Whittle Painting Group

Whittle Painting Group: Painting the picture

From seven locations across the UK Whittle Painting Group are handling commercial painting projects. They are a project-based company and are a part of the international Programmed Maintenance Group. Recently they have implemented Microsoft Business Solutions Navision and are now running the same system as the rest of the group. Columbus IT Partner was chosen to help with the implementation.

Not two projects are alike for Whittle, so naturally they needed their new IT solution to provide a high degree of project specific functionality. Tracking WIP costs (Work in Progress) and final project cost is a key to success in their business. Microsoft Business Solutions Navision helps them achieve this with great precision.

“We chose Columbus IT Partner not only for their Navision knowledge and experience but also because they are a one stop shop. We could purchase hardware and software licenses directly and could also have training ranging from basic Navision to more advanced technical training all from the same supplier. Together we have implemented a successful solution and I would have no hesitation recommending Columbus IT Partner”, says Chris Hammond, Finance Director at Whittle Painting Group.

Real time visibility

Due to the flexibility and scalability of Microsoft Business Solutions Navision, Whittle are now able to run the system in all their locations and still maintain a clear picture of their operations - even down to a detailed project level - from their headquarters.

“Having our central Navision server situated in Nottingham, it is important that our offices across the UK are able to successfully connect. All our offices can connect into the one system meaning that we have real time visibility across our business at any point in time” says Chris Hammond.

Payroll

Effective handling of payroll was one of the key requirements in the implementation. Using a Navision Payroll module, Whittle can now generate payrolls that are fully integrated with the corresponding projects and financial modules. The payroll module is constantly updated with the latest changes stemming from new legislation, so Whittle can rest assured that the legal requirements concerning payroll are always met.

Great views

Another key issue in the Navision implementation was the systems ability to generate and display financial trendscapes. Using award winning screen views and Navision's very flexible financial management reporting functionality, Whittle are now able to produce key financial reports that are analyzed and displayed in various relevant formats. This ultimately helps Whittle to make better decisions and run a more profitable business.

True partnership

“Working with Whittle has been a true partnership”, says Mary Chromej, General Manager of Columbus IT Partner UK. “They strive for long term relationships with their clients much in the same way we do with ours. During the implementatio