Solution
The decision was between Exel’s EFACS E/8 and Sanderson Unity. Both offered a reimplementation for the cost of an upgrade. Not liking its multi-value database technology, the Sanderson solution was soon ruled out.
By opting for EFACS E/8, data could be extracted from both databases, restructured and reloaded. The system could also be tailored without the costs of bespoke customisation. Processes were able to be streamlined as workflow came as standard.
“We have a really good long-standing relationship with Exel. The feature set of EFACS E/8 fitted with our objectives and the implementation cost was favourable.”
As the overall project manager, Dave Green called upon Exel for project management, data mapping and training skills. The in-house implementation team was drawn from key departments.
“I worked with Exel to develop the project plan. We had a core team of 12 Mettis staff.”
Training was given by Exel to this group who then wrote new process documents. Their work revolved around the challenges of data extraction and mapping, as well as a new chart of accounts. Mettis also increased the capacity of its existing virtual environment before Exel installed EFACS E/8.
Much confidence was gained by the company’s team, thanks to Exel’s timely and knowledgeable support. Test uploads to the new database were successfully refined for each department until the idea of parallel running seemed unnecessary.
“Exel’s help was very good. They did what we asked of them,” says Dave Green. “We then took the decision not to have parallel running.”
After a final preparatory weekend in November 2013, the new system went live for over 100 users on the Monday morning. An invoice run was successfully completed by lunchtime.