One system solution for Hynds

By ADAM GIFFORD

Hynds Pipe Systems' chief executive has stepped aside from the top job for the rest of the year to oversee the installation of new Movex business management software from Swedish firm Intentia.

Adrian Hynds and a team of six key staff are working with Intentia consultants to map how the software can improve the running of the concrete pipe manufacturing business, which has "doubled twice" over the past five years to turn over more than $60 million now.

"We were originally an Auckland business," Hynds said, "then we bought out our resellers in Waikato-Bay of Plenty and Manawatu-Wellington, and we have just bought a company which does what we do in the South Island.

"That meant we had three or four different systems.

"Having one system means one set of processes across the country."

Hynds Pipe Systems has used CBA for financial information and purpose-built Access databases to handle production.

Now the company has thousands of lines it makes or buys in, those systems are inadequate. An integrated system is needed to allow better planning and stock control.

Hynds said the company hoped its close to $1 million investment would allow it to reduce inventory, thereby reducing the working capital it needed.

The firm has seven manufacturing sites around the country and 15 sales sites. The system will have about 100 users.