Quick integration: EDI connection in parallel with the ERP project

The automated connection of companies via Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) brings clear advantages: less time, more efficient processes, and digital order processing. On the other hand, there is always the question of whether such a solution is worth the investment.

That was exactly the question wimatec MATTES, a manufacturer of knives for harvesting machines, asked itself – and ultimately answered.

More than just a motto, “Durable. Better!” is a fundamental corporate philosophy. wimatec MATTES is an OEM manufacturer for the agricultural technology industry. The company’s core technologies are hard coating and heat treatment of wear parts. The result: ready-to-install assemblies for agricultural technology. “To be able to connect partners to our ERP system, we wanted to use an EDI solution,” recalls Michael Emhart, responsible for Sales and Planning at wimatec MATTES.

The connection between wimatec MATTES and Yaveon came through a joint partner, with whom wimatec MATTES was introducing the ERP system Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. All requirements that wimatec MATTES had for the EDI solution could be met by the Yaveon solution.

What can the Yaveon solution do?

The Yaveon solution is fully integrated into Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, formerly NAV, and automates cross-system data exchange. Users can seamlessly connect suppliers, partners, and customers with the solution, without the need for an external converter.

What does wimatec MATTES use?

• Import of delivery call-offs (EDI and VDA standard)
• Shipment orders
• Packing instructions
• Delivery notifications / export delivery advices (EDI and VDA standard)

Both the ERP and the EDI project started in October 2019 – with go-live planned for January 2020. By the time connection to the ERP system became possible, it was already November – so things had to move quickly. “There was little time for thorough testing, and that really worried me,” recalls Mr. Emhart. With these concerns, he approached his contact and hoped for support. “We took it very seriously from the very first second and responded immediately,” reports Wolfgang Riedle, Software Developer at Yaveon. The result: In on-site meetings and targeted training sessions, wimatec MATTES was provided with the necessary knowledge to handle the EDI solution in a focused manner.

Thanks to the Yaveon solution – fully integrated into the ERP system Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central – wimatec MATTES no longer has to manually enter delivery call-offs. While sales orders previously had to be entered manually, the delivery call-off now proposes which goods must be delivered at which time. The entire process is covered with just a few mouse clicks.

Another advantage is the enormous time savings. This has become especially noticeable since wimatec MATTES connected several companies directly, as order entry is now significantly easier. “The integration of our partners went absolutely smoothly, and our customers didn’t notice the change at all,” says Mr. Emhart with satisfaction.

Despite the tight schedule, the project was completed on time. The go-live took place as planned in January and wasn’t the only highlight: wimatec MATTES also moved into new premises at the same time. A new ERP system, automatic EDI integration, and fresh office space – a good start to the new year on all fronts.

Was it worth it?

Back to the question of whether the EDI integration is worthwhile not only in terms of benefits but also financially. “From a purely economic perspective, such a solution naturally costs money, and those costs have to be recouped first. But only with the EDI connection were we able to handle the growth of wimatec MATTES. The solution was necessary, and every cent was well invested,” summarizes Michael Emhart.