Synergist ensures a logical path for each task from start to finish.
Pat Tobin
Process Development Manager, MDL
Shifting Macmillan Distribution from ad-hoc admin to sophisticated processes
Macmillan Distribution (MDL) are the UK and worldwide distribution arm of Macmillan Publishing.
Using modern production and distribution methods, MDL serves the distribution needs of the publishers within the Macmillan group and 40+ other companies, providing a fully integrated warehousing, customer service, and credit control service.
Agency type: Distribution
Services: Book distribution, subscription publishing, print-on-demand
Size: 70+ people
Location: Basingstoke, Swansea, London
The problem
Too many processes, not enough time
Distribution company Macmillan Distribution wanted to remove the ad-hoc nature of their administrative tasks and bring in a more sophisticated system.
Despite operating several sophisticated and integrated systems to control its core processes, MDL had become reliant on a number of ad hoc administrative tasks and procedures within areas ancillary to the main business.
Typically, individuals managed these using desktop applications such as MS Excel and Outlook. As the business had grown, the risk and reliance on these systems had increased, and it became clear that a software solution was required that was flexible enough to be adapted to a number of processes. It also needed to provide control and security to the tasks and improve efficiency.
The solution
Meeting the right specifications
MDL’s assigned project team first produced a specification detailing precisely which processes it wanted to migrate to the new system and the interaction between key business areas. They then went to the market to see what off-the-shelf solutions were available.
“The Synergist system immediately stood out from the crowd,” said Pat.
“MDL’s specification was far reaching, but a thorough and honest appraisal for suitability identified that we could meet 90% of our targets, and rightly won over the project team.”
The return
Bringing all processes into line
Task creation was simplified, quote accuracy improved and true costs for time and materials routinely logged. In addition, the management and tracking of task status was clearer than was ever possible under the previous manual systems.
“Synergist has not only provided us with an effective tool for task management, it has also assisted greatly in challenging the logic of the processes on which we are trying to focus business,” said Matthew.
As well as proving popular at MDL, Pat commented that the Synergist system has been received very enthusiastically by publishers. “They can see exactly what they are being charged for with the clarity that Synergist provides.”
MDL has found the service from The Agency Works to be “First class”. From pre-project evaluation, system configuration through to post go live helpdesk queries, the level of support is excellent, often receiving an instant response to queries.