Billing System Integration

A customized solution for logistics systems management

01

Context

GEFCO is a French international company specializing in industrial logistics, founded in 1949 by the PSA Peugeot Citroën group. Over the years, it has become a leader in automotive logistics in Europe and ranks among the top ten transport and logistics groups on the continent. The company offers comprehensive logistics solutions including land, sea, and air transport, as well as distribution services and supply chain management. In 2022, GEFCO was acquired by the French group CMA CGM and later integrated into CEVA Logistics in 2023, strengthening its global market position.

02

NEED

Integration of independent systems

GEFCO faced challenges in its billing process due to the use of separate systems for operational management and invoice issuance. This separation required manual data transfer between the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and the billing system, which increased the risk of errors, extended processing times, and affected operational efficiency. The company needed a solution to integrate both systems, automate data transfer, and streamline the billing process.

TECHNOLOGIES

TOOLS

AREAS AND TEAMS

  • Network architecture
  • Development in Biztalk Server
  • Systems integration
  • Supervision

03

Solution

To address this issue, an integration solution was implemented using BizTalk Server, with the following stages:

  • Server Sizing and Installation: An assessment was carried out to determine the necessary resources, followed by the installation of appropriate servers to support BizTalk and SQL Server.
  • Integration Development: BizTalk was configured so that GEFCO’s management system would drop files in a specific format. BizTalk processed these files, converted them into the required format, and sent them to the billing system via an API, ensuring efficient and secure data transfer.
  • Training: The IT team received training on BizTalk Server, including system maintenance, optimization, administration, and development using the platform.

04

Development

  • Initial Consultancy:
    The project's feasibility was assessed, and suitable technologies such as BizTalk Server and SQL Server were selected.
  • Planning and Scheduling
    A detailed plan was created covering everything from licensing to implementation and testing of the integrated system.
  • Team Formation:
    Two developers specializing in Backend and BizTalk were assigned to carry out the development and implementation.
  • Technical Implementation:
    Servers were installed and configured, integration processes were developed, and the system was launched.

05

Areas and equipment

  • Network Architecture:
    We assign an architect to design the solution.
  • Development in Biztalk:
    .NET developer to adapt and customize the tool to specific requirements.
  • System Integrations:
    To guarantee fluid communication between the different platforms.
  • Supervision:
    We assign a Project Manager to supervise and manage the project.

Result

  • Processing Time Optimization:
    Automated data transfer eliminated the need for manual input, significantly reducing invoice processing times.
  • Error Minimization:
    Eliminating manual data handling reduced errors related to duplication or incorrect entries.
  • Operational Efficiency:
    Integration enabled smooth communication between systems, streamlining internal processes and freeing up human resources for higher-value tasks.
  • Reduced Failure Points:
    Automation reduced risks associated with manual data manipulation, strengthening the reliability of the billing process.

This technological integration allowed GEFCO to enhance operational efficiency and improve internal processes, aligning with its commitment to providing high-quality global logistics solutions.