How Braun Metall Saves Around 50 Percent of Document Processing Time with Standardized Cloud EDI
Case Study
Customer
Braun Metall Vertriebs GmbH
Industrial supplier of materials and components
Germany
Key results
- Fully automated EDI processes directly within the ERP system
- Significantly reduced error rates in document processing
- Noticeable relief for business departments by eliminating manual tasks
- A simplified IT architecture enabled by consistent standardization
- A robust foundation for further digitalization and integration initiatives
Around 50 percent less manual effort, significantly higher process reliability, and a future-ready integration architecture: by migrating to a standardized cloud EDI solution from SEEBURGER, Braun Metall has fundamentally streamlined its document processing, establishing a solid foundation for future digitalization initiatives.
Initial situation: integration as a critical success factor
Braun Metall processes several hundred EDI documents every month with business partners across various industries. As a manufacturing company with tightly interlinked processes, Braun Metall depends on stable IT systems and smooth digital workflows.
Integration between the ERP system and external partners plays a pivotal role. It directly impacts order processing efficiency, data quality, and the extent to which internal resources are required.
Challenge: legacy EDI structures with high manual effort
Before working with SEEBURGER, Braun Metall operated a highly customized, fully on-premises IT landscape. ERP and EDI systems were run by an external service provider and continuously modified to meet evolving requirements. EDI messages were first converted into text files and then manually transferred into the ERP system. This approach resulted in:
With a planned ERP modernization on the horizon, it became clear that the existing EDI architecture no longer aligned with Braun Metall’s future requirements.
Strategic decision: ERP cloud migration as a fresh start
By introducing Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Braun Metall launched a comprehensive modernization of its IT infrastructure. The objective was a consistent cloud-to-cloud architecture characterized by: standardized processes, clearly defined operating models, high availability and scalability. The ERP migration was deliberately leveraged to redesign EDI processes as well, eliminate manual steps, and remove technical legacy structures.
Why SEEBURGER: partnership instead of project thinking
In selecting an integration partner, Braun Metall placed strong emphasis not only on technology, but also on trust and collaboration. Positive market feedback, geographical proximity, and an on-site meeting helped establish a solid foundation early in the decision-making process. SEEBURGER stood out for four reasons:
Solution: SEEBURGER B2B/EDI Cloud Integration Managed Service
Together with SEEBURGER, Braun Metall migrated its EDI processes to the SEEBURGER Cloud using the B2B/EDI fully managed service. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is integrated directly and complemented by Anvaigo, a Microsoft partner. A standardized double-conversion approach ensures that all EDI documents are processed automatically and seamlessly transferred into the ERP system. Braun Metall deliberately chose not to implement individual custom solutions. Instead, the focus was placed on maintainability, scalability, and operational reliability.
Benefits: significantly reduced effort and measurable efficiency gains
Now, EDI documents are processed directly within the ERP system. Manual transfers from text files have been completely eliminated. What remains is a clearly structured approval process. The results are clear:
Vision: integration as the foundation for further digitalization
With standardized cloud EDI in place, Braun Metall now has a stable integration foundation to support further digitalization initiatives. Planned next steps include:
- Integrating shopfloor and topfloor systems
- Future implementation of IIoT scenarios
SEEBURGER continues to support Braun Metall as a long-term integration partner, accompanying the gradual expansion of the company’s integration landscape.
About Braun Metall Vertriebs GmbH
Braun Metall is a German specialist in non-ferrous metal trading, metal foil processing, and coating technology, with more than 30 years of experience and around 100 employees. Founded in 1992, the company supplies customers worldwide with sheets, strips, and foils, offering flexible, high-quality solutions ranging from cutting and embossing to powder coating.
Quality, reliability, and partnership-based collaboration define Braun Metall’s approach. Customers from industry, trade, and manufacturing benefit from deep material expertise, efficient processes, and reliable, IT-supported order processing across the entire value chain.