Wilson Transformer First to Deploy Epicor ERP

The Wilson Transformer Company, a leading Australian manufacturer of power and distribution transformers, has announced plans to implement the next-generation Epicor ERP software and in turn become the first customer in Australia and New Zealand to implement the software’s Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) capability.

With over 650 employees based in Australia, Wilson has two specialised manufacturing operations based in Victoria, one for power transformers in Glen Waverley and the other for distribution transformers in Wodonga.

The company says its decision to opt for the Epicor ERP software was based, in part, on the success the company has enjoyed to date using the Epicor Vantage solution.

Wilson currently uses the Vantage solution to support its financial management system and logistics operations. More specifically, the company was vigorously searching for a robust PLM system.

“While we were very happy with the capabilities offered by the Vantage solution, we knew that the platform and upgrade path offered by Epicor’s next-generation ERP solution was ultimately a better fit for our organisation as we continue to grow,” said Ed Wilson, General Manager, Power Business Unit .

“In particular we were also impressed with the product lifecycle management capability offered through Epicor ERP.

“We have been looking for a comprehensive PLM system for some time. Given the nature of our business, it is critical we have access to, and complete visibility of all information pertaining to a specific product including specifications, design, client liaison, service, maintenance, manufacture and procurement terms.

“Ultimately we wanted an end-to-end solution that would enable us to generate greater efficiencies in terms of design, production and engineering workflows,” Wilson said.

Guy Barnsley, Mechanical Engineering Manager also at the Power Business Unit said the out of the box integration of the PLM system with Epicor, as well as its integration with other third party systems including 3D CAD, was a huge draw for the company.

“By upgrading from Vantage to Epicor ERP, we have the best of both worlds: we still retain a strong ERP infrastructure but now have the added integrated PLM component, which we have been striving for, for some time,” Barnsley said.

Wilson selected Epicor ERP through Epicor’s strategic partner, Cogita, which has worked with Epicor for more than ten years.

Roger Fairgray, client services director for COGITA said the company is delighted that Wilson is expanding its engagement with Epicor.

“Increased functionality and scope of embedded modules include Advanced Planning And Scheduling, Maintenance Management, Enterprise Quality Assurance, Enterprise Performance Management, as well as expanding to PLM,” Fairgray said.