Case Study: How ABX helped Botanaway with a custom integration to sync Katana, Method CRM, and Quickbooks Online (QBO)

Botanaway Inc. is a leading company specializing in natural and organic wellness products. Founded with a commitment to harnessing the power of plants, Botanaway offers a wide range of products designed to promote health and well-being. Their product line includes high-quality essential oils, herbal supplements, and natural skincare items, all crafted with the finest sustainably sourced ingredients. Botanaway is dedicated to providing customers with products that are effective and environmentally friendly, reflecting their core values of purity, sustainability, and holistic health.

Specific Tech Stack Challenges
In its early days, Botanaway Inc. struggled with a complex tech stack that included using a CRM named Method alongside Quickbooks Online. The main challenge was finding a reliable way to connect their CRM with an inventory app that best suited their business. While API access was available in some cases, third-party support for their out-of-the-box solutions was extremely limited. Reif Picard, COO of Botanaway Inc., described this integration hurdle as a major obstacle to seamless operations.

Impact on Operations
The inefficiencies of using Quickbooks Online in the early days for inventory management were apparent. The system produced negative inventory numbers and required manual cycle counts, creating a significant operational bottleneck. These challenges not only delayed sales but also complicated the manufacturing process, as inventory levels of materials were unclear without physical counts.

Many Attempts at Resolutions
Botanaway Inc. had previously tried custom coding within their CRM software to resolve their inventory issues. However, this solution proved to be cumbersome and ultimately ineffective. The ease of use deteriorated rapidly, leading to an inventory system that was once again in disarray.

Choosing ABX
ABX was recommended directly by Katana Cloud Inventory, making it the primary candidate for resolving Botanaway Inc.’s tech stack issues. The recommendation and the business acumen displayed by ABX set them apart. Reif noted that the engaging and non-sales approach of ABX was refreshing and played a significant role in their decision to try out ABX.

Tech Stack Evaluation
“The tech stack evaluation process conducted by ABX was smooth and aligned perfectly with Botanaway Inc.’s expectations,” said Picard. “Communication exceeded expectations, ensuring that all requirements were understood and met.” This seamless experience reinforced Reif’s confidence in ABX’s capabilities.

Implementation
During the implementation of the chosen inventory software, ABX provided invaluable assistance. They helped map items in the new inventory system, ensuring that any missed SKUs during import were created through the integration. This meticulous attention to detail prevented potential failures or missing items in the system.

Despite the partnership being relatively new, Reif has been pleased with the level of communication and support provided by ABX post-implementation. This ongoing support ensures that any subsequent issues or questions are promptly addressed.

Botanaway’s Operations Improved
Since implementing the new tech stack solutions recommended by ABX, Botanaway Inc. has seen significant improvements in its operations. The new inventory system is far more functional and efficient compared to the previous disorganized setup.

The enhancements to the tech stack have streamlined processes from invoicing to fulfillment, ensuring that all operational cogs move efficiently. This has resulted in substantial efficiency gains across the board.

Looking Ahead
According to Picard, ABX’s services have “not only met but exceeded” their initial expectations. A key highlight to Picard was “the exceptional communication throughout the project, which ensured that the company felt informed and supported at every stage.” This transparent communication fostered a strong sense of trust and collaboration for this and future projects.

Looking ahead, Botanaway Inc. anticipates engaging ABX for additional projects related to inventory levels for e-commerce. Although there are no immediate needs beyond this, Reif remains confident in ABX’s ability to address any future requirements. The strong foundation established during this initial collaboration assures Botanaway Inc. that ABX will be their go-to partner for any upcoming tech stack challenges.