Manufacturers pursuing enterprise resource planning implementation typically maintain lofty shop floor objectives – and for good reason. ERP technology can catalyze operational transformation by giving production personnel the advanced tools they need to increase productivity and ultimately boost the bottom line.

The manufacturing firms that embarked on ERP implementation in 2018 certainly grasped the technology’s potential and established aggressive post-go-live goals, per researchers for Ultra Consultants, who identified cost reduction, performance improvement and increased internal efficiency as the three most popular aims among those adopters. But how do manufacturing firms turn such objectives into reality?

It all comes down to deploying ERP technology in an effective manner during everyday operations. Here are three ways in which production teams can leverage these innovative solutions to support shop floor success:

Forecasting for efficiency

ERP platforms possess numerous features that can streamline and accelerate activity across multiple departments. However, the forecasting modules that accompany this technology perhaps provide the most potential here, according to ERP Focus. These tools allow production teams to map future demand and develop seamless shop floor workflows and schedules.

When it comes to time to execute, job scheduling tools ensure that everything unfolds without incident. More granular forecasting components centered on supply also improve efficiency, allowing procurement groups to anticipate supply issues such as inclement weather and labor problems and make necessary adjustments.

Reducing costs via data

Modern ERP solutions integrate with mission-critical backend systems to facilitate complete operational transparency. And with access to accurate organizational data, production and financial teams can pinpoint opportunities for cost reduction, IT Toolbox reported.

For instance, ERP-equipped accounting personnel can easily mine real-time and historic budgetary insights – payables, receivables and fixed asset expenses, for example – to identify sensible cuts. Shipping and receiving stakeholders can do the same by reviewing their inventories and cutting back on overstock.

Of course, production groups with ERP access can more effectively plan their work and reduce wastage, a significant and unnecessary cost.

Improving performance through tracking

Virtually all manufacturing firms maintain key performance indicators. However, many struggle with tracking and therefore cannot effectively determine what operational optimizations might lead to shop floor improvement.

ERP solutions give manufacturers the power to monitor KPIs like quality control, product grade and yield, cycle time and cost, according to ERP Focus. With this information in hand, production personnel have the ability to develop and implement powerful process or mechanical improvements that boost productivity and increase revenue.

Together, these ERP modules allow manufacturing firms to achieve their implementation goals and get the most out of their technology.

Is your organization prepared to embark on ERP implementation and in need of a solution that can support shop floor success? Consider connecting with Accent Software.

As a certified Microsoft Business Solutions partner, we provide vendor-vetted Microsoft Dynamics NAV implementation services, giving manufacturers of all sizes the opportunity to adopt a quality ERP solution designed to facilitate operational growth via cutting-edge platform features.

Contact us today to learn more about our proven products and services.