Enhancing operational efficiency at Bridgestone Asia Pacific through low-code solutions
Bridgestone Asia Pacific (BSAP), a key regional hub within Bridgestone’s global network, continuously seeks to enhance its supply chain operations to support business growth and improve service levels.
Service
Sector
"At BSAP, we remain committed to continuous improvement in our supply chain operations and digital transformation journey. Lancia Consult has been a valuable partner, leveraging their expertise to help refine a solution that aligned with our needs. Their collaborative approach contributed to a smooth implementation and alignment with operational objectives. We appreciate Lancia’s contributions in delivering practical technological enhancements, and their continuous support post-implementation."
~ Eric van Steen, VP Supply Chain, Bridgestone Asia Pacific, India, China
The Challenge
Operating across 14 sales and manufacturing entities in dynamic markets such as India, China, and the Asia Pacific region, BSAP aimed to refine its technology landscape by improving integration between existing systems. The organisation utilised existing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and order management systems, along with other operational tools. While these systems played a critical role, BSAP identified opportunities to streamline data transfer processes and improve workflow efficiency to enhance operational visibility and decision-making.
As part of its ongoing digital transformation efforts, BSAP sought to improve integration between its core systems to reduce the need for manual interventions in data processing. Some processes required file transfers between platforms, which created room for optimisation. Additionally, BSAP aimed to develop a more user-friendly interface to facilitate order management and improve regional supply chain visibility.
The Solution
To complement its existing technology stack, BSAP collaborated with Lancia Consult to implement a low-code application platform using Jitterbit’s App Builder (formerly Vinyl). The initiative was designed to create a tailored solution that would enhance operational workflows without disrupting core enterprise systems.
Initially, an interim Order Management System (OMS) and a Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) application, named Helix, were developed to support order management functions. This provided an additional layer of efficiency, reducing reliance on spreadsheet-based processes in select areas.
Building upon the initial success, BSAP introduced a second iteration of the Helix application, incorporating enhanced order allocation capabilities and integrating a shipment visibility platform for real-time tracking. This initiative further improved visibility, traceability, and efficiency across regional supply chain operations.
In addition to solution implementation, BSAP worked closely with Lancia Consult on data governance initiatives and internal technology evaluations, ensuring that the new system aligned with its broader digital strategy.
The Impact
The enhancements to BSAP’s supply chain operations have resulted in several tangible benefits:
· Improved Visibility & Control: The enhanced Order Management System provides better real-time insights into order status and invoicing, allowing for more effective operational oversight.
· Streamlined Processes: The consolidation of multiple workflows into an integrated platform has led to increased efficiency across 12 countries, particularly through the automation of invoice processing with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA).
· Optimised Resource Allocation: Reductions in manual processing have enabled BSAP to allocate personnel to higher-value activities, contributing to operational efficiencies.
· Increased Agility: With greater flexibility in system configuration, BSAP can swiftly adapt to evolving business needs and market conditions.
· Data-Driven Decision-Making: Enhanced operational insights have facilitated more informed and accurate decision-making.
