Transforming Global Payroll and Operations: PCL and Syntax Unite for Change
Transforming Global Payroll and Operations: PCL and Syntax Unite for Change
In a significant move to enhance operational efficiency and visibility, PCL Construction has entered into a strategic partnership with Syntax Systems, a leader in global technology solutions for cloud application management. This collaboration is centered on a comprehensive digital transformation project aimed at modernizing PCL's global payroll and operations infrastructure by consolidating its multiple enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems into a single, cloud-based platform hosted on Microsoft Azure.
The Journey Towards Integration
PCL Construction, recognized as one of North America's largest general contracting firms, has a rich history of 119 years that saw the growth of its operations across various business units and regions. However, this expansion resulted in the isolated management of 26 standalone ERP environments that relied on legacy IBM AS/400 infrastructure. This decentralized structure not only complicated enterprise reporting but also limited scalability and introduced potential risks during system updates and changes.
To address these challenges, PCL Construction initially engaged Syntax to develop a phased consolidation roadmap for its ERP systems. The journey began with a strategic 'lift-and-shift' migration to the Syntax Enterprise Cloud. After completing the final phase last month, all 26 ERP instances were successfully unified into a single and streamlined environment on Microsoft Azure. This modernized platform now supports core business functions like finance, payroll, asset management, project execution, and supply chain operations, thereby enhancing real-time visibility and operational efficiency across PCL’s global footprint.
Key Benefits Realized
1. Enterprise-Wide Integration
The consolidation process transformed the management of over 370 financial entities into a singular ERP platform. This unification has not only standardized data but also significantly improved cross-border compliance and visibility for PCL’s operations.
2. Data Transformation and Audit Readiness
Syntax expertly managed the migration of two years’ worth of financial and payroll history, ensuring that the data was validated and harmonized for integrity and auditability. This emphasis on data quality has bolstered confidence in PCL's enterprise reporting.
3. Cloud-Native Flexibility and Robust Security
By hosting on Microsoft Azure, PCL benefits from high availability, dynamic scaling, and built-in security protocols that establish a resilient foundation for future innovation and operational continuity.
4. Business Process Automation
Utilizing Microsoft Power Platform, PCL has streamlined critical workflows, eliminating manual handoffs and reducing errors, which has accelerated execution times across projects.
5. Cost Efficiency and Complexity Reduction
The shift from 26 independent ERP instances to one significantly reduces IT overhead, making maintenance, upgrades, and support not only simpler but also more cost-effective for PCL.
A Milestone Achievement
Reflecting on the successful outcome, Mark Bryant, PCL's Chief Information Officer, highlighted the complexity and technical intricacies of the initiative. He stated, “Through close collaboration with Syntax, we’ve transitioned from decades of fragmented infrastructure to a cloud-based solution that streamlines our operations and empowers us with agility and insightful data.”
Looking Ahead: Presenting at JD Edwards INFOCUS 2025
As part of ongoing industry engagement, PCL leaders will present at the upcoming JD Edwards INFOCUS conference, scheduled for September 9-11, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. Their session titled “26 to 1: PCL's Epic JDE Transformation Consolidation” will delve into the strategies that enabled global payroll unification across diverse jurisdictions and currencies. Attendees will gain insights on data migration, consolidation challenges, and ultimately the business impacts of reduced operational risk and enhanced data accuracy.
Conclusion
The partnership between PCL Construction and Syntax Systems illustrates a forward-thinking approach to digital transformation in the construction industry, setting a benchmark for operational excellence and innovation in the management of enterprise systems. As PCL moves forward with its enhanced cloud capabilities, it aims to continually support its expansive growth and adaptation to future challenges and opportunities.
For further insights on this transformation, visit Syntax at booth #301 during the JD Edwards INFOCUS 2025 event.
Topics Business Technology）
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