Control Products buys first Softbrands SAP ERP combination

SoftBrands, which owns ERP developer Fourth Shift and the lean systems DemandStream company, has set up a new business unit for its exclusive SAP alliance. The new company is launching nattily named Fourth Shift Edition for SAP Business One, integrating SoftBrands’ Fourth Shift manufacturing management software with SAP’s Business One system aimed at SMEs. First order for the new system has been placed by electronic systems manufacturer Control Products of Minnesota in the US. Bob Bruce, its IT director, says: “The [system] was the best solution for two major reasons. First was the robust integrated capabilities linking plant floor operations through to distribution and finance. Second was the intuitive user interface which will allow a smooth implementation for manufacturing, engineering and management. “We expect the system will contribute to efficiency and productivity gains in the areas of manufacturing, materials management, engineering, customer service and finance.” “This new and challenging ERP initiative will offer SME manufacturers the proven strength and resources of SAP, combined with the specialised competency of Fourth Shift,” says Phil Moen, ex of Epicor and Dataworks, who has been brought in to run the unit. “The combination … will address a need among small manufacturers to manage their operations in a seamless software solution that gives them the same advantages of larger companies,” says Gadi Shamia, vice president of solution management for SAP Business One.