SAP Implementation, R²i

The Client

AltaVista, a spin-off from parent Compaq Computer, is one of the most popular portal search engines on the Web.

“AltaVista recognized the need for a phased implementation. We decided not to implement all of SAP’s bells and whistles up front. Rather, we got the system up and running as fast as possible and are now phasing in additional functions. Throughout the project, (BearingPoint) played a strong leadership role and kept the project on track.”

— Mary Yuschak, Vice President, Corporate Controller and Treasurer

The Challenge

In preparation for its spin-off from Compaq Computer, AltaVista had to build a world-class business information infrastructure based on SAP Financials in just nine weeks.

“With most of our staff focused on preparing for the spin-off, AltaVista didn’t want to learn how to implement SAP. We wanted to be comfortable in delegating a significant amount of responsibility, and yet retain complete confidence that the project would have a successful outcome,” says Linda Armstrong, AltaVista’s project manager for the SAP implementation.

“We were looking for a fast solution, and that’s what (BearingPoint) showed us. So many companies have implemented SAP, we knew there had to be a solution that could be deployed essentially ‘off the shelf.’ By incorporating industry best practices into a highly preconfigured solution, (BearingPoint’s) R²i approach presented the ideal solution,” Mary Yuschak, Vice President, Corporate Controller and Treasurer said.

The Solution

AltaVista chose BearingPoint and its R²i (Rapid Return on Investment) implementation methodology for its SAP deployment. In selecting BearingPoint as its provider, “we knew that (BearingPoint) offered strong expertise and an excellent track record in working with mid-market companies like AltaVista,” says Linda Armstrong.

BearingPoint was chosen over two other providers because “we believed (BearingPoint) could achieve everything they promised,” she adds. “(BearingPoint) has a track record of success with R²i on numerous other SAP engagements; AltaVista was certain the firm could repeat the same success within the tight deadlines of the project. In fact, the high quality of the R²i preconfigured solution enabled the team to begin working with tried-and-tested high-tech business processes immediately. This was essential in convincing our organization that the project would be a success.”

The Benefits

As a result of the new SAP system, AltaVista’s accounts payable department has reduced its head count by 70 percent and employees are working regular business hours. As the company realizes further efficiencies with the new SAP system, it expects to achieve additional improvements in employees’ productivity in accounts payable and elsewhere in the organization.

The new SAP system also has significantly streamlined quarterly financial activities at Shopping.com. Quarterly closings that used to take up to six weeks are done in six days.