Creating a winning ERP training plan

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Your business has made the decision to implement a sophisticated new enterprise resource planning system. Now comes the training. In order to make sure that employees get the most out of this robust tool, it's important to develop a comprehensive training program. The following tips will help you to create a plan that will bring everyone up to speed, and ensure that users will be able to enjoy the full benefits of your new manufacturing software. 

Involve the whole company
Your business management software will affect every part of your enterprise, so why limit the training to just a few people? Obviously some employees will be using it more than others, and some will be using different modules. However, everyone should have a baseline understanding of the software, its best practices and its procedures. After all, ERP software connects every department, so every department should be able to use it. 

Get leadership on board
Since you're involving the whole company, you're going to want to make sure management is on board. Training may cause some temporary disruptions, so managers deserve to know if their teams are going to be training on this new system. Involving management will also help them to nominate change agents, individuals who help to transition their teams and promote the strengths of the new system. 

Collect feedback
Your training program may not work for everyone, or some portions may be more helpful than others. Are you using real-life examples? Is there anything else you could be going over that your users are facing? Provide a method for constructive criticism, so your can make sure that your training is as helpful as possible. 

"Everyone should have a baseline understanding of the software."

Keep it going
You can't just train once and forget it. ERP software is so  adaptive that new functionalities are always rolling out, and its important for users to stay on top of the updates. Maintaining a rolling schedule of training programs helps to bring new hires up to speed, while keeping veteran users up to date on any changes.

Be adaptable
Not everyone learns the same way. Some learners are more visual, others need to try things themselves in order to fully understand them. When it comes to office training, scheduling time for everyone can be a challenge. Bringing remote employees in can be complicated as well. While ERP training is critical, you don't want to disrupt peoples' schedules too much if they're busy with other tasks and responsibilities.

Online learning can be a great solution because it allows employees to learn from any location, on their own schedule. By using digital training materials that only require an internet connection to access, employees can brush up on system fundamentals wherever they are, whenever it works for them. Hands-on training is recommended, but for those employees in unusual situation, or those who would like to freshen up on what they've already learned,  online learning can be a great benefit. The important thing is that you're adapting materials to different learning styles. 

The Accent Software team can help train your users on Microsoft Dynamics NAV, a powerful ERP solution that's built for manufacturing enterprises. The Accent team can also help with implementation and ongoing service. Contact Accent Software today to learn more. 

Signs your legacy system isn’t cutting it

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The manufacturing industry is changing rapidly, and modern business management software can help enterprises keep a competitive edge. However, many businesses in the manufacturing sector are still relying on their old legacy systems, despite the fact that there are much more effective options available. How can you tell if your legacy system is holding you back? Check out these telltale signs. 

Lack of functionality
Simply put, can your legacy system do what you want it to do? Your old software may not allow for collaboration or mobile use, which are two things that are very important for today's manufacturers. That means your team is stuck with an older workflow model, without the ability to modernize. How can you keep up with your competitors if they're using more sophisticated manufacturing software? 

No agility or flexibility
Many older systems are too rigid to adapt to the changing landscape of modern supply chains. If you legacy program is out of date, then it's very unlikely that your team is able to incorporate any new functionalities or services. A modern enterprise resource planning system can break you out of that rigid mold, and allow for the flexibility that will give you an edge. 

"Modern ERP solutions are much more flexible."

Out of date hardware
If you're hosting your legacy software in-house, it's likely that new hardware no longer supports it. That means you're spending extra time and money dealing with out-of-date equipment just to keep it running. Modern ERP solutions are much more flexible in this regard. You can go with a cloud-based option, and free your business from hosting responsibilities. Cloud ERP is a great option for growing manufacturers because it's more scalable, letting these companies focus on their work while the cloud hosting company manages the hardware. 

No support
Does your legacy vendor no longer work on your old system? Does that vendor even exist anymore? Legacy systems often have no support, meaning when you have a problem there's no one to help you work through it. With modern ERP business management software, you get consulting and support every step of the way, from implementation through post-go live support. 

If any of the above sounds familiar, there's still hope! A manufacturing ERP software solution such as Microsoft Dynamics NAV is built for today's manufacturing enterprise. As a modern ERP, Dynamics NAV works for you, allowing you to adopt the modules your business needs and customize them for manufacturing software that fits your business like a glove. 

To learn more about how Dynamics NAV can work for your team, contact Accent Software. 

Mobile ERP can give you an edge

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Today, mobile devices are used at the enterprise level in a number of ways, allowing workers to effectively communicate, boost productivity and track key performance indicators. This is true in every industry, including manufacturing. While not every enterprise resource planning tool is necessarily used on mobile devices, having an ERP solution that can leverage mobility gives its business a number of benefits. 

Superior customer service
Customer service and sales team members can benefit from mobile ERP tools by using real-time order data, including shipping status. This information allows them to provide immediate services to existing customers and new leads alike, without having to take a message to research this information and then call back later. 

KPI tracking
Efficacy is important in any department, because without using hard data to track and compare performance there is no way to determine success or failure. A mobile manufacturing business software platform allows managers to track key performance indicators, or KPIs. With these indicators, managers can streamline workflows and provide detailed feedback on new initiatives. 

"Up-to-date business intelligence lets workers react faster to orders and requests."

Real-time strategies
In any industry, the market can change dramatically when you least expect it. A business that can access up-to-date information as quickly as possible and react just as quickly will have a major competitive advantage. This is particularly true for growing manufacturers who need to be able to think on their feet when making decisions. Providing access to real-time info gives growing businesses an edge over their larger competitors. 

Stronger vendor relationships
Having instant access to up-to-date business intelligence lets workers react faster to orders and requests. This not only helps to foster strong relationships with end users, but also with vendors. These partnerships are critical in the manufacturing field, and a mobile ERP solution ensures strong partner bonds. 

Less downtime
Whether employees are on the road or on the manufacturing floor, they can make better use of their time with mobile ERP tools. Without mobility, these workers would have to spend time getting back to their computers. With ERP tools in the palms of their hands, they not only have access to data wherever they are, but they can get more work done. 

If your business is ready for a mobile ERP solution built for manufacturers, Accent Software can help! Our dedicated team can walk you through every step of the process, from implementation all the way to post-launch problem-solving. To learn more about our robust mobile ERP solutions, contact the Accent Software team today. 

When to move your ERP to the cloud

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Many manufacturers are wondering  whether or not it's time to move to a cloud-based enterprise resource planning solution. If your company is still relying on a legacy ERP, or even just a series of spreadsheets, it's time to take a serious look at cloud ERP as the next step in your growth. 

Cloud computing has provided many new features for ERP software, like increased scalability and a lower operating costs. Is your company ready for cloud-based business management software? Consider these thoughts to decide if now is the time. 

Your industry has specific requirements for business management software
Some sectors require more from their ERP software. Manufacturing is one of these industries – generic legacy software is not cut out for today's manufacturers. Cloud ERP solutions such as Microsoft Dynamics NAV are built for manufacturers, allowing users to take control of planning, production, materials, vendors and more. Understanding the unique needs of the industry allows for more robust solutions. 

You're ready for ERP software that adapts to your needs, not the other way around
Cloud ERP provides the flexibility and agility that a growing enterprise needs. Instead of upgrading with expensive hardware and installing software in-house, cloud ERP solutions allow you the freedom to access all of the tools you need through the web, wherever you and your team are.

"Cloud ERP provides the flexibility a growing enterprise needs."

These cloud services are usually available on a per-user, per-month flat fee, allowing you to add users and pay only what you need as your company grows. That makes a lot more sense than overpaying for servers you may not need. If you're tired of high operating costs for your legacy system, then you're ready for cloud ERP. 

You want to focus on your business, not troubleshooting
If your legacy system isn't working for you, then whom is it working for? Modern manufacturing enterprises deserve modern manufacturing business software with support. Cloud-based software includes ongoing support, so you have helpful individuals who are ready to work through a problem with you. Focus on your business, and let your cloud vendor focus on keeping the software up to date and working through any issues. 

You want to use real-time business intelligence
You and your vendors need to be able to think and act fast. Cloud solutions make it easier to access the important information your team needs, when they need it. Today's manufacturers harness business analytics to react to market changes, improve demand planning and optimize production workflows. By allowing you and your team to access this information anywhere with an internet connection, you're able to make better use of this critical data. 

If your enterprise is ready to take the next step, Accent Software can help! We work with growing companies to implement Microsoft Dynamics NAV, a flexible cloud ERP system that helps manufacturers operate efficiently and make quick decisions using real-time data. Our team has been helping small businesses implement this robust program for over 15 years. Contact us to learn more about this business management software and the many ways your team will be thankful for it.

What to expect from the future of business management software

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Enterprise resource planning has changed quite a bit during its illustrious history. The process management software has integrated a number of new functions and technologies over the years. ERP still brings tremendous value to an enterprise, and as the technology continues to grow and develop, so will this value. Let's take a look at what the future holds for manufacturing ERP software. 

The rise of component systems 
ERP software was originally created for large companies. As the technology became more mainstream, the software has become more affordable to small and mid-size companies, allowing them to streamline processes and compete with the big dogs. Component ERP systems make this easier: they're simpler base systems with an extensive number of add-on modules that a company can add as necessary. This makes the ERP more scalable for growing businesses. 

Increased mobile integration
Enterprise mobility is not new at this point, but it's only going to get bigger in the future, and ERP systems will be part of it. While older platforms might have adapted to include mobility as an added tool, future ERP systems will be developed with mobility as an integral part of the functionality. As mobile tools are playing a larger part in the manufacturing environment, ERP tools will be increasingly "mobile-first". 

ERP mobility will continue to grow, and postmodern ERP will provide more "mobile first" tools. ERP mobility will continue to grow, and postmodern ERP will provide more "mobile first" tools.

A focus on flexibility and customization
Markets can change dramatically. Manufacturers need to be able to adapt rapidly to new challenges and opportunities, developing workflows and processes that can be tweaked when necessary. ERP software is going to help here, providing customizable systems that can change as the company grows, and provide agility that legacy systems just couldn't offer. 

The growth of hybrid cloud features
While cloud computing has transformed the way business management software can provide value, there is still some data that is going to be housed on-site rather than the cloud. A hybrid cloud allows enterprises the best of both worlds: the flexibility and reduced hardware investment of cloud computing, and the increased control of on-premise software.

"ERP will bring new ways of harnessing and using data."

A faster, more integrated supply chain
Seamless delivery between vendors, manufacturers and end users is more important than ever. Big Data is providing a glut of business intelligence, helping to develop a smarter supply chain on the global level. This intelligence will help to reduce order errors and recalls, and help manufacturers develop more accurate customer demand. As ERP platforms exist to serve these supply chain functions, look for them to bring new ways of harnessing and using data to improve functions at every stage. 

Reduced redundancies through automation
Legacy ERP systems relied heavily on workers filling out manual reports and forms. This was extremely time-consuming, and often lead to human errors. As ERP systems adopt increased automation, custom reports that used to take days are now taking mere minutes. The automation also reduces the chance of human error, and lets employees focus on providing customer service and other important tasks. New ERP programs will include increased automation as the software becomes more powerful and integrated with other systems. 

If you'd like to replace your outdated legacy system with a newer, more powerful manufacturing business software solution, contact Accent Software. We're proud Microsoft partners who help growing manufacturers implement Dynamics NAV, a robust manufacturing business software. The Accent team will walk you through the full process, from planning to training and post-implementation. 

Cloud ERP is built for the future

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When choosing an enterprise resource planning solution, you're going to need to decide between cloud and on-premise solutions. While some businesses may consider on-site ERP a more familiar solution, cloud-based ERP is a business management software solution that provides more benefit over the long-term. 

Preparing for future growth
As cloud ERP is hosted through a third-party provider, your enterprise doesn't need to invest in all of the additional hardware. The cloud provider manages the server equipment.

Reducing the IT infrastructure investment not only cuts many costs, but it also provides scalability. With a cloud ERP solution, it's easier to add new users and new functionalities without needing to upgrade hardware. As your business grows, your ERP software can scale up with you. 

"As your business grows, your ERP software scales with you."

No business can expect to stay stagnant and continue to be successful. Smart, sustainable growth is key, and cloud-based manufacturing software fosters this growth by letting you focus on your business, while your cloud provider focuses on hardware. 

Promoting collaboration
By allowing team members to access ERP functions from their mobile devices, cloud computing is promoting increased productivity and improved collaboration. Cloud ERP makes it easier for partners to share data in real-time, helping to streamline the entire supply chain. In addition, a mobile workforce is more agile. By accessing business intelligence through mobile ERP tools, today's workers are able to adapt faster to market changes, and be better prepared for future challenges. 

Providing security
While some may still harbor some reservations about the cloud over security reasons, modern cloud providers boast robust security features. As Martin Hill wrote for IT Pro Portal, "where security once implied locking the server room door and forcing people to use long passwords, today it means hardened electronic operating environments." Today, enterprise security is all about access, not location. 

As David Linthicum notes at Tech Target, today's cloud IT has shown to be more secure than traditional IT, thanks to more advanced tools that focus on accessibility over location. The idea that cloud computing is less secure is a myth these days. A cloud-based ERP platform is better-prepared to manage access, and can monitor security features while you take care of growing your business. 

For a powerful, cloud-based ERP solution built for manufactures, Microsoft Dynamics NAV meets all your needs. At Accent Software, we help growing businesses implement Dynamics NAV because we understand the importance of scalable, flexible manufacturing software. If your legacy system isn't built for the future, contact us to see the difference a modern ERP system can make. 

Integrating ERP with CRM: What manufacturers need to know

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Integrating enterprise resource planning with your customer relationship management software can boost agility for manufacturing enterprises. Both are mature technologies that have shown value for many years by helping to capture, update and act on business intelligence. It's only natural that these two platforms should integrate and provide streamlined solutions for enterprises that are seeking optimized workflows. 

CRM obviously provides benefits to any company through sales and marketing tools. But what about manufacturing enterprises? An integrated CRM and ERP can improve many functions for manufacturers. 

Quality control
The CRM module of an ERP system can track customer feedback, helping manufacturers to better understand the how the customer views quality. Obviously, no manufacturer wants to have to recall an item, and no one wants to ship an incomplete or defective one. Providing insight into customer feedback can help improve efforts on the manufacturing end, ensuring the customer and the manufacturer share the same definition of quality. 

"Providing customer

feedback can help

improve manufacturing."

Data analytics
Companies have access to more information than ever thanks to trends like Big Data and The Internet of Things. Customer data is high on the list of critical business intelligence, and both ERP and CRM tools make use of this data. In addition to customer feedback, this data can also include insight into a competitor's products. If you need to know what you're up against and whether or not it's working, this is a major benefit. 

Demand planning
Planning for demand is always a challenge, particularly for manufacturers. Producing too many units is a waste of time, space and other resources. Under-producing will draw the ire of supply chain partners and end users. ERP provides great tools for demand planning, but this is still challenging if the manufacturer is just one part of a large and diverse supply chain. How can a manufacturer understand demand planning if their goods are not final products? 

An ERP with an integrated CRM system can help. While CRM provides valuable information on customers, ERP allows the manufacturer to view the whole supply chain. By integrating the two systems, users can view not just their customers, but their customers' customers as well, providing valuable insight into their end users. 

For an ERP solution built for modern manufactures, Microsoft Dynamics NAV meets all of your enterprise's needs. At Accent Software, we help growing businesses implement Dynamics NAV, because we understand the importance of manufacturing business software. If your legacy system isn't keeping up, contact us to see the difference a modern, integrated ERP system can make. 

Your guide to a smooth ERP implementation

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Implementing a new enterprise resource planning system can be daunting. There are a lot of moving parts and considerations to evaluate before taking the first big steps. Following these guidelines will ensure that you're on your way to enjoying your company's newfound agility and efficiency. 

Define your goals so you can track success
In a recent ZDNet article, Michael Krigsman wrote that "success is elusive when the desired outcomes are vague and ill-defined." It's important to set measurable goals to judge the level of success. Where do you need manufacturing software to help? Are you looking to reduce overhead, streamline production processes or develop more effective reporting tools? 

If you can't put into words what you'd like to accomplish with your implementation, it's going to be difficult to get anything done. Your value added reseller can help walk you through an action plan, help you define business objectives and goals and provide demonstrations on how ERP software can help you achieve them. 

"A vendor that understands ERP software can make sure your team is prepared."

Train your team, and train them some more
ERP software is all about agility. You will have access to unprecedented amounts of data all in one centralized hub, and you will be able to act on market fluctuations and new opportunities faster than ever. In order to take advantage of these tools, your team needs a strong training program.

As ERP business management software is always adapting new functionalities, it's important to have ongoing training so your users are always on top of the latest trends. It's also important to have a strong training program in place for new hires. A vendor that understands the ins and outs of the ERP software can make sure your team is prepared with comprehensive training. 

Find a vendor who understands your industry
Manufacturers need a manufacturing-focused ERP solution and a value added reseller that knows what enterprises in the industry deal with on a daily basis. The right vendor can help you throughout the process by:

  • Implementing your new ERP software. 
  • Troubleshooting and providing support. 
  • Customizing the software to fit your needs. 
  • Ongoing consultation, training and troubleshooting post-implementation. 

If you're in the manufacturing industry and you'd like an ERP that can provide customizable tools for your enterprise, Accent Software is here for you. The Accent Software team has been helping growing manufacturers deploy and use Microsoft Dynamics NAV for over 15 years. We provide ongoing training, technical support and consulting services, putting this robust manufacturing business software to work for our clients. 

How is digital technology transforming manufacturing?

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Digital technologies are changing every enterprise. Regardless of the industry, businesses are adopting digital tools and processes to connect with customers, collaborate across channels and develop better products. Look no further than manufacturing, an industry that is poised to take major steps in digital transformation. One of the main drivers for this transformation has been enterprise resource planning, the business management software that helps businesses run faster, smarter and more effectively. 

ERP software is part of a manufacturing enterprise evolution. By taking an entrepreneurial approach, these digital manufacturers can implement improvements at every level, engaging customers and streamlining processes with unprecedented effectiveness. While ERP solutions have been around for some time, the technology is always adapting, and the software is always implementing new capabilities. 

Visibility
Digital trends such as Big Data and the Internet of Things are helping manufacturers take control of their supply chain. In an industry where efficiency is critical, the availability of relevant business intelligence in real-time allows enterprises an unprecedented view of every step of the production and fulfillment processes.

Now they can pinpoint a bottleneck or other problem like never before, and adapt quickly to new challenges. They're able to harness this information with ERP software: The innovative manufacturing business software makes it possible to access information on every step of the process, while developing customizable reports. 

"ERP software is part of a manufacturing enterprise's evolution."

Mobility
ERP software makes it easier than ever to take your enterprise mobile. Cloud ERP offers reduced overhead and increased scalability for growing businesses, and its mobile components help workers take advantage of the latest technology while simultaneously improving productivity. 

Integration
ERP software integrates with other systems, leading to the creation of a main data hub. Whether it's sales, production or human resources, ERP software can function as a central nervous system for business intelligence, simplifying communications between departments and ensuring that information is up-to-date.

ERP is particularly effective at integrating with customer relationship management software. These two key platforms drive success individually, but when connected can provide value in critical areas such as product and account integration, order management and inventory management. Integrated ERP and CRM software provides improved data accuracy and enhanced customer insights. 

Customer focus
Manufacturers are taking steps to provide increased customization in order to respond to customer needs. Rather than provide a one-size-fits-all solution, digital manufacturers can harness the data from their ERP systems and provide new, specialized products for specific niche markets. 

At Accent Software, we help manufacturers streamline processes and boost efficiency with Microsoft Dynamics NAV. We can help your team undergo a dramatic digital transformation with Dynamics NAV and follow up with training and consulting wherever they're needed. Visit our website to learn more about how we can help. 

Is your legacy system customizable?

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Customization is often one of the most overlooked benefits of enterprise resource planning software Legacy systems are often designed for outdated platforms and no longer work for modern manufacturers. Instead of trying to fit your workflow into a pre-designed system, with customization you can make the system work for your business.

When you're shopping for a new business management software system, you may not find one that meets all of your needs right away. As your business grows, expands and develops new products in new markets, you may need more functionality. A customizable ERP platform makes this possible. With the right software and a dedicated vendor, you can add whatever you need. 

Why customize?
You may not need a customizable ERP solution right away, but it's good to have the option as your business grows. Customization can make your implementation go smoother, especially if you're moving on from a legacy system. In the meantime, it may be hard to find a system that does everything you need right out of the box, but a customizable one will be able to do whatever you want with the support of your ERP vendor. 

"Microsoft Dynamics NAV is built to be customized."

Decide what you're going to need
There's no sense in putting down money for ERP software before you know the most important functions you're going to need from it. Document your requirements to give you an idea of what services to look for in your new system. Different types of ERP software can offer different suites of tools and functions. Consider your workflow, your bottlenecks and your pain points. This is a good time to consult with an external professional, who can take a different view of your enterprise. 

Choosing your ERP software
Not all ERP software provides customization. Microsoft Dynamics NAV, in addition to being ideal for small to medium-sized manufacturers, is also built to be adapted and customized as necessary. A dedicated vendor can help you implement Dynamics NAV to the fullest and get the most out of this powerful system. 

Choosing your value added reseller 
Your ERP vendor plays a major role in what you get out of business management software. A vendor that understands the software will be able to demonstrate its capabilities and create new projects to adapt it to your needs. Without a knowledgeable, helpful vendor, you won't be able to make ERP customization work for you. 

At Accent Software, we understand the importance of customizable manufacturing software software for growing manufacturers. That's why we help businesses implement Microsoft Dynamics NAV, a robust and customizable business management software solution. If your legacy system isn't cutting it, contact us to see the difference a modern ERP system can make.