Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) stands at the forefront of the global construction equipment industry, renowned for its production and sales of hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, and dump trucks. Since the 1990s, HCM has accelerated its global expansion, establishing operations across Asia, Oceania, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North America— generating over 80% of its sales from overseas markets.

As part of this strategic growth, the company sought an ERP system tailored to support its core operations and provide a centralized data management for its teams globally. The company then initiated a comprehensive system overhaul in 2015 and adopted a package-based approach to address its aging infrastructure and evolving business requirements. Thus began a rigorous evaluation for potential solutions and partners.

After careful assessment, HCM selected Microsoft Dynamics 365, a globally recognized platform with an extensive track record and strong network of skilled engineers and consultants. HCM’s strategy centered on developing a robust global template at its Japan headquarters, subsequently deploying it across international locations to ensure consistency and operational excellence.

The global implementation was expertly supported by the Hitachi Solutions Group, including Hitachi Solutions and Hitachi Solutions Asia Pacific. The Group’s proven expertise in Dynamics 365 and its ability to deliver adaptable solutions across various regions worldwide were key factors in HCM’s decision.

Throughout the deployment, collaboration with local teams remained a top priority to ensure seamless communication and foster mutual trust. Even in the face of schedule delays, Hitachi Solutions Group demonstrated exceptional project management and recovery capabilities, successfully keeping the initiative on track.

By October 2024, the global deployment of the Integrated Data Management System (IDMS) was completed across 17 locations. This initiative standardized HCM’s system infrastructure, enabling centralized data management from overseas group companies and providing a strong foundation for unified global operations.

The project achieved a high standard of quality and met the rigorous expectations of Japanese enterprises at each location. This success not only streamlined HCM’s overall business processes but also enabled further international expansion without increasing staff at headquarters.

Post-deployment, HCM has maintained stable operations, leveraging Hitachi Solutions’ global maintenance service, “G-AMO,” to support ongoing business needs.
Plans are also underway to extend IDMS to additional countries, including Canada, alongside the adoption of AI chatbots to enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement.