Business Challenge

The companys existing broker website had become difficult to maintain and efforts to improve it were unsuccessful. Further, the company was unable to integrate it with their existing systems, and so could not leverage its SAP investment. And while significant time was spent getting information added to the sites database, it was difficult to access the information and use it for productive decision-making. Finally, existing processes for product build and rollout needed improvement.

IBS Services

IBS was engaged to review the current broker website, and to propose a more readily maintainable communication vehicle which the client could support and expand as an integral part of its business. The client also hoped to distinguish itself from its competitors and realize cost savings through integration with SAP.

To understand current issues and develop an appropriate solution, IBS interviewed many key client employees as well as individuals at a national broker. IBS then interviewed retailers and marketing personnel and looked at the companys SAP system. IBS proposed solution improved workflow and procedures to facilitate and manage new product introductions. Integration with the SAP system was a critical factor in the projects success.

IBS provided project management, application design, development, testing and implementation. Technologies used include C#, SQL Server 2000 and ASP.NET.

Benefits

Important product detail from the SAP system is maintained in the new portal. The client is now able to provide better service to its sales channel, both internal and external. The new portal will be easier to maintain and operate. The client will realize considerable ROI in hosting the web portal internally.