According to a TNO report, companies in the manufacturing industry are of enormous value to the Dutch economy, above average innovative and productive. How do you ensure that your company is also one of those success stories, in an ever-changing environment?
EXPERT-blog
Door: Lissa VerhoogProduct Marketing Manager at ECI Software Solutions.
Innovate
One of the ways to remain successful is to continue to innovate. Digitizing your business processes is important in this. Many companies are already working on digitization and use Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions, such as simple HR and CRM systems. These are applications that no longer run on their own server, but are hosted by a service provider via the internet.
More and more companies are also switching to an online ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning). In an ERP system, you can centralize all company information in one system and track it in real time. You get better and more accurate insight into the company’s activities, including accounting, finance, personnel management, inventory management, etc.
For the director of an SME this may sound like a big step. Why would you invest time and money in an online ERP system? The answer is simple. The metal industry is a very competitive business where price and speed are important factors to be and remain relevant. All elements that promote efficient working are therefore crucial to be successful and make financial progress.
Make the right choices
Implementing an ERP system is not a leap into the unknown, but a well-considered step towards a future full of growth and efficiency. If you are going to make the transition, there are a number of things you should pay attention to.
Is the package branchespecifiek? If you are active in the metal industry, you will want to benefit from standard templates that have been developed specifically for this sector.
Does it fit? the size of the company? A package with many functionalities may sound attractive, but if you do not use them, this only leads to extra complexity. Ridder iQ from ECI Software Solutions is therefore also offered in a slimmed-down version as Ridder iQ Essentials. This way you always have a package that suits you.
What are the costs? A complete ERP system is often too expensive and too complex to implement for small businesses. If you choose a online SaaS solutionyou benefit from your supplier’s investments in a well-secured and maintained solution.
Is the package modularly expandable? As your business grows, you want to be able to easily add extra functionalities such as PDM or CAM integration, location management or analytics.
Is the package usability? By adjusting both the home page and the underlying pages within the system based on relevance, you ensure that as few clicks as possible are required and that information is easy to find.
Future
Although many directors shudder at the thought of moving to an online ERP system, a switch can be arranged quickly and efficiently. Within just five days, companies can benefit from a streamlined approach, clear and truthful insights, and optimized business operations. This way, you are ready for the opportunities of tomorrow.