The Challenge
Luxury retail demands more than a standard online store. John Hardy required:
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple global warehouses.
- Seamless integration with ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics NAV, formerly Navision).
- Tax compliance across international jurisdictions.
- Robust returns and order tracking workflows.
- A premium customer experience, aligned with their brand identity.
The Solution
Avatar implemented a custom ecommerce platform on Drupal, leveraging Ubercart as the foundation and extending it with a suite of integrations tailored to John Hardy’s business operations.1 / 3
Key Integrations
- Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision) - Integrated product data feeds and synchronized order status with the ERP system to ensure alignment between back-office operations and the ecommerce platform
- Real-Time Inventory Management - Built XML Gateway and cron-based retrieval scripts to ensure accurate stock levels across online and physical channels
- Avalara Tax APIs - Integrated tax calculations at checkout for accurate and compliant global transactions, including handling refunds and returns
- Payment Gateway Integration - Enabled secure credit card transactions and PayPal processing, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- G4SI Web Services - Implemented real-time shipment tracking, giving customers visibility into delivery progress while automating updates in the admin panel
- Traverse & Returns System - Automated order posting and return workflows, streamlining exchanges, refunds, and restocking
- Store Locator - Added a geolocation-based store locator, enhancing the omnichannel shopping experience.
Results & Impact
The Drupal-based ecommerce platform delivered by Avatar produced measurable benefits:
- Operational Efficiency - Automated data synchronization between Navision, Avalara, and the ecommerce system reduced manual workload and errors.
- Improved Customer Experience - Customers benefited from accurate stock information, transparent tax calculation, and reliable order tracking.
- Faster Order Processing - Real-time updates across order status, returns, and shipment tracking minimized delays and kept customers informed.
- Scalability - The flexible architecture allowed John Hardy to expand product lines, introduce promotions, and adapt to changing market needs without costly redevelopment.
- Industry Recognition - Interactive Media Awards: "Best in Class" for Fashion