5 Steps to Automate Your Business Workflow

Every businessperson hopes to create a business that is profitable and scalable. However, instead of focusing on creating a robust business model with long-term sustainability, most end up working in the business with a gung-ho, hands-on attitude. And scalability doesn’t happen with that approach. What entrepreneurs fundamentally require is an opportunity to leverage and a prospect to scale-up.

But it’s not just entrepreneurs but project managers and other professionals, who require a sustainable way to get smart, thereby manage the workload more effectively without losing on any time, money or energy. Automated business process management, is, undoubtedly the most efficient way to acquire consistent and accurate results, streamline tasks, boost operational effectiveness and ensure a smooth workflow. In short, business process automation is a sure way to eliminate all those unnecessary human interventions which could be erroneous, costly and time consuming. Moreover, the automation process can be implemented in any business across any industry.

Any business, no matter how big or small, should consider automation if it intends to stay and competitive, enhance operational speed, reduce errors, increase productivity, eliminate irrelevant steps, build volume, reduce waste, expand capabilities and reduce cost.

Although automated business process management could be a chance to revolutionize the way how any business works, businesses should understand the thoroughness of mapping out the project. And before implementing this process the management should perform a self evaluation in relation to business process management. Thus a business person or a project manager should first figure out the answers to critical questions, such as, ‘Is the organization ready to work smarter?’ or ‘Are the employees ready to move from the traditional working methodology of spreadsheets and files to a new system as a team?’, ‘Once automated, can the organization work with lesser manpower and still deliver products or services with same or better quality?’, etc.

After the purchase of a workflow software for the automation of complex processes across business departments, it is also critical ensure that the software is perfect for the business and not just some means to merely provide the flaws in the existing system. To help with the preparation here are 5 steps to automate any business workflow:

Ascertain the repetitive tasks:

The first step towards automating a business workflow is to ascertain all repetitive tasks. Flow charts of existing processes coupled with an excellent understanding of the workflow would be the right way to go about it.

Define business goals:

Any business can be rendered unsuccessful without SMART goals and objectives. SMART goals encompass ‘specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely’ objectives that could optimize resources for productive tasks, reduce cycle time, improve throughput and should definitely be aligned to the existing workflow benchmarks.

Choose the right workflow automation solution:

The third step in the automation process would be to choose the correct workflow automation solution. While there are a plethora of automation software available in the market, it is crucial to choose the ideal fit.

Ensure skill enhancement for the users:

Updating the skills of the users would be the next most significant thing in the automation processes. Neglecting it by resisting the development of the users can prove detrimental for the business.

Measure key performance indicators:

The fourth step in this process is to measure the performance of the automation. While putting the system on live, perhaps a test run would be sufficient for the users to smoothen out any kinks in the armour.

There are a number of steps that may be adopted for the successful implementation of the workflow. However, there are a few do’s and don’ts that should be kept in the mind. Instead of choosing mission critical projects that are heavily integrated with other software, managers should begin with divisions that involve lesser stakes. Thus it would be suffice to say that the automation of business processes will not only anticipate the needs of the existing workflow but also use the same to increase efficiency, provide visibility into business processes and reduces costs substantially.

How to Improve Productivity in Manufacturing Industry

As the old adage goes, time is money. The more production you can squeeze out in a period of time, the more money you make, right? As per the old saying, ‘time is money’; however, with improve productivity in manufacturing industry, it is inversely proportional to one another. The higher the production in a stipulated frame of time, the more one gets to make it and manufacturers, across the world are in a continuous process to pursue efficiency in production through consistent increase in machine output, thereby meeting newer profitability heights and maintaining competitiveness.

And productivity in manufacturing is dependent on a number of factors – it is a combination of skilled employees, competent equipment and resourceful processes. To increase throughput without the need for sacrificing quality involves a detailed scrutiny of the existing practices, making adjustments, however minor, to systems, constant skill upgradation for employees and enhancing the efficiency of equipment that are used for the generation of parts and components.

The fundamental nature of enhancing manufacturing productivity can be engaged through:

• Information: the accurate capture of information through the identification of losses
• Focus: the identification of priorities through the use of that information
• Action: ensuring action that is deliberate, methodical and sustainable for the long-term

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The total productive maintenance is the most crucial element for lean manufacturing, and includes an useful efficiency metric – the overall equipment effectiveness, thereby measuring the percentage of planned production time to indicate the ratio of quality throughput, as quickly as possible, without any down-time.

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There are a number of alternatives today that could help to reorganize the way you work by reducing the struggle of improving productivity, increase incentives that could drive up numbers. These have been variously explained, below:

• Examine the existing workflow
• Update business processes
• Invest continuously into the skill upgradation of employee skills
• Establish realistic expectations
• Procure smarter equipment tools
• Ensure an organized process
• Encourage team work

A significant initiative that could ensure effective business management at the manufacturing level is the effective implementation of a robust Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Some of its operative areas include: sales, finance, e-commerce, warehouse management, purchase, HRMS, CRM and inventory management.

The implementation of ERP with the objective of improving manufacturing productivity is a vital requirement in the industry, today. To ensure the enhancement and seamless business management through advanced ERP systems are sure to provide invaluable benefits to manufacturers who seek cost reductions, growth management, enhanced efficiency and robust process that are streamlined with the objective to gain a competitive business advantage. Some of the benefits of implementing an effective ERP system that are aligned to the business goals are as follows:

• Stay ahead of competition
• Save money
• Enhance productivity
• Increase growth
• Improve people skills
• Ensure mobility
• Augment business intelligence

Despite the benefits of implementing robust ERP tools for the effective business management, the simple deployment of ay software won’t lead to the achievements of organizational goals. There are a lot of research and dedication that needs to go into ensuring right software for the business. And once the right ERP tool is integrated, the results are sure to follow.

5 Reasons to Implement Cloud for Inventory Management

In this dynamic and mobility-adept digital environment, if the words ‘automated inventory management’ seems unfamiliar to your ears, then the future of your business maybe in jeopardy. And surprisingly you are not alone. 43% of businesses either don’t track their inventory at all or use manual processes to do so. And to avoid the hassles of over-complicated, needlessly labor intensive and unreasonable outdated spreadsheets, it’s time that you considered integrating cloud for inventory management operations.

However, if you are worried about cost implications, you shouldn’t worry at all. Cloud-base inventory management system is actually more affordable than most old-school methods. Also, the benefits far outweigh any other concerns that you may have – especially those regarding convenience, security, flexibility, among others.

Here’s a list of top 5 reasons for you to switch to a cloud-based inventory management system for your business.

Data recovery:

Imagine the nightmare if you were to lose your sales and transactions reports, customer-centric data, order statuses, or simply your inventory list, just because you risked putting everything in an excel spreadsheet that was conveniently saved on your computer’s desktop. Even if you are using software that saves your data locally, without any guarantee of a cloud back-up, you still face the threat of losing your data. And this predicament can be easily avoided with a cloud-based solution, wherein you assign your service provider with the responsibility of storing and securing your data.

Cost effective:

Cloud-based inventory management system is a cost effective solution and is definitely more advantageous over other local based systems, without the involvement of any upfront cost such as hardware. In addition, online inventory management systems have its own IT team, which typically means shorter implementation time, less money and fewer headaches.

Flexibility of access:

When professional responsibilities are required to be fulfilled while on the go, most business owners find it difficult to handle a singular, on-site inventory system with no online access. And this is why, a cloud-based inventory management system helps to take the shackles off that delimits the ease of doing business from anywhere around the world.

Another advantage of possessing access to warehouse inventory from the off-site is employee accountability. A warehouse, typically, falls prey to a myriad of employee theft scandals which could cause huge losses to any business. A cloud-based inventory management system helps to monitor transaction and quality control reports from anywhere on the planet. It is an asset, you should consider.

Automatic updation of software:

Manual software updation could lead to waste of time and money in the form of delayed sales and/or wasted payroll. All cloud-based software are integrated with the feature of automation, thereby automatically fixing bugs, updating systems with the latest features or patching any problem automatically.

Customization:

Cloud-based inventory management can be tailored as per your needs. Not only are your software updates automated, but a number of cloud-based warehouse management software could also consider your requests for features that are tailor-made for your business. And there are a myriad of options available in the market, today; some may also be willing to go the extra mile for ensuring a 100% efficiency of your warehouse management.

Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a corporate honcho, chances are that you didn’t get here without embracing digitization. Why not choose the same for your warehouse management, as well? A cloud-based inventory management system is easy to implement, secure, scalable, and cost effective. It provides you with a hassle free process management; by freeing up your time provides you with better opportunities to shift your focus to areas which probably need more attention. Well, the era for using traditional options is over; if you want to operate hassle-free, it’s time to switch to a customized cloud-based inventory management system.

6 Reasons You Should Know During ERP Implementation

In today’s global mobility-adept marketplace, the integration of Enterprise Resource Planning (or ERP) with business operations is as critical as the central nervous system to a human body. And the benefits of an ERP implementation into your business processes are numerous – from accounting, compliance and human resources to reporting, supply chain, IT sales and customer management systems. In short, if executed right, ERP is the best investment for your company as it helps to better manage responses, through the coordination of the company’s resources for winning customers, fend off competitors, and moderate costs. That’s why it is wise, for an organization, to rely on its ERP systems, every day.

Here are the top 12 advantages of implementing a healthy and successful ERP system:

• Sustains growth without incurring any additional workforce resources
• Improves the availability of products
• Ensures on-time delivery
• Reduces expedited cargo expenditures
• Curtails month-end close time
• Augments inventory turns and diminishes variances
• Decreases monthly shipping errors to zero
• Restricts cost of maintenance via centrally-managed, single-point system
• Reduces time for repair
• Reinforces traceability for ISO compliance
• Enhances accountability across all business levels
• Strengthens internal, as well as, customer communications

However, an appalling dependency on technology without being fully aware of its repercussions and a complete lack of planning or technical know-how may lead to the complete failure of ERP implementation forcing you to deal with the expenditure, post-implementation. Also, transitioning to a new ERP system may become an expensive affair. What is supposed to be a cost-effective plan can quickly turn into a costly nightmare!

Most executives, during an ERP implementation, typically ignore crucial steps that involve assessment of risks, cash flows, benefit analysis, and performance goals. Instead, they choose to focus on decreasing implementation costs, hoping that the ERP system is a magical medium for transforming the efficiency and operations of the business. Eventually, when faced with unexpected set-backs, owing to unrealized benefits post-implementation, most corporate regret the decision of empowering the ERP system.

As the adage goes, “technology should be controlled by humans, and not the other way, around.” So before you decide to take the plunge, here are the top 6 reasons to understand why ERP implementation fails:

To blame, or not to blame?There is no greener grass on the other side; the sooner you realize the better it gets. Managements that wonder the requirement of an ERP implementation often ask the wrong questions. They are more worried about the costs, which eventually, impairs their ability to assess the risks and benefits involved. And that’s exactly why most ERP implementation projects crash, even before they set off. Rather than embarking on a large, risky, and expensive ERP planning, it is imperative to assess the current situation, consider the pain-points, and check the need for fine-tuning of the existing ERP system, thereby, addressing the problem at a fraction of the cost.

Comprehensive user-training. Or the lack of it? An ERP implementation isn’t a process that should be embarked upon in haste, especially when it is about in-depth training that provides access to a great understanding of the tools which offer a comprehensive automation of most departments. Devoting the right amount of time for collecting the proper knowledge of the process of ERP implementation ensures the optimal usage of the system.

Expenditure or an investment? The implementation of a solid ERP system is a long-term investment which if carried out correctly is sure to yield profits in the extended future. So, while choosing the right vendor, for the implementation process, instead of focusing on lower costs, try to assess their capability of delivering such a project.

Managing change: An ERP implementation process may fail if you are unprepared for the impending change, after the deployment of system. Make sure that you have a plan for helping your organization adapt to the changes that will only prove to be optimal in the end.

Absence of data accuracy: In order to maintain credibility of your ERP system with the end-users, ensure the accuracy of data transfer into the new ERP system. This will help to save on time and any cost implications, eventually, resulting from a failed ERP implementation.

Neglecting technical glitches:Another critical thing that could lead to the failure of ERP implementation are hardware snags, interfacing issues with the management process, or any other technical glitches. Make sure that your IT integration team is efficient for handling such situations.

There can be a number of reasons apart from those discussed here that could lead to the failure of an ERP implementation. And it is a long-term process: if dealt with incorrectly could end up with an undesired experience for you that may involve greater cost implications and severe technical difficulties. Entrusting an expert to drive the implementation process could help to deliver a relatively easier roadmap for success.

Integrating Big Data with ERP: What the Future Has In Store for Us?

The other day I was following a discussion in a tech forum when I came across this question: what does Big Data have in store for ERP? Or how is Big Data good for ERP? Big Data, which is on everyone’s mind right now, has also seen acceptance by major players in the fray. SAP, for instance, has already started offering HANA to analyze live data to support businesses real-time. It processes transactions and analytics, simultaneously, on any data type. Oracle is also using StubHub (Customer and Partner Search tool) to handle Big Data.

ERP systems, a product of the last decade were devised to streamline business processes. Small and medium organizations benefitted largely from low-cost but effective ERP tools customized to their needs. Larger organizations, found a better way of automating business processes, with improved results and lower cost.

However, today ERP systems are finding it difficult to store the high volumes of data, coming from different sources and in varying forms. ERP systems are exposed to Big Data (big in volume, big in variety (structured; semi-structured; unstructured), and big in the speed of change) wherein the combined analysis of larger amounts of structured and unstructured data from disparate systems takes place in a short amount of time.

Today, the most consumers use mobiles and other gadgets to perform official and personal tasks. Data (which varies in form and source) is shared over emails, Social Media, and the internet of things. Quite often it has been observed that ERP systems are unable to assess online consumer behaviour or make out the difference between significant and insignificant information shared. Also, the large volume of data exchanged exceeds the storage of data in ERP systems and this, in turn, affects data processing capacity.

Now, the question is, how Big Data is helping ERP system for optimized business results?

According to a 2016 Information Week report, only 12% of collected data is analyzed by companies, missing out on major potential business insights in the data. Here, we discuss some of the benefits of integrating ERP platforms with Big Data:

Faster Information Exchange:

Big Data systems like Apache’s Hadoop are creating node-level operating transparencies that will allow enterprise managers to quickly leverage ERP Big Data capabilities, thereby enhancing information density and speeding up overall decision-making.

Better Scheduling

Big Data ensures that information is processed better and more readily available. Comprehensive ERP scheduling through Big Data allows you to get data from multiple mobile-enterprise field service units, remote manufacturing outlets, in parallel with the main plant, or even individual machine-station scheduling in accurate form and real-time.

More Precise Forecasting

ERP Big Data integrations offer a host of easily leveraged opportunities to resolve the need for ‘more data all the time,’ ultimately leading to overall forecast accuracy. You get a better predictive analysis on your sales figures before you can even lay your hands upon them.

Know your Customers Better

Big Data and ERP systems can be integrated to observe consumer behaviour in social sites, sensor networks, and mobility. It would also allow online retailers to understand customer preferences better, and alter their positioning strategies accordingly. The legacy systems are incapable of handling the huge amount of data exchanged in the social media platforms through chatbots or live messengers.

While most people are busy talking about using Big Data, as a product or tool, very few have recognized the need for integration.  Also, organizations need to focus on the predictive capabilities of ERP systems, to analyze current data and historical facts in order to identify potential risks and opportunities for any organization.

ERP systems should be integrated with Big Data for the technologically more advanced platform and better and wider in-scope best practices. The impact of integration on the organization will be profound as they will be able to have a faster and higher quality implementation.

Why Cloud for Inventory Management?

In this dynamic and mobility-adept digital environment, if the words ‘automated inventory management’ seems unfamiliar to your ears, then the future of your business maybe in jeopardy. And surprisingly you are not alone. 43% of businesses either don’t track their inventory at all or use manual processes to do so.

And to avoid the hassles of over-complicated, needlessly labor intensive and unreasonable outdated
spreadsheets, it’s time that you considered integrating cloud with your inventory management operations.


However, if you are worried about cost implications, you shouldn’t worry at all. Cloud-based inventory management system is actually more affordable than most old-school methods. Also, the benefits far outweigh any other concerns that you may have – especially those regarding convenience, security, flexibility, among others. 

Here’s a list of top 5 reasons for you to switch to a cloud-based inventory management system for your business.


Data recovery:

Imagine the nightmare if you were to lose your sales and transactions reports, customer-centric data,
order statuses, or simply your inventory list, just because you risked putting everything in an excel
spreadsheet that was conveniently saved on your computer’s desktop. Even if you are using software
that saves your data locally, without any guarantee of a cloud back-up, you still face the threat of losing your data. And this predicament can be easily avoided with a cloud-based solution, wherein you assign your service provider with the responsibility of storing and securing your data.

Cost effective:

Cloud-based inventory management system is a cost effective solution and is definitely more
advantageous over other local based systems, without the involvement of any upfront cost such as
hardware. In addition, online inventory management systems have its own IT team, which typically
means shorter implementation time, less money and fewer headaches.

Flexibility of access:

When professional responsibilities are required to be fulfilled while on the go, most business owners
find it difficult to handle a singular, on-site inventory system with no online access. And this is why, a
cloud-based inventory management system helps to take the shackles off that delimits the ease of doing business from anywhere around the world.

Another advantage of possessing access to warehouse inventory from the off-site is employee
accountability. A warehouse, typically, falls prey to a myriad of employee theft scandals which could
cause huge losses to any business.

A cloud-based inventory management system helps to monitor transaction and quality control reports
from anywhere on the planet. It is an asset, you should consider.

Automatic updation of software:

Manual software updation could lead to waste of time and money in the form of delayed sales and/or
wasted payroll. All cloud-based software are integrated with the feature of automation, thereby
automatically fixing bugs, updating systems with the latest features or patching any problem automatically.

Customization:

Cloud-based inventory management can be tailored as per your needs. Not only are your software
updates automated, but a number of cloud-based warehouse management software could also consider your requests for features that are tailor-made for your business. And there are a myriad of options available in the market, today; some may also be willing to go the extra mile for ensuring a 100% efficiency of your warehouse management.


Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a corporate honcho, chances are that you didn’t get here
without embracing digitization. Why not choose the same for your warehouse management, as well?
A cloud-based inventory management system is easy to implement, secure, scalable, and cost effective. It provides you with a hassle free process management; by freeing up your time provides you with better opportunities to shift your focus to areas which probably need more attention. Well, the era for using traditional options is over; if you want to operate hassle-free, it’s time to switch to a customized cloud-based inventory management system.

Innovation driving efficiencies - ERP

Innovation and efficiency must align, top erp software in India go beyond the capacity for businesses to innovate without affecting their productivity. ERP efficiencies are not unknown, in fact the usage has trigger since the inception, thus making it a necessity for better functioning. Erp accelerates innovation making it agile in order to achieve more. Past decade businesses have witnessed exponential growth by adopting ERP software.

Planning the apt ERP software is crucial for business productivity; definitely, the erp software providers in India are hands down with customized options to suit complexities of business processes.

Here we will state best transformative approaches that were possible as ERP drives the innovation:

Integrated independent systems:

If you have noticed before any IT manager have to oversee a number of system across his functioning domain. Now the system should be connected, for a smooth management, else abundant errors are prone to install themselves. ERP enables you to eradicated multiple system functioning and saves the team from creating set-up at multiple systems, this further reduces integration errors and allows you to see through core objectives across the domain. Thus making things more agile, more efficient and eliminates the consolidating errors.

Enhanced business process:

Organizations sticking to their traditional practice is quite a native approach, but when you are preparing to implement ERP you should ideally re-evaluate the business operations and other processes in order to make sure that it functions properly in the newly installed system. In this manner, you can find the loops of improvements and inefficient approaches. Further, this review will bring you closer to discover latest trends and best practices, repair the broken processes and solve the rising risk factors.

Real-time information:

Instant access to data and relevant information helps your company employees to serve better. You can’t react to any sales trends unless you can access the real time sales data, also to confirm you have the right stock building up. The real time data is valuable for marketing and sales team in order to trickle down the purchasing department and definitely it affects every people around. On basis of instant access, the ERP enables the company representative to adjust and adapt the trending scenario.

Collaboration:

Collaboration gaps lead to unorganized management affecting overall productivity, with real time data and integration departments can increase their operational efficiencies. Erp role based dashboards enable the users with immediate access to data and information required to facilitate their services. Therefore, projects along with processes are smoothly tracked as the systems are connected and the data recorded can be accessed in real time.

Efficient:

Erp efficiencies are known facts, a proper implementation allows the organization to reduce cost and accelerate the process. Additionally, the integration plays a major role in reducing risk based operation by allowing the user to access analytics based on market trend and forecast. A person doesn’t need to switch between systems in order to access critical data. However, Erp drives innovation by allowing your employees to exceed customers expectation, the project itself enable the organization to improvise their process and achieve goals easily with reduced efforts.

Advanced ERP solutions are prerequisites for managing and optimizing a multi-entity company. In order to leverage the proven and cost-effective practices, one must opt for top erp software in India, as you get advanced multi-entity proficiency to offer and report on information and data on the go. Though this might sound simple it is not, it is definitely challenging for company management to implement the best practice especially when he needs accurate multi-entity information and data on the tap for decision making. 

Cloud technology an enabler in Manufacturing- Impact and Usage

We are close to witnessing the next big industrial revolution, with prominent companies taking the major leap towards automation by implementing manufacturing ERP software. It is now becoming the mainstream where it is evaluative to deal away with limitations in IT structure once and for all; it signifies a rapid transformation of the manufacturing unit processes. Propitiously, cloud technology enables us to utilize the on demand computing power in scalable and flexible manner. Needless to say cloud technology in manufacturing cannot be treated as an option but an opportunity to explore.

Why cloud technology an enabler in manufacturing?

Cloud technology is not a panacea, but an enabler to enact other panaceas that were traditionally required for heavy computing. Today the inexorable advanced march of technology introduced us to cloud models specifically software for manufacturing industry with inbuilt services, infrastructure, and platform. Here manufacturers can select solution of their choices, further strategize migration in various stages, undoubtedly this is making cloud technology convenient and flexible option for the manufacturers. This enables the synchronization of data from multiple channels into one dashboard, eliminating the manual data transferring from multiple systems. Cloud technology improves synchronization of data by designating one point as the channel of information and enables access to it through smart devices.

Scepticism  vs. hesitancy 

Although cloud technology has gained massive tractions, out there is equally consistent hesitancy as well. Many surveys conducted on SaaS adoption namely in manufacturing and other industries follow the stated insights:

=> In general, 65% of the interviewee is unable to differentiate between single & multi-tenant SaaS architecture.

=> Within a decade SaaS based applications anticipate a growth of 20%-25% on manufacturing as well as distribution software.

=> A prominent advantage this incorporates is providing customers to quantify control over upgrades, consistent support for worldwide operations, and support for frequent and rapid upgrades.

Besides, there are people who are sceptic about the costs involved and perceived benefits in moving to the cloud. Overall, there is also hesitancy among the non technical people about the process of cloud implementations and the scope of manufacturing.

Clarity to eliminate hesitancy

As we know whenever there is hesitancy there is a scope of clarity, the manufacturers may need to transit the entire business operation processes, to go by the advice for cloud migration. This calls for ERP specialist for the smooth run. ExpandERP is one of the companies who offer extensive cloud technology for manufacturers.

Benefits of cloud-based ERP:

=> Instant data access globally.

=> Single platform to manage field services, sales, finance, operation and more.

=> Unique mechanism to capture high volumes of data.

=> Customized integration for business requirements and more.

However, 90% of manufacturers are using the cloud, more than 70% of cloud users stated that cloud technology has conclusively impacted their ability to meet customer demands across the globe, 45% says that cloud is a significant contributor to product introductions. If you think survey reports are not that important for you to take up, consider the following:

1. Deliver on Demand:

To meet your demand efficiently you will require an accurate anticipation of it. Taking a look at order history and further using it to create the forecast, here the forecast depends on demand and capacity planning- here the gap is can be easily noted. With cloud technology, you can share the same across the departments for necessary adjustments.

2. Control Shop Floor: 

Above real-time visibility, all manufacturing activity is captured in one database for preparing analysis across the globe. Regulating production is real-time refers to data driven quality management and high resolution traceability, thus allowing customers to better shop floor control and visibility of process alongside production.

3. Connect business:

Connected manufacturing is quite beneficial as it not only connect the devices, machines etc. on the shop floor but also to the top floor. This further allows the people in the unit to access data in order to improve their decision making scenarios.

Many manufacturers agreed that they sometimes failed to capture operation data, manufacturing ERP software enabled them to do so within the cloud. For some this has been the most scalable transformation in their business in how they work with suppliers, control their inventory, design products, manage quality, and deliver product on demand. This agility, control, and flexibility have seen the real game changer.

Power of Mobile App integrated with ERP

Today the most cutting edge trend within the space of ERP integration is mobile applications. Most industries now use an ERP, choosing top ERP software in India and implementing the same is definitely a strategic decision for the company management. ERP brought us automation in multiple business operations across the industries, whereas mobile apps got us closer to the virtual world. In combination, these can drive business goal to the next level. Apparently, the introductory phase of enterprise software is nothing but trivial in regards to the critical investment. Mobile apps have already captured market popularity in small to large ERP business sphere.

While integrating a mobile app with ERP your business will not only become agile but also leverage portability through smart devices. You will notice significantly enhanced productivity and it improves the accessibility of the business records.

Reasons to integrate ERP with mobile apps:

=> Improvised business flow:  The integration leverages the company representatives to improvise their service quality to new and existing customers, by enabling them to access information in real-time.

=> Enhanced productivity: The company representatives who are posted on field compromises their productivity on the go. These representatives can access the data, tools, information that in return enables them to eliminate their downtime.

=> Advanced analysis and prospecting:  Empowering the company representative with information at their finger tips helps them to analyze their prospect and enhance their response time.

=> Simplified process:  In the static business process the capacities to deliver real-time data is always a challenge. Then again, these challenges can be addressed and simplify the process only with mobile app integration with ERP to give the company a competitive advantage.

=> Real-time data capture: As stated before, the productivity of the on-field representative are compromised, with the integration they can easily enter the details accurately on the go. Re-keying of the data in their respective system always are prone to error.

This integration helps in bolstering business relationships remarkably reducing the response time.  Expands cloud ERP software extends roles and functions of ERP to reinstate standardization, accuracy in decision making, transparency and much more added features. However, the companies can leverage benefits of new ERP software or the existing ones with better productivity, strengthened business processes gaining a competitive advantage.

How does the integration of mobile app with ERP give you a competitive advantage?

Estimating the potentials of this integration, prominent ERP contenders have commenced their mobile app development for dashboards and reporting. The integration is all set to leverage the on-field representatives with benefits of reporting on the go as well as gain access to functionality and data.

Check out the benefits of mobile app integration with ERP:

1. Enhanced customer service

2. Enhanced customer engagement

3. Real time sales

4. Real time service information

Past decade we experienced exponential changes in our work approach, be it computers, mobile, smart devices and of course powerful apps. ExpandERP is voted as one of the top ERP software in India, they offer customized solution to address specific business needs. Mobile strategies are now a prominent participant in ERP sphere, mobile devices such as tablets, PDA’s or laptops has made remote working possible. The company representative can utilize the ERP on their smart device in order to gain the edge over business insights and capabilities.

Millennials and ERP: The Ultimate business duo making significant changes in the process

Millennials usually refer to the group of people born between 1982-2004. They are considered as the first generation to have been living in a connected world. The internet boom, the exponential growth of smart devices and over-dependence on electronic communication systems are changing the industrial practices. This seems to be highly resembled to the ways millennials’ behaviour.

As the time is making significant changes in millennials and business, manufacturing & export industries are trying to grab new opportunities. The industries are embracing Enterprise Resource Planning systems to reduce time taking manual operations to create virtual assistant. Here are few millennial driven industrial practices that ERP solution readily offer..

Accessibility:

Having access to technology anytime from anywhere is the basic need of millennials. Now, it’s not only restricted into mobile usage, but they need connective world where every device should connect with the internet. The thin line between using device for personal use and for professional purpose is slowly blurring. This is causing more industries to follow “Bring Your own Device” business policy. This is how mobility solution like ERP system is getting highly accessible through personal devices, making corporate functions smoother than ever.

Promptness:

Millennials regularly interact with almost defect-free communication system and they prefer going social and they cannot afford to settle down with any burdensome application. Hence, and ERP system is apt when it comes to prompt response to the given command. This system is built to handle any size and shape of business operations of any process manufacturing industry. The best part of this system is that it can adopt to any latest change n the business world while it helps employees to efficiently perform tasks.

Smart user assistance:

Dashboard, separate login access, real time KPI, automated documents preparations, easy entry of orders, export invoices are the reasons why millennials opt to the smartest business process interface. an ERP system allows users to efficiently handle the process without wasting any time on traditional report formulation, inventory tracking and employee data maintenance.

Easy data retrieval:

Millennials are busy. They want results in jiffy. ERP system comes with integrated business intelligence, Excel configuration and social networking that allow users to easily retrieve data to drive better business outcomes. Also one click report generation provides a complete pre-defined report of Procure, Customer Relationship Management, sales, tax, finance, inventory and much more.

The technology-driven skillset of millennials are the driving force of manufacturing industry. They are the biggest investors and the consumers of our present market. If you’re looking forward to staying ahead of the edge then it’s important to follow how millennials are shaping the market. Changing with the trend is important to sustain in the competitive world. Simply put, the rise of millennials is a boon to make industries ready for the right ERP system landscape. 

5 Key Features Of An ERP Software For Exporters

Export businesses are highly competitive and multifaceted which makes it obvious to have an integrated application suite that the company can use to connect with its diverse active departments with real-time data sharing. Hence, ERP software for exporters is in immense demand throughout the world.

Companies incorporate ERP software into their business module for many good reasons such as- Accounting, stock control, HR activities, data sharing, business planning, market analysis and to name a few. By implementing ERP software in the process many businesses reduce production cost, save time and reduce manual efforts.

However, before a business decides to implement the software there are several other features that need to count, often depending on the specific requirements the company wants to improve. 

Compliant to export regulations:

ERP software is meant to manage, collect, store and interpret data from different activities including product planning, marketing, sales, inventory management and to name a few. The application for exporters create documents compliant to export regulations. It is a very smooth and streamlined application proposed to expedite paper works.

Accounting management:

The right ERP software for exporters is combined with accounting mechanism that helps the business track, record and consolidate all their operational information into a centralized system. It also manages data in a way that you can take deeper look into it to analyse future finance prospect. 

Customer Relationship Management:

Integrated and streamlined CRM helps to store and collect customer information in a central database. This means there’s a single point of data storage having all information of supplier, vendors and customer information that any authorized department can track and edit. While choosing right CRM for your exporting business, make sure it offers-

=> Timely reminders of your prospective activities on leads and sales

=> BI dashboard that analyse sales performance and count conversions

=> Targeted group to help you run email campaigns

The best part of ERP software is that it controls end-to-end business process with streamlining accurate information throughout the channels.

Enhanced mobility:

Mobility in everything is what calls the smart age. Mobility in ERP software means accessing application on the go through smartphones, not only in the workplace but from anywhere in the globe. Gone are the days of strolling around workstation to enter product information. ERP alone can take care of the inventory management along with other production procedures.

Procurement management system:

It is designed to allow a company to automate the purchasing process and maintain the inventory of goods. This software can generate purchase orders, market values, execute online order placements, online payment clearance and match invoice with the materials received. While deploying this system ensure it offers-

=> Define reminder levels and re-order levels for each product
=> Notify preferred supplier suggestions based on each product
=> Auto-generate purchase enquiry, purchase quote and order management

Procurement management system helps create streamlined administration throughout the departments.

Using ERP Software for exporters makes the entire business process more organized and improve the efficiency of operations. If you’re also from the same industry and looking for a smart business process, ERP software is the solution for you. 

Take a look on how ERP is transforming the Indian Business Scenarios

ERP software providers in India are witnessing rapid growth across the Indian market. A number of industries such as pharmaceuticals, steel, automotive, manufacturing firms, oil, textiles etc have already implemented ERP system for dominating production and development inefficiency. The growth has un-curtained the traditional business conduction, integrated ERP system not only optimizes the resources utilization but also delivers real-time data on demand.

Through surveys, it was captured that about 60% SME’s in India adopted ERP based solutions. This significant augment in the penetration level in this SME sector ascribed to the establishment of low cost ERP system that caters localization based on country and accessibility of technical talents and functions.

Did Indian market go with the ERP flow?

In the initial period, the Indian market was quite hesitant to integrate ERP into their company system in fear of building complexities, despite the fact that cloud ERP software has so much to offer. The companies’ intrigued with concept started implementing at back office; the way ERP came to use is undoubtedly fascinating. The companies were in dilemma with transforming their business activities because of crumpled illustration of the product and other possibilities the companies had to consider looking at the online market scope.

Time has changed and India is changing the IT scenarios globally. Besides, the significant IT players continue to endeavour market growth, ERP became the integral part for the companies to deliver commitments.

Present business scenarios with integrated ERP solution-

Companies remain thankful to the ERP developers as it helped them to streamline business activities. Today ERP is much more advanced where the focus lies in emergency market situations. However, the SME’s segment has transformed into the most optimistic connecting for ERP mechanism.

ERP’s multiple modules helped the SME’s to maintain budgetary requirements, this helped in smooth administration processes, be it stock, human resource, updated item cycle or merchandising shipments. Significant financial development of Indian market relies on companies to actualize and incorporate ERP. For organization waiting for a convinced cost-effective solution, it’s not too late to understand the benefit to cost proportion that an ERP can deliver to business needs.

Benefits of ERP to look at, when thinking of business expansion-

=> Responsive to market changes
=> Minimize cost
=> Enhance productivity
=> Increase efficiency
=> Better accessibility to document
=> Minimize inventory cost
=> Global outreach
=> Simplified planning
=> Enhance customer satisfaction
=> Apt usages of resources

In short, if you look for business automation ExpandERP is the solution, erp software providers in India deliver customized ERP software to cater specific business need. Over the years, cloud based ERP systems are about to witness a higher adaption. Simultaneously, the cloud-based commerce will be floated with scepticism in regards to data security and subscription cost for the small players. The way businesses are utilizing ERP it implies that the companies can now withstand the worldwide online commercial rivalry. 

Know how ERP and CRM are different yet so important for businesses

In India, usage of CRM and ERP solution is soaring high and for good reasons. CRM and ERP are usually separate but, so connected that CRM cannot work alone effectively without constant update from ERP- from placing orders, sales and logistics to deliveries.  While CRM manages company interactions, ERP Software Company in India offers an integrated administrative application system.

Let’s dig deeper to know where these two are similar and where not-

What is ERP? 

ERP is designed for business administration. It aims at consolidating business data that can be accessible for main operations across the enterprise. It’s a one-off integrated software package that facilitates business process management with real-time update to all concerned departments. For an instance, if a product is out of stock hence the shipment is cancelled, then the status would be sent through the channels to the concerned parties authorized to access the data. This allows departments to regenerate new plan for the issues before it actually makes things difficult within the organization.  ERP offers smooth method for streamlining business process.

What is CRM?

It is a storage database that keeps all the information of related to interaction with customers. CRM process includes categorization customer interactions, collecting and sharing data. CRM method is highly standardized which can be easily shared throughout the network. This smart system can be used by different office executives to create sales projections, representatives can use this to monitor contacts with clients and verify them by sending to shipping clerks. The main focus of CRM is to provide comprehensive customer data that can be used to create plan for client retention and sales improvement.

CRM or ERP: Which one do businesses need the most?

A business may need both the systems but it depends majorly on the integrities involved into the mode of operation. Nowadays, even a small business relies upon CRM system for better and accurate data collection. This is much more clutter-free and easy than collecting data from papers and numerous emails.

ERP is an important business essential that helps streamline business processes. Many large to even small scale industries are relying on ERP Software Company in India as well as abroad to gain better control of their businesses.  Having a single cloud platform integrated with CRM and ERP provides unified view that you can keep control over it from anywhere anytime.

The last note:

When you expect enhanced business growth there must be two things you need to obtain- one is more sales and second is fewer expense. Incorporating ERP and CRM let you enjoy both of them with ease. While CRM brings more clear data on customer interactions and more revenue insights, ERP system keeps the overall operation cost low.

Also Read: Top 5 Tips for Implementing ERP in Startups

Smart way to manage inventory with multiple units

Inventory is one of the core business aspects traditionally handled by resources; significant details were manually documented and stored in filing cabinets. These traditional practices invited the glitches in transparent inventory management process; still, many companies are due to eliminate this archaic practice. If your company is one of them, it’s time to consult ERP software company in India. It is undoubtedly critical for every business regardless of types and sizes to effectively handle inventory levels and track items throughout the process.

If you want your business to grow, ERP is an absolute necessity. Handling multiple units has never been easy, especially when inventory management is involved. Installing a number of software to handle multiple units just raises the level of complexities. 

ExpandERP is one of the most trusted cloud ERP software, get real-time visibility across multiple inventory units virtually.

Magnify inventory management with ExpandERP:

=>  Stock transfer:

Keeping a track on stock transfers is definitely hectic, minor errors can be expensive deal to handle. ExpandERP enables you to handle multiple warehouse locations, stock points, sales depots through advanced channel concept. 

=>  Stores & bin: 

Dispatch and returns are crucial for managing inventory efficiently; it is significant for businesses to manage their inventory at store levels. With ExpandERP you can easily create inventory transfers between multiple stores in real-time, all you need to do is define bin locations and capacity where you want to transfer. The enhanced feature notifies the nearest bin location on pick and put away processes on manual conductions.

=>  Multi-unit conversions:

Creating stock transactions is something that needs multiple resources to keep a track of the process. ExpanERP enable you to prepare and control stock transactions for multiple units, the advanced features automate the stock conversion and adjustments at primary unit; further it helps you to define unit conversion facets at the product level. 

=>  Inventory optimization:

It is detrimental for a company to produce goods over or under demand when it has a global presence. The inventory must work on schedule in case of nature-wise perishable goods. ExpandERP enables you to plan your production accurately and replenish the requirements so that you can make purchasing decision across the units.

Why you need ExpandERP for managing inventory across multiple units:

1. Inter-location stock transfers
2. Real-time stock updates across multiple units
3. Inventory tracing from purchase to sales
4. Bin management cross the location, help to eliminate excess storage
5. Save time and increases resource productivity

Expand one of the renowned ERP software company in India offering the simplified inventory management and stock tracking solution for improvising efficiency and reducing transit costs. Our advanced inventory features enable the user to manage multiple units from a single console. Many businesses previously shied away from evaluating ERP software as the feasibility of layer of complexities. However, with Expand you get the best visibility on the entire inventory process incorporating suppliers, suppliers’ chain partner, accurate financial reports.

It’s not too late to automate your business processes, especially inventory because one solution is catering multiple disciplines.