LF Logistics

LF Logistics: A new infrastructure with Axapta

Along with the physical construction of the new warehouse LF Logistics also undertook a project to build a new IT infrastructure for the operations of the warehouse.

“We needed to automate to comply with our customers requirements such as selective storage, order monitoring and other features”, says Maxim Usanov, General Director of LF Logistics. “But at the same time we needed a technology that was easy to use for our warehouse employees”.  

Quick implementation

LF Logistics conducted a thorough market research among potential IT systems where the different solutions were evaluated by their ability to integrate with the existing infrastructure, their flexibility, scalability, features and, of course, value for money.

“We were looking at all kinds of systems”, says Maxim Usanov. “Out the original 15 solutions we chose 6-7 for detailed evaluation. Finally we opted for Axapta because it could be implemented quickly and had all the necessary features to integrate with our existing systems”.

Proven ability

The decision was made after seeing the successful use of Axapta at another logistics company (the Perekrestrok Trading House). This solution had been delivered and implemented by Columbus IT Partner and was built around Columbus' own Distribution Center Solution for Axapta. Since a short implementation period was among the key criteria for LF Logistics it was only logical to go with the proven ability of Columbus IT Partner.

Two months

The project was completed in two months including testing and user training. It was imperative that the Axapta solution was operational at the same time as the new warehouse was finished.

“The solution has given us significant additional functionality”, says Maxim Usanov. “Our warehouse transactions have become more transparent and controllable. Advanced accounting technologies based on electronic document flow has increased the speed of operations, minimized errors and expanded our range of services”.

Paper warehouse

User training is an important aspect of all technological implementations. At LF Logistics employees were momentarily relieved of their normal job duties and given time to learn the new systems. The training methods included a virtual “paper warehouse”.

“We tested the solution by using a miniature version of our warehouse”, says Maqxim Usanov “This visualization of the testing was a key to its success. Our employees saw that the solution adapted to the needs of the company and saw the value of it”.

The full potential

Although the timeline for the project was only 8-10 weeks, all goals regarding functionality, deadlines and budgeted cost were met. However, the main project produced a number of off spring projects.

“Seeing the whole potential of the product we wanted to utilize its full potential”, recollects one of project managers af LF Logistics.

Customer involvement

“Logistics is all about information and handling information is our business”, says Sergey Artem Dolgikh, WMS Team Leader from Columbus IT Partner in Moscow. “So naturally we're proud to be chosen as solution providers by some of Russia's most successful logistics companies. Working with LF Logistics has been a pleasure”.

About LF Logistics

Logistics and distribution company based in Moscow.