The Client
The client is a leading American software company specializing in creative and multimedia software solutions that offers products for graphic design, photography editing and video editing.
The Challenge
Processing billions in annual orders, the client faced a critical challenge with their order management solution. The system relied on Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and ran on an unsupported platform with security vulnerabilities. This outdated system not only hampered compliance with audit requirements but also posed a significant security risk. Modernization was essential, but the sheer volume of data (half a million business documents annually) and the complexity of managing over 500 trading partner agreements presented a daunting task.
The Solution
Recognizing the urgency, the company assessed multiple solutions. Persistent, known for their innovative approach, recommended a digital business platform powered by webMethods B2B.io and wM.io. This cutting-edge Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) offered a comprehensive suite of tools specifically designed for EDI and modern integration needs.
Our solution wasn’t just about migration. With our unique approach, we addressed the following issues:
- Reduced complexity: By leveraging the built-in capabilities of the iPaaS platform, we streamlined the number of artifacts needed to manage trading partner agreements from a staggering 500+ down to a manageable 160. This significant reduction simplified integration, boosting efficiency, and reducing maintenance overhead.
- Enhanced security: The iPaaS platform addressed security concerns by eliminating the need for an external database, mitigating potential vulnerabilities, and bolstering governance.
- Future-proof scalability: The solution offered a highly stable and scalable platform capable of handling the ever-growing volume of business documents with ease. Additionally, the platform provided built-in support for various e-standards and transport protocols, ensuring seamless integration with diverse trading partners.
- Innovation at the fingertips: The platform offered unlimited access to the digital business platform, paving the way for future innovation. This allowed the company to explore the potential of SAP S/4HANA integration, further optimizing their business processes.
The Outcome
Persistent’s expertise, coupled with the power of webMethods’ iPaaS platform, yielded a resounding success for the client’s business. The EDI solution was successfully migrated from the unsupported platform to the secure and modern iPaaS environment, resulting in the following benefits:
- Lower integration costs: Streamlined processes, a 50% lowering of transaction volume and reduced artifact management led to significant cost savings.
- Faster development: The user-friendly platform facilitated faster development cycles, allowing for quicker implementation of future integrations. 30+ complex integrations were accomplished in a matter of two months.
- Reduced complexity across the partner network: The streamlined solution simplified communication and data exchange with trading partners, enhancing overall network efficiency. End-to-end traceability enhanced the visibility of the blind spots.
- A springboard for innovation: With a robust and scalable platform in place, the company was now well-positioned to explore further digital transformation initiatives.
