This case study illustrates how WNS and Uniqus Consultech, a tech-led platform, collaborated to help a leading biopharma company navigate the complexities of financial and accounting system integration subsequent to a key acquisition. This intricate process spanned the key towers of Order-to-Cash (O2C), Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and Supply Chain Management (SCM) across five entities in 31 countries.
As we know…
With mergers and acquisitions in biopharma on the upswing, integrating financial systems poses a stiff challenge. It is widely recognized that thorough planning, testing and configuration are essential to prevent operational disruptions during such transitions. Roadblocks often arise due to incomplete testing, delays in addressing system setup problems and complexities in managing data from third-party sources.
The challenge for the client was…
Harmonizing and effectively managing the accounting and operational data of its European operations following a pivotal acquisition. The task was exacerbated by the reliance of the acquired entity on multiple Third-party Logistics (3PL) entities for product distribution, each maintaining disparate accounting repositories. A seamless amalgamation of these records into the overarching financial framework was imperative.
The spectrum of hurdles was vast: Incomplete validation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, discrepancies in configuration and the complexities of data management. Inaccuracies plaguing data from 3PLs and the acquired entity, incongruities in opening stock data and lapses in effective communication only compounded the predicament.
Adding layers to the complexity were the operational nuances across 31 countries and five entities, segregated among four IT models ranging from fully and partially integrated to completely manual processes. These were, in turn, aligned with two financial models: Buy & Sell and Consignment.
The challenge of ensuring the accurate inflow of data into the client ERP for financial book closure was compounded by dependencies, disrupted data flow and system configuration issues. These elements posed significant risks to controllership and compliance, especially critical for the year-end financial closure.
To tackle these challenges, the client decided to partner with WNS and Uniqus.
The scope of the project involved …
In response to the client’s challenge…
Our solution comprised several key components aimed at addressing the complexities inherent in their operations. These included:
- Thorough System UAT Testing: Conducted comprehensive User Acceptance Testing (UAT) within the SAP environment, meticulously scrutinizing each activity, process and sub-process
- Inter-departmental Collaboration: Facilitated active liaison between the client’s internal team and vendors to troubleshoot IT and process design challenges, fostering a cohesive approach toward problem-solving
- Continuous Process Testing and Improvement: Continuously tested and refined process flows to adapt swiftly to evolving requirements and emerging challenges, ensuring optimal performance at all times
- Stakeholder Engagement and Requirement Definition: Engaged extensively with multiple business stakeholders to clarify and define input requirements essential for system readiness
Several unique aspects…
Of our solution set it apart from conventional approaches. These encompassed:
Adaptability in the Face of Challenges
Despite initial expectations, the project necessitated a significant departure from the agreed scope. We demonstrated adaptability by starting from scratch to understand and address the complexities of the client's business model and IT infrastructure.
Thorough Validation and Mapping
Our team meticulously validated and mapped country-specific IT and business models, ensuring alignment with the client's unique operational requirements. This in-depth understanding enabled us to navigate complexities effectively and implement tailored solutions.
End-to-End Testing and Reconciliation
We conducted exhaustive end-to-end UAT to validate system configurations and data mapping. Additionally, we facilitated a five-way matching process for opening stock reconciliation, demonstrating our commitment to thoroughness and accuracy.
The implementation of the solution…
Helped the client overcome significant integration challenges, streamlining operations to a ‘business as usual’ cadence. The dynamic approach of the team in meeting the project timeline ensured the successful implementation of the ERP along with data entry delivery.
Key outcomes included:
- Mitigation of Dependency Issues: Mitigated the main issue of replicating business data from the acquired entity, establishing a regular process of data input and entry
- Resolution of Opening Stock Concerns: Enabled accurate stock movement and sales entry in the client’s SAP system
- Adjusted entry of approximately 275,000 quantities across multiple products by batches, enabling the recording of sales in the client system and paving the way for compliant year-end book closures across 31 countries