Streamlining Distributor Orders with Hensel Digital Solution

Project Overview

The Hensel Distributor Digital Solution was developed to address inefficiencies in the distributor ordering process, which previously relied on manual purchase orders submitted via email through Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2016. This process was prone to errors and time delays, resulting in a need for a more streamlined, automated system. ViitorCloud developed a custom digital solution to allow distributors to generate and sync purchase orders directly with their ERP system, eliminating human errors and improving efficiency.

Objective

The primary objectives for the Hensel Distributor Digital Solution were

• Automating Purchase Orders: Distributors should be able to generate purchase orders through the portal, eliminating manual data entry.

• Order Management: Distributors should have access to view and manage their orders in real-time.

• Invoice Management: Distributors should be able to view and download invoices through the platform.

• Warehouse Product Details: Distributors should have the ability to check warehouse stock availability through the portal.

Challenges

Several challenges were encountered during the development and implementation of the Hensel Distributor Digital Solution:

• Third-Party API Integration: The system had to integrate with Microsoft Dynamics NAV through its API, which sometimes returned non-standard responses, making error handling and troubleshooting difficult.

• Streamlining Data Syncing: Ensuring smooth and timely syncing between the distributor's orders and the ERP system to prevent delays or glitches in the order processing workflow.

Solutions

ViitorCloud developed a custom web portal to enhance the distributor ordering process and integrate it seamlessly with the Microsoft Dynamics NAV system. Key features and solutions include:

• Custom Web Portal: A user-friendly portal was designed for distributors to place orders, download invoices, and check warehouse stock information.

• ERP Integration: The system was integrated with Dynamics NAV through SOAP API and web services, enabling real-time syncing of purchase orders without human intervention.

• Order and Invoice Management: Distributors can manage their orders, view order details, and download invoices directly through the portal, improving overall user experience.

• Automation: The automation of the ordering process reduced the risk of manual errors, making supply chain management more efficient and improving productivity for managers.

Why Hensel Chose ViitorCloud

Hensel selected ViitorCloud for their proven ability to design and implement complex digital solutions. With extensive experience in platform development, API integrations, and streamlining processes through automation, ViitorCloud’s expertise ensured that the project was delivered with precision and efficiency.

Technology Stack

• Frontend: HTML, CSS, Vue.js

• Backend: Laravel

• Integration: Microsoft Dynamics NAV (SOAP API), Twilio

Results

Hensel now has a fully automated, error-free ordering process for distributors:

• Increased Efficiency: Automation reduced manual intervention, significantly improving order processing time.

• Error Reduction: The digital system minimized human errors in data entry, improving the accuracy of orders and invoices.

• Enhanced Productivity: The streamlined process allowed managers to focus on more strategic tasks, increasing overall productivity.

• Improved User Experience: Distributors found it easier to place orders, download invoices, and check stock availability through the portal.

Conclusion

The Hensel Distributor Digital Solution transformed how distributors interact with the company’s ERP system, providing a seamless, automated process that reduced manual errors and improved efficiency. ViitorCloud’s expertise in system integration and custom portal development enabled Hensel to streamline their operations, resulting in a more productive and reliable supply chain.