IMS Chooses Epicor Manufacturing Software

IMS Turns to Epicor Vantage as an Ideally Suited Solution to Serve its Mixed-Mode Manufacturing and Complex Accounting Needs

Epicor Software Corporation, a leading provider of integrated enterprise software solutions for the midmarket, announced that IMS has selected Epicor Vantage, a complete end-to-end manufacturing system that addresses the core business needs of make-to-order (MTO) and mixed-mode manufacturers with built-in workflows managing the entire order cycle: from marketing and sales, production and planning, sourcing and procurement, installation and service, through to financial recognition.

With over 25 years experience, IMS is the UK's leading provider of Universal Joints and Driveline components, with customers ranging from automobile manufacturers to nuclear power stations.

At the beginning of 2004, senior management started looking for a replacement for its XAL enterprise resource planning software which is scheduled to be phased out by Microsoft in 2005.

"We looked at a number of possible software solutions," explains Mark Biggs, Financial Director with IMS "We even short listed and started a pilot with both SAP Business One and Exchequer, but during this process were still not entirely happy with either of these solutions." Biggs adds, "Both packages offered strong accounting but didn't provide the features that are needed for our type of business, such as flexible quotation and bill of materials handling.

When we came across Epicor Vantage at a technology event in Birmingham, all the pieces just fell into place." The first stage of the 20-user Vantage implementation project at IMS is due to go live in February 2005, well ahead of the end-of-support deadline for its Microsoft XAL software.

Further refinement and customization work is scheduled for mid-2005.

"We were impressed by Epicor's proven track record and longevity, which is something we pride ourselves on," says Biggs.

"Vantage seems to be designed from the ground up to suit mixed-mode manufacturers, and the financials, customer relationship management and manufacturing capabilities are very well integrated and will definitely improve our business processes." "We are proud to add IMS to the growing list of manufacturing customers using Epicor Vantage," said Ian Walker, senior vice president of international sales for Epicor.

"As more and more manufacturers expand into global markets and outgrow their legacy accounting solutions, they are turning to solutions like Epicor Vantage that are designed to meet their unique business requirements right out of the box.".

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