Dongwha Fibreboard

Since implementing component-based IFS Applications, Dongwha Fibreboard has seen major improvements in productivity and plant uptime. Moreover, the fully integrated business software from IFS gives the company faster access to business information and had enabled it to enhance the service it provides to its customers. And, not least, job satisfaction among employees has increased as a result of implementing IFS Applications.

IT infrastructure hampered business performance

One of the main issues confronting Dongwha Fibreboard was its inadequate IT infrastructure. This hampered business performance and undermined the company’s capability to quickly respond to customer needs. It also resulted in sub-optimal management of suppliers of goods and services. In addition, the company had difficulties implementing best practices and had to base decisions on management information that often was tardy and unreliable. A major consequence of all this was low productivity. Therefore, Dongwha Fibreboard went looking for business software that would replace the “information islands” of the legacy system and fully integrate internal business processes to facilitate information self-service.

IFS understood the needs of the industry

Of the 10 vendors invited to submit tenders, IFS was one of 3 shortlisted after a stringent selection process and was eventually selected because the solution it offered was the best fit for Dongwha. Offering local support and cost-effectiveness, IFS provided a number of references that demonstrated IFS’ experience in the industry. Bob McIntyre, General Manager of Dongwha Fibreboard, explains, “The technology was right, and IFS clearly understood the needs of our business.”

Smooth implementation

Despite the challenges presented by implementing all the applications simultaneously, the implementation process ran smoothly. IFS consultants applying IFS’ implementation methodology collaborated with Dongwha personnel to ensure that the solution was installed in time and to budget.

Higher Productivity and Better Customer Service

Immediately after implementing the new business software, the company saw tangible benefits. Paper flow was reduced, internal control and productivity increased, and the quality and speed of the information provided to management was greatly enhanced. With all its business processes now integrated, Dongwha is able to provide its customers with higher levels of service.

Most importantly, IFS Applications enabled Dongwha to improve its plant maintenance functions and how they are  managed. As a result, uptime in the plant increased from below 80% to above 90%, and productivity went from  600m3 to 800m3 per employee per year, an increase of 33%. Also, the company improved its procedures and processes for managing suppliers of goods and services and enhanced its sales and distribution procedures. Another benefit is the higher level of quality and accuracy of shipping documentation. 

In addition, Dongwha’s end-of-month reporting can be done much earlier than before. This gives management faster access to the status of the company and enables timely adjustments to be made wherever required. 

Apart from the benefits in terms of productivity and information management experienced at corporate level, the day-to-day life of the end-users also improved. First, they find it much easier to access the information they require, which reduces costly delays and accelerates production. Second, the improved information flow between departments has cut down the amount of errors, thereby reducing waste and saving time. And, not least, job satisfaction has increased.