A multinational terminal operator, specializing in oil, gas, and dry bulk logistics, has successfully executed a global transformation to unify and streamline its asset management operations. With the support of Ultimo and our trusted implementation partner, MaxGrip, this logistics leader has laid the foundation for a scalable, unified Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) framework across more than 30 terminals, 16 countries and 13 currencies - all delivered within just 10 months.
A Vision for Global Alignment
Following several recent acquisitions, the client’s asset base had grown quickly without a unified asset management structure. The EAM project was part of a broader operational alignment initiative and faced significant time and cultural constraints.
In mid-2024, this logistics company launched an ambitious EAM transformation. The objective was not only to streamline asset management, but to align a sprawling portfolio of terminals under one cohesive digital strategy. Ultimo served as the EAM platform, with MaxGrip leading the implementation.
The key objectives included:
• Standardize asset management practices across all terminals
• Implement a unified Ultimo EAM configuration globally
• Introduce consistent data and process standards where none existed
• Enable scalability to align with future finance, procurement and HR systems
• Complete global rollout in 9 to 10 months
Navigating Global Complexity
The implementation wasn’t without its hurdles. Terminals spanned every time zone, and each region brought its own unique complexities:
Geographic & Linguistic Diversity: Several of the terminals were located in Latin America, requiring workshops and documentation in Spanish. Native-speaking consultants from MaxGrip’s international offices ensured local engagement.
Cultural Variation: Adoption rates and digital readiness varied widely. Rollouts in Europe, the Middle East and Australia were more straightforward, while Africa and Latin America required tailored change management and additional support.
Lack of Pre-Existing Standards: At kickoff, the organization had no existing global asset data or operational process framework. These had to be defined, developed and adopted rapidly during the implementation process.
Bandwidth & Infrastructure Gaps: Several African sites required connectivity upgrades just to support the EAM platform, and new mobile devices and infrastructure had to be rolled out to enable mobile functionality.
The Implementation Strategy
What set this project apart was its agile, scalable and consistent implementation methodology.
Ultimo was configured in a single enterprise environment, avoiding costly and time-consuming localization. This ensured consistency and rapid deployment across all sites, with every terminal regardless of their size operating from a unified system.
A robust role-based authorization model was designed to serve terminals of varying complexity, from small local sites to large international hubs. This approach allowed functionality to be scaled up or down through user permissions, avoiding the need for site-specific configurations.
MaxGrip’s globally distributed consultant teams from Kuala Lumpur, Houston, and across EMEA together and with the customer Global team, they ensured localized delivery and continuous support. Native Spanish-speaking consultants played a critical role in effectively engaging with the Latin American sites.
The project team also responded dynamically to the client’s ongoing organizational changes, integrating the EAM rollout with broader enterprise transformations, reinforcing its role as a digital backbone.
Early Wins - and More to Come
While it's still early to quantify long-term business impact, the immediate achievements speak volumes:
Deployment completed in 10 months – a rapid timeline for a transformation of this global scale
Over 400 active users are live on the Ultimo EAM system with user adoption continuing to grow
Standardized asset management across 30+ terminals in 16 countries and 5 continents - now operating in one environment, using one configuration and adhering to one set of standards, which is a significant operational leap forward
Fully integrated mobile environment, including the deployment of tablets and handheld devices, enabling field teams to work more efficiently
Live KPIs are now in place to monitor system usage and drive continuous improvement
Conclusion: A Global Template for EAM Transformation
This project isn’t just a story of software deployment - it's a success story in global standardization, agile delivery and multi-stakeholder alignment. By delivering a consistent, scalable system across diverse continents and cultures, MaxGrip and Ultimo have helped this terminal operator take a major step toward digital maturity.
The journey is far from over but the groundwork has been laid for long-term operational excellence, adaptability and future integration across the business ecosystem.
This project exemplifies how MaxGrip’s global implementation expertise and Ultimo’s flexible EAM platform can drive a successful, enterprise-wide transformation. Delivered on time, at scale and with minimal friction, this program is a testament to effective collaboration, agile project management and commitment to quality across all stakeholders.
