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A Conversation with Jay Baker...
Technology Category
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Exchange & Integration
Applicable Industries
- Automotive
- Chemicals
- Pharmaceuticals
Applicable Functions
- Discrete Manufacturing
Use Cases
- Inventory Management
- Supply Chain Visibility
Services
- System Integration
- Training
The Challenge
Superior Oil Company, a distributor, manufacturer and waste recycler, was facing challenges with its inventory and customer data management across its multiple locations. The company was unable to view inventory or customer data from other locations, leading to constant calls to gather this information. Additionally, the company was using 9 different databases for each of its locations, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in data management. The company was also facing issues with its financial reporting, taking up to 3 weeks to get financials with their previous system. They were also doing manual double entries for all of their accounting.
About The Customer
Superior Oil Company is a leading provider of chemical products in the Midwest. As an independent chemical distributor, Superior provides industrial solvents and chemicals, water-based cleaners, heat exchange fluids and fiberglass composites to a diverse range of industries. The company was established in 1932 and has 11 locations in North America, with its headquarters in Indianapolis, IN. The industries served by Superior include Adhesives, Automotive, Chemicals, Fiberglass Reinforced Plastics, Foundry, I & I Compounders, Metal Fabricating, Painting & Coatings, Pharmaceutical, and Printing.
The Solution
Superior Oil Company chose to implement Chempax, a software solution built specifically for the chemical industry. The software's customer service module, with its connection into manufacturing, purchasing and inventory control, was particularly impressive. With Chempax, Superior was able to consolidate its 9 databases into one standardized database for all locations. This change significantly improved the company's customer service, inventory and manufacturing capabilities. The accounting function in Chempax allowed the company to get financial information within days at the end of each month, as opposed to the 3 weeks it took with their previous system. The software also eliminated the need for manual double entries for accounting, increasing productivity and efficiency. The reporting functionality of Chempax, including product usage reports, improved the company's operations.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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