A recent project involved the design and development of a SharePoint Portal Intranet application for one of the UK‟s leading pub groups. The solution, which 'pushes' key information to Pub Managers, streamlines the entire consumable and non-consumable re-ordering processes for the Group, saving both Pub Managers and the logistics and supply departments considerable time, reducing errors and enabling Pub Managers to focus on running the business more efficiently and achieving set business targets. In order to maximise the relevance of the information, the system was designed to deliver personalised information, such as pub or role specific information, to over 700 Pub Managers.

 

Having decided to implement a solution that would deliver an improved and more efficient distribution service to the pubs, the Group approached Microsoft for a list of Gold partners that had proven expertise in the development of BizTalk and SharePoint logistics and supply solutions. Following a tender process, the Group selected ICS Solutions.

 

Working closely with the Group, ICS Solutions brought in project managers and analysts that were experienced in similar supply chain projects, both from the business and technical perspectives.

 

At all stages of the project, ICS Solutions provided consultants there were recognised as leading authorities on these technologies. Using Microsoft BizTalk Server 2004 and Web Services for the integration of the overall architecture, ICS created an Orders Database using SQL Server 2000, with a Web Administration Interface using MS Reporting Services. In addition to a Rapid Application Development approach, which ensured that functionality was delivered quickly and strictly managed using a formal Project Management Framework, ICS Solutions also applied its Engagement and Project Management Process – a process that had already been effective in delivering systems to major organisations.

BizTalk is now the hub of the Group's Supply Chain solution, linking two systems from different companies together with a robust auditable message flow.