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Purdue MEP Assists Long-Term Client with ERP System Analysis & Implementation
With the help of: Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership
About
The Challenge
Rathburn Tool was facing the sunset of their Enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which they implemented in 2012, and had begun researching alternative ERP options by visiting trade shows, attending webinars, and networking. However, Rathburn found that it was very difficult to adequately research all of the ERP options available, and they didn’t have the bandwidth to do it well. Rathburn had recently used Purdue MEP, part of the MEP National Network™, with great success in the areas of cybersecurity and quality, so they were thrilled to learn that Purdue MEP also offered ERP consulting services.
As a small manufacturer, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to find the trusted expertise and funding to help you grow and develop your business. I’ve found that, through multiple engagements with Purdue MEP across a variety of business areas, they have brought the experience and knowledge to help Rathburn perform at a higher level to better serve our customers. Additionally, the grant support has enhanced our production capability and strengthened our ability to serve the defense industrial base.
MEP's Role
Exploring ERP options can be a challenging and expensive task, but Purdue MEP helped Rathburn Tool map out their current processes and develop a vision for a future state in order to detail the scope of an ERP system that would serve them now and for many years to come. To do this, Purdue MEP helped Rathburn create an RFQ scope document, identify and narrow down a list of ERP solutions and providers in their budget that met their objectives, and evaluate all of the proposals. Purdue MEP then assisted in the development of a short list, facilitated software demonstrations, and provided technical and operational insight to help Rathburn make their final decision. With the unbiased support of Purdue MEP, Rathburn was able to confidently select the best and most robust ERP to meet the quality and metrics required of the automotive and aerospace industries.