ERP Standardization Upgrade

Challenge

After several decades of using a custom-developed ERP solution, including an integrated CRM system, our client decided to migrate to a modern standard software platform. This decision was driven by numerous strategic and economic considerations that had accumulated over many years. The primary reasons included:

• High development costs: Every minor change in the custom software required the original vendor to perform complex programming tasks, billed at substantial fees.
• Rising ongoing support costs: The vendor permanently allocated a dedicated employee for second-level support, resulting in significant recurring expenses.
• Dependency on a single provider: The bespoke solution was fully tailored to the vendor’s infrastructure, limiting the company’s technological flexibility and future development options.

In addition, outdated technologies and limited scalability made adapting to new market requirements increasingly difficult. Transitioning to a modern ERP system was therefore not only desirable but essential to maintain long-term competitiveness and operational agility in a rapidly evolving industry.

Our Approach

In close collaboration with the client’s internal core team, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of all relevant business areas. We examined not only existing products, data structures, processes, and systems but also the specific requirements of different production units and distribution channels. This 360-degree review allowed us to define clear minimum requirements for the new system, ensuring that all critical needs were addressed.

Simultaneously, we developed a detailed roadmap covering both technical and organizational steps. This included evaluating potential standard software solutions, planning the data migration strategy, training employees, and implementing a structured change management plan to ensure internal acceptance and smooth adoption of the new system.

Our Solution

We guided the media company through all phases of system implementation, from requirements gathering and system selection to pilot testing and final go-live. Throughout the project, our project management ensured clear communication among stakeholders, rapid decision-making, and strict adherence to budget and timelines.

With the new system, the leading Italian media house achieved several benefits:

• Efficient process mapping: All core processes—from sales through editorial workflows to billing—are now optimized and transparent.
• Continuous system improvement: Regular vendor updates ensure compliance with current market standards and legal requirements.
• Increased flexibility: The modular architecture enables the internal team to implement many adjustments independently without relying on external resources.
• Cost-efficient support: 24/7 support is available at a fraction of the previous expense.

This transition not only generated substantial cost savings but also significantly improved the predictability and control of business processes.

Long-Term Benefits of ERP Standardization

The successful ERP standardization upgrade laid the foundation for a future-proof IT landscape. Beyond reducing dependency on a single provider, it streamlined the system architecture and realigned the internal IT strategy. The gained flexibility allows the media company to react faster to market changes and to integrate new business models efficiently.

By switching to a robust standard software platform, productivity increased while collaboration between departments improved significantly. Unified data structures, clearly defined processes, and transparent workflows now provide a solid basis for sustainable success in an increasingly digital and dynamic market environment.

Today, the company is better equipped than ever to meet the challenges of the media industry with innovation, efficiency, and economic strength, securing long-term growth and competitive advantage.