Mission accomplished: How Baker Tilly's IFS Apps 10 implementation transformed operations

Client background

An international defense, aerospace and security company encountered operational challenges following its acquisition of a corporation in 2024. The acquisition expanded their capabilities in space, science and defense but also, exposed inefficiencies in warehouse operations. To support their growth and maintain operational excellence, the company needed to overhaul inventory management and streamline warehouse processes.

Business challenge

The client currently uses IFS Applications 10 as one of its core business systems to facilitate procurement and inventory management processes. Prior to this implementation, however, they were not fully leveraging the IFS software modules licensed to meet their growing business needs. Warehouse users manually entered IFS inventory transactions at desktop workstations, delaying the recording of transactions and inhibiting visibility to real-time inventory data. This gap led to inefficiencies in kitting and inventory management, reduced accuracy, lower productivity and increased operational costs for their warehouse.

Strategy and solution

When the client’s integrated supply chain team sought a partner to help optimize core modules and processes within their IFS Apps 10 environment, they turned to Baker Tilly’s IFS Solutions practice. Following an in-depth optimization assessment and identification of more than 70 improvement opportunities, Baker Tilly prioritized and delivered a series of initiatives over several years. These included:

• Standardizing business processes
• Enhancing the use of IFS standard functionality, including Warehouse Data Collection Mobile Client (WaDaCo)
• Developing end-user procedures for critical functions
• Delivering targeted training
• Providing real-time issue resolution and support

Using Baker Tilly’s proven transformative implementation methodology, the Baker Tilly team collaborated with the client to configure the IFS WaDaCo solution that aligned with business processes and addressed end-user needs. Key achievements included:

• Scoped and configured WaDaCo processes for receiving, kitting, material transfers, scrapping and inventory movements
• Recommended and implemented handling units in IFS to streamline inventory movement and receiving
• Introduced transport task functionality to support program closeout and eliminate paper-based transactions
• Configured alternative WaDaCo processes to support a 2D barcode label redesign, improving mobile data entry efficiency
• Evaluated hardware requirements and procured handheld scanners for three warehouse facilities
• Validated solution design through comprehensive and iterative testing cycles
• Executed a train-the-trainer approach to empower key users to lead training efforts

The project was delivered on time and under budget by 9%. The client quickly adopted the WaDaCo solution, resulting in improved inventory accuracy, faster part location, enhanced traceability, better inventory control, accelerated reporting and reduced stock obsolescence.

Looking to the future

Baker Tilly’s collaborative approach fostered strong ownership of the WaDaCo solution with the client’s technical and functional team members. The client is now preparing to deploy the solution at two additional warehouses, with plans to expand further.

Turn to Baker Tilly for your IFS implementation journey

Baker Tilly’s IFS Solutions practice leverages over a decade of experience and a wealth of IFS certified consultants to steer your digital transformation. Our team of dedicated functional and technical consultants provide not only technical proficiency but also valuable business insights to maximize your IFS investment. We support our clients through every phase of their journey, from initial assessment and planning to implementation and continuous support.

Ready to revolutionize your business with IFS?