Nordic Paper: Process Mapping to Implement Supporting IT Systems

Nordic Paper manufactures two different types of paper: kraft paper, which is used in paper sacks, for example, and Natural Grease-Proof paper, which is used in the food industry. In total, they have five paper mills, three of which are in Sweden, one in Norway, and one in Quebec.

We met Johan Magnusson, system manager at Nordic Paper, who leads management work focusing on developing and updating their ERP system. He has given us an insight into how Nordic Paper, with the help of 2c8 Apps, has both structured and implemented supporting IT Systems in the business.

August 15, 2024

A Process-based IT-Strategy as a foundation

Nordic Paper started using 2c8 Apps while developing an IT strategy. They had to map and investigate the choices to be made regarding the organization’s various IT systems and the processes these systems supported. The first thing they did was begin a process mapping of a current situation and then map a desired situation. The mapping was done in workshops with the people who actually worked in the processes. In this way, realistic processes could be created that reflected how they actually worked.

“It was a comprehensive effort to map both main- and sub-processes and identify where the IT support was located in these processes. Everything from ‘Purchasing and Finance’ to ‘Maintenance and Inventory’ was mapped”, says Johan.

The work resulted in several of the organization’s processes being described in visual models. The process models then served as a guide in the project. Through the visualization, they could, for example, investigate whether the processes should be in one system or whether they should be moved to other systems.

A Base for Acquisition and Implementation of a new ERP

In 2022, Nordic Paper faced a new challenge: acquiring and implementing its new ERP. This work allowed Nordic Paperble to quickly benefit from the processes already mapped out during the work with their IT strategy.

“We used the processes we had created and delivered them as a basis to different suppliers in the procurement. It was apparent what our needs were and what the system would support. This made it easier for the suppliers to develop their solution proposals with associated quotes”, says Johan.

After the procurement, the processes were also included in a comprehensive Implementation Project of the new system.

“The processes have been the central part of how we will set up the system. When we make our solution documents, we always start by analyzing the mapped processes and then describe how the solution will work based on that”, Johan continues.

The processes allowed Nordic Paper to see which activities needed ERP support, and it was easy to ensure the entire flow.

A Greater Value

The processes that were originally mapped to set an IT strategy ultimately became the basis for procurement and implementation of a new ERP within Nordic Paper. Johan points out that the mapping has served as a pillar, allowing them to rely on approved processes that actually describe how the business works.

“It’s always easier to talk about a visual image than a wall of text, which has facilitated communication in these projects”, concludes Johan.