SMD improves operational efficiency with IFS Cloud™ upgrade led by Platned

Subsea technology company streamlines operations and gains access to industrial AI through a fully on-premise IFS Cloud™ deployment.

SMD, a global leader in subsea engineering solutions, has successfully upgraded to the latest IFS Cloud™ platform with implementation partner Platned – marking a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey. Delivered on time and within budget, the 12-month project replaced the company’s legacy IFS Applications 7.5 system while preserving its vital on-premise infrastructure and integrating advanced new capabilities.

With more than 280 employees and a presence across key markets including renewable energy, oil and gas, telecommunications, and subsea mining, SMD specializes in remotely operated and autonomous underwater technologies. After over a decade using IFS, the company selected Platned to help modernize its ERP landscape and prepare the business for future growth.

“We were working with an outdated system that was no longer supported, and teams had started bypassing it for certain processes,” explained Lee Hammond, Digital Development Manager at SMD. “Upgrading to IFS Cloud™ was crucial to support our move toward more data-driven operations and advanced engineering.”

Following a comprehensive business value assessment, SMD reviewed alternative ERP platforms such as SAP and Microsoft Dynamics 365. Ultimately, the decision was made to stay with IFS – and Platned was chosen to lead the implementation. The project began in October 2023 and was delivered just ahead of the CEO’s September 2024 deadline.

Protecting SMD’s on-premise architecture was a top priority. Platned configured the IFS Cloud™ solution to preserve data sovereignty and intellectual property without altering the core codebase – ensuring future flexibility, enhanced security, and minimal operational disruption.

User adoption was also a major success factor. More than 250 employees transitioned to the new system through a combination of hands-on training sessions and a core group of 20 super-users who helped with testing and internal enablement.

“The team were engaged from the start, and Platned supported us throughout,” Hammond said. “When we went live, there was no drama, it was business as usual.”

Since the upgrade, SMD has already experienced improvements in system stability, performance, and accessibility. The company is now taking full advantage of IFS Cloud’s evergreen capabilities, including built-in AI tools, while also relying on Platned’s Managed Services team to handle 24/7 infrastructure monitoring, system maintenance, and helpdesk support.

“The collaboration with Platned was outcome-driven and smooth,” Hammond added. “Challenges were resolved quickly, and we now have the peace of mind that our core systems are in expert hands.”

Looking ahead, SMD is preparing for the next wave of digital innovation. Plans include automating warehouse operations with new parts-picking machinery and exploring IFS Cloud’s AI-enabled scheduling features in the upcoming 24R2 release.

Platned continues to help leading businesses like SMD achieve scalable ERP transformation through expert consulting, IFS Cloud™ implementations, and ongoing managed support.

To learn more email info@platned.com.

Read more: https://us.platned.com/case-study/driving-a-seamless-transition-to-ifs-cloud