Xstract Mining Consultants, a resource and mining industry consultancy, has selected Australian business technology and services specialists, Professional Advantage to deploy the Microsoft Dynamics AX enterprise resource planning solution for their growing consulting business. The implementation removes the need to use a patchwork of software systems and involves many core Microsoft Dynamics AX modules including financials, project management, time sheets and customer relationship management (CRM).
Xstracts decision to choose Microsoft Dynamics AX was driven by the consultancy's need for an integrated financial and time sheet system along with an efficient means of managing customer relationship information. Some of the key factors in the software's favour included:
- The integrated nature of the modules
- The project management facility
- Its flexible reporting capabilities
- The ability to centrally manage the database of customer contact information with security over who may access and update critical information
- The ease of customisation along with the capacity for integration with Microsoft Office applications were also important considerations
Xstract anticipates that its current plans for Microsoft Dynamics AX will be expanded within the next few years to support the company's business growth. Mr Mujdrica adds, “What we're starting with is a foundation. As we grow we will look to take on other modules within the Microsoft Dynamics AX suite of products. From experience I've learned that it's easier to put in place a skeletal ERP system early on. It allows people to understand the system as the business grows rather than having to turn around and change the way people think when you are a much larger organisation.”
Derek Rippingale, Managing Director at Professional Advantage, said “Xstract is a great example of a company with a view to the future. By getting the right systems in place now Xstract is ensuring that it establishes best practices and efficient processes from the start. It's a very canny move and a sure way to minimise growing pains.”