Acquisition Ahead?

The Challenge

Milestone AV Technologies, a global leader in audiovisual mounting and display solutions, has successfully expanded through acquisitions. To support continued growth, Milestone transitioned to SAP ERP, requiring acquired companies to integrate their business applications, including EDI and B2B document exchanges.

A smooth EDI conversion was critical to maintaining key customer relationships and ensuring business continuity. The challenge included:

• Converting multiple acquired companies’ EDI systems to Milestone’s IBM Gentran and SAP.
• Ensuring no disruption in trading partner communication.
• Addressing EDI variances between different customers, suppliers, and logistics partners.
• Migrating customers from costly EDI networks to secure, direct AS2 and FTPS connections.

The Solution

Milestone partnered with DCS to facilitate a structured, efficient EDI transition. DCS leveraged our extensive experience with SAP, Gentran, and various trading partner requirements to:

• Conduct a thorough discovery and analysis phase using data analysis tools to identify and retain necessary EDI variances.
• Convert critical EDI transactions, including:
  • Inbound Customer Purchase Orders (850)
  • Outbound P.O. Acknowledgements (855)
  • Outbound Shipment Notices (ASN, 856)
  • Outbound Invoices (810)
  • Additional documents supporting purchasing, transport, and marketing.
• Retained beneficial customer-specific EDI formats, including necessary variations within Best Buy (Stores, BestBuy.com, Best Buy Canada, Best Buy Mexico) and variances between logistics providers (FedEx, UPS, USPS) for delivery/refusal notices.
• Move select customers to more cost-effective and secure AS2/FTPS connections.

The Result

Through DCS’s expertise, Milestone successfully integrated acquired companies’ EDI operations without disrupting critical trading partner relationships. The key benefits included:

• Increased profitability by automatically identifying incorrect pricing and discount errors.
• Faster payments due to improved invoice accuracy.
• Operational efficiencies through automation, maintaining a lean headcount, and expanding shipping flexibility.
• Future-readiness with a structured EDI foundation adaptable for cloud migration.

By ensuring a seamless transition, DCS helped Milestone maintain business continuity, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction—critical elements for any successful acquisition.

Are you in the process of or considering an acquisition? DCS is ready to help.  Contact us to setup a free assessment and let us assist you in ensuring critical steps are not missed.

About Data Communication Solutions

Since 1991, DCS has been providing customers with solid EDI solutions to a wide-range of industries throughout United States and Canada. DCS works with the leading EDI systems to help you overcome your EDI challenges. DCS consultants have successfully installed, mapped, and operated nearly all EDI systems. Our services include EDI development, EDI Managed Services, support, and training. Contact us today to start a conversation.