How Gala Systems Increased Productivity with Axya’s Order Management Module

Company Overview

Introduction to Gala Systems Inc.

Gala Systems Inc. is a leader in the lift platform industry and in transforming spaces to host various events. Founded in 1960, the company initially focused on manufacturing industrial electromechanical equipment. In the 1980s, Gala Systems revolutionized the industry with its Spiralift® system, the most compact in the world. Today, Gala Systems is recognized for its innovations in lift platforms, mobile tiered seating systems, and mobile podiums, serving projects in theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, casinos, and multifunctional spaces across 65 countries.

Products and Services

Gala Systems Inc. stands out for its engineering expertise and innovative solutions for event space management. Its flagship product, the Spiralift®, allows platforms and stages to move smoothly, offering exceptional flexibility for various events. In addition to its primary application in the event sector, Gala Systems has developed solutions for other sectors through its Akvo Spiralift and Paco Spiralift divisions, addressing needs such as adjusting pool depths and tackling industrial challenges.

Challenges and Issues

Before adopting Axya, Gala Systems faced several challenges in managing its orders. The company handles a high volume of custom projects, which requires complex management of requests for quotation and orders. The extensive use of Excel files and emails had reached its limits, complicating the access to operational data and to sharing information. Centralizing information, managing orders, confirmations, and follow-ups were done manually, which limited visibility and was time-consuming.

Objectives

Gala Systems aimed to achieve several goals with the implementation of the Order Management Module:

• Time Savings: Automate repetitive tasks to allow the team to focus on higher-value activities.

• Data Transparency: Improve visibility and access to information for better collaboration.

• Modernization: Use a modern tool to make work more enjoyable and attractive for employees.

Solution and Implementation

Choice of Solution

Gala Systems sought a solution suitable for SMEs and discovered Axya through word-of-mouth. The company chose Axya after a thorough evaluation and compared it with other solutions available in the market. Selection criteria included compatibility with their specific needs and the ability to effectively integrate with Infor, their existing ERP system.

Integration Process with Infor

The implementation of Axya primarily involved the purchasing department, with support from the IT teams and ERP experts. Axya and Gala Systems were deeply involved in the integration project, and the successful implementation enhanced the respect and recognition of the purchasing department within the organization, notably because the team can now focus on higher-value tasks.

Results and Benefits

Étienne Bouchard, Purchasing Director at Gala Systems, notes that “the transactional part of our work has become easier to manage as a team. Reducing clerical tasks has made our work more rewarding, and our organization is more attractive to potential new hires. 

The summer vacation period went more smoothly than in the past because we could pick up where a vacationing colleague left off and access the same information through Axya. 

It is still too early for full statistics, but we have observed time savings in the quotation request, order placement, and follow-up processes. We already have ideas to enhance further the tool to automate additional tasks.”

Conclusion

The members of the Purchasing Department at Gala Systems have seen significant time savings in the quotation request, order placement, and follow-up processes. They have also noted improved access to information. Initial impressions are positive, and the team is enthusiastic about using Axya to automate even more tasks.

The use of Axya has allowed the team to focus on higher-value activities, which has highlighted their work and strengthened the respect and recognition of the Purchasing Department within the organization. Gala Systems Inc. has demonstrated that the strategic adoption of a modern technological solution for the Purchasing Department can positively transform operations across the company, enhancing efficiency, data transparency, and market attractiveness.