Efficient gate entry is one of the keys to manufacturing success, but manual processes can cause delays. A top hydraulic manufacturer transformed operations with smart automation using Microsoft Power Apps and Dynamics 365 F&O.
About the Client
The client is a prominent manufacturer specializing in hydraulic components with a high-volume facility. With goods moving in and out daily, they required a streamlined and automated solution for their gate entry operations.
Business Challenges
The client faced several operational hurdles:
- Manual Gate Entry Process: Security staff relied on manual logs to record goods movement, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors.
- Purchase Order Verification: The lack of visibility into purchase orders (POs) caused delays and occasional mismatches during goods receipt.
- Time Restrictions: Goods arriving outside regular operating hours were delayed due to lack of an automated approval mechanism.
- Limited Reporting: Manual data entry restricted the ability to generate detailed reports on goods movement and compliance.
We delivered a tailored solution using Power Apps integrated with Dynamics 365 F&O, addressing the client’s unique gate entry challenges.
Dynamics 365 F&O Integration
The Dynamics 365 F&O implementation provided a centralized ERP framework, which seamlessly integrated with the Power Apps solution. This ensured end-to-end visibility and accuracy across all operational data, from purchase orders to goods movement tracking.
Key Features of the Solution
- Automated Gate Entry Process
- Security personnel could enter a PO number in the Power App to retrieve detailed line items directly from Dynamics 365 F&O.
- The app supported partial receipts, allowing for accurate recording of received quantities.
- Custom Time-Based Approvals
- For goods arriving outside operational hours (8:30 AM to 5:30 PM), a three-level email approval workflow was implemented to ensure seamless entry authorization.
- Outward Process Automation
- The app enabled logging of sales invoice numbers for dispatches, along with additional comments to track outgoing goods.
- Enhanced Reporting and Visibility
- A centralized system provided real-time visibility into goods movement, enabling accurate reporting and reducing manual errors.
Results
The implemented solution delivered significant operational improvements:
- Streamlined Gate Entry: Automated workflows reduced manual intervention, improving efficiency and accuracy.
- Enhanced PO Verification: Real-time access to PO details minimized discrepancies and reduced processing time.
- Operational Flexibility: Automated approval workflows enabled secure operations during non-standard hours.
- Improved Reporting: Comprehensive logs simplified tracking and compliance, providing actionable insights.
Conclusion
By adopting a Power Apps-based solution integrated with Dynamics 365 F&O, the manufacturer streamlined their gate entry operations, improved productivity, and ensured scalability to support future growth. This success story highlights how smart automation can redefine traditional processes, offering manufacturers a competitive edge through innovation and efficiency.