Progroup AG is a family-run company in the paper and packaging industry with a significant presence in six Central European countries. With three paper mills, 13 corrugated sheet plants, a logistics company and a waste-to-energy power plant, Progroup is one of the largest producers of corrugated base paper and corrugated sheets in Europe. Progroup was faced with the challenge of modernizing its operational processes and making them more efficient. The manual processes, data integration from the source systems for paper production and the purchasing department and the need to set up a modern and scalable IT infrastructure were particularly affected. In this Azure Cloud Migration project, Progroup made significant progress in optimizing their business processes and leveraging modern technologies through the successful implementation of the infrastructure for Microsoft Azure and the support of Power BI.
The challenge - mastering complexity & setting new standards
Progroup faced several significant challenges. Its own requirement is to ensure that its internal processes run seamlessly and efficiently in order to meet the high demands of its medium-sized packaging customers. This resulted in specific requirements for the project:
1. transition from manual to digital processes: Progroup operated in a highly manual environment, which resulted in time-consuming and error-prone processes. Switching to modern, digital processes was crucial to increase efficiency and maximize productivity.
2. integration of disparate data sources: With a variety of source systems for paper production and the purchasing department, data integration was a significant challenge. It was necessary to ensure seamless integration of this data in order to obtain a comprehensive overview of all relevant information.
3. improving data visualization: One of Progroup's key requirements was the ability to visualize data effectively. Without a clear and concise representation of data in the form of dashboards and reports, it was difficult to make informed decisions and optimally align business strategy.
4. customized solutions for complex requirements: Progroup required specific solutions that met their complex business requirements. This included the development and deployment of two Power Apps (Canvas App and Model-driven App) that provided business users with a simple and intuitive way to capture and manage data.
5. ensuring cooperation and sustainability: As a company that places great value on cooperation and sustainability, it was important to Progroup that the new solutions were not only technologically advanced, but also sustainable and developed in close cooperation with partners.
The Solution - Azure Cloud Migration
Together with INKUBIT , the customer decided to implement several software solutions that could tackle the complex challenges holistically. As they were all developed on the basis of the Microsoft platform, they offer seamless integration and interlock efficiently in order to map the various subject areas:
1 Azure cloud solutions: Progroup migrated from manual processes to cloud-based solutions based on the Microsoft Azure platform. This Azure cloud migration enabled greater flexibility and scalability of the IT infrastructure. By using Azure, Progroup was able to create a robust and secure environment that meets the company's current and future requirements.
2. Power BI: Power BI was implemented to improve data visualization and decision-making. This powerful business intelligence toolSolution enabled Progroup to integrate complex data from various source systems and present it in easy-to-understand dashboards and reports. As a result, well-founded decisions could be made more quickly and accurately.
3. development of Power Apps: Progroup received two customized Power Apps (Canvas App and Model-driven App) that were developed specifically for their complex business needs. These apps allowed users to capture and manage data easily and intuitively. The Canvas App offered a flexible, customizable user interface, while the Model-driven App was based on a data model-driven architecture that could map complex business processes.
Working with INKUBIT to implement the Azure infrastructure and Power BI was an important step for Progroup. Thanks to the customized solutions, we were able to digitize our manual processes, seamlessly integrate data and gain valuable insights. This transformation has not only significantly increased our efficiency, but also enabled us to make even more informed, data-driven decisions.
The results with INKUBIT
The implementation of Azure infrastructure and Power BI solutions at Progroup led to impressive results that significantly improved the company's efficiency and decision-making capabilities. Through Azure cloud migration and the successful digitization of manual processes, as well as the seamless integration of data from various source systems, Progroup was able to achieve comprehensive and accurate data visualization. This enabled the company to make informed, data-driven decisions faster and more accurately. The digitalization of manual processes and the introduction of a cloud-based infrastructure have contributed to a significant reduction in operational costs. Automation and more efficient data management reduced the workload and error rate, which lowered operating costs and optimized the total cost of ownership. By implementing a robust Azure platform and integrating reliable data management solutions, Progroup was able to significantly reduce the risk of data errors and system failures. Improved data visualization enabled early detection and response to potential risks, allowing the company to better respond to challenges and increase overall operational reliability.