Key features to look for in ERP software for manufacturing

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Corporate Tech blog cover Jully 2024 copy

ERP software for manufacturers 1000, ERP solution for manufacturers 70

Manufacturers need to optimise production processes, minimise waste, and deliver high-quality products on time and within a specified budget. But how can they achieve these goals effectively? How can they streamline operations and gain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving market? Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software offers a solution. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global ERP market is projected to reach $117.09 billion by 2030. ERP is a powerful tool that integrates various business functions, providing manufacturers with the insights and capabilities needed to succeed. Here, we explore the key features to look for in ERP software for manufacturers:

1. Productivity and efficiency:

ERP software should help manufacturers create efficient production strategies, schedule resources, and track all work-in-progress. Real-time updates minimise production delays and reduce resource wastage. These benefits streamline efficiency and ensure enhanced productivity.

ERP systems should provide robust inventory management functionalities, including demand forecasting, stock level optimization, and automated purchase order generation. This ensures manufacturers have the right materials on hand at the right time, reducing production disruptions and storage costs. For instance, in the automotive sector, companies often use ERP to manage just-in-time inventory systems, ensuring materials are available exactly when needed without excess inventory.

2. Reporting and analytics of data:

ERP software should help manufacturers create efficient production strategies, schedule resources, and track all work-in-progress. Real-time updates minimise production delays and reduce resource wastage. These benefits streamline efficiency and ensure enhanced productivity.

ERP systems should provide robust inventory management functionalities, including demand forecasting, stock level optimization, and automated purchase order generation. This ensures manufacturers have the right materials on hand at the right time, reducing production disruptions and storage costs. For instance, in the automotive sector, companies often use ERP to manage just-in-time inventory systems, ensuring materials are available exactly when needed without excess inventory.

It should help manufacturers track key performance indicators (KPIs) across various departments. These KPIs can include production time, machine downtime, material costs, and on-time delivery rates. By monitoring these metrics, manufacturers can identify areas for improvement and measure the effectiveness of their operational strategies. For example, in the fabricated metals industry, ERP systems can track KPIs related to equipment usage and maintenance, helping improve asset utilisation and reduce operational costs.

3. Flexible and scalable:

Manufacturing ERP software needs to be flexible enough to adapt to these changes. Businesses should look for systems offering modular functionalities, allowing them to add or remove features as the business grows or needs change. For example, a small electrical manufacturer might start with basic modules for inventory and production management and later expand to include advanced analytics and supply chain management as they scale. As manufacturing operations expand, an ERP system should be able to scale seamlessly. A scalable system ensures the business can handle increased production volumes and manage growing data complexity without experiencing performance issues.

4. Integration with Other Systems

ERP software should integrate seamlessly with other existing systems such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Supply Chain Management (SCM). This integration ensures unified data flow across all business functions.

5. User-friendly Interface

A complicated system can lead to user errors and reduced productivity. ERP solutions should offer customisable dashboards and easy-to-navigate menus. This will help users access the information and tools they need efficiently.

6. Compliance and Security

Manufacturing ERP systems must also ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards. This is particularly important for sectors such as aerospace and defence or pharmaceutical, where regulatory compliance is critical. ERP software should include features that help track and document compliance with these regulations. Also, robust security measures are essential to protect sensitive business data from cyber threats.

Looking for information on ERP software for manufacturers?

Explore our Epicor ERP consulting services. Epicor Kinetic ERP streamlines complex processes and eliminates bottlenecks with its user-friendly interface and workflow automation features. You can define, manage, and optimise your business processes to increase efficiency and productivity. Epicor Kinetic ERP’s mobile features allow you to access crucial business information from any location and on any device. Improve communication and productivity by collaborating seamlessly across teams and locations, enabling quicker decision-making. It adapts to your changing business needs. With flexible configuration options and scalable architecture, you can customise the system to meet your specific requirements, ensuring it supports your growth and evolving needs. The ERP solution for manufacturers provides real-time insights into your business operations with advanced analytics and reporting tools. You can monitor key metrics, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions using robust dashboards and customisable reports to drive growth. It also offers comprehensive coverage of critical areas such as finance, inventory management, supply chain, manufacturing, human resources, and customer relationship management with industry-specific modules. Each module integrates seamlessly with others, ensuring smooth data flow and eliminating silos.

 

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