Case study

A leading global confectionery and beverage manufacturer

Using PA's rapid systems development approach to implement SAP R/3

A leading global beverage and confectionery company that manufactures, markets and distributes its branded products in over 200 countries decided to further support the business requirements of its Russian operation by initiating a major SAP R/3 systems implementation. For this organization, SAP R/3 is a corporate standard and, without the implementation of this system to provide local and regional level control, the business venture could not proceed.

PA Consulting Group faced a challenging six-month completion deadline accelerated to coincide with, and provide support to, the opening of a new factory and major marketing campaign. PA applied its Pace methodology and unique Rapid Systems Development approach that focuses on achieving the earliest possible benefits for the minimum possible risk. The project was approached in two stages: an initial four month UK pilot to scope, design and develop the system followed by a closely monitored implementation period. This already challenging assignment was complicated further by the requirement of dual-currency accounting functionality. This required feature, not standard to SAP, was custom-built by PA.

With PA's help, the client grew its independent Russian subsidiary into an integrated manufacturing operation.

The client concluded: "The functional integration of the SAP software, coupled with the new business process designed with PA, was fundamental to delivering the right mix of flexibility and business best practice. PA's ability to work successfully with Russian, UK and Irish staff was crucial in delivering this demanding project."