Data analytics holds the ability to highlight inefficient manufacturing processes and enable data-driven decisions that can improve performance in food manufacturing operations. By leveraging these insights, companies can enhance overall productivity.

Data analytics holds the ability to highlight inefficient manufacturing processes and enable data-driven decisions that can improve performance in food manufacturing operations. By leveraging these insights, companies can enhance overall productivity.

Data analytics holds the ability to highlight inefficient manufacturing processes and enable data-driven decisions that can improve performance in food manufacturing operations. By leveraging these insights, companies can enhance overall productivity.

As we move farther into 2025, industrial equipment manufacturing (IEM) continues to evolve through innovative technologies. Building on the digital transformation that began decades ago, manufacturers are currently looking to implement smarter, more efficient and sustainable practices. Last year, we outlined the IEM Trends for 2024. Now, we explore the key…

The industrial landscape continues to evolve and experience periods of significant growth. Once viewed as a luxury, the integration of automation and advanced technologies is now a necessity to align manufacturing enterprises with these rapid improvements.

Due to their complexity, software implementation projects demand a coordinated team effort, including project managers, software vendors, implementation partners, stakeholders and end-users.

Staying competitive in business is essential to keep a company successful. Today’s world is a digital one, and businesses that don’t adapt to it can be left behind and struggle to grow.

Facing challenges from supply chain disruption, changing customer demands, labor issues, industry regulations and more, digital transformation has become a necessity for companies aiming to stay competitive.

Companies across industries are looking to enhance their operations to increase their efficiency and competitiveness. Embracing new technologies through digital transformation is a critical tool for driving these businesses toward their goal.

So, you’ve set out to secure new software for your organization. After carefully selecting the right software solution based on your needs, it’s time to finalize the contract.

Challenges abound for today’s manufacturers. From the pressure to reduce operating costs and streamline processes to increase efficiency, to staying ahead of the advancement in digital technologies it seems that there’s always some problem standing in the way of achieving your company’s goals.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems centralize disparate processes and increase efficiency, but when an ERP project stalls, all those benefits are also put on hold. Recovering a failing ERP software implementation is challenging but has to be done in order to recover your initial implementation costs and gain the advantages of…

It’s no secret that success in business is a constantly moving target, with demand increasing for personalized products, faster delivery, and sustainable manufacturing methods. Today’s manufacturing companies look to stay ahead of the curve—and the competition—by embracing agile manufacturing practices.

The U.S. manufacturing sector is once again on edge, particularly due to the possible imposition of tariffs. While tariffs are often viewed as a tool to protect domestic industries and curb unfair trade practices, they can also lead to rising costs, disruptions in the supply chain, and higher prices for consumers.

Change is inevitable and companies must be able to effectively manage change. Whether your company is undergoing new technology projects, restructuring your teams, or changing the overall business strategy, your success hinges on how well you implement an effective change management process.

While the term “digital transformation” has been around for decades, its adoption has been gradual; businesses have increasingly replaced manual tasks with automation and linked functions and devices into networks to foster collaboration and remain competitive.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is the hub of modern manufacturing operations, integrating functions from across the business including finance, HR, warehouse management and production. But because of the complexity and importance of ERP systems, successfully negotiating ERP contracts is a critical part of any ERP project.

In today’s manufacturing environment, every process from design to shipping yields data that holds the potential to impact product quality, operational efficiency, and profitability. Product data including information related to the product’s specifications, production process, and lifecycle management is key to boosting the bottom line and maintaining a competitive edge.

The term “digital transformation” has been used for more than a decade to describe the process of using digital technologies to improve business performance. Today, companies are increasingly turning to digital transformation to maintain their competitive edge.

The pace of technological advancement has quickened in recent years, addressing the need for more efficient, cost-effective warehouse operations. Driven by increasing customer demands, the rise of e-commerce and complex supply chains, innovations in warehouse management systems are changing how products are stored, shipped and managed. This post will explore some…

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software brings the promise of being the central core of a company’s business operations, integrating processes across departments and providing real-time insights to areas including finance, HR, supply chain and sales. But these complex implementations span all areas of the business and involve internal teams, vendors and…

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can be a game-changer for any company, driving improvements across all areas of the business. But a new ERP brings with it significant resource investment and could bring disruption to your current processes if not done right.

In today’s complex and uncertain world, the pressure to adapt is never-ending. And this is especially true for manufacturers and distributors dealing with supply chain disruption and complex operations. To stay ahead companies are turning to digital transformation to modernize their systems and processes and provide vital real-time data for informed…

In today’s marketplace, companies need every advantage to drive growth and maintain their competitive edge. Smart manufacturers and distributors increasingly rely on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to give them a competitive edge, reducing cost and adding visibility to their operations to increase efficiency and streamline processes.

For decades ERP software has been used to streamline business processes, reduce inefficiencies, facilitate data-driven decision making, and foster company-wide collaboration between key stakeholders. For manufacturers embarking on digital transformation involving ERP replacement or upgrade, it’s one of the most significant decisions they’ll make, effecting all areas of their business. But…

Over the past several years, the importance of supply chain resilience has been moved even more to the forefront. Even with the worst of the pandemic behind us, companies still face supply chain management challenges including shifting customer demands, natural disasters and political tensions. To hold on to their competitive advantage,…

For manufacturers and distributors, there are few projects as critical as selecting and implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. A successful ERP project can bring a multitude of benefits like streamlined operations, increased productivity and a wealth of data insights to drive your company forward.

As technological advancements continue, manufacturers turn to digital transformation to streamline processes and stay ahead of changing market demands. As outlined in a recent NAM survey, “approximately 15% expect to have their manufacturing operations digitized end-to-end by 2026.” But the journey to digital transformation success isn’t always smooth. Digital transformation consulting…

It’s no secret that modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have become an essential part of the success of today’s manufacturers, helping to position them for success by boosting productivity, streamlining operational workflows, and improving data-driven decision making. Through varied functionality encompassing HR, supply chain and inventory management, accounting and customer…

What is Organizational Change Management?

With constantly increasing competition, today’s manufacturers seek new ways to boost efficiency, lower their costs to drive success. Infor ERP solutions are one option that’s making a difference for some leading companies.

Implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system can help your organization streamline operations and business processes, enhancing your efficiency in the long term. However, this directly depends on a successful implementation of the new ERP system.

What are the top industries that use Infor ERP? Companies are always on the lookout for ways to streamline operations, improve efficiency, drive growth and stay ahead of their peers. The tool that not only accomplishes these goals but also provides an integrated platform for implementing new processes and measuring their…

Once you have completed implementing an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system in your organization, you expect the system to start delivering the promised benefits and ROI. But how effective the ERP software can be depends in part on how effective your data migration process is.

Enterprise resource planning systems have become an essential part of electronics manufacturers’ operations—as a way of optimizing a company’s business operations, enhancing efficiency and helping their organization maintain a competitive advantage. ERP systems have revolutionized how businesses manage resources, streamline manufacturing processes and make informed decisions.

The manufacturing and distribution industries are experiencing rapid advancements in technology, led by organizations who are embracing these changes as a way to maintain their competitive advantage and provide more value to their customers. Digital transformation brings about many benefits to companies in the manufacturing and distribution sectors that help future-proof…

We are currently living in an environmentally conscious business era. People now prefer to obtain goods and services from a so-called “sustainable business” — an organization that uses environmentally friendly methods in production. This demand has made stakeholders begin pushing their businesses to adopt sustainable practices throughout their operations. Manufacturing and…

Your organization has selected a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, and plans are in place to start the implementation process. The ERP implementation process is complex with many different parties working together, and any slight misstep can result in the project failing. During implementation, your organization collaborates with your ERP…

Digital transformation is a major driver for success in manufacturing and distribution organizations. While digital transformation is integrating new digital technologies into your operations, changing the foundation of how things are done, you cannot completely tell the benefit of your digital transformation initiatives without measuring their impact and determining whether they…

For organizations that want to streamline business processes and increase the efficiency of their business processes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are essential tools. But, without a proper ERP implementation process, your organization will not enjoy the full benefits that ERP systems offer. From research, about 75% of ERP implementations fail…

Companies operating in the electronics manufacturing industry are facing numerous challenges in the current technological driven era. Some of the major challenges for electronics manufacturing operations include rapid changes in technology, short product life cycles and increasing competition. However, one tool has emerged as a game changer and is helping electronics…

An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system takes significant organizational resources, and therefore being able to get a return on investment is crucial. However, assessing and improving the ROI from ERP implementation is a process that requires a strategic approach. An ERP system helps your organization to integrate all your core business…

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system implementation is a massive undertaking for any organization, whether big or small. The implementation of an ERP system involves the integration of different business processes into a single system to streamline operations and improve business efficiency.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are the difference makers in today’s economy. These systems integrate different departments within your organization, thereby helping you streamline processes, enhance productivity and boost your overall business growth. Because of how critical ERP systems are for the day-to-day operation of your company, implementing a right ERP…

Digital transformation is the integration of digital technologies into your business processes. Having a digital transformation strategy is not just about adapting a digital technology but is a strategic and holistic approach that requires a shift in mindset, processes and culture.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) projects are a significant undertaking for any organization, requiring harmonious collaboration between various stakeholders, such as the ERP vendor, your implementation partner and your internal project team. However, getting these different teams to work together and in harmony can be a challenge.

The concept of “smart factories” has emerged as a game changer in the manufacturing industry, with the global market for smart manufacturing expected to reach $548.14 billion by the end of 2024.1 The technologies in smart factories—such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and data analytics—revolutionize the…

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems allows manufacturing and distribution companies to gain a competitive edge across a wide variety of challenges and competitors through AI-powered ERP systems. Combining the power of both AI and ERP software gives your organization the ability to enhance operational…

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems promises immense potential for organizations in the manufacturing and distribution industries to drive digital transformation and business growth. However, implementing an AI-powered ERP solution comes with its fair share of challenges that must be properly addressed.

In the realm of business operations, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems serve as the backbone for managing various functions like inventory, sales, and finance. For distributors, integrating these systems can bring about enhanced efficiency and streamlined processes. However, the journey towards seamless ERP integration is not without its hurdles. In this…

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system necessitates substantial investment from your organization. Proper planning and budgeting is critical for the ERP implementation process to ensure the ERP solution provides a return on investment.

The manufacturing industry continues to grow and intensify with each year, presenting manufacturers with sets of opportunities and challenges. To keep up with competitors, manufacturing companies are turning to newer Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems as key differentiators—helping optimize processes, bolster efficiency and uphold market dominance. However, achieving this is no…

To stay competitive, constantly adapting and improving business processes is critical. One powerful strategy that helps businesses achieve this is continuous process improvement. This strategy allows your business to achieve a competitive edge and drive ongoing growth. It allows you to make incremental changes to your existing business processes thus enhancing…

Reducing operational costs, improving production and delivery, making decisions based on real and factual data and driving business growth is a key mandate for businesses in the manufacturing and distribution industries. This is where business process efficiency comes into play.

Manufacturer’s success hinges on whether their supply chain management is running smoothly. Manufacturers need the right materials from partners and vendors at the right time to maintain production schedules. However, ineffective supply chain management eats up time, hurts quality, increases costs and shrinks profits.

Realizing business value is vital in modern business management—it means turning plans and initiatives into concrete improvements. As business complexity increases, companies must use technology strategically to thrive. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software helps streamline workflows, enhance productivity and support growth.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software has evolved over the past few decades from a helpful tool into an essential component of operations. By embracing innovations such as ERP systems, metal manufacturing companies can thrive amidst intensifying market conditions.

Manufacturing ERP software integrates key business operations into one unified system to effectively plan, execute and analyze production. At its core, it connects raw material supply, shop floor execution, inventory control, quality assurance, logistics, maintenance and business analytics. This provides end-to-end visibility and drives data-driven decisions across interconnected departments such as…

Distributors are challenged like never before: Supply chain networks remain exceptionally complex and unpredictable, competition is tougher every day, and customer expectations are escalating. It’s critically important to do everything that can be done to cut costs, increase revenue and boost profitability.

For Food & Beverage Manufacturers continually seek solutions to meet a long list of challenges that includes rising raw materials prices, perishable ingredients and products, a disrupted supply chain, and stringent regulatory requirements. To meet these challenges, Food & Beverage companies—big, medium and small—are looking to modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)…

The distribution industry is undergoing major transformations in 2024 as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) technology continues to advance. Adapting to key trends in ERP software is important now more than ever for distributors who want to stay competitive in the market and optimize their operations.

As we embark on 2024, the manufacturing industry finds itself in an exciting time of rapid change and innovation. For IEM to stay competitive, it is vital to understand the technological forces that are driving the industry forward. This year promises to accelerate several key trends, including the rise of smart…

With the arrival of the new year, we’re diving into the world of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) technology and how it’s shaping the future of the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software has become an indispensable tool for organizations aiming to gain a competitive edge in today’s business climate. By facilitating real-time access to data insights across departments and functions, ERP systems empower your company to boost efficiency, refine workflows, heighten productivity and optimize enterprise performance.

Manufacturing businesses are continually looking for methods to streamline their operations and improve their production processes in today’s fast-paced business environment. Demand for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solutions that can assist in organizing corporate processes and boost productivity is rising as the industrial sector expands.

Imagine the incredible growth your business could achieve by optimizing its processes, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction. This is the potential of business process management consulting, a service designed to streamline operations and enhance performance. In this blog post, we will explore key strategies and best practices for successful business…

Automated Business Process Management (BPM) offers the potential to transform your organization’s workflows, driving efficiency and freeing up valuable resources. In this post, we will explore the world of automated BPM, from its evolution and key components to the crucial role of automation technologies and the benefits they bring.

For many organizations, the end of the year is a time to look back and see what was successful. Ultra is no exception. Here, based on views

Many of the manufacturers and distributors who team up with us are experiencing challenges around their current enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and managing inventory, whether from a lack of raw materials visibility, inaccurate inventory forecasting, a lack of inventory efficiency throughout all inventory operations, or overly complex inventory processes.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have emerged as a powerful tool to optimize operations, enhance efficiency and gain a competitive edge. Let’s uncover ERP data migration best practices to ensure a smooth transition to your new ERP system.

Implementing a new ERP system often involves a complex data migration process, which can pose significant challenges if not carefully managed. Let’s dive into the intricacies of ERP data migration—moving information from your current enterprise software to the new ERP system.

ERP implementation failure can be a devastating blow to any organization. This failure results in wasted resources, disrupted operations and demoralized employees. However, all hope is not lost. With the right approach and a solid recovery plan, you can fix a failed ERP implementation and get your organization back on track.

Implementing Business Process Management (BPM) can bring numerous benefits to an organization. Companies can automate and streamline their workflows, improve their decision-making and enhance their overall productivity by adopting an efficient BPM approach. As cited in Automation World, “to help manage…complexity, organizations are re-architecting static, rigid, form-fit processes to create an…

The modern business world is competitive and implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can be the determining factor between the winners and losers in this world. ERP software helps organizations streamline processes, improve operational efficiency and make informed decisions. However, ERP implementation can be a complex and time-consuming process that…

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a significant undertaking for any organization. One of the most critical aspects of the implementation process is understanding and accurately calculating the associated ERP cost of implementation. ERP implementation costs vary significantly depending on factors such as the size of your organization (how…

While digitalization promises to streamline operations and boost productivity, it’s important to understand the costs involved and assess warehouse digitalization cost before embarking on this journey.

In this era of ever-evolving technology, traditional warehousing methods are making way for more innovative approaches. Digital warehousing is a game-changer that can revolutionize your business operations, from streamlining inventory management to enhancing efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll explore some digital warehousing best practices that will help you harness the…

When considering strategic implications, many of the ERP project teams we partner with ask for our assistance helping them understand the implications of “best-of-breed” and “best-in-class” ERP systems.

Every organization is constantly seeking ways to optimize operations, increase efficiency and drive growth in today’s dynamic and demanding business world. One of the most effective ways to achieve these goals is by utilizing business process management (BPM) consulting services. These experts specialize in analyzing, reengineering and improving business processes to…

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, success hinges not only on innovation but also on the efficiency of your operations. To thrive, you need improved systems that are finely tuned, reduce costs and are capable of delivering exceptional value to your customers.

Moving to a new ERP system is a major undertaking. Perhaps the most difficult projects that most manufacturers and distributors undertake is selecting and implementing an ERP (enterprise resource planning) system, requiring heavy investments of time and resources to achieve the targeted ROI. With many variables in play, it is no…

ERP Implementation is a critical business process that enables companies to streamline their operations, cut costs and increase efficiency. It provides organizations the agility needed to keep up with rapidly changing markets so they can stay competitive in today’s economy.

As pharmaceutical manufacturers continue to face mounting costs and the need to protect patient data, pharmaceutical manufacturing businesses are constantly seeking ways to work more efficiently and effectively. One solution that has gained traction in recent years is the use of pharmaceutical manufacturing software.

An aging Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is like an old house or vehicle—the older it gets, the more it needs to be maintained. And, like a house or car, at some point it makes sense to purchase a new one rather than continue to fix the old one. An ERP…

First, let’s begin with defining digital warehousing. Warehouse digitalization refers to the process of integrating digital technologies into warehouse operations to streamline your processes, improve efficiency and enhance overall performance. It involves leveraging advanced technologies such as warehouse management systems (WMS), radio frequency identification (RFID), and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), among…

For sustainable business growth, making the right decisions is crucial in our increasingly competitive business world. Therefore, because of its ability to give leaders powerful decision-making oversight and analytics, the stakes are even higher to choose the best Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software for your organization.

The manufacturing landscape is ever evolving, leaving companies to wonder about technology for reducing costs in manufacturing. Over the years, manufacturers have found innovative ways to reduce the costs of a company’s production processes while improving the quality of their products. Today, as manufacturers face new challenges and changing markets, digital…

The manufacturing landscape is ever evolving, leaving companies to wonder about technology for reducing costs in manufacturing. Over the years, manufacturers have found innovative ways to reduce the costs of a company’s production processes while improving the quality of their products. Today, as manufacturers face new challenges and changing markets, digital…

With major supply chain disruptions in the not-too-distant memory, leaders are wise to consider every option for more effective supply chain management (SCM). Robust, redundant, transparent and resilient are qualities that every manufacturer or distributor wants from the supply chain management process. And these qualities aren’t luxuries. They are crucial for…

One tool that plays a crucial role in supply chain management is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the significant role of ERP systems in supply chain management and its various functions and benefits.

As the pace of business continues to accelerate, business software solutions are becoming increasingly essential for organizations to maintain efficiency and productivity. Two commonly used systems are Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Warehouse Management System (WMS).

Configure, price and quote (CPQ) software helps companies quickly and accurately develop product quotes, streamlining the sales process and enhancing customer satisfaction. CPQ generally is not part of an ERP system but integrates with ERP and accounting software. So what are the key features of CPQ software, and what should you…

If you’re looking to streamline your sales process and improve your bottom line, then understanding the basics of CPQ is crucial. CPQ, or Configure, Price, Quote, is a powerful software tool that helps sales teams navigate through the sales cycle and quoting process to create accurate, customized quotes for their customers…

CPQ software (configure, price, quote) streamlines the quoting process for complex or configurable products. Choosing the right CPQ software can bring many benefits to your sales process including increased customer satisfaction and enhanced productivity. So, what should you look for to choose the right CPQ software?

In today’s highly competitive market, medical device companies need to streamline their operations and improve efficiency to stay ahead. One way to achieve this is by implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system specifically designed for the medical device industry.

In recent years, the cannabis industry has experienced exponential growth, driven by changing legislation and shifting perceptions around the world. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, so does the need for efficient and effective production methods. With increasing demand, cultivators and producers are under mounting pressure to meet consumer needs…

In the complex world of the medical device industry, healthcare digital transformation has become a crucial initiative for manufacturers. Medical device manufacturers are embracing digital technologies and processes to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, increase agility, meet regulatory requirements and stay ahead of the competition.

The legalized marijuana industry has been experiencing exponential growth, with the global cannabis market projected to reach a staggering $90.4 billion by 2026, according to MarketsandMarkets.

The fabricated metals industry is a vital part of the global economy, providing essential materials for a wide range of industries. However, like any industry, it faces its fair share of challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the challenges and discuss potential solutions for the fabricated metals industry.

According to the latest Warehouse Vision Study from Zebra, 80% of organizations are planning to invest in new technologies to be competitive. This result stems from increasing challenges faced by warehouses and distribution centers in delivering on demands for faster delivery, on-demand fulfillment, and an ongoing worker shortage.

The need for metal products in numerous industries has been fueling the continuous rise of the metal fabrication sector over the past few years. Despite this growth, the industry faces various challenges including raw material costs, supply chain disruption, and a worker shortage. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of…

What is business process management? Business Process Management (BPM) is a crucial strategy for companies looking to maximize the effectiveness of their operations and cut down costs. It involves the use of various software applications to manage, automate and optimize existing processes from end to end.

With the increasing demand for innovative medical devices and the constant advancements in technology, it’s important to look ahead and anticipate what the future may hold. Here are some medical device manufacturing trends for 2024 we can expect to see

ERP, or Enterprise Resource Planning, is a software system that helps businesses manage their day-to-day operations, including inventory, production, and financials. It’s a powerful tool that can streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). It is a software system that integrates all aspects of a business, from finance and accounting to sales and inventory. It provides a centralized database that can be accessed by all departments, allowing for better communication and collaboration. Additionally, ERP software can automate many…

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, it’s important for growers to implement lean practices to increase efficiency and reduce waste. Lean practices are all about maximizing value while minimizing waste, and they can be applied to any industry, including cannabis cultivation. Here are some tips for implementing lean practices in…

Sean Schuster has 20+ years of a diverse business background, holding leadership positions spanning Distribution and Supply Chain, Materials and Manufacturing, Retail and eCommerce, CX and Contact Centers, Sales, Service and Business Strategy.

The food industry is a complex and challenging sector that requires a high level of efficiency and accuracy to maintain growth and profitability in any country.

Why hire a warehouse consultant? Warehouse management and distribution operations play a crucial role in warehouse productivity and customer satisfaction. Running a warehouse smoothly requires a lot of effort and expertise. From managing inventory to optimizing the layout, there are various aspects that need to be taken care of.

ERP vs CRM: In the world of business operations, two software systems that are commonly used are Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). While both CRM and ERP solutions are designed to streamline operations and improve productivity, they serve different purposes.

The Business Process Management Lifecycle (BPM) is a systematic approach to manage a company’s workflow. It is composed of five stages that involve designing, modeling, executing, monitoring and optimizing business processes.

Manufacturing and distribution organizations well know that an ERP selection project is a complex endeavor with long-term strategic implications—an effort fraught with risk and requiring significant organizational resources. As project teams approach evaluation and selection, they often run into the concepts of Best of Breed vs. Best in Class ERP.

As a business owner or manager, choosing the right enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for your organization can be overwhelming. With countless options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one will best meet your business needs. This is where choosing an ERP selection firm comes in.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is a powerful tool that can enhance the efficiency of your organization’s operations.

Organizations use Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to manage a range of business procedures across different departments or functional areas, including:

ERP change management is often overlooked. A great deal of work has gone into sourcing the right ERP solution for your business, getting stakeholder buy-in for the ultimate decision, and selecting the right ERP software vendor.

An increasing percentage of manufacturers and distributors are adopting cloud-based ERP solutions as the backbone of their digital transformation and modernization strategy. What are the best decision points for leaders contemplating a new ERP system? At our co-hosted webinar, Ultra Consultants and Infor team up to provide you with current insights…

Adriana Rapolla is an accomplished Change Management and Transformation Professional with 20 years of experience and a background in Information Technology, Psychology, and Executive Education. Adriana helps clients develop their change capabilities to positively impact their bottom line. She strategizes to help organizations through transformational processes and develops customized programs that…

Wendy Stanley brings 20+ years of marketing experience to the Ultra team including content and copywriting, customer communications, graphic design, marketing plans, campaigns and digital and print advertising. For the past 7 years, Wendy has worked in the software industry, promoting ERP, WMS, and MES solutions for clients across manufacturing verticals.…

Syreeta Pratt is a Transformational Change Leader with 15 years of Organizational Change Management (OCM), Training, and Communications expertise. Because Syreeta cares about how people are impacted by workplace changes, in her current role as Senior Consultant with Ultra, she focuses on “Positive People-Focused Change Management” that creates a safe space…

Amy has over a decade of experience working with executive leadership to ensure the deployment of resources is aligned with the company’s strategic and financial goals.

Roberto is an accomplished project and program manager with more than 20 years of experience impacting the competitive performance, profitability, and overall success of diverse organizations around the globe. With an impressive career launched with hands-on, senior management and technical roles in the areas of consulting, project implementation, and quality assurance,…

As I enjoyed the season's festivities with my family, I couldn't help but notice the sad unraveling of Southwest Airlines and the issues that resulted in more than 15,000 canceled flights in one week, inconveniencing hundreds of thousands of customers (even a bride who missed her own destination wedding (1)). I…

Across the manufacturing and distribution industries, private equity (PE) firms must consider their strategy regarding technology acquisition when it comes to driving growth and value across their portfolio. Here are three core questions to consider about your private equity technology acquisitions when evaluating opportunities.

Since 1998, Marc Tedeschi has dedicated his career to elevating customers across North and South America, Europe, and Great Britain to their full potential by leveraging technology, best practices, and innovation. Marc brings in-depth knowledge and perspective of the world’s leading ERP solutions and partners. He is a strategic thinker with…

Mark Strug is a performance driven supply chain professional with over 20 years of experience, primarily in the food and beverage industry. Mark has used his strong quantitative and analytical skills to lead projects in S&OP, demand management and planning, capacity planning, inventory management and logistics with outstanding results. Mark’s forecasting…

Tony is an operations, supply chain and change management professional with extensive experience managing and delivering successful Cost Reduction, Process Improvement and Profitability Enhancement projects. Tony brings decades of experience leading process improvement, cost reduction, operational excellence and organization change management engagement projects in supply chain, manufacturing and fulfillment operations.

Tim Shaw is a creative and energetic professional with 20+ years of experience in business and information technology leadership roles. He is a highly versatile and experienced business transformation project manager with hands-on knowledge of multiple ERP platforms. Tim has successfully guided organizations through significant improvements with the implementation of various…

Tim Wise is an innovative supply chain leader who excels at developing cross functional business processes and system implementations. Tim has over 25 years of experience in implementing complex supply chain management processes for hi-tech companies like Hewlett Packard and Seagate. Tim is an expert in Sales and Operations Planning, Inventory…

*Q2 2021 Employee Recognition Award Recipient Scott Cabrera holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering with a concentration in Logistics and Supply Chain from Bradley University. He has been exposed to numerous business functions in the distribution industry while employed at the nation’s largest food redistributor.

Nadine Brewer brings over 30 years of accounting experience with 12 years in the Aquaculture industry, specializing in inventory management from egg to market. Her accounting experience includes due diligence for acquisitions and divestitures as well as an IPO, in addition to end-to-end accounting functions. Also, Nadine has 15 years of…

As a mid-market manufacturer or distributor, investing in an ERP system is a difficult decision that cannot be taken lightly. With so many options of vendors to choose from—such as Microsoft Dynamics, Infor and SAP ERP among others—and the high costs associated with implementation, it is crucial to ensure that this…

By leveraging the right ERP solution, PE firms can drive operational efficiency and streamline processes across their portfolio businesses. PE firms and ERP systems play a pivotal role in determining the long-term success of these companies, ensuring smooth integrations and scalable growth.

Mr. Halperin has served as CEO of Coherent Networks International Inc., a software company specializing in the telecom industries. Prior to that, Mr. Halperin was the CEO of JBA International, a unit of JBA Holdings and global ERP software company based in the U.K., where he oversaw a successful IPO. When…

Verinder Syal has over 40 years of experience in working with companies to deliver exceptional results. He has been an Adjunct Faculty member at Northwestern University since 2006 where he teaches two courses in leadership and entrepreneurship. Mr. Syal is also a published author, having written the book Discover the Entrepreneur…

Richard Reck is the founder and President of Business Strategy Advisors LLC (BSA), a business strategy consultancy that focuses on serving technology-based and entertainment companies. Mr. Reck serves as a member of the Board of Directors for several companies, including tronc, Inc. (formerly The Tribune Publishing Company), Interactive Intelligence, a public…

*Q4 2021 Employee Recognition Award Recipient Nicole Gilhooley is the Director of Human Resources for Ultra Consultants. She manages the employee lifecycle, including benefits administration, employee engagement, performance management, employee relations, recognition and health and wellness. Nicole leads the talent acquisition team ensuring Ultra brings in the best resources to complement…

Tim Griffin brings significant domain experience in enterprise resource technology in manufacturing and distribution. He joined Ultra after more than ten years at Infor Global Solutions where he held the position of Sales-Business System Consultant. Tim has also worked at Oracle.

Van Dang is a highly self-motivated and customer-oriented supply chain professional with strong analytical skills. Van strategically orchestrated cost effective and deadline-oriented supply chain procedures which exceeded business plans and manufacturing goals. With deep domain experience in manufacturing and supply chain for Schlumberger, Halliburton-Pinnacle and Bisco Industries, Van has successfully implemented…

Tony is an operations, supply chain and change management professional with extensive experience managing and delivering successful Cost Reduction, Process Improvement and Profitability Enhancement projects. Tony brings decades of experience leading process improvement, cost reduction, operational excellence and organization change management engagement projects in supply chain, manufacturing and fulfillment operations.

Sean Hull is a seasoned Project Manager with twenty years of comprehensive experience in senior-level management, implementing best practices throughout rapidly changing, highly competitive growth environments. Sean offers the rare ability to serve as a liaison between developers, executive management and stakeholders to ensure expectations are clearly communicated and goals are…

*Q2 2021 Employee Recognition Award Recipient Scott Cabrera holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering with a concentration in Logistics and Supply Chain from Bradley University. He has been exposed to numerous business functions in the distribution industry while employed at the nation’s largest food redistributor. This experience has…

Most recently Rob was employed at a plasticware manufacturing and distribution company, where he redesigned their e-commerce assembly and picking area, leading to a 30% improvement in picker productivity. He later provided consultation on a project and identified key bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the assembly and receiving processes, while recommending short-…

Rhonda Rodeffer is a 20+ year manufacturing and distribution industry veteran with extensive experience in manufacturing, fleet and transportation management, and business process improvement. She built and led a team that was responsible for a company-wide fleet consolidation of 14 business units while at HD Supply resulting in process improvement and…

*Q2 2021 Employee Recognition Award Recipient Paul Denmark has more than 30 years’ experience as a senior supply chain management leader with broad-based global experience in driving benchmark performance throughout several diverse manufacturing environments on a global basis. Paul’s focus has been in driving new or enhanced ERP implementations, advanced supply…

Mitchell Judy is a supply chain professional with a background in operations, purchasing, warehousing, logistics, inventory management, process improvement, and management. He has led multiple process improvement projects, including material flow redesign for end-of-year vehicle builds, waste eliminations, labor reductions, world class manufacturing standards, inventory and purchasing reductions, and process flow…

Maryl Wesolowski is an executive leader specializing in delivering complex, multimillion-dollar strategic initiatives – from planning through operational transition – for multiple Fortune 500 and top 20 privately-held companies, as well as mid-sized firms.

Mary Mertz is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of industry and consulting experience. Twenty-plus of these years have been focused on managing ERP implementations with proven ability to deliver multi-million dollar ($4M – $50M+) full lifecycle, global, ERP projects – on time, within budget while meeting customer requirements. Her…

Andrew Demetres is a certified Project Management Consultant offering more than 29 years of experience in Information Systems and Technology specializing in ERP transformations. He brings over 20 years of expertise in enterprise systems including 15 large scale multi-national SAP implementations since 1995.

Aaron Olin brings over 20 of years of combined Corporate and Consulting experience across a wide range of verticals and company sizes. He started with a solid foundation in Logistics and 3PL management leading fast-paced air freight operations, trucking fleets and warehouses before advancing into Supply Chain and manufacturing. Aaron has…

Rick Perrotta is an impactful senior business leader whose experience extends across Management Consulting, Sales, Customer Service, Product Development, Operations and Information Technology within the American, European, and Asian markets...

Joe Velez has over 30 years of experience working in large, multi-national manufacturing companies. His background includes all aspects of supply chain management, program management, strategic planning, operations management, business process re-design, ERP implementation management, and Lean Transformation. Joe began his career with ALCOA as an engineer and held numerous positions…

Kevin Stack has over 30 years of experience in Leadership, ERP, Retail Operations, Application Delivery, and Business Intelligence. Kevin spent thirteen years at Revco as Manager of Retail Systems Development, where he was responsible for the development of the retail supply chain and merchandising operation system. He successfully managed the completion…

Business process improvement (BPI) is an approach used to identify inefficiencies, and analyze, redesign and improve existing business processes to optimize performance, enhance workflows, conform to best practices and improve the user experience.

Enterprise resource planning software links most of today’s business management systems, and thus ERP software implementation is a necessary part of today’s digital transformation for manufacturing and distribution companies. To remain competitive and relevant in a fast-paced, globally competitive economy, senior executives know that an ERP system implementation with new technologies…

Acquiring complicated ERP software and enterprise solutions is, for lack of a better word, complicated. And negotiating the best-possible deal is difficult – and not something organizations do often. Most companies end up paying more than they should – for years. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Insight on modern enterprise solutions for the Food & Beverage, Industrial Equipment Manufacturing, Fabricated Metal Products Manufacturing and Distribution industries The right ERP solution can deliver the capabilities you need to improve processes, find new efficiencies, enhance decision-making, increase velocity, reduce waste and, perhaps most important, ensure that your company can…

Food companies turned to technology in 2021 to enable pandemic pivots, streamline operations, address supply chain issues, expand and diversify their roster of suppliers. The manufacturers and distributors that did not make changes continued to struggle. And this will be the case for 2022 as well, as demand, especially in e-commerce,…

A previous Ultra blog post looked at enterprise systems for regulated industries with a focus on ERP software validation. The post provided an overview of the regulated environment faced by industries such as pharmaceutical, medical device, and biotech.

The end of the year is the perfect time to look back and see what was successful (and what was not). And at Ultra Consultants, we like to use this opportunity to evaluate our interaction with customers, potential customers and the manufacturing and distribution industries via our ERP-focused blog. Here, based…

For many organizations, the end of the year is a time to look back and see what was successful. And Ultra Consultants is no exception. Here, based on the number of downloads from ultraconsultants.com, are our 5 most-downloaded ebooks for 2021

To be managed effectively, achieve client goals and deliver value, ERP projects require structure. On every Ultra project this framework is provided by our methodology, which organizes the transformation process into four phases – business process improvement (BPI), enterprise technology selection, solution implementation management and business value realization.

We asked Ultra's Shannon Harrop and QAD's Maureen Hunt about these practices, and in this six-minute video from our recent webinar, "Benefit or Blunder, Fast-Tracking ERP Sofware Selection," they offer their insight – and the pros and cons.

Many manufacturers try to shortcut the software selection process. But only some get a solution well-suited to the unique needs of their industry, organization, processes and people.

An old ERP can be the reason you lose customers or fail to maximize their lifetime value. And, what's more, it may hurt your ability to hire and retain top talent, and cause you to pay higher salaries.

We blog regularly about the benefits an organization can derive from Business Improvement processes (BPI) and the initial steps required to set up the project for success. The steps of a BPI we have covered so far include the following:

Successful, goal-achieving ERP projects require structure. At Ultra, this framework is provided by our methodology, which organizes the transformation process into four phases – business process improvement (BPI), enterprise technology selection, solution implementation management and business value realization. And within each of those phases are five milestones.

To accelerate core processes, maximize efficiency and have an up-to-the-minute view of operations, distributors need the right ERP solution – one that meets the unique needs of the industry and their organization.

The medical device sector is benefiting from major advances in wireless technology, miniaturization and computing power, fueling development of new connected medical devices that can generate, collect, analyze and transmit data. Consumers have been increasingly adopting smart healthcare technology such as smart insulin pens, connected inhalers and asthma monitors, empowering them…

A previous blog post took a careful look at the importance of establishing a comprehensive and structured approach as part of an ERP implementation change management...

Many distributors struggled amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. But that is old news.

The solution you choose will affect the way you conduct business for years to come, and it will impact virtually every business function. It’s a significant investment, too. What’s more, studies consistently show that half of ERP implementations fail to achieve their goals.

In the new now, distributors are challenged like never before: Supply chain networks remain exceptionally complex and unpredictable, competition is tougher every day and customer expectations are escalating. And, most important, margins are slim and getting slimmer.

The post-COVID business environment is challenging distributors in ways they’ve never experienced. And a number of problems – the disruption of supply chains, forecasting difficulty and the pressing need to change the interface and interaction with customers – are forcing significant changes.

Forward-thinking distribution organizations always are on the lookout for ways to enhance supply chain management and improve core processes.. But the post-COVID business environment makes it more difficult than ever to make critical changes and succeed. What are today's key areas for improvement?

The term “Industry 4.0” is a popular discussion topic in manufacturing forums. But what does the concept mean to manufacturers in real life? To start, finding an agreed-upon definition of this concept is surprisingly elusive. According to Wikipedia, Industry 4.0 is “The on-going automation of traditional manufacturing and industrial practices, using…

Ultra client Zymo Research has received a 2021 Top Supply Chain Projects Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive (SDCE) Magazine. Zymo Research was recognized for improving supply chain operations with an ERP modernization project for which we provided business process improvement, software selection and implementation management services.

In today’s manufacturing environment, with unexpected challenges, significant disruption and and critical change nearly constant, your company must be able to quickly adapt your ERP, business models and business processes. But the development and deployment of ERP applications typically requires too much time – and too much cost.

A low-code development platform provides a development environment to create application software using graphical user interfaces and click-drag-drop configuration instead of traditional hard-code programming.

Whether your company is implementing an ERP system for the first time, or replacing a legacy implementation, it’s critically important to make the right choice. Let's explore the best practices for ERP vendor selection.

The enterprise software selection process is a long and complicated process – for several good reasons. The solution you choose will affect the way you conduct business for years to come, and it will impact virtually every function. It’s a significant investment, too. And with as much as 50% ERP implementations…

For years, manufacturers have been frustrated (and limited) by a shortage of qualified labor – a problem driven by a flood of retiring older workers and a trickle of younger workers interested in jobs in the sector.

As the industrial equipment manufacturing (IEM) industry rumbles through the remainder of a challenging 2021, headed for a potentially more successful 2022, it’s important to understand the ongoing evolution of the industry and its enterprise technologies. We asked one of Ultra’s most experienced manufacturing consultants, Dave Lechleitner (DL), what IEM companies…

For manufacturers in virtually every vertical, the capabilities offered by the 4th Industrial Revolution, particularly the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence, automation and connected machines, are enabling greater operational efficiency, higher product quality and improved maintenance processes – and are driving changes to long-established business models.

Changes in the national political landscape inevitably have a significant impact on the business environment. And the Biden Administration, working with the Democratic Party-controlled U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, already is proposing transformative change to the nation’s economic policy.

For manufacturers in virtually every vertical, the capabilities offered by the 4th Industrial Revolution, particularly the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence, automation and connected machines, are enabling greater operational efficiency, higher product quality and improved maintenance processes – and are driving changes to long-established business models.

We have all heard the stories about the auto industry over the last 5 years. The decline in auto sales greatly depressed ERP aspirations of automotive. But things change. At Ultra Consultants we are seeing an increase in auto industry interest in ERP solutions. The Tier I, II, and III auto…

With the rise of cloud-based software, companies shopping for ERP are now faced with an additional consideration – deployment method. Choosing between installing cloud vs. on premise ERP can be a difficult decision for companies, and there are advantages and disadvantages to each option. Here’s a brief comparison of cloud vs…

A manufacturing execution system (MES) offers different things to different manufacturers – and different things to manufacturers in different industries. To help reduce the confusion, and to provide insight into the value of MES solutions in the industrial equipment and industrial products verticals, we asked Ultra Industry Marketing Director Dave Lechleitner…

A manufacturing execution system (MES) manages, monitors and synchronizes – in real time – the processes involved in transforming raw materials into finished goods. An MES may operate across multiple function areas, including product lifecycle management (PLM), resource scheduling, order execution and product quality. And an MES creates the as-built record,…

One of the biggest challenges for manufacturers, going back to 2020 (long before the COVID-19 pandemic) was the persistent shortage of skilled labor. What is the outlook for manufacturing jobs, and will companies be able to fill their open positions in the months ahead?

For the manufacturer, it’s a challenge to form a solid feel for the capabilities a vendor’s system before an ERP demo is even scheduled. The manufacturer must be well informed as to the features and functions of a vendor’s proposed solution, as well to their approach to implementation. The team must…

Among the many things consumers could not do during the pandemic was buy outside-the-home services. With the recovery underway, will buyers revert to spending money on restaurants, concerts, travel and other non-products?

Whenever there is a change in political power in Washington, there are changes that impact international business, and global manufacturing and distribution in particular. Economist Dr. Christopher Kuehl believes some of the biggest changes will be trade-related.

Industrial manufacturers face complex business challenges. It’s always been difficult to effectively manage parts, production, people and products. And, today it’s even harder.

If nothing else, 2020 proved that the only constant for small and mid-sized manufacturers is change. What does the rest of 2021 have in store? How should manufacturers monitor, adapt and respond to new changes?

A new ERP system offers a rare opportunity to transform your company by increasing efficiency, enabling new capabilities and improving business performance. But, while a modern ERP solution can supercharge your organization, its implementation is one of the most complex and high-risk projects you will ever undertake.

Of course, in reality, there are other, more complicated questions – and a compelling business case must be made for an expensive, potentially risky and definitely disruptive overhaul of your core business processes and enterprise management system.

Every manufacturer and distributor is different. And every company will get a different return on their investment (ROI) on their ERP solution.

We advise our manufacturing clients that it’s a best practice to see an ERP project as a platform for continuous improvement. Teams heading into ERP selection should take the time to gain knowledge of the features and functions offered by today’s modern ERP systems when evaluating ERP workflow management.

If the past year has taught food & beverage executives anything, it’s the value of being able to quickly adapt to changing business conditions.

My previous blog post entitled Getting Started with Master Data Management and ERP looked at key definitions as related to ERP and Master Data Management.

What is ERP health and why is it important to assess the health of your ERP system? Because the results reveal the capabilities and strength of the technology you lean on to manage your core processes and drive the performance of your business.

When Ultra Consultants CEO Jeff Carr spoke at the Vision33 Customer Event in late 2020, his presentation – “Tech Outlook for the New Normal” – covered a broad list of topics, including how manufacturers are coping with today’s business challenges and how Industry 4.0 technologies offer mid-sized organizations huge benefits.

ERP project success follows from a structured, purposeful approach aimed to help transition people, teams, and organizations from their current state to the desired future state. Included in this ERP methodology based on Ultra’s successful projects, here are change management and ERP lessons learned.

The Ultra team is often called into a client engagement when a private equity (PE) investor acquires a manufacturing enterprise — whether in automotive, heavy duty, aerospace, food processing or other sectors. During an acquisition process, issues with legacy or outdated ERP systems come to the forefront, since PE firms usually…

Whether your company is implementing an ERP system for the first time, or replacing a legacy implementation, it’s critically important to follow the best practices in ERP vendor selection.

Manufacturers and distributors are implementing new enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to streamline business processes, increase operational efficiency, improve the decision-making process and provide real-time visibility into their core business operations. However, an ERP system implementation is a significant undertaking that requires attention to every detail.

One of the many things that made 2020 difficult was the near impossibility of spontaneous, “watercooler” conversations about our projects, ERP technologies, industries and the business environment.

For many organizations, the end of the year is a time to look back and see what was successful. Ultra is no exception. Here, based on views, social media shares and other criteria, are our 12 Best Blog Posts for 2020:

Are you wondering if you need a new ERP system? Whether your existing ERP system is at the end of its lifespan, your vendor is sunsetting support for your current version, or you feel you’re not getting enough value from it, moving to a new ERP system might be the best…

Business success depends, in large part, on using the best software. When it comes time to selecting modern ERP software or other technologies, even savvy leaders face difficulties due to the sheer number of software solutions on the market and the complexity of enterprise software.

If the past year has taught Food & Beverage executives anything, it’s the value of being able to quickly adapt to changing business conditions. As the industry heads into 2021, what challenges lie ahead?

Ultra Consultants CEO Jeff Carr spoke at the recent Vision33 Customer Event 2020, and his topic – “Tech Outlook for the New Normal” – covered a lot of ground, including how manufacturing companies are coping with current business difficulties, the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing economic…

Ultra Consultants CEO Jeff Carr spoke at the recent Vision33 Customer Event 2020, and his topic – “Tech Outlook for the New Normal” – covered a lot of ground, including how manufacturing companies are coping with current business difficulties, the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing economic…

Most Food & Beverage organizations start ERP selection with a list of the biggest and best-known names in the ERP software marketplace, then research features, functionalities and total cost of ownership, and then schedule multiple rounds of sales presentations and demos.

Ultra Consultants CEO Jeff Carr spoke at the recent Vision33 Customer Event 2020, and his topic – “Tech Outlook for the New Normal” – covered a lot of ground, including how manufacturing companies are coping with current business difficulties, the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing economic…

Evans Food Group Ltd. had just finished its complex – and successful – Ultra Consultants-managed ERP transformation in May 2017 when the Chicago-based company experienced major changes.

Supply chains are mission-critical for businesses. (Obviously.) But did you know that, according to research from Deloitte, 79% of organizations with superior – or “mature” – supply chain capabilities achieve revenue growth that is significantly above average?

The enterprise software selection process is a long and complicated process – for several good reasons. The solution you choose will affect the way you conduct business for years to come, and it will impact virtually every function. It’s a significant investment, even with today’s cloud-based packages. And with approximately 75…

Seven months ago, the food & beverage landscape looked far different than it does now. And as companies continue to adapt to the changes driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is evident: ERP technology can play a big role in enabling and sustaining success.

More than ever, food and beverage manufacturers feel pressured to produce quality products and provide excellent customer service. The industry already faces its own unique set of challenges, such as cost reduction and food safety, but with the onset of a global pandemic, the obstacles are adding up.

Manufacturing and distribution organizations initiate business process improvement (BPI) projects to streamline business processes, identify areas where efficiency can be improved, and enable better, more effective utilization of resources and assets. But, experts say, the majority of BPI projects do not achieve their goals.

Without an effective plan to manage and mitigate a recall, a hard-earned positive reputation and brand image could be irreparably damaged. The bottom line can take a huge hit, and, in a worst-case scenario, bankruptcy and significant legal liability are possible.

When you avoid committing any of The 7 Deadly Sins of ERP Implementation, your project team can laser-focus on business process improvement. At the most basic level, the primary function of an ERP solution is to help your organization efficiently and effectively execute core business processes.

A poorly planned enterprise resource planning (ERP) change management process is perhaps the most avoidable cause of project problems and failure. Resistance to change, even positive change, is normal and expected human behavior—so, plans must be made to minimize its impact. Read on for ERP change management best practices.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies in virtually every vertical, including – maybe especially – Food & Beverage, to make significant operational changes.

Hosted by Ultra’s Strategic Alliances Director Michael Chesin, the Industry Insights Podcast puts the focus on common challenges facing industries within manufacturing and distribution. Each episode features a guest interview with an industry expert from a leading ERP Vendor.

Today’s business landscape is ever changing. Therefore, for any successful implementation of any change initiative, organizational buy-in is crucial for success. Without the support and commitment of employees at all levels, even the most well-planned and strategic changes can face resistance and ultimately fail.

Business software selection isn’t to be taken lightly. Choosing the wrong software can ripple through the entire organization.

Industry 4.0 offers industrial equipment manufacturers new and better ways to interact with buyers – who expect highly customized and configured products. Beyond customer expectations, it’s critically important for revenue, demand, production and supply chain planning to have integrated configure/price/quote capabilities.

Most organizations start ERP selection with a list of the big names in the ERP software marketplace, research features, functionalities and total cost of ownership, and then schedule multiple rounds of sales presentations and demos.

Seven months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the food & beverage industry is different than it was at the beginning of 2020.

The implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a complex and high-stakes endeavor for any organization. While ERP solutions have the potential to revolutionize business processes and provide valuable insights, they can also be challenging to adopt and utilize effectively.

A lot can go wrong when an ERP system goes live. That’s why we’ve created our 9-step ERP implementation go-live checklist for a smooth, seamless go-live. Critical severity defects, security holes and other technical problems can cause disruption, wreak havoc on operations, bring your business to a dead stop, and even…

The IT department and the C-suite do not own (and may never interact with) your core business processes. So the project team should include key people—end users and functional managers—from across your organization who are regularly involved in those processes.

Organizations invest in an ERP software system to enable greater execution and efficiency. So it makes no sense to implement a solution that simply automates your existing systems and processes.

A modern ERP solution can supercharge your organization. But its implementation is one of the most complex and high-risk projects your organization will ever undertake. And it is extremely easy to make mistakes.

As U.S. companies continue the transition to remote work, possibly for the long term, ERP project teams continue to face significant challenges in management, coordination, communication and collaboration. And organizations that planned to start a much-needed ERP project are wondering whether to proceed or wait until the day – Sometime next…

At this point, business customers, like consumers, expect the Amazon experience: They want what they want ASAP. And they want the buying process to be frictionless.

Ultra Consultants, Inc., an independent research and enterprise solutions consulting firm serving the manufacturing and distribution industries, today announced that it is Great Place to Work-Certified™ for 2020 – and for the fifth consecutive year.

The procure-to-pay (P2P) process—which encompasses everything from identifying procurement needs to making final payments to suppliers—has become a crucial factor for success in the manufacturing and distribution industries.

In today's rapidly changing business environment, manufacturers and distributors face increasing pressure to optimize business processes, reduce costs and respond quickly to market changes. As competition increases and customer demands rise, companies need to innovate to streamline workflows and boost efficiency. More and more, they're turning to cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning…

Thanks to technological advances in the industry, the global smart meters market is expected to grow from $20.7 billion in 2020 to $28.6 billion by 2025, a compound annual growth rate of 6.7 percent. For companies at the forefront, it’s a chance to gain ground and boost revenue.

Years ago, cloud computing wasn’t yet available to smaller companies, or the cost was exorbitant to explore. However, today the Cloud is open, ready and affordable for companies of all sizes and across all industries. Companies can take advantage of the Cloud’s numerous benefits in productivity, security, budget, efficiency and more. 

As we help our clients through their selection processes for an integrated ERP system, one of the first things we do is work to get a solid understanding of how their business operates on a day-to-day basis.

Pacific Plumbing Supply is a 71-year-old, family-owned and operated company, with 14 branch locations and 200 employees. “We weren’t looking to spend the kind of money it would take to implement a modern ERP solution,” Stafford continued, “but we understood that the ROI is in new capabilities and new tools we…

Hosted by Ultra’s Strategic Alliances Director Michael Chesin, the Industry Insights Podcast puts the focus on common challenges facing industries within manufacturing and distribution. Each episode features a guest interview with an industry expert from a leading ERP Vendor.

Global organizations, particularly those dealing in Consumer Goods, often struggle with piecemeal systems, which create inconsistent approaches to business processes and financials. Locations across the globe and multiple currencies make it harder to facilitate a united company structure. Additionally, a diverse supply chain can add complexity.

Incorporating hygienic design is critical for food safety – and for reducing the risk of lawsuits, recalls, replacement, fines and damage to reputation. For companies that supply the food-and-beverage and pharmaceutical industries, the ability to grow manufacturing operations while retooling to incorporate hygienic design, is critical, especially for manufacturers that provide…

Stories from the Field: Industrial Equipment and Electronics Manufacturer Strives to Manage Growth with Modern ERP

We’re pleased to announce the availability of an educational ERP podcast series entitled “Industry Insights.”The podcasts topics will help those organizations seeking to understand how best to drive business process transformation.

Hosted by Ultra’s Strategic Alliances Director Michael Chesin, the Industry Insights Podcast puts the focus on common challenges facing industries within manufacturing and distribution. Each episode features a guest interview with an industry expert from a leading ERP Vendor.

For most ERP project teams, starting an ERP project is a daunting task. It’s common for selection teams to get pulled into a variety of directions, often losing focus because they are responding to pressing demands and fighting for internal resources to drive effective ERP selection.

This guest post looks at issues manufacturers can run into with ERP selection.

According to research from Deloitte, 79% of organizations with superior supply chain capabilities are able to grow their revenue well above average. But what happens when you have to manage a far-flung supply chain remotely?

Many states have shut down all non-essential businesses – but steel manufacturing is definitely essential. It’s already a challenging industry that requires the right mix of inventory for varied applications, and manufacturers are discovering that they may have too much of one type of steel and not enough of another. COVID-19…

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation.

Maintaining customer and distribution commitments can be challenging for food businesses, especially as consumer demand changes and as retailers expect more from their suppliers and distribution partners.

The rapid spread of COVID-19 means that we’ve all seen new challenges in our companies. We at Ultra Consultants are largely a remote workforce, but that doesn’t mean that we didn’t also experience some difficulties.

Manufacturers and distributors depend on Ultra’s independent ERP consultant team for vendor-agnostic guidance in ERP evaluation, selection, implementation and business process improvement.

CRM has changed a lot since its heyday in the early 2000s. Back then, it was all about upselling customers on products. But today, CRM has evolved into more of a customer experience management solution that encompasses sales and marketing while tying back into ERP systems. For companies that are looking…

ERP nightmares and attendant lawsuits have made headlines over the years, giving concrete evidence of Gartner’s analysis that approximately 70 percent of all ERP projects fail.

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation.

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation.

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation.

I founded Ultra Consultants nearly twenty-five years ago with a singular vision: to guide manufacturing and distribution teams to business process transformation that improves their business performance.

Stalled enterprise resource planning (ERP) projects can be a significant challenge for organizations, potentially disrupting business operations and leading to wasted resources. But with your project on hold, it’s critical to minimize the impact and regain your momentum. In this blog post, we will explore 6 steps that can help effectively…

With the year well underway, it’s typically a time of reevaluation of old strategies and your ERP goals. Project teams are taking the time to seek new initiatives to stay competitive in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.

Thinking ahead to 2020? Making the case for Business Process Improvement (BPI) is likely on your mind.

Today’s ERP systems for Consumer Products Manufacturers (CPG) must drive true transformation. In order to compete, consumer goods companies must keep pace with customer demand while managing margins and complying with ever-changing safety and environmental regulations

Businesses rely heavily on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to streamline operations and manage resources effectively. ERP systems serve as a central hub, integrating the benefits of a unified business management platform with a unified database for information storage. However, the true value of an ERP system lies in its ability…

Ultra Consultants and IQMS offer you an on demand webinar, How to Ensure Compliance in Food Manufacturing, providing lessons learned from teaming with the fastest growing food and beverage manufacturers. Automating auditing and compliance reporting is the future of food and beverage manufacturing as the lessons learned make a direct, positive…

Project teams often enter into technology selection and implementation as the first steps in realizing true ERP business transformation.

This edition of Ultra’s Stories from the Field blog post series looks at how a pet food company’s enterprise technology project helped streamline operations, improve production and lift the bottom-line.

Many of the teams we work with ask us how to select an MES system.We’ve worked with scores of manufacturing companies that seek to gain a competitive advantage through the intelligent use of data.

What are the benefits of ERP for distributors? Implementing an ERP system specifically designed for distribution companies can drive ROI for your business. We know this because Ultra’s independent ERP consultant team is in the field helping to improve operational efficiencies of wholesale distribution companies and other organizations in the distribution…

We read with interest an article entitled “The latest technology isn’t enough – you need the business model to go with it” published by the World Economic Forum.

Project teams often ask us: what is MES? Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) have been defined as enterprise technology applications that manage, monitor and synchronize the execution of real-time, physical processes involved in manufacturing finished goods.

From our 25 years of experience as an ERP consulting firm, we know full well that an integrated ERP system is what manufacturers and distributors need to maintain a competitive edge and reduce costs in the 21st century.

We often see the term “digital manufacturing” in various industry articles and discussed at industry events. We also hear from manufacturing and distribution teams wondering how digital marketing and ERP apply to their organizations.

Private Equity firms face a unique set of challenges when considering enterprise technology evaluation, selection, and implementation.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, we’re often called to help processors seeking to evaluate food and beverage ERP systems.

As independent ERP consultants, we’re often asked about the concept of tracking ROI and inevitably the conversation leads to what returns to monitor.

Chances are if you are one of the thousands of companies that will be looking at a new ERP this year, you are updating from a 10-year-old system or you are moving to your first major system.

­­­It’s always interesting to see what questions we’re asked as an ERP consulting firm. Many of the teams we work with face challenges when customizing products to serve a variety of customers.

As an organization, finding the best independent ERP consultant is always a difficult task. With so many consultants touting their expertise, it is challenging to discern who can deliver the results your company needs. This is how Ultra Consultants stands out.

Manufacturing Execution Software (MES) means different things to different people. I think it depends on a person’s perspective. Are they from a process manufacturing background or a discrete manufacturing background? Are they focused on complex manufacturing or highly repetitive manufacturing? Are they thinking about automation or are they thinking about monitoring,…

As an independent ERP consulting firm, we see that Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0 have become almost buzzwords today. But they are more than a fleeting trend.

This blog post continues the success story outlined in a recent blog post entitled “Steel Services Company Drives Improvements Through Technology Upgrades”

As part of Ultra’s independent ERP consultant team, I spend my weeks out in the field teaming with Ultra’s manufacturing and distribution clients on business process improvement, ERP evaluation, selection, and implementation projects.

As an ERP consulting firm, we often guide teams to work through enterprise system selection to improve key processes related to gaining visibility into the enterprise.

A well-planned continuous improvement cycle is at the heart of a successful business strategy. To achieve this, companies often adopt a continuous improvement model, including a defined process.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, we’re pleased to share the successes our clients achieve when driving business process improvement.

Early to mid-year, many manufacturing and distribution teams start to look at business processes and internal systems. Driving a digital transformation is often the goal.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, we’re always on the lookout for changes in the ERP landscape, whether it is news of mergers, ERP vendor acquisitions or expansions.

It’s a challenge for project teams to manage risk during an ERP project. We know as an independent ERP consulting firm with extensive experience in ERP selection and implementation projects that no enterprise software implementation project comes without some risk.

EQT Partners, a leading investment firm with $45B of assets under management, has announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire cloud-native enterprise software provider Acumatica through an investment vehicle owned by the same holding company that holds IFS AB (Industrial and Financial Systems).

Buying an ERP system? Many manufacturing and distribution organization project teams are now considering an active ERP project.

We are often asked whether there is a distinction between ERP and Best of Breed enterprise systems. We hear these terms as we meet with manufacturing ERP project teams, as well as solution vendors, to classify solutions in the marketplace.

What’s the best approach to project management and ERP? As an independent ERP consulting firm, Ultra has guided manufacturers with project management leadership for hundreds of enterprise software projects over the years.

Most manufacturing and distribution companies have a goal of business process improvement. That’s why many companies partner with Ultra, as they require modern technology to support that improvement.

Is your company looking at who should be on your ERP evaluation team? The evaluation of any software vendor solution must be conducted with an ERP project team with proven expertise and objectivity.

A typical question we hear from manufacturing and distribution companies is what a successful enterprise technology project looks like.

Technology is a key reason for manufacturers’ ability to produce more output with fewer workers. So when it comes to information systems, can you best maximize your investment in manufacturing IT systems?

The Ultra team partnered with a biopharmaceutical company that was moving through stage 3 trials for a new drug. It was clear that the company needed to move away from the limits of legacy ERP.

Our team regularly shares Stories from the Field that highlight the value today’s organizations achieve when an organization decides to team with an independent ERP consulting firm.

Selecting enterprise software is a complex process and deserves careful planning and attention, especially when beginning efforts to evaluate the short list of vendors.

Complex manufacturing organizations typically seek to simplify the production of engineered, ordered, planned, and controlled products that are configured or assembled uniquely for each customer order.

Adopting a flexible ERP that natively incorporates emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), chatbots, and social collaboration will not only help you stay competitive but will also help you attract the next-generation workforce – vital to future-proofing your business.

Many of the complex manufacturing organizations we speak with face business challenges when looking to simplify the production of engineered, ordered, planned and controlled products that are configured or assembled uniquely for each customer order.

Ultra provides expertise related to enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for process manufacturers. Process manufacturers work with ingredients instead of parts, and the production process is more focused on recipes and formulas than traditional bills of materials.

Many teams we meet with have questions during ERP software selection. Based on our 25-year history as an independent ERP consulting firm, Ultra Consultants knows that an ERP project will deliver success only when it is built on business process improvement rather than driven merely by ERP system features.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, the topic of ERP project organization comes up often as manufacturing and distribution teams look to Ultra to understand the best way to work through enterprise system evaluation and selection to improve key processes.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, Ultra guides manufacturing and distribution project teams to business process improvement.

When project teams from manufacturing and distribution companies head into business process improvement, ERP (enterprise resource planning) evaluation, selection or implementation, our role as an independent ERP consultant team is of critical value.

As an independent ERP consulting firm, we are often asked to guide project teams from manufacturing and distribution firms looking to work through enterprise system selection, evaluation and implementation.

Implementing or upgrading an ERP system is a good opportunity for a manufacturer to create lasting business change within an organization. That’s why effective change management is key to getting the most from your enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation.

In “The Real Facts about ERP Implementations”, the research firm Mint Jutras surveyed hundreds of North American manufacturing and distribution companies to explore the myth of past ERP implementation success rate data which told a dismal story.

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation. This guest post looks at ways manufacturers are using ERP to complement their lean production methods.

The Ultra ERP Blog keeps pace with enterprise software market activity – especially as it relates to ERP selection and enterprise software implementation.

Food and beverage manufacturers, processors, distribution and storage operators have been challenged with information management related to their food safety compliance programs since the onset of both regulatory and industry requirements.

Here’s an ERP implementation survey you need to see. The research firm Mint Jutras surveyed hundreds of today’s manufacturing and distribution companies to explore the myth of past ERP implementation success rate data which told a dismal story.

As a member of Ultra’s team of independent ERP consultants guiding manufacturers and distributors, I often work with engineering-intensive companies seeking the capabilities of product lifecycle management software (PLM). These organizations seek to improve the productivity of engineering resources and reduce the time to develop new products.

In our experience as an independent ERP consultant team, an ERP selection and implementation initiative is successful when the project team understands that the process is much more than swapping a modern application with legacy software or tweaking a few IT solutions.

Blockchain and ERP: What does it mean for the manufacturing and distribution sectors? The convergence of between blockchain and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is revolutionizing the way organizations manage and share data, leading to a more secure, transparent, and efficient future.

Many food and beverage manufacturers we speak with are challenged to comply with current and future regulations. Ever-changing regulations such as the Food Safety Modernization Act and GS1 make compliance challenging.

Ultra’s Founder and CEO Jeff Carr hosts another edition of the ERP Insights Podcast with useful information about moving to the short list of ERP vendors.

This blog post looks at the disruptive forces associated with business-to-business eCommerce channels. Useful tips help teams manage the proliferation of channels available to today’s business buyer.

The year has gotten underway with a significant announcement from Infor. The company recently announced an agreement to receive a $1.5 billion investment from shareholders Koch Equity Development, LLC (KED) and Golden Gate Capital.

In our experience as an independent ERP consultant team, an ERP selection and implementation initiative is only successful with an understanding that the process is much more than just swapping out legacy software or tweaking a few IT solutions.

Week in and week out, Ultra’s team of independent ERP consultants is out in the field guiding manufacturing and distribution project teams looking to improve business operations through use of enterprise technology systems.

Why do you need an ERP implementation checklist? We’ve all heard the expression “don’t put the cart before the horse” which warns us against placing tasks or items in the wrong order.

Today’s blog post shares a video highlight to understand the benefit and understand the answers to 'Why use an independent technology advisor?'

Analysts note the U.S. legal cannabis market is now valued at $8.3 billion and is projected to reach $25 billion by 2025. The expansion is spurring an extended supply chain from growing, processing and warehousing, to distribution and beyond. This guest post looks at using ERP for staying competitive in the…

The ERP vendor landscape is entering into a new era of transformation as Dassault Systèmes recently announced its definitive agreement to acquire IQMS, developer of manufacturing ERP software.

With the proliferation of channels available to today’s consumer or business purchaser, many of the project teams we speak with look to improve omni-channel order management.

Many of the manufacturing and distribution teams we speak with dread negotiating an ERP contract. While this task comes at the end of business process improvement, technology evaluation and selection, we certainly understand the fear and trepidation project teams might experience when anticipating this task.

Project teams face unique challenges when implementing food and beverage enterprise systems. Due to the complexity of such technology initiatives, it pays to ask questions about what’s critical to the business.

We’ve been speaking with the CEO of a mid-market manufacturer in the industrial supply sector about a key question – why team with an independent ERP consulting firm?

In the work our independent ERP consultant team does out in the field, we understand that smart manufacturing demands the smart use of data.That’s the focus of the Smart Manufacturing track of presentations, taking place at FABTECH 2018 on Tuesday, November 6 at the Atlanta Convention Center. I am joining Epicor…

Many of the manufacturing and distribution teams we speak with start a technology selection project by asking the users what they need in a new system. But is that the most effective place to start? As an ERP consulting firm, we feel quite strongly that there’s a better way

For manufacturing organizations that produce configurable, highly complex products, operating as efficiently as possible when it comes to quoting is a significant challenge. These tips to improve CPG can help.

As independent ERP consultants, we’re often asked about the right time to select a new ERP solution and inevitably the conversation leads to business process maturity.

Listen as Jeff Carr, Ultra Consultants Founder and CEO, reviews the steps to identify and manage the ERP vendor long list with an eye toward setting the short list. The Podcast helps you understand how to identify the vendors that fit your business.

For today’s manufacturing and distribution organization looking to transition from the status quo of legacy systems to modern ERP, it doesn’t get much bigger than evaluating, selecting and implementing a new ERP solution.

We hear from many manufacturing and distribution teams facing challenges with ERP implementations. Based on Ultra’s depth and breadth of experience with enterprise technology projects, we know what a failed project looks like and we know how to avoid it.

The 21st century business space is a competitive one, and implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is crucial for manufacturers and distributors who need to keep up with the competition. An ERP system helps streamline business processes, improve inventory management, enhance customer relationship management, optimize vendor management and maximize supply…

This is because an ERP project cuts across each area of the business, impacting functional areas from finance, accounting and supply chain, to shop floor, production, inventory, quality management, shipping and more. Manufacturers and distributors have already gone through lean initiatives, cutting away excess, and thereby are operating with a lean…

Ultra’s independent ERP consultant team recently partnered with a manufacturing company for a business process improvement project during an ERP evaluation and selection engagement. This is their business process improvement success story.

Many of the project teams we work with seek an ERP implementation best practices guide. That’s because now more than ever, it’s critical to have knowledge of the best practices and best enterprise technologies available on the market today.

Ultra’s Founder and CEO Jeff Carr recently teamed with Manufacturing Business Technology magazine for a webinar entitled “ERP for manufacturing and distribution: Are You Blind to the Dangers of Outdated ERP Systems?”

What’s the deal with ERP and change management? In our experience as an independent ERP consultant team, an ERP selection and implementation initiative is only successful with an understanding that the process is much more than just swapping out legacy software or tweaking a few IT solutions.

Why do a current state assessment before leaping into an implementation? ERP project teams ready to embark on a new or upgraded enterprise technology project are often eager to jump immediately to vendor demos to see the latest and greatest in new tech. Based on years of experience and hundreds of…

When we think of the Industrial Internet of Things and ERP, there’s much to consider for today’s manufacturing and distribution organization. Think of the Industrial Internet of Things as manufacturing or distribution related hardware and software that work together through “internet of things” style connectivity to track and enhance manufacturing and…

We often talk with manufacturers and distributors about their enterprise technology initiatives, and the specific role of an ERP consultant. It’s important the company understands the value Ultra’s independent ERP consultant team can deliver to their organization.

Food and beverage ERP systems are designed to help processors meet the unique challenges they face, especially in the areas of recipe management, quality, lot track-and-trace, document control, compliance and other key areas.

Companies that achieve best-in-class performance for manufacturing quoting and costing have one key differentiator from companies that lag behind: the leaders treat quoting and costing as a mission-critical, enterprise-class function within their organization. The laggards do not.

The decision to upgrade or implement a new ERP system is likely one of the most complex and resource-intensive initiatives a company will face. A typical question we hear from teams is how to identify ERP vendors.

During a recent webinar, Ultra Consultants COO Rich Sides presented three real-world examples of business process improvement projects carried out by Ultra’s team of expert independent consultants.

Do you need to fear ERP implementation risks? No matter the size of the organization, it’s not uncommon for teams to consider their previous ERP implementation a failure. In fact, Gartner has found that approximately 75 percent of all ERP projects fail, despite the industry’s focus on delivering better customer service…

Many of the mid-market manufacturing and distribution organizations we team with are thinking of setting a budget for ERP, especially those organizations entering into a new fiscal year.

When considering an ERP project, Ultra’s team of independent ERP consultants makes the case to think beyond an ERP checklist and beyond the idea of a technology replacement. Instead, we guide teams to focus squarely on business process improvement.

Rising inflation makes cost reduction a top business driver behind many technology initiatives today. Given this reality, is it possible to use an ERP system to manage manufacturing costs?

Is it time to assess your organization’s ERP health? It is if your processes involve manual workarounds, stand-alone or siloed solutions, cumbersome spreadsheets or duplicate data entry.

We hear from many manufacturing and distribution teams about ERP project failures and how to mount an ERP recovery. Based on our depth and breadth of experience with enterprise technology implementation projects, we know what a failed project looks like and we know how to avoid it. Here is a roundup…

How have core ERP applications evolved over the last decade or so? That’s the topic of Ultra’s latest ERP podcast. In the past years, typically organizations use ERP to track back office functions based on a "transactional" basis. Today, the role of ERP has expanded beyond the traditional back end applications…

As a native Minnesotan, I was intrigued by an article published in the Star Tribune entitled “Minnesota manufacturers’ profits soar, but a labor shortage looms.” The article shared survey results that show hiring and retention as the major challenges facing the region’s manufacturing sector. At the same time, an “unexpectedly small”…

When it comes to ERP in complex manufacturing, a few definitions are in order. We look at complex manufacturing as companies that manufacture highly engineered products with longer product cycle times and multiple levels of subassemblies in their bills of material.

Selecting the right ERP software provides manufacturers and distributors the tools necessary to improve business performance. Robust business intelligence, dashboard reporting, integrated inventory control, quality management and other features can help companies work smarter, make informed decisions, and improve business processes.

In the face of merger and acquisition activity, what’s key to consider when it comes to assessing IT strategies around enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems?

In this episode of Ultra’s ERP podcast, host Jeff Carr breaks down the key areas to focus on when it comes to defining the ERP project.

Enterprise applications vendor IFS hosted its annual user and customer conference earlier this month in Atlanta, Georgia. The gathering put the spotlight on the vendor’s products, which include the cloud development of component-based software for enterprise resource planning (ERP), enterprise asset management (EAM) and field service management (FSM).

As an ERP consulting firm, we are often asked about the value an organization can expect when investing in a new enterprise technology solution.

In the last few years, we have seen two different implementation methodologies emerge. When buying a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, you should make sure you understand the ERP implementation process proposed by the vendor or re-seller and its pros and cons.

Today’s enterprise is challenged to efficiently manage service technicians in the field to deliver cost effective customer service, especially with the proliferation of mobile devices and complex connectivity issues.

In my experience as an independent ERP consultant working with manufacturers and distributors, I have found that monitoring business performance and looking at current and future state conditions is much more productive than monitoring past decisions and actions.

Our team of independent ERP consultants regularly advises ERP project teams as they undergo ERP evaluation, selection and implementation.

Listen in to this edition of ERP Insights Podcast. Host Jeff Carr shares the details of an ERP project role that is an often forgotten key stakeholder – the Subject Matter Expert (SME).