Revolutionising retail: How SB+ and AI-enhanced Rocket D3 transformed a UK electronics retailer

A Critical Need for Modernisation

Niglon, a family-run distributor specialising in electronic and electrical components, has established itself through exceptional personal service and operational flexibility. Despite its success, the company's outdated core software system posed a significant threat to its business continuity. The existing system, integral to their operations for decades, was based on deprecated technologies and was proving increasingly difficult to maintain. Given the complex, custom nature of their software, a complete rewrite was impractical.

Navigating Legacy System Challenges

Niglon’s core software was a bespoke solution that had evolved over the years to meet the specific needs of their business. This made finding a commercially viable replacement challenging. The key issues included:

• Technological Obsolescence: The reliance on unsupported databases and systems created vulnerabilities and limited the potential for technological upgrades.
• Complex Customisation: The software's deep integration with Niglon’s unique business processes made it difficult to consider off-the-shelf alternatives.
• Operational Inefficiencies: Outdated systems hindered Niglon’s ability to adapt to modern demands and innovations.

Addressing these issues required a solution that would modernise the technology while preserving the essential business processes embedded in their current system.

H3O’s AI-Enhanced Approach

To overcome these challenges, Niglon engaged H3O, a specialist known for its expertise in the MV (Model-View) domain. H3O proposed a phased approach to update the company's software infrastructure. The solution involved converting the existing 'System Builder' application to a newer version known as 'SB+,' leveraging H3O’s proprietary AI methods. Key aspects of the solution included:

• AI-Powered Conversion: Utilising advanced AI techniques, H3O facilitated the migration from the outdated system to SB+, ensuring the new software was compatible with modern technologies while retaining critical business logic.
• Enhanced User Interface: The upgrade to SB+ introduced a more feature-rich and consistent user interface, improving both functionality and user experience.
• Business Process Continuity: Despite the technological overhaul, the new system preserved Niglon’s custom business rules and processes, ensuring minimal disruption.

A New Era of Efficiency and Innovation

The transition to SB+ had a transformative impact on Niglon’s operations, delivering several significant benefits:

• Modernised Technology: By adopting SB+, Niglon overcame the limitations of outdated technology, integrating modern features such as Web Services and APIs.
• Improved Functionality: The upgraded user interface and system capabilities enhanced operational efficiency and user satisfaction.
• Future-Ready Platform: With the addition of a new web interface, Niglon is now positioned to incorporate external self-service systems and advanced reporting, paving the way for future growth.
• Preserved Strengths: The modernisation preserved Niglon’s market differentiators—personalised service and flexibility—while equipping the company with state-of-the-art technology.

Overall, H3O’s solution not only addressed Niglon’s immediate technical challenges but also enabled the company to embrace modern technology without sacrificing the custom processes that define its business. The project showcased how innovative approaches to software modernisation can revitalise legacy systems, support ongoing business success, and maintain competitive advantages.