
- AI-Powered Multi-Agent System
Sourcing Value approached us with significant challenges in managing their data processing tasks. The client was overwhelmed by the variability in Excel data formats and the manual effort required to clean, map, and integrate this data into the correct format and then into their systems. Their primary objective was to find a faster and less manual way to do this so we suggested a way to automate these processes. Our idea would help to reduce the chance of bugs being introduced to their work and the need to troubleshoot, speed up potential operational delays and allow their team to focus on more creative work. They needed a solution that could handle diverse data inputs and outputs programmatically, minimizing the need for manual work by their highly skilled team.
Sourcing Value's data management system and process encountered several key challenges. First, data variability was a significant issue for their team. With suppliers and locations submitting data in different, inconsistent formats, it became difficult to standardize any processes and each month they had to repeat the exact same process. This inconsistency led to inefficiencies and errors in how data was processed and employee's depression around performing this menial but important job over and over.
Second, the company was dealing with a large amount of manual effort. Their team had to spend substantial time cleaning, verifying, and organizing data to make sure there was accuracy, which caused delays, required the dev team to help and hampered operational efficiency.
Additionally, the existing AI models used to automate these tasks had their limitations. They struggled to handle the more complex data structures that Sourcing Value worked with, requiring frequent user intervention to correct or adjust the output, thereby reducing the intended value of automation.
Performance constraints were another challenge, particularly with large data sets. Processing times were extended due to the volume of data, which impacted the overall productivity of the team.
Finally, integration posed a challenge. With multiple data sources contributing to the system, bringing everything together into a cohesive and usable output was difficult and time-consuming, further slowing down their workflows.
Sourcing Value's current engineering team had limited experience implementing AI solutions or what was possible. We proposed an approach that focused on automating their data processing tasks by developing a "black-box" solution that harnessed Wippy. This solution allowed Sourcing Value to upload diverse Excel files, train AI Agents using their unique business rules, and receive processed Excel files in return without extensive manual work or the need for technical team members to help them. Key technologies and strategies included:
Spiral Scout was integral in developing the entire solution, acting as the primary technical team. The team handled everything from design, development, and testing to implementation and integration. The process included:
The solution was seamlessly integrated into Sourcing Value's existing workflows. API and EDI connectors were employed to help with smooth data transfer between Wippy and the client's various systems. The iterative testing and refinement process ensured that the solution fit perfectly with their operational needs.
The implementation of Spiral Scout’s solution resulted in:
The client's goals of reducing manual effort, improving data accuracy, and speeding up processing times were met, if not exceeded. They went from a process that took over a month down to 15 minutes. While not completely automated it got them 90%+ of the way there. The automation and programmatic solutions provided by Wippy aligned perfectly with their operational needs, leading to faster decision-making and more efficient operations.
The initial part of the project took approximately 2 days to set up once the requirements were known and the initial excel files were received from the client.
The solution is expected to continue adding value by providing scalable, automated data processing capabilities that will grow with the client's needs. The programmatic approach allows for easy adaptation to new data formats and sources, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Data and Metrics:
At Spiral Scout, we believe that when it comes to software development and delivery, it’s time for a change.