Picture this: a bustling manufacturing company with contractors constantly calling in, eager to know the status of their orders.  One lone receptionist switching back and forth between databases trying to manually figure out the status of each order – all while similar calls are on hold and their own work piling up.

This was just a standard day at Western Pacific Building Materials, the leading supplier of quality mouldings, doors, and residential windows to professional home contractors in the Western United States. As contractors struggled to get timely information on their orders, it became obvious that manual data retrieval from multiple databases was causing bottlenecks in the office. 

In the competitive world of manufacturing, efficiency is critical. Recognizing the need for a solution, Western Pacific contacted 14 Oranges for help.

The primary challenge was clear: contractors needed real-time updates on their orders without inundating the receptionist with constant inquiries. It was evident that a digital solution was needed.

Enter the lightbulb moment: a custom mobile app that could give contractors instant access to their order status, freeing up the team in the office and empowering contractors to take control of their schedules. 

I was excited about this project right away because I could see that it wasn’t just about improving processes; it was about transforming the way businesses like Western Pacific serve their customers, ensuring they stay ahead in today’s fast-paced market.

Key Features in Action

The mobile app, called “Westpac Deliveries” was designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind. It allows contractors to log in and view the status of their orders within a user-friendly interface. With features like a seven-day delivery timeline, contractors could easily plan their schedules around incoming shipments, saving valuable time and resources. 

Plus, the app integrated seamlessly with the company’s ERP systems, consolidating information from multiple databases into a single, accessible platform. This streamlined approach not only eliminated the need for manual data retrieval but also provided real-time updates, ensuring that contractors always had the latest information at their fingertips.

Quantifying the Impact

The results spoke volumes. The receptionists went from overwhelmed to efficient – the app helped save them time and frustration. While we weren’t sure what to expect from the contractors (sometimes change isn’t embraced immediately!), user adoption was a breeze in the end. Contractors embraced the app with open arms, excited to put a stop to endless phone calls and back-and-forths. Continuous feedback loops kept the app evolving, ensuring it remained intuitive and indispensable in their daily routines.

They loved having instant access to order updates, leading to smoother operations and happier customers. Productivity soared, and the company’s bottom line felt the positive ripple effect.

It was amazing to see the app’s impact on the business. The big shift was a great reminder of why I love what I do.

Overcoming Tech Hurdles with Innovation

Of course, no project is without challenges. Yes, integrating with legacy ERP systems often poses challenges, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. Our team got creative, devising custom solutions to bridge the gap between old and new technologies. Automation scripts and custom data integration methods helped make for a seamless transition to digital efficiency.

Collaborative Development Process

Ultimately, what made the project such a success was the collaborative development process. Our work with Western Pacific wasn’t just about building an app; it was about understanding their unique needs. We rolled up our sleeves and visited their facilities so we could fully understand their operations. 

By working hand-in-hand with their team, we tailored the app’s features to align with their workflow and integrate seamlessly with their systems.

Future-Proofing and Beyond:

What’s next for the Westpac Deliveries app? The journey doesn’t end with the initial launch. With features like invoice payment integration already in the works, the app continues to evolve to meet the company’s changing needs. The app will continue to evolve as technology advances, ensuring Western Pacific stays ahead of the curve.

Is your company ready to save time, increase productivity and improve your bottom line with a mobile app? Get in touch today. Whether you’re in manufacturing or any other industry, our team at 14 Oranges can help you turn your operational challenges into success stories. 

Sylvain Marcotte is CEO and President of 14 Oranges.