Enterprise artificial intelligence technology is rapidly changing how organizations across numerous industries do business.

In 2017, for example, product and service teams at Coca-Cola used the transformative computational tool to assess demand for Cherry Sprite, which the company ultimately launched following the review of favorable customer feedback collected through A.I.-equipped soda fountains, according to Deloitte.

In another instance, the investment banking conglomerate Morgan Stanley took a more operational route, rolling out backend workflows that leveraged A.I. to automate mindless administrative tasks and free up financial advisors so they could more effectively connect with clients.

A large number of businesses are attempting to follow in the footsteps of these early adopters. In fact, enterprises worldwide are expected to spend more than $19 billion on A.I. technology in 2018, analysts for the International Data Corporation found.

However, this development encapsulated merely one facet of the enterprise A.I. revolution. In addition to catalyzing change within individual businesses, this innovation is transforming the entire information technology marketplace. Now, software companies are adjusting their products to more effectively support organizations pursuing A.I. workflows. This includes manufacturing enterprise resource planning providers, many of which are developing redesigned offerings centered on the latest A.I. technology.

But the question remains: How exactly will these soon-to-be-released ERP tools differ from existing iterations?

Data-driven workflow assistance
Establishing streamlined user processes is one of the most difficult aspects of manufacturing ERP implementation. Organizations that fail to create workflows that support employee productivity can suffer serious operational setbacks as workers struggle to incorporate ERP usage into their everyday activities.

The next generation of A.I.-driven ERP technology could reduce the likelihood of such outcomes, IT Toolbox reported. These platforms will leverage complex algorithms to learn user behaviors and generate automated solution optimization strategies that employees can use to seamlessly navigate new backend tools and perform to the best of their abilities.

Automated business intelligence
Traditionally, manufacturers have used ERP systems to pinpoint trends and to spot operational areas in need of improvement. This requires some manual data analysis work, as well as vigilant platform monitoring.

A.I.-infused manufacturing ERPs could make it easier for firms to perform both of these tasks, according to the International Data Group. Algorithms will take over all data mining and analysis work and generate operational suggestions that decision-makers can act on, leading to more responsive shop floor practices and increased opportunity for revenue gain.

Accelerated customer response
Modern ERP solutions buoy customer service operations, helping manufacturers develop quality products, maintain fast-moving and secure logistics channels and provide robust support offerings enriched by historical account context.

However, improvement is possible, especially when it comes to field service deployment, which can be hit or miss depending on the quality of trouble ticket processing workflows.

ERP software equipped with A.I. functionality could address this variation by allowing technicians to take advantage of augmented or virtual reality devices that incorporate system data to speed up root cause identification and repair efforts, IT Toolbox reported.

These are just a few of the ways A.I.-centered ERP platforms could bolster manufacturing operations and lay the groundwork for sector-wide growth. As the technology crystallizes, new use cases and benefits will no doubt materialize.

Here at Accent Software, we help manufacturing firms implement cutting-edge ERP technology designed to support sustained operational productivity.

As a certified Microsoft Business Solutions partner, Accent provides vendor-vetted Microsoft Dynamics NAV implementation services, which not only allows businesses to put into place best-in-class ERP software but also enables them to build out A.I. functionality via integration with Azure Cognitive Services.

Connect with us today to learn more about our products and services.