Global couplings maker buys into automated portals

Vulkan Group, the German flexible couplings and sleeve spring dampers manufacturer, is to implement a Blue Martini portal system to streamline and automate business processes with its partners, customers, suppliers and distributors. Genuity Professional Services, formerly Integra, will be implementing the system. The firm says it expects to cut costs and improve delivery of information to its subsidiaries, distributors and customers, with a web-based context-sensitive digital catalogue covering its many industry sectors and countries around the globe. It will be integrated with JD Edwards and Baan ERP systems. Vulkan expects the system will allow manufacturers to request quotes, manage their contracts and buy products online, as well as managing sales promotions and providing product and marketing information. Markus Falz, Vulkan’s IT director, observes that since the suite offers out-of-the-box content management, produt management, personalisation, e-commerce and analytics, the firm will not need to worry about integration. The deal follows Blue Martini’s introduction of a manufacturing-focused version of its suite six months ago, with templates for rapid implementation. Existing users include Bernina, Polaroid, Harley Davidson, Wilson Sporting Goods and Rhodia. Bl;ue Martini has just acquired technology partner Cybrant for its configuration, pricing, quoting, guided selling and IT design software.