ATKO Transforms Its B2B Operations with Apparatus' Seamless Integration

Challenges

Before partnering with Apparatus, ATKO Group faced significant operational inefficiencies stemming from their outdated web portal and disjointed systems. Their web platform and accounting software were not integrated, leading to:

Double Data Entry: The team had to manually input product and pricing information into both their website and their accounting system, which resulted in duplication of work.

High Error Rate: Managing two systems independently led to discrepancies between the web portal and the internal database, causing errors in product availability, pricing, and order information.
Complex Maintenance: With thousands of SKUs and frequent price changes, maintaining both systems became an overwhelming and resource-intensive process.

These issues not only drained internal resources but also compromised the user experience for their customers, particularly as the company aimed to grow its B2B presence. ATKO Group needed a solution that would streamline their operations, reduce errors, and allow them to scale their business without the burden of maintaining two separate systems.

Solution

Apparatus delivered a solution that directly addressed ATKO Group’s operational challenges by offering a fully integrated B2B web platform. One of the key features of Apparatus’ approach was its ability to seamlessly integrate with ATKO’s existing ERP system without the need for a costly overhaul. This meant that ATKO could continue using their current accounting software while benefitting from an upgraded customer experience.

Key aspects of Apparatus' solution included:

Seamless Integration: Rather than requiring ATKO Group to switch to a new ERP system, Apparatus tailored their platform to work with the existing setup. This eliminated the need for costly upgrades and ensured that there was minimal downtime during the transition.
Full B2B Self-Service Portal: Apparatus developed a comprehensive B2B portal that allowed ATKO’s customers to access and manage their accounts online. This included features such as order history, product information, invoice payments, and account management—services that previously required direct contact with ATKO’s internal team.
Dedicated Account Management and Support: One of the standout benefits of working with Apparatus was their dedicated account management team. When ATKO experienced any issues, they had immediate access to a personal contact who could quickly escalate the problem to the development team for fast resolution.

Results

The partnership with Apparatus has significantly improved ATKO Group’s operations, offering both internal efficiencies and enhanced customer experience. Some of the key outcomes include:

Reduced Manual Work: With the web platform fully integrated with their ERP system, ATKO’s team no longer has to deal with the time-consuming process of double data entry. This has reduced errors and freed up internal resources for more strategic tasks.
Improved Accuracy: The integration has virtually eliminated discrepancies between the web platform and the accounting system. Product information and pricing updates are now consistent across all customer touchpoints.
Enhanced Customer Experience: The new B2B portal allows ATKO’s customers to manage their accounts independently, accessing everything from order history to invoice payments without needing to contact the office. This has been particularly beneficial for customers who prefer self-service options.
Scalable and Future-Proof: Apparatus’ forward-thinking approach, with a clear development roadmap, gives ATKO confidence that the platform will continue to evolve. As Brendan Auld mentioned, Apparatus is constantly innovating to stay on the cutting edge of B2B e-commerce, which positions ATKO well for future growth.

Customer Feedback

Brendan Auld, Managing Director of ATKO Group, was initially hesitant about whether Apparatus could deliver on its promises. He had experienced disappointment with other software providers in the past. However, after partnering with Apparatus, he was pleasantly surprised by their level of support and responsiveness:

"What surprised me with Apparatus when we started working with them was we had a dedicated account manager who we even have a personal mobile number for. When there was an issue, I could get in touch with somebody fast, and they were able to mobilise the support team. Within a short space of time, we were on a call with the developers, and there was a resolution really, really quickly."

Brendan also emphasized the value of the integration solution provided by Apparatus:

"Apparatus really came in to understand how our existing system worked and how they could tailor their platform to be tightly integrated with that. The benefit that this brings for us was that previous providers told us we needed to upgrade our ERP, which would have been a huge investment. Apparatus was able to seamlessly bolt on to what we were already doing, with minimal disruption."

Conclusion

By partnering with Apparatus, ATKO Group has successfully transformed its B2B operations. The company now offers its customers a fully functional self-service portal, while internally benefiting from streamlined processes and reduced manual work. The seamless integration of Apparatus' platform with their existing system has saved ATKO both time and money, enabling them to scale without disruption.

With a future-focused roadmap and a responsive support team, Apparatus has proven to be the right partner for ATKO Group as they continue to expand in the competitive home improvement and DIY sector.