One of the world’s largest independent manganese ore producers and exporters, faced inefficiencies in its procurement processes. While it relied on Sage X3 for capturing procurement and payment activities, the system lacked automation and the digital tools necessary for real-time tracking, compliance enforcement, and performance analysis.

The company required a structured process hierarchy that would provide oversight into procurement workflows and vendor management. They needed a single, web-based portal to integrate vendor management within e-Procurement, streamlining manual business processes while ensuring secure online collaboration with suppliers. The solution also had to:

• Reduce procurement cycle time
• Increase supplier participation
• Promote competitive bidding
• Eliminate paperwork
• Enhance inventory tracking accuracy
• Generate comprehensive reports

Drilling Down to the Right Solution

FlowCentric stepped in with its expertise in business process automation, delivering a custom solution built on FlowCentric Processware. This implementation provided the mining company with automated workflows and real-time procurement visibility, while seamlessly integrating with Sage X3.

Laying the Tracks for a Seamless Process

FlowCentric designed a solution covering multiple business functions, including:

• Procurement Plan Automation: Consolidating requirements, setting procurement strategies, and enforcing compliance.
• Tender Management: Automating bid registration, evaluation, approvals, and awards.
• Supplier Portal: Digitalising vendor registration, procurement processes, contract management, invoicing, and supplier communication.
• Contract Management: Allowing suppliers to review, sign, and update contracts digitally.
• Procurement Automation: Streamlining purchase requests, approvals, and policy enforcement.
• Advanced Reporting: Delivering drill-down reports on procurement, tendering, vendor onboarding, stock management, and compliance.

Refining Procurement for Peak Performance

In September 2022, the company deployed FlowCentric Processware, to the benefit of over 200 internal users and 500 external suppliers. The transition to an automated procurement system eliminated inefficiencies, enforced compliance, and enhanced collaboration with suppliers.

The digital transformation delivered substantial improvements:

• Efficiency: Procurement cycle times improved through automated workflows and notifications.
• Governance & Compliance: Full process traceability and auditability ensured adherence to company policies and regulations.
• Supplier Engagement: An online supplier portal increased participation and streamlined interactions.
• Scalability: The system adapted to evolving procurement needs and allowed seamless process extensions.
• Security & Control: Role-based access and version control ensured data integrity and operational transparency.

Strengthening the Supply Chain for the Long Haul

By adopting FlowCentric Processware, the mining company streamlined procurement, enhanced supplier collaboration, and improved operational oversight. With real-time data insights and end-to-end process automation, they continue to strengthen their position as a global manganese leader.

FlowCentric didn’t just provide software; it delivered a sustainable, scalable solution that supports operational excellence.

About FlowCentric

FlowCentric specialises in helping organisations like this mining company to develop and maintain custom business software solutions tailored to their needs. With a hands-on, collaborative approach, FlowCentric ensures that every system is built to work the way the company works – streamlining operations, ensuring compliance, and driving efficiency.

To take your business from #ChaosToClarity, contact FlowCentric for tailored business software.