Schnapp, IT Manager at WHW.
“Our solution maps all processes, from procurement and customer-specific development right through to complex supplier processes. Clients are able to maintain a clear overview of their business at all times thanks to freely customizable reports, as well as integrated financial accounting and controlling functions,” is how Roland Masurat, Sycor Project Manager, describes the benefits of the industry solution. “With this full-fledged ERP system, WHW is able to coordinate and plan its logistics processes across all departments and reliably control its production processes.”
WHW's sales business processes were quickly implemented in the SAP standard. However, a custom SAP solution had to be prepared for the production and warehousing processes. A new warehouse with a stacker control system and a new production system were implemented at Hillebrand Chemicals, a subsidiary, in parallel to introducing the SAP solution. An interface to an external EDI system (Seeburger BIS) was integrated as part of the project as well. The experienced Sycor team not only provided needed support, but simultaneously adapted the software to WHW's company-specific requirements. “With Sycor, we had a competent and reliable partner by our side. Their implementation of the project was highly professional. We are very satisfied with the result and now have a future-ready system that lets us profit from new developments quickly and securely, and thereby continue to make better use of our IT system,” emphasizes Dr. Martin Kurpjoweit.