- Client: A&E Metal & Echols Metal
- Industry: Metal Panel Manufacturing / Rollforming
- Challenge: Limited reporting visibility, disconnected systems (Excel + QuickBooks), and a lack of scalable infrastructure for multi-location growth
- Solution: Paradigm ERP with integrated accounting, intercompany ordering, and custom dashboards
- Results: Improved data visibility, streamlined multi-location coordination, and stronger decision-making capabilities
Client Testimonial
“If we had it to do all over again, we’d do it again … implementing Paradigm from day one is a no-brainer for us.”
— Eric Arnold, President, A&E Metal & Echols Metal
A&E Metal and Echols Metal operate multiple rollforming locations across eastern Alabama. As the company expanded and consolidated five businesses into one, they needed a system that could support growth while maintaining their speed and service standards.
With Paradigm ERP, they unified operations, improved visibility across locations, and gained access to real-time business data to support smarter decision-making.
As a result, the company is now positioned to scale efficiently, with better insight into performance, customer activity, and production across all locations.
Client Overview
A&E Metal and Echols Metal are roll-forming operations serving customers across Alabama. Their business focuses on producing metal panels, trim, and accessories with a strong emphasis on speed and reliability.
With multiple locations and varying production capabilities, they operate as a coordinated network, fulfilling orders quickly even when production must shift between facilities. Their ability to deliver materials efficiently has been a key competitive advantage.
The Challenge
- Limited Reporting & Visibility: Their previous system lacked true database capabilities, making it difficult to track profitability, customer performance, and operational data.
- Disconnected Systems: Orders were managed in Excel and accounting in QuickBooks, requiring manual re-entry and creating inefficiencies.
- Scaling a Multi-Location Operation: As they rolled five companies into one, they needed a more advanced system to support growth and coordination.
“We didn’t have the ability to go back in and track profitability at the customer level.”
— Eric Arnold, President, A&E Metal & Echols Metal
The Solution: How Paradigm ERP Helped
A&E Metal and Echols Metal implemented Paradigm ERP in phases, ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining daily operations.
- Integrated Accounting System: Combined Excel and QuickBooks into one unified system with built-in general ledger, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.
- Intercompany Order Processing: Enabled fast and efficient transfer of orders between locations when specific materials or equipment weren’t available.
- Real-Time Data & Reporting: Provided visibility into margins, production, and customer activity—something they didn’t have before.
- Custom Dashboards: Delivered tailored insights into revenue, production, and performance across locations, accessible from anywhere.
- Phased Implementation Strategy: Rolled out across locations strategically—first one, then another, then the remaining locations together—to ensure stability.
“If we got an order at one location… we could send quickly and quite easily intercomp transfer purchase orders… that can immediately be processed on the other end and start the production process.”
— Eric Arnold, President, A&E Metal & Echols Metal
The Results: Measurable Gains
- Improved Operational Visibility: Leadership now has access to real-time data across all locations.
- Better Decision-Making: Insights into margins and customer activity support smarter pricing and purchasing decisions.
- Streamlined Multi-Location Coordination: Orders can be fulfilled across locations without delays or manual workarounds.
- Reduced Manual Processes: Eliminated duplicate data entry between systems.
- Scalable Infrastructure for Growth: New locations can be added with Paradigm as a foundation from day one.
“We have data that we didn’t have before… and can make better decisions going forward.”
— Eric Arnold, President, A&E Metal & Echols Metal
Ready To Streamline Your Workflow Like A&E Metal & Echols Metal?
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