- Flexible integration instead of rigid systems: AKRIS uses datalizard as a central integration layer. ERP, webshop and POS systems are connected through a shared platform and provide consistent data across international locations. Systems work together while remaining independent.
- Built for the demands of the fashion industry: fast collection cycles and complex product data require structure and flexibility. The datalizard platform enables AKRIS to manage these requirements and provide product information in a controlled way.
- Independence in day-to-day work: the graphical development environment allows AKRIS to implement changes and extensions on its own and evolve the solution continuously
- Future-ready architecture: when AKRIS moved from Magento to Shopify, the existing integration was adapted quickly and with limited effort. New systems can be added and existing ones replaced without disrupting the overall setup.
Initial situation:
The collaboration started with a specific task. An Asian webshop needed to be connected to the existing ERP system QUAND. What looked like a standard interface quickly turned into a more demanding challenge.
AKRIS operates internationally. Product data must be prepared for different regions, each with its own requirements in terms of language, structure and presentation. At the same time, existing systems were to remain in place and be extended where needed. A rigid IT setup would not have supported this dynamic.
The beginning of a long-term collaboration
Datalizard implemented the connection of the Asian webshop successfully. During the project it became clear that the platform could do more than solve a single interface requirement. AKRIS decided to expand datalizard step by step and establish it as a central data hub.
System roles became clearly defined. QUAND remains the leading system for production and manufacturing. Front-end systems such as webshops and POS solutions are tailored to specific markets. Datalizard connects these worlds and ensures that all systems are supplied with consistent information.
Datalizard as a central platform
Today, the datalizard platform is the hub for all product data at AKRIS. Locations in the United States, Europe and China are supplied centrally. The platform also handles the translation of product information into multiple languages, including Asian character sets.
QUAND, the webshops and the POS systems exchange data in both directions. Product variants and attributes are managed in a structured way so that each connected system receives exactly the information it needs.
Beyond data distribution, the platform also supports analysis and reporting. Flexible templates allow information to be prepared and adapted to different requirements. Data maintenance is efficient and traceable.
A key advantage for AKRIS is the level of independence. When the company moved from Magento and Retail Pro to Shopify and Shopify POS, the internal IT team was able to handle the integration with minimal effort. Adjustments can be made directly within the platform without affecting the overall architecture.
Why AKRIS works with Datalizard:
Fashion changes constantly. IT needs to keep up. Datalizard provides the flexibility required without making the system landscape harder to manage. Even with specialised systems in place, the architecture remains clear and maintainable. Standardisation is applied where it adds value.
At the same time, the solution remains adaptable. New technologies can be integrated and existing components replaced without rebuilding the entire system. The close collaboration also plays a role. The Datalizard team brings technical expertise and a strong understanding of the industry.
Results
Today, the datalizard platform is a core element of the IT architecture at AKRIS. It ensures that the right information is available at the right time and in the right place, consistently and reliably. It also closes functional gaps that neither the ERP system nor local solutions cover.
More and more analyses are delivered through the platform. Flexible templates allow individual evaluations without additional development effort. The result is a stable IT landscape that grows with the company and leaves room for further development. AKRIS has found an integration platform that keeps complexity under control while maintaining full ownership of its IT architecture.
About AKRIS: AKRIS is an international fashion house founded in 1922 in St. Gallen. Creative Director Albert Kriemler designs collections defined by understated elegance and exclusive accessories for a global clientele of women. The brand continues the tradition of St. Gallen embroidery, develops digital photo prints and is known for its double-face fabrics, a defining element of the AKRIS look. Since 2004, collections have been presented at Paris Fashion Week. AKRIS operates subsidiaries in Japan, the United States, China and Korea and runs its own boutiques in major cities worldwide. The collections are also available through more than 300 selected retail partners.
Datalizard complements QUAND
QUAND is a mature ERP solution tailored to fashion production. Mathias Riedmüller and Barbara Kurat, developers of QUAND, describe the collaboration with Datalizard as follows: “Thanks to the datalizard platform, our software, developed on IBM System i, is complemented in a meaningful way. The web-based data hub allows our shared customer AKRIS to connect QUAND with their broader digital landscape and develop their IT in a sustainable way.”
“Datalizard and the team impressed us with a deep understanding of our industry. The collaboration is marked by a high degree of flexibility and a very pleasant working atmosphere. Their strong technical expertise is reflected in a platform that runs reliably, performs well in day-to-day use and supports our productivity.”
