We were using Tally ERP previously and we switched because they did not have as many features and did not support the manufacturing industry.

Before 2005, we were using a DOS based software. This software was installed way back before I joined. It was based on a distributed database and needed to be consolidated every alternate day and many times at the end of the month due to mismatches.

Also, the depots could change the documents after sending data to head office. This created a problem of mismatch between head office data and warehouse data. Also, there was no control on inventory as it allows negative stock invoicing. This allows the depot to do invoicing without stock receipt entries. Warehouses enter all receipts at the month end in which they forgot to enter a few.

For the sales module, the software did not have the option for rate updates by customer type, by state, etc. Also, the schemes (free quantity along with the main product) and taxes were not automatic.

At the head office, the posting was a manual process for inventory, sales, and finance. The software also did not have a proper stock transfer issue and receipt process. At that time, we had 14 warehouses and three modules each for a single warehouse to be posted manually. It was a tedious task.

Due to all these problems, it was difficult to process financial data when it is required urgently. We used to prepare profit/loss statements and the balance sheet on the 20th of the next month for previous month. All these problems necessitated the need to install a new Integrated ERP system for getting data and information on time for the management to make informed decisions.

We made a panel consisting of key department people to review various software systems. Orion was one of three that we shortlisted.

We selected Orion for a few main reasons:

• All of our requirements were available
• It uses Oracle
• It provides complete control of information
• Documents are strictly locked after processing
• All module configurations are parameterized

The IT team got trained on Orion at their office and we mapped our processes in the system with the help of 3i-Infotech’s consultants. This helped our IT team to understand the software. The rollout was smooth, as we ran the software parallel with old software for six months. This parallel run helped users to get used to the software without any additional pressure.