Hawkeye Industries, Inc. ERP Case Study

The Challenge

Hawkeye Industries faced mounting challenges as it grew. Disconnected manufacturing planning, scheduling, accounting and inventory management systems resulted in process delays, manual data entry errors and difficulty maintaining accurate records. Inventory counts required 16 people working two full days each quarter, leading to significant labor costs and operational disruption. Additionally, the lack of integration made it challenging to deliver parts on time and manage production efficiently, putting customer satisfaction and business growth at risk.

The Solution

Seeking a robust yet customer-focused ERP solution, Hawkeye Industries evaluated several options before selecting Global Shop Solutions ERP software. The decisive factors included not only the platform’s comprehensive features - such as advanced planning, scheduling, inventory management and real-time data dashboards - but also the company’s alignment as a family-owned business committed to continuous improvement and customer collaboration. Bryan Hawkins, President and CEO, shared: “I liked the fact that Global Shop Solutions is a family-owned business, like mine. But what really sold me was their willingness to listen. Global Shop Solutions listens to their customers, and then they continually update and improve the software based in large part on the feedback they receive. That’s what I wanted from my software vendor.” After implementation, Hawkeye Industries embraced barcode scanning and wireless data collection, enabling rapid and accurate inventory counts and electronic document control across its operations.

The Results

The impact of Global Shop Solutions ERP was immediate and measurable. Inventory counts that once required 16 people over two full days were completed in just four hours by a team of eight, representing a 75% reduction in labor and time. Bryan Hawkins noted: “We conduct a full physical inventory every quarter. Previously, it took 16 people working two full days to complete. Now that we barcode all raw materials, hardware and finished goods and use wireless scanners, we can count our entire inventory in about four hours using only eight people. That’s what I call real process improvement!” On-time delivery rates rose from approximately 80% to over 90%, supporting stronger customer relationships and repeat business. Hawkins emphasized, “At Hawkeye Industries, on-time performance represents the biggest single improvement from implementing the ERP software – and is probably the #1 contributor to the company’s ongoing success.” With a 59,000 sq. ft. production facility now underpinned by real-time dashboards, integrated document control and optimized workflows, Hawkeye Industries achieved lasting improvements in efficiency and customer value.