Celebrating 30 Years of Innovation with WinMan ERP

On September 26th, 2024, we proudly celebrated WinMan ERP’s 30th Anniversary! From its humble beginnings to its global reach, the journey of WinMan is one of innovation, dedication, and growth. As we reflect on our past, we’re excited to continue shaping the future of ERP solutions for manufacturers and distributors worldwide, by providing flexible, scalable business solutions.

The Beginning: A Vision for Software Solutions (1990-1994)

Our story began in 1990 when Jonathan Davies started working with Keith Kent (the founder of Systemware Services Limited) at Performance Systemware. Keith, who originally focused on hardware sales, foresaw the growing demand for software solutions.

By 1991, Joe Wilkinson had founded TTW Services Limited with a bold ambition, to create one of the first Windows-based ERP systems, which we now know as WinMan.

By 1994, TTW’s ERP solution began to establish its name in the industry and Systemware Services Limited (SSL) had been founded by Keith, with the aim to develop and deliver software solutions, initially into the aerospace industry. In early 1995, Jonathan Davies (SSL), Joe and Nick Jacobs (TTW), met at the Computers in Manufacturing (CIM) show; soon after which the two companies became partners making SSL a reseller of the TTW Software.

The Rise of WinMan ERP (1995-2005)

In 1995, WinMan ERP “Version 4” hit the market, closely followed by “Version 5”, marking the beginning of a period of rapid growth. By 1998, the expanding customer base required a larger team, leading to key hires including Graeme Brummitt as an Implementation Manager and Jasbir Randhawa as a Support Analyst. Both of whom still play key roles within WinMan today; Graeme is now on the Board of Directors and Jas is Head of Support, leading the team from our Head Office in Birmingham (2024)

Rapid technological advances continued into the new millennium, with the launch of WinMan “Version 6” in 2000. By 2005, WinMan “Version 7” was released, representing a significant technical leap forward, migrating from the original Superbase database platform to Microsoft SQL, making the software more robust and scalable. WinMan Version 7 was also believed to be the first 100% .NET ERP system to be launched in the UK.

?A New Era of Ownership and Expansion (2008-2015)

In 2008, WinMan faced significant challenges, including the economic downturn. Despite these hurdles, the company’s leadership team took bold action, with Graeme Brummitt, Jonathan Davies, and Nick Jacobs leading a management buyout. This move not only stabilised the business but also set the stage for future growth. By staying focused on customer needs and continuing to invest in innovative ERP solutions, WinMan emerged stronger than ever. This period of adversity reinforced the company’s resilience and commitment to delivering robust, scalable software that supports businesses even in difficult times.

Under new ownership, our growth and ambition continued to soar. In 2015, a major milestone was reached when WinMan LLC was established in the United States, in partnership with Kim Droessler, a previous WinMan Customer who saw the strength and great potential WinMan could have in the US market.

In the same year 2015, Jon Wood, known as "Woody," joined the WinMan Board of Directors, bringing with him a wealth of WinMan experience, dating back to 2005. Having also previously worked with Unix-based ERP systems, Woody came with a [GB1]?deep understanding of ERP Solutions and the complexities of business processes. His experience has been invaluable in shaping the company’s direction, ensuring WinMan ERP continues to evolve to meet the demands of modern businesses.

The Cloud Revolution (2016-2020)

Recognising the direction of ERP development, WinMan began heavily investing in Cloud Technology in 2016; this involved a complete redevelopment of the now, sophisticated Complete WinMan ERP Solution. 2019, WinMan Cloud was going through Beta testing and was officially launched in 2020. In the same year, we released WinMan Version 8, a more modern version of the traditional server-based system. We are now able to offer our customers a full suite of On-Premise, Hosted, and Cloud Solutions to meet their diverse business needs.

Leadership for the Future: Heather Rogers’ Impact

In 2022, Heather Rogers became a member of the WinMan Board of Directors, bringing over a decade of experience with the company since joining in 2012. Her deep understanding of WinMan has laid a solid foundation for growth. Heather’s leadership has been pivotal in driving strategic initiatives, expanding market presence, and improving the customer experience. Her vision has helped position WinMan as a leading ERP solution provider for manufacturers and distributors globally.

Celebrating 30 Years of Success (2024)

Now, in 2024, WinMan has grown from a small team into an international force, with over 50 employees, three offices across two countries, and more than 300 customers spanning the UK, USA, Europe, and Asia.

Today, the dedicated Board of Directors is comprised of Jon Davies, Nick Jacobs, Graeme Brummitt, Jon Wood, and Heather Rogers. With their collective vision, experience, and commitment, they continue to guide WinMan into the future, championing innovation, customer success, and operational excellence. Their leadership is a testament to the strength and resilience that has driven WinMan’s success for over three decades, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of ERP solutions for years to come. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we look back with pride and ahead with excitement. Our commitment to innovation and customer success has been at the core of our journey, and we can’t wait to see what the next 30 years hold.

Thank you to our Customers, Partners, and Team Members for making this journey possible!