From Scattered Note Cards and Cheap Accounting Software to Complete Internal Data Visibility
Hamilton Engineering’s Journey with AcctVantage ERP
Hamilton Engineering designs and builds made-to-order water heating systems for businesses with unique needs. Their journey began as a modest operation, managing their accounting, inventory, and manufacturing processes the way many small businesses do—by piecing things together as they went along.
Initially, they relied on a paper ledger for accounting. As the business grew, they upgraded to a minimal, inexpensive accounting software. But despite going digital, they still tracked their inventory with physical note cards.
Jeff Deal, the owner/founder/president, knew something had to change.
Why Hamilton Engineering Needed Internal Data Visibility
Hamilton Engineering’s biggest challenge was internal data visibility. Each job is custom because every client has different needs. Some parts are entirely custom-tooled for one client. Absolutely nothing ever gets hooked up the same way twice.
So when a client called for plumbing help, somebody at Hamilton Engineering would have to physically dig that client’s records out of a box or filing cabinet before they could start doing anything productive.
This led to long wait times for clients and a lot of tedious work for Jeff’s employees.
The Solution: AcctVantage ERP
Jeff recognized that they needed a more efficient system. That’s when they turned to AcctVantage ERP.
With AcctVantage ERP, Hamilton Engineering got the internal data visibility they desperately needed.
Now, when a client calls, the staff can see an overview of that client’s history with just a few clicks. Necessary records, documents, and technical drawings are directly cross-linked to the client’s file and easily accessible.
No delays, no fuss. As Jeff puts it, “The info is truly at my fingertips, all the data you need without having to make someone wait while you find stuff.”
How Hamilton Engineering Transformed Operations and Client Satisfaction
The transition to AcctVantage ERP had a broad impact on Hamilton Engineering’s operations and client satisfaction. With quick access to all the necessary information, the team could respond to client questions promptly and specifically.
This newfound efficiency not only improved client satisfaction but also allowed Hamilton Engineering to take on more projects without sacrificing quality. The streamlined operations meant that the staff could focus more on delivering the high-quality, customized solutions they specialized in rather than getting bogged down by administrative tasks.
From Chaos to Acquisition
Before implementing AcctVantage ERP, Hamilton Engineering was a mess—a beautiful mess, but still a mess nonetheless. The new system helped them optimize their processes, keep their clients happy, and attract new ones. The value of the company grew by a factor of 8.
And their improved efficiency and customer service didn’t go unnoticed.
In 2018, Jeff sold Hamilton Engineering to a fifth-generation family-owned business. Reflecting on the journey, Jeff points out that they couldn’t have achieved such growth without the support of AcctVantage ERP.
