ERP update brings more efficient processes

From the system point of view, Bank Austria Real Invest has been using a proven infrastructure for many years: At the center is Microsoft Dynamics NAV, which is supplemented by additional solutions for document management and business intelligence. All three applications run on the Microsoft SQL Server database. After years of service, however, the ERP system no longer meets current requirements. "Our processes have changed repeatedly over time. At some point, the time was simply ripe for a comprehensive reorganization - naturally based on state-of-the-art technology," emphasizes Sabine Kopertz of the Controlling & Risk unit at Bank Austria Real Invest GmbH. Functions and modules that are no longer required were to be removed and current processes made as efficient as possible. The contract for the implementation of the project was awarded to the COSMO CONSULT Group, Europe's leading Microsoft Dynamics Partner.

One key aspect of the project was the optimization of processes in the areas of finance and controlling. In the course of this, it was necessary to integrate several new functions and processes. For example, a new additional module for time tracking was added. In addition to this, with the new version the bank was able to use automated payment transfer within the company software for the first time. In the course of the move, the interfaces to the solutions for document management and business intelligence also had to be updated. A new addition was the integration of the special software for real estate management that had been purchased since the last update.

Today, the employees of Bank Austria Real Invest work with role-based clients using a modern user interface. Instead of being overwhelmed by the complexity of the features of the ERP system, they receive exactly the information they actually need for their daily work. Dynamics NAV is optimally integrated with Microsoft Office 365. Data from the company software can thus be processed efficiently - for example in Word or Excel. For employees, the tight integration of both worlds means more comfort and significantly faster business processes.

By updating the company’s software, the bank has been able to achieve significant efficiency gains in key processes in the areas of finance and controlling. The modern, role-based user management and integration with Microsoft Office provides support for individual workflows and teamwork within the company. "We complete recurring tasks such as monthly corporate reporting much faster than before. And we are able to process our tasks more flexibly and effectively via remote workstations," emphasizes Sabine Kopertz, from the Controlling & Risk unit at Bank Austria Real Invest GmbH. With the move to the current version of Dynamics NAV, the company is also better positioned for the future. Now the company is much better prepared for the introduction of new technologies such as web clients or web services.