Michigan State Industries ERP Case Study

The Challenge

MSI, a division of the Michigan Department of Corrections, provides work opportunities for more than 500 incarcerated individuals across 12 industry operations, manufacturing a diverse range of products including textiles, garments, license plates and janitorial supplies. However, MSI's legacy ERP system created significant barriers to operational efficiency. Data was collected manually using paper forms and spreadsheets, making real-time tracking of work in progress and inventory nearly impossible. The organization was forced to backflush inventory data, managed 12 separate legacy databases and depended heavily on the Michigan Technology Department for IT support. These limitations led to delayed production insights, increased risk of errors and challenges maintaining compliance and operational agility.

The Solution

Recognizing the need for a robust, integrated ERP platform, MSI evaluated several options before selecting Global Shop Solutions ERP in 2019. The decision was influenced by the software's functional depth, agility and proven track record in the correctional industry sector. As Director/Administrator Greg Dancer explains, "Once we determined Global Shop Solutions had the functional richness and agility MSI needed, we talked with correctional facilities in other states that use the software. We learned Global Shop Solutions has successfully implemented their ERP in a number of Correctional Industry states. The software is easy to use and they have many things in place to facilitate implementation in a timely manner – project managers, consultants and very knowledgeable product specialists." With Global Shop Solutions, MSI transitioned to automated shop floor data collection, digital inventory transactions and comprehensive dashboard reporting. This move digitized processes previously handled with paper or spreadsheets, enabling real-time access to production data for anyone with shop floor workstation access.

"Global Shop Solutions offers complete data tracking from quote to ship and it’s all available in digital format. The software automatically tracks and records the information we previously captured on paper or spreadsheets. The data is real-time, and it’s available to anyone with access to the shop floor workstations," adds Dancer. Open communication and dedicated support from Global Shop Solutions ensured a smooth implementation and fostered trust throughout the process. 

The Results

Since going live with Global Shop Solutions ERP, MSI has experienced a transformative increase in manufacturing efficiency and data transparency. The company eliminated 12 separate legacy databases, unifying all operations within a single integrated ERP environment. Automated tools such as barcoded inventory transactions and shop floor data collection have drastically improved accuracy and operational speed, while dashboard reporting enables managers to make informed decisions based on real-time data. The reduction in manual processes and external IT dependency has empowered MSI to focus more resources on continuous improvement and quality. Now supporting over 500 employees across 12 industry operations, MSI benefits from elevated cost and margin analysis, greater compliance readiness and a scalable foundation for future growth.