Leading global Microsoft Dynamics partner, Columbus IT Middle East recently announced the signing of a key agreement with Obeikan Bookstore for the deployment of Microsoft Dynamics AX across the organization. One of the largest bookstores in the Middle East with over 100,000 titles, Obeikan Bookstore selected Microsoft Dynamics AX due to its ability to integrate and optimize operations, while ensuring high levels of ease-of-use. The solution also provided comprehensive, end-to-end functional coverage, extending from back-office processes to customer-facing retail operations. Columbus IT was awarded the implementation contract due to their in-depth retail practice knowledge, strong implementation skills and international customer references.
With several disparate systems spread across an extensive IT environment, Obeikan Bookstore was facing significant challenges in the exchange of information between different functions. Now, Microsoft Dynamics AX will provide a single platform to consolidate all financial and operational information and deliver extensive benefits across the business. In addition to Microsoft Dynamics AX, retail vertical solution, Retail Chain Manager from To-Increase will further optimize and build efficiencies across the supply chain and retail operations to reduce inventory levels while ensuring high quality customer experiences. Columbus IT will draw from its regional and international consultant base to infuse global best practices within Obeikan.
With over 100 users across different departments expected to use the ERP solution, the project implementation will be conducted in phases through 2009. The initial phase of the project will see the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics AX across the back office including financial management, purchasing and materials management. Phase two will cover supply chain management, as well as HR and payroll processes. The last phase will complete the entire cycle by automating and integrating the organization's extensive retail operations within the ERP.
"Access to critical information and various performance parameters is becoming extremely vital in today's business environment. We were looking for a solution that goes a step beyond the traditional ERP's role of providing an integrated view, by presenting intelligent business insight and identifying active opportunities. We are confident that Microsoft Dynamics AX and Columbus IT will fulfill our expectations and help Obeikan grow through taking a best-practice approach to managing our information. This will help us serve our customers better," said Mr. Riyadh H. Abu Baker, Financial Director, Obeikan Bookstores.
'Obeikan Bookstore is a dynamic business committed to providing the best customer experience. They are also a very generous philanthropic organization committed to spreading literacy and knowledge throughout the Arab world. With a strong retail consulting background, Columbus IT completely understands the present and future solution needs of the retail business. With the support of Microsoft and Columbus IT, Obeikan Bookstore can now expect to serve stakeholders and customers better through strong, profitable business decisions and enhanced retail experiences," said Mr. Ayad Algosaibi, Chairman, Columbus IT Middle East.
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About Columbus IT
Columbus IT is a global technology consulting company specializing in improving the performance of enterprises across Retail, Manufacturing, Distribution, and Professional Service industries by implementing ERP, BI and CRM systems. The company has over 1000 employees who work in 28 countries around the world, and customers in 57 countries. Columbus IT has a huge customer base which consists of more than 5,000 successful implementations since 1989. Bringing international vertical solutions and an established implementation methodology to the region, Columbus IT Middle-East currently serves the region through offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah Bahrain and Qatar.
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© Press Release 2009
