Over the past decade, our relationship with and expectations of technology have drastically changed. Millennials now represent the largest subset of the American workforce, and their preferences and views will differ from those of older staff members. The next generation of employees is not only making a mark on manufacturing operations, it's also shaping how ERP solutions evolve and dictating the capabilities that will be required in the future.

Incorporating mobility

When there's an app for virtually everything, why not have an ERP system that directly connects with one? Workers no longer want to carry around multiple devices for their job or be tied down to a desktop with legacy software. Staff expect to use their smartphones to access ERP data and order inventory and have a full view into manufacturing operations. TechTarget contributor Beth Stackpole noted that there's an expectation of immediately having information available. This type of accessibility will be attractive to new talent as older staff start to retire.

It's also important for the ERP system to have an interface that's easy to navigate. Workers can start using the software right out of the box with no training, providing value right away, but this is only possible if the solution is presented in a way that's familiar and simple to use.

"A user interface is like a joke. If you have to explain it, it's not a good one," Jay Flores, STEM ambassador at Rockwell Automation, told Stackpole. "People expect a lot more intuitive interaction with machines because of touchscreens and the iPhone and iPad era. They need to be able to understand quickly what it is they need to do."

Collaboration is key

Millennials increasingly look to ensure that everyone is on the same page, but this isn't possible without the right tools. An ERP system must enable workers to share knowledge and provide critical insight. If workers are forced to go through multiple programs or spreadsheets to find the information they're looking for, that hurts their productivity. ERP systems should enable instantaneous communications and feedback, Manufacturing Business Technology contributor Stevie Hay recommended. This will help alert staff to critical tasks and anything that must be addressed right away. With this type of information, workers can head off issues and collaborate more effectively.

In order to attain optimal efficiency, ERP systems should also track key performance indicators across the board to monitor overall progress. Workers can use ERP solutions to easily search for information, ranking results according to their relevance. Manufacturers can even create and share custom reports with real-time data, ensuring that decision-makers have the most relevant metrics available. This will empower businesses to better predict future behaviors, plan out job costs and schedule projects.

Millennials and future generations have grown up with technology, and their expectations are changing the way ERP solutions look and function. ERP systems in the future must be more mobile and enable collaboration in order to provide the look and features the up-and-coming workforce anticipates.