Challenge 

One of the client’s most significant operational challenges was the effective management of thousands of fixed assets dispersed across a large production facility. The existing inventory process relied on manual methods, including handwritten records and paper documentation review. 

Difficulties in locating, identifying, and updating asset descriptions generated hundreds of additional working hours. Moreover, manual data entry was highly error-prone. 

While it was technically possible to use an out-of-the-box ERP module to address these issues, the solution required substantial additional licensing costs, making such an investment economically unjustifiable. Additionally, it would require involvement from global IT, significantly extending the timeline for resolving the challenge. 

The organization needed a solution that would not only be effective but also cost-rational, ensuring fast implementation and a quick return on investment. 

Solution 

Since the Microsoft Power Platform environment is approved across the entire DANONE Group, we proposed creating a tailored application based on this ecosystem. Instead of investing in expensive, ready-made modules, we creatively leveraged technologies already licensed by the client. 

Our solution is a comprehensive system consisting of three integrated modules:  

Data Import Module 

A web application that allows the accounting team to easily import fixed asset data from Excel files. The system automatically processes, cleans, and standardizes the information, eliminating the need for manual formatting. 

Label Printing Module 

After importing the data, the system instantly generates labels with QR codes for each fixed asset. 

Mobile Application 

An intuitive tool for field employees, allowing them to scan QR codes using standard mobile devices. After scanning a label, they can view all asset data, add photos and comments, and the asset’s status is automatically updated in the database. 

The system was designed with simplicity in mind, incorporating best-practice UX/UI standards for both web and mobile apps, so that anyone in the company could use it easily, whatever their technical skills.

Implementing the application completely transformed the fixed-asset management process. The need for tedious, manual list preparation disappeared, and the entire workflow became smooth and transparent. 

The greatest value, however, is data accuracy and reliability. The organization now has a complete, up-to-date picture of its assets, which is particularly crucial for audits and planning. 

Benefits 

• Reduction of fixed-asset list preparation time from several hours to just a few minutes. 

• Hundreds of working hours saved annually thanks to the digitalized inventory process. 

• Elimination of human errors and costs associated with correcting them. 

• Significant financial savings by avoiding additional ERP licensing fees. 

• Instant location and verification of fixed assets within the facility using the mobile app. 

• Full control over the process and real-time access to all asset information. 

Conclusions 

This collaboration demonstrates that innovative thinking and creative use of technology deliver measurable results. Investing in dedicated apps built on flexible platforms and existing licenses can be far more cost-effective than deploying expensive, ready-made systems. 

Moreover, the success of this project became a catalyst for further digitalization. It paved the way for advanced analytics and creative use of additional tools within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem,especially AI capabilities. The client is supported in designing their AI utilization strategy within Microsoft 365 by the IT-Dev team as part of the proprietary Successful AI Strategy in Three Steps program. 

Watch the case study: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkFs10YxY0s