Legacy Steel Distributor Embraces DigitalTransformation
Chapel Steel Corp, a prominent steel plate distributor andprocessor founded in 1972, has taken a significant leap into digitalmodernization with the implementation of INVEX, a specialized cloud-based ERPsystem designed specifically for metal service centers. This technologicalupgrade represents a strategic pivot for one of the nation's largestdistributors of carbon, high strength, abrasion resistant, and specialty gradesof steel plate. The comprehensive implementation encompasses multiple businessfunctions including inventory management, quotation and order processing, steelpurchasing, shop-floor operations, production planning, job scheduling, andfinancial applications. This digital transformation positions Chapel Steel toleverage modern technology for enhanced operational efficiency whilemaintaining its half-century legacy of excellence in the competitive steeldistribution landscape.
Specialized Software AddressesIndustry-Specific Challenges
The INVEX implementation addresses the unique requirementsof metal service centers with features specifically designed for theintricacies of steel plate distribution and processing. Unlike generic ERPsolutions, INVEX provides specialized functionality for handling the complexinventory management needs of steel plate operations, including dimensionaltracking, grade specifications, and certification management. The system'squote and order entry modules are tailored for steel transactions, allowing salesrepresentatives to quickly process both standard stock pulls and complex platecutting orders. For custom plate shapes such as circles and rings, the softwareoffers specialized templates that streamline the quotation process, reducingthe time required to generate accurate customer proposals while minimizing thepotential for costly errors in material specifications or pricing calculations.
Real-Time Production Visibility EnhancesCustomer Service
A standout feature of Chapel Steel's new digitalinfrastructure is the comprehensive production routing capability that enablesreal-time tracking of multi-step processing orders. The system accommodates thecompany's diverse processing services including plate cutting, blasting,drilling, and forming, with each production step recorded in real-time throughmobile warehouse applications. This visibility extends to the sales departmentthrough the Order Status App, providing immediate insights into whether customerorders are scheduled, in process, or complete. This transparency eliminates thecommunication gaps that traditionally plagued metal service operations,allowing sales representatives to provide customers with accurate,up-to-the-minute information about their orders without disrupting shop flooroperations or requiring manual status checks with production personnel.
Mobile Functionality Drives WarehouseEfficiency
Chapel Steel's implementation includes extensive mobilefunctionality that has transformed warehouse operations from paper-basedprocesses to digital workflows. Warehouse personnel now utilize mobile devicesfor critical functions including stock pulls, location changes, loadverifications, and numerous other daily tasks. This mobile capabilityeliminates the inefficiencies and potential errors associated with paperdocumentation while providing management with unprecedented visibility intowarehouse activities. Matt Tocci, President of Chapel Steel, highlighted thistransformation, noting that "The production and shipping capabilities inthe software have allowed us to be near paperless from the moment an order isentered until it's shipped out the door. This keeps us nimble and flexible tocontinue meeting our customers' expectations." The reduction in paperhandling not only improves operational efficiency but also aligns with broadersustainability objectives by reducing paper consumption across the organization.
Customer Portal Enhances Digital Experience
As part of its digital transformation strategy, ChapelSteel is preparing to launch a dedicated Customer Portal that will extend thebenefits of its new ERP system directly to clients. This forthcoming portalwill provide customers with self-service access to view their quotes, orders,shipments, and invoices through a modern, intuitive interface. This digitalextension of Chapel Steel's services represents a significant enhancement tothe customer experience, allowing clients to access critical informationwithout phone calls or emails during or outside business hours. The portaldevelopment demonstrates Chapel Steel's commitment to leveraging technology notonly for internal operational improvements but also to enhance the customerexperience and strengthen client relationships through digital engagement toolsthat align with modern business expectations for information accessibility andtransparency.
Strategic Network Leverages Technology forCompetitive Advantage
Chapel Steel's digital transformation comes as the companycontinues to develop its strategic network across North America. As one of thenation's largest steel plate distributors and processors, the company hasestablished a significant geographical footprint that allows it to servediverse markets with specialized steel products. The implementation of aunified, cloud-based ERP system across this network creates operationalconsistency while providing management with comprehensive visibility into operationsacross multiple locations. This technological foundation supports ChapelSteel's continued expansion strategy by providing scalable systems that canaccommodate growth without proportional increases in administrative overhead.The cloud-based architecture of the INVEX system ensures that new locations canbe rapidly integrated into the company's digital ecosystem, maintainingoperational consistency while minimizing the IT infrastructure requirementstypically associated with business expansion.
Specialized Processing Capabilities Enhanced byDigital Systems
Chapel Steel's extensive processing capabilities, includingplasma and oxy-fuel cutting, beveling, drilling, tapping, milling, counterboring, plasma etching, custom forming, and shot blasting, representsignificant value-added services that differentiate the company in thecompetitive steel distribution market. The new ERP implementation enhancesthese services by improving production planning, optimizing materialutilization, and ensuring accurate tracking of complex processing requirements.The system's job scheduling functionality allows for more efficient utilizationof specialized equipment, reducing downtime between jobs and improving overallthroughput. Additionally, the production data collection features providemanagement with detailed insights into processing efficiency, identifyingopportunities for continuous improvement in operations that directly impactcustomer satisfaction and profitability. This digital enhancement of physicalprocessing capabilities creates a powerful synergy that strengthens ChapelSteel's market position as both a distributor and value-added processor ofspecialized steel products.
Key Takeaways:
• Chapel Steel has implemented INVEX, a cloud-basedmetal-specific ERP system from Invera, transforming operations from quotegeneration to shipping while positioning the company at the technologicalforefront of the steel service industry.
• The implementation includes mobile warehousefunctionality for stock pulls, location changes, and load verifications,creating a nearly paperless operation that enhances efficiency and flexibilityin meeting customer expectations.
• A forthcoming Chapel Steel Customer Portal will extendthe digital transformation to clients, providing self-service access to quotes,orders, shipments, and invoices through a modern, intuitive interface.
