"The Odoo migration transformed how we manage everything from quotes to project delivery. We've gone from juggling multiple spreadsheets and systems to having complete visibility across our fabrication shop and field operations in one integrated platform."
Operations Manager
Background
Client/Company: Atlantic Canada-based steel fabrication company specialising in industrial, marine, and commercial projects
Industry: Steel fabrication and mechanical services
Size: 35 employees, established for over 30 years
Challenge/Problem: The company was struggling with disconnected systems across their fabrication shop and project sites. Key issues included:
- Manual inventory tracking leading to material shortages and overstock
- Lengthy quote preparation processes taking 3-5 days
- Limited visibility into project profitability and job costing
- Inefficient scheduling of welders and equipment across multiple concurrent projects
- Paper-based quality control documentation creating compliance risks
Solution
Approach: Implemented a comprehensive Odoo ERP system with customised modules for steel fabrication workflows
Tools/Methods:
- Manufacturing Module: Streamlined production planning and shop floor management
- Project Management: Integrated project tracking from quote to completion
- Inventory Management: Real-time material tracking with automated reorder points
- Sales & CRM: Automated quote generation with integrated pricing matrices
- Quality Control: Digital documentation and certification tracking
- Custom integrations: Connected with existing CAD systems and welding certification databases
Results
Quantifiable Outcomes:
| Metric | Before Odoo | After Odoo | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quote turnaround time | 3-5 days | 4-6 hours | 85% reduction |
| Inventory accuracy | 72% | 96% | 24% improvement |
| Project delivery on-time rate | 78% | 94% | 16% improvement |
| Administrative time per project | 8 hours | 3 hours | 62% reduction |
Additional improvements:
- 40% overall operational efficiency gain
- $180,000 annual cost savings through reduced inventory carrying costs
- 95% reduction in quality documentation processing time
- Enhanced compliance tracking for industry certifications
Qualitative Benefits:
- Real-time project visibility enabling proactive decision-making
- Improved customer satisfaction through accurate delivery estimates
- Streamlined multi-location project coordination
- Enhanced financial reporting and job profitability analysis
- Better resource allocation across fabrication shop and field teams
Key Takeaway
A well-planned ERP migration can transform traditional manufacturing operations by connecting shop floor activities with business processes, delivering significant efficiency gains and competitive advantages in project-based industries.