Clarkston-Potomac Helps Wella Manufacturing Implement New SAP R/3 Modules to Manage Process Manufacturing, Distribution

Clarkston-Potomac Group Inc. announced that it has successfully implemented several new modules of SAP R/3 at Wella Manufacturing in Richmond, VA, enabling the manufacturer to cut production costs and streamline access to information. The new warehouse and manufacturing software supports additional business processes and functions that enable Wella to better meet market demands and customer needs.

Wella, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of premium hair care products, turned to Clarkston-Potomac (Research Triangle Park, NC) for assistance in quickly implementing the SAP R/3 modules to support its domestic and worldwide growth. Wella Manufacturing in Richmond is an ISO 9002 certified company.

"After completing an initial implementation of SAP R/3 sales and financial modules, we chose to work with Clarkston-Potomac to integrate other mission critical functions because they had the best understanding of our business processes and how R/3 could support them," commented Rich Laughlin, project manager for Wella Manufacturing. "Clarkston-Potomac managed the project in support of the future direction of our business processes, rather than letting the software dictate how we operate. This attention to our needs paid off in a successful implementation."

Working closely with Wella's internal project team, Clarkston-Potomac implemented the WM, PP, QM, MM, and CO modules of R/3. ``The team used SAP functionality and a TeamSAP approach,'' remarked Justin MacFarlane, the project manager from Clarkston-Potomac. ``This enabled Wella to meet specific requirements for batch control of raw materials and formulas, warehouse management with RF scanning capabilities, and strict inventory control processes.'' The team used the AcceleratedSAP methodology as well as structured change management practices to keep the project on schedule.

"Clarkston-Potomac's emphasis on change management was evident throughout the implementation," said Hans Karras, president of Wella Manufacturing. "I was impressed with the amount of training the end users received as well as the speed in which the new system was embraced."

Wella is already reaping benefits from more efficient overall operation that enables the company to reduce costs through automation and process analysis. Other benefits of the SAP R/3 implementation include:

• A streamlined process, from planning through product release
• Accelerated access to information,
• Upgrade in process knowledge across departments.
• Direct links between Cost Accounting and Planning/Procurement, increasing the demand for new and updated product costs.
• Faster analysis of overall production costs
• Increased inventory accuracy and visibility

"The Wella project is a textbook example of the essential elements required to deliver these rapid ERP implementations on-time and on-budget,'' remarked Bruce Weber Clarkston-Potomac's engagement partner. "The project team was staffed with individuals from Wella and Clarkston-Potomac that had a strong understanding of the business processes, methodology, and the software configuration options. We will continue to be successful as long as all of our engagements have these project fundamentals."

Clarkston-Potomac is a global business and technology-consulting firm that provides full-service strategic and information technology planning, project management and implementation services to mid-sized companies. The company serves clients in a diverse mix of industries including pharmaceutical, apparel and footwear, automotive, biotechnology, chemicals, consumer-packaged goods, forest products, healthcare, high technology, manufacturing, medical products, software, telecommunications and utilities.