Businesses Old and New Embrace Revolutionary Software Solution

31st March 2015

New technology is transforming the way South Yorkshire companies do business, whether they are traditional manufacturers or state of the art online retailers.

South Yorkshire-based manufacturer James Durrans and Sons has reduced admin time by half since Sheffield-based Azzure IT developed a software solution to improve efficiency across the business. Durrans, a 152-year-old business based at Thurlstone, near Barnsley, supplies carbon-based products to the world's manufacturing industries, needed to simplify its processes. Azzure IT helped Durrans improve existing systems and tailored Microsoft Dynamics NAV software, an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution, to fit. -We use Dynamics NAV for everything from stock control to production and from material costs to intercompany transactions. We also use NAV in other areas of our business from sales ordering and invoicing through to general ledger accounts handling and book keeping, explained Durrans IT manager Chris Smith. -The impact has been immense and has reduced time spent on quotes, orders and invoicing by half. This has meant the sales team can focus on providing an improved service to our customers, with quicker turn around and more accurate quotations. -It has also improved the accuracy of entered orders which enables our manufacturing department to be more efficient when calculating daily production runs for each product we sell. Durrans turned to Azzure IT as it moved into striking new 11,200sq ft offices on the same site where the firm was founded in 1863. Online retail business Direct2Mum has also transformed its operation since hooking up with Azzure IT. The business, which is based at Dodworth, Barnsley, sells premium baby and toddler products and has grown from strength to strength since launching in 2010. Alex Leslie, managing director, said: -Azzure IT helped us implement an ERP system which covers full accountancy, warehousing, supply and replenishment and management planning. -Dynamics NAV has added a whole new dimension to the business. It gives us incredible business intelligence, particularly about supply and even sets minimum order levels. Azzure IT spoke our language and the transition from Sage has been really smooth. It's made a phenomenal difference to Direct2Mum. Craig Such, managing director at Azzure IT, said: -Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is transforming businesses who are open-minded to change. -Using technology in a smart way translates into operational efficiency and generally leads to lower operating costs. Savings can then be redistributed to fund further growth. It's great hear both Durrans and Direct2Mum are seeing the benefit.