Digital transformation: from legacy systems to Global Partner Network solution

Mercedes-Benz AG approached Weigandt Consulting with a specific need: a robust transformation of their Partner Network Standards Management and Audits system.

In our initial engagement, we quickly discerned the multi-layered challenges they confronted:

Legacy System Limitations The existing systems were not only outdated but actively hindering their capability to roll out new business initiatives.

Stringent Quality Standards the company had set high benchmarks for customer satisfaction. Their meticulous standards permeated every facet of their partners' operations. Ensuring that any new system upheld, if not enhanced, these standards was paramount.

Global Complexity With a vast operational footprint spanning over 100 countries, the sheer scale and diversity of the company’s processes added layers of complexity. Implementing a solution that catered to their unique needs while ensuring global consistency was a challenging task.

Agility and Scalability Beyond addressing current needs, the solution had to be agile — capable of evolving with future growth and innovations. This demanded a system that was both robust in its foundational design and flexible in its adaptability.

Tight Timelines A major transition of this magnitude typically requires extensive time. However, the urgency to replace the legacy system and meet business demands mandated a swift implementation, without compromising on quality or efficacy.

Team Weigandt undertook the ambitious task of not only replacing the legacy systems but also of ensuring enhanced efficiency, security, and adaptability.

Upon a thorough assessment of the client’s needs and challenges, our team devised a comprehensive, two-phased strategy to bring about the desired transformation:

Tailored Open-source Application Recognizing the specific requirements and global scope, we embarked on creating a bespoke solution. By leveraging a state-of-the-art open-source application platform, we initiated the development of a desktop application. Technologies such as Spring, React, and PostgreSQL became foundational pillars, enabling the creation of corporate-class applications efficiently.

Iterative Development & Deployment Adhering to the agile methodology, we prioritised regular system prototyping. This iterative process ensured a seamless alignment with the business requirements and allowed for real-time feedback, guaranteeing an exceptional user experience. Within an impressive span of 9 months, our solution effectively superseded the outdated legacy system across over 100 countries.

Mobile Application Extension Building on the success of the desktop application, phase two saw the expansion of implemented solution to mobile platforms. Recognising the need for partner auditing flexibility, especially in locations with limited connectivity, we developed a mobile app equipped with offline functionality. This streamlined the audit planning and execution process, thereby amplifying operational efficiency.

Adaptable & Future-ready

At the heart of the solution was adaptability. With built-in extensive configuration capabilities, the customer’s Network Department could easily align the system to any future changes or growth trajectories. This forward-thinking approach ensured that the solution was not just a fix for the present but a gateway for future innovations.

Post-implementation, the effects of the tailored solutions developed by our team became evident in numerous tangible and intangible ways:

Operational Efficiency The transition to the new system facilitated a smoother workflow, particularly in the Partner Network Standards Management and Audits. With the agile framework in place, the manufacturer of luxury cars could adapt and respond more rapidly to changes and requirements.

Global Consistency With the rollout in over 100 countries, the desktop and mobile applications ensured a consistent auditing process across the vast global operations, reducing discrepancies and improving standardisation.

Enhanced User Satisfaction The user-friendly interfaces, combined with efficient processes, received positive feedback from both internal teams and their external partners, signifying increased user satisfaction.

Robust Security By replacing the outdated legacy systems, we significantly fortified the digital infrastructure.

Future-Proofing The adaptability embedded in the implemented solution means our client’s Network Department is well-poised to embrace future growth, innovations, and changes in the industry. The system's flexible configuration ensures it remains relevant and scalable.

Streamlined Audits The mobile application, especially its offline functionality, optimised the partner management and auditing processes. Auditors in remote or connectivity-challenged locations reported increased efficiency, reducing the time and resources previously expended.

Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz did not just resolve their immediate challenges but also supported their positioning for sustained success, growth, and innovation in the Partner Network Standards Management and Audits system.