Cloud Archives - EstesGroup

Epicor Classic UI vs. Kinetic UI: Time to Get Moving

by Brad Feakes | Nov 26, 2024 | Backup, Cloud, Epicor Kinetic, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, ERP Risks and Challenges, Network Administration

In the fast-paced world of business technology, staying ahead means embracing innovation and adaptability. As organizations strive to streamline operations and meet the demands of a dynamic market, the tools they use must evolve. Enter Epicor Kinetic, a transformative leap forward in enterprise resource planning (ERP) technology. With its cutting-edge user interface (UI) and enhanced capabilities, Kinetic sets a new standard for productivity, flexibility, and user experience. So what happens to the Epicor Classic UI now? What does the future look like for legacy versions?

Goodbye, Epicor Classic UI: Hello, Kinetic UI

What exactly makes the Kinetic UI so powerful in comparison to the Epicor Classic? And why is now the time to make the shift? Let’s explore the benefits, the transition timeline, and how your organization can navigate this evolution.

The Kinetic UI isn’t just an update—it’s a reimagining of how ERP systems should function in the modern age.

Built with user-centric design principles, it introduces features that empower businesses to operate with greater efficiency and agility.

Intuitive Interface: Say goodbye to clunky workflows. The Kinetic UI simplifies navigation, cutting down on the steps needed to complete everyday tasks.
Flexibility to Work Anywhere: Whether your team is in the office or remote, the browser-based design ensures ERP tools are always accessible.
Improved Performance: A faster, more responsive interface means less downtime and more productivity.
Customizable Tools: Integrated solutions like Application Studio make low-code customization a breeze, allowing businesses to tailor their ERP to meet unique needs.

These features aren’t just enhancements—they’re enablers, giving organizations the tools to compete and thrive in a fast-changing landscape.

The Sunset is Coming

Change is on the horizon, and planning ahead is critical. With the release of Epicor Kinetic 2026.1 in May 2026, the classic user interface (UI) associated with E10 and its predecessors will officially be retired. From that point forward, users will interact exclusively with the Kinetic web-based interface.

This shift marks a significant milestone for ERP software users. As the Epicor Classic UI is phased out, the Kinetic UI becomes the default, offering a future-ready solution with modernized design, enhanced performance, and more efficient workflows. Organizations adopting the Kinetic UI gain access to features that legacy systems cannot support while avoiding the risks of limited support for older versions.

The bottom line? Embracing the Kinetic UI and leaving the Epicor Classic UI in the dust isn’t just about keeping pace with technological advancements—it’s about positioning your business to succeed in a future defined by flexibility, speed, and innovation.

Web UI vs. Cloud: Understanding the Difference

A common misconception about Kinetic is the relationship between its Web UI and cloud deployment. It’s essential to understand the distinction:

Cloud Deployment focuses on the server and how the application is hosted—whether on-premise, in a private cloud, or in a public cloud managed by a vendor.
Web UI refers to how users interact with the application through a browser-based interface.

This means you can use the Kinetic web UI without moving to the cloud. Whether your ERP is on-premise or hosted in a private or public cloud, the Kinetic UI is accessible, providing flexibility for organizations to adapt at their own pace.

What Does “Kinetic” Really Mean?

“Kinetic” carries a multifaceted meaning within the Epicor ERP ecosystem. At its core, it’s a rebranding of Epicor’s Vantage/905/E10 ERP system. More specifically, it’s the name for the new web-based UI that will fully replace the Classic UI with Release 2026.1. When someone talks about “moving to Kinetic,” they might mean different things:

Upgrading to E11/Kinetic: This is essentially a shift from E10 to the next version.
Transitioning to the Web-Based UI: Moving from the Classic WinForms UI to the Angular JavaScript-based UI, which will become the exclusive interface starting in 2026.

Key Takeaway: Upgrading to E11/Kinetic doesn’t require an immediate adoption of the Kinetic web UI. Organizations can approach the transition in stages.

Upgrade vs. Uplift: A Practical Path Forward

For many Epicor customers, the transition to Kinetic isn’t an all-at-once process. Instead, they adopt a phased approach:

Upgrade First: Move to E11/Kinetic while retaining the Classic screens. This ensures your system is on a supported version without requiring immediate changes to the interface.
Uplift Later: Gradually transition to the Kinetic UI, tailoring workflows and training teams at a manageable pace.

This approach minimizes risk, allowing organizations to benefit from the latest version of Epicor without overwhelming their teams or operations.

Future-Proof Your ERP Today

The move to Kinetic is more than just an upgrade—it’s a strategic opportunity to position your business for long-term success. By embracing the Epicor Kinetic UI, you’re not just adopting a new tool—you’re unlocking a more efficient, flexible, and innovative way of working.

Are you ready to make the shift? Connect with us today to explore how moving from the Epicor Classic UI to the Kinetic UI can transform your ERP experience and help your business thrive in an ever-changing market.

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How to Get to the Point of Endpoint Management

by EstesCloud | Oct 29, 2024 | AI, Cloud, Cybersecurity, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Network Security, Security

The Never-Ending Endpoint Management Game

In today’s digital workplace, the phrase “endpoint management” appears in almost every serious conversation about cybersecurity solutions. Though it’s easy to add to your IT strategy, getting your organization to the point where you have a truly effective endpoint management system isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Let’s walk through the journey of transforming your IT infrastructure from chaos to control according to EstesGroup’s cyber experts.

Point of Endpoint Management Business Team Technology Laptops Tablets AI

Endpoint Management as the End to Pain Points

Before diving into complex solutions, take a step back and assess your current situation. What’s keeping your IT team up at night?

Are your help desk tickets overwhelming?
Do software updates feel like herding cats?
Is employee onboarding taking forever?
Are security patches consistently behind schedule?
Does remote work support feel like a juggling act?

Understanding your pain points is crucial because it helps you build a case for change and prioritize your needs.

Build Your IT Network Foundation

Think of endpoint management like building a house – you need a solid foundation. First you need to create and assess your unique technology blueprint. Here are the steps to do this:

Asset Inventory
- Document all your endpoints (computers, laptops, mobile devices)
- Map out your software licenses
- Identify who uses what and why
Standardization
- Create baseline configurations for different user types
- Establish standard operating procedures
- Define security policies
Network Infrastructure
- Ensure your network can handle remote management
- Set up secure access protocols
- Implement backup systems

Take IT Management Step by Step

Don’t try to boil the ocean. Instead, implement endpoint management in phases:

Phase 1: Basic Monitoring

Deploy basic monitoring tools
Set up alerts for critical issues
Establish baseline performance metrics

Phase 2: Remote Support

Implement remote access tools
Train support staff
Create support documentation
Set up ticketing system

Phase 3: Automation

Automate routine maintenance
Set up automated patching
Configure automatic updates
Create automated onboarding workflows

Phase 4: Optimization

Fine-tune monitoring parameters
Optimize performance settings
Streamline support processes
Enhance security measures

Address the Human Element of Endpoint Management

Technology is only half the battle. Success requires:

User Education

Train employees on new procedures
Communicate changes clearly
Provide self-help resources
Get feedback and adjust

IT Team Development

Up-skill your IT staff
Define clear roles and responsibilities
Create documentation
Establish best practices

No End to Your IT Strategy

Your technology journey will never end. The cyber landscape will only become more complex. To prepare for the future, set up metrics now to track your journey:

Response times to IT issues
System downtime
Patch compliance rates
User satisfaction scores
Support ticket resolution times
Security incident rates

Endpoint Management is a Journey, Not an End in Itself

Getting to the point of effective endpoint management takes time, planning, and patience. Start with understanding your needs, build a solid foundation, implement changes gradually, and keep your users in mind throughout the process. The result? A more efficient, secure, and manageable IT infrastructure that supports rather than hinders your business operations. Remember that endpoint management is a journey, not a destination. As your organization grows and technology evolves, your approach should too.

Most importantly, remember that the goal isn’t perfection from day one. It’s about creating a sustainable system that grows with your organization and adapts to changing needs. Start your journey today, take it one step at a time, and keep moving forward. Your future IT team will thank you for it.

Would your team benefit from a partnership with a 24/7/365 team of ERP and technology experts? Learn more about our subscription-based services today.

EstesGroup provides managed IT services and enterprise consulting for all ERP systems: Epicor Kinetic, Epicor Prophet 21, Sage ERP, SYSPRO ERP, NetSuite, QuickBooks, and more!

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The Power of a Policy-Led IT Strategy

by EstesCloud | Oct 21, 2024 | Business Consulting, Cloud, Cybersecurity, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Network Security, Security

How to Align Technology Policies with Business Goals

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations face the constant challenge of aligning their IT infrastructure with business objectives while navigating a complex web of regulations and security concerns. This is where a policy-led IT strategy comes into play, offering a structured approach to technology management that ensures compliance, enhances security, and drives business value.

What is a policy-led IT strategy?

A policy-led IT strategy is an approach that places organizational policies at the forefront of technology decision-making. Instead of allowing technology to dictate business processes, this strategy ensures that IT initiatives are guided by well-defined policies that reflect the company’s goals, values, and regulatory requirements.

What are the key benefits of policy-led IT?

Improved Compliance: By basing IT decisions on clear policies, organizations can more easily adhere to industry regulations and standards.
Enhanced Security: Security policies become an integral part of the IT strategy, reducing vulnerabilities and protecting sensitive data.
Better Alignment with Business Goals: Technology investments and initiatives are directly tied to organizational objectives, ensuring better ROI.
Enhanced Decision-Making: Clear policies provide a framework for consistent IT decisions across the organization.
Increased Transparency: Stakeholders have a clear understanding of how and why IT decisions are made.

How do you implement a policy-led IT strategy?

Developing and implementing a policy-led IT strategy requires careful planning and execution. Here are some key steps:

Define Clear Policies: Start by creating comprehensive policies that cover all aspects of IT usage, security, and governance.
Align Policies with Business Objectives: Ensure that your IT policies support and enhance your organization’s overall goals.
Communicate and Educate: Make sure all stakeholders understand the policies and their importance.
Implement Technology Solutions: Choose and implement technologies that support and enforce your policies.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review and update your policies to keep pace with changing business needs and technological advancements.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Webinar

How to Create a Policy-Led IT Strategy

To dive deeper into this topic and learn how to create an effective policy-led IT strategy for your organization, join us for our upcoming webinar:

Date: October 30th, 2024
Time: 11 AM Eastern Time

Ready to learn the key components of an effective IT policy framework? Looking for new strategies for aligning IT policies with business objectives? Seeking best practices for policy implementation and enforcement? Tired of theory and desire real-world examples and case studies?

By embracing a policy-led IT strategy, you can ensure that your technology investments are not simply sustaining your business, but actively driving your future forward in a secure, compliant, and efficient manner.

The 2024 Cybersecurity Challenge: Security Together

by EstesCloud | Sep 30, 2024 | AI, Cloud, Cybersecurity, Managed IT Services

EstesGroup Commits to Securing Our World During Cybersecurity Awareness Month

As we enter October, EstesGroup is proud to announce our participation in the 21st Annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This global initiative, founded in 2004, has become the world’s foremost effort to promote cybersecurity awareness and best practices. Ready to fall into October cybersecurity challenges together? It will take a team to secure our world – from our homes to our data centers.

Teamwork, laptop hologram and people success in data analytics, cyber security research and cloud computing. Coding, programming and developer woman or group with software solution in night overlay

The Importance of Cybersecurity in Our Connected World

In today’s digital landscape, technology is deeply intertwined with our daily lives. From smartphones to smart home devices, the benefits of emerging technologies are undeniable. However, this interconnectedness also presents new opportunities for cybercriminals to disrupt our online activities at home, work, and school.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month aims to address these challenges by providing straightforward, actionable guidance that anyone can follow to create a safer digital environment for themselves and their loved ones.

This 2024 Cybersecurity Awareness Month Theme: Secure Our World

The theme for this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month is “Secure Our World.” It encourages everyone to take four simple yet effective steps each day to enhance online safety:

Embrace password managers: Understand the benefits of using a password manager and dispel common myths about their security and ease of use.
Enable multi-factor authentication: Turn on this crucial security feature on personal devices and business networks.
Recognize and report phishing: Learn to identify and report phishing attempts, which remain one of the primary tactics used by cybercriminals.
Stay updated: Install updates regularly and enable automated updates when possible.

EstesGroup’s Commitment to Cybersecurity

At EstesGroup, we recognize the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape. Our participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month underscores our commitment to promoting online safety and best practices.

Join Us in Securing Our World for Years to Come

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a collaborative effort involving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. By working together, we can create a more secure digital world for everyone.

EstesGroup is proud to support this vital online safety awareness and education initiative, led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.

We encourage our clients, partners, and the wider community to join us in this effort. By implementing these simple yet effective cybersecurity practices, we can all contribute to a safer online environment.

For more information about 2024 Cybersecurity Awareness Month initiatives and how you can participate, visit cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month and staysafeonline.org/cybersecurity-awareness-month/.

Let’s work together to secure our world, one step at a time. Ready to secure your business? Talk to us today and receive a free dark web scan. We can help you navigate 2024 cybersecurity best practices and build a plan for 2025 and beyond.

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EstesGroup Joins Elite Inc. 5000 Ranks

by EstesCloud | Aug 30, 2024 | AI, Business Consulting, Cloud, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Leadership, Managed IT Services, Manufacturing Innovation, Prophet 21, Sage

EstesGroup Soars to New Heights: Ranked Among America’s Fastest-Growing Companies on the 2024 Inc. 5000 List

We’re thrilled to announce that EstesGroup has been recognized as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies, securing a coveted spot on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list for 2024. This recognition is a testament to our team’s hard work, innovative spirit, and unwavering commitment to excellence. EstesGroup is the leading ERP consultancy for world-class technology and cloud solutions for businesses, and this has been recognized by the Inc. 5000 community. This annual ranking, compiled by Inc. magazine, showcases the fastest-growing private companies in America, highlighting the most successful independent, entrepreneurial businesses driving the economy forward.

A Milestone Achievement

EstesGroup’s inclusion in the Inc. 5000 list is a testament to remarkable growth and success over the past few years. This recognition places EstesGroup among an elite group of companies that have demonstrated exceptional revenue growth and resilience in the face of economic challenges.

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

The past few years have presented unprecedented challenges for businesses across all sectors. From navigating the complexities of remote work to adapting to rapidly changing market conditions, companies have had to be more agile and innovative than ever before. The 2024 Inc. 5000 class represents companies that have achieved impressive revenue growth while navigating complex economic conditions, including inflationary pressures, rising capital costs, and a competitive hiring landscape. EstesGroup’s ranking on this list underscores the team’s ability to thrive and expand despite these obstacles.

The Journey

Founded in 2004, EstesGroup has quickly established itself as a leader in enterprise resource planning (ERP) consulting and managed IT services. This unique approach combines cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of our clients’ business processes, allowing the EstesGroup team to deliver tailored solutions that drive real results. Notable achievements include:

Developing AI-driven ERP optimization tools that increase clients’ operational efficiency immediately
Expanding and enriching the client base, with a strong focus on mid-sized manufacturing and distribution companies
Launching an innovative cybersecurity division that has quickly become a go-to resource for businesses looking to protect their digital assets
Offering premier cloud solutions and services to businesses of all sizes, across all industries

As part of the Inc. 5000, EstesGroup joins a cohort of businesses that collectively added hundreds of thousands of jobs to the economy over the past three years. This achievement not only reflects our company’s success but also our contribution to job creation and economic vitality.

The Future

EstesGroup takes this moment to thank their incredible team, loyal clients, and all those who have supported them on this journey. The trust and partnership of these stakeholders have been instrumental in the company’s success. As EstesGroup celebrates this achievement, they are also looking forward to connecting with fellow innovators and entrepreneurs at the upcoming Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala in Palm Desert, California. For those attending, EstesGroup representatives would be delighted to connect and share ideas on how to continue driving growth and innovation across various industries.

EstesGroup raises a toast to continued growth, innovation, and success – not just for the EstesGroup team, but for all the visionary enterprises driving America’s entrepreneurial spirit forward. As the leading ERP consultancy, EstesGroup specializes in providing world-class technology and cloud solutions for businesses. EstesGroup’s expertise in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems enables organizations to streamline their operations, enhance productivity, and drive growth. This recognition by Inc. 5000 further solidifies our position as a trusted partner for businesses seeking to leverage technology for success.

Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence

This Inc. 5000 recognition comes at a particularly special time for EstesGroup, as the company celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024. Founded in 2004, EstesGroup has grown from a small ERP consulting firm to a national leader in ERP solutions and managed IT services. Over the past two decades, the company team has weathered economic storms, adapted to rapidly evolving technologies, and consistently delivered value to its growing client base.

About Inc. and the Inc. 5000

The Inc. 5000 list is a prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Companies are ranked according to percentage revenue growth over a three-year period. The list provides valuable insights into the most dynamic segment of the economy—America’s independent entrepreneurs. Many well-known companies gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

Inc. Business Media is the leading multimedia brand for entrepreneurs, offering award-winning content across various channels, including print, digital, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. The Inc. 5000 list, along with other recognition programs like Female Founders and Power Partners, provides top businesses with increased credibility and opportunities to engage with an exclusive community of their peers.

For more information about Inc. and the Inc. 5000, visit www.inc.com.

“Our inclusion in the Inc. 5000 list is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the entire EstesGroup team. During unprecedented times, we not only persevered but thrived, leveraging our expertise in ERP and IT solutions to help businesses navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. This recognition reinforces our commitment to innovation and excellence in serving our clients. As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in business technology solutions, empowering organizations to achieve their full potential in an increasingly digital landscape.” – Brad Feakes, President of EstesGroup

NAW Events 2024-2025: Networking for Distribution Leaders

by EstesCloud | Aug 4, 2024 | AI, Business Consulting, Business Process Review, Cloud, Distribution, Epicor, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21

EstesGroup and NAW: A Powerful Partnership for Distribution Success

The National Association of Wholesale Distributors (NAW) has been a cornerstone of the multi-trillion dollar wholesale distribution industry since 1946. Let’s explore NAW’s role, offerings, membership benefits, and key events that drive wholesale success. EstesGroup provides full services and solutions to the distribution industry for business consulting, enterprise resource planning (ERP), technology, and cloud solutions.

While the National Association of Wholesale Distributors (NAW) provides invaluable industry advocacy, networking, and educational resources, EstesGroup complements these efforts by offering cutting-edge technological solutions tailored for the distribution sector. This synergy creates a comprehensive support system for wholesale distributors looking to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

National Association of Wholesale Distributors NAW Events

What EstesGroup Brings to NAW Events

EstesGroup’s full suite of world-class ERP, IT, and cloud solutions addresses the unique technological needs of distributors. Their offerings include:

ERP Solutions: EstesGroup specializes in implementing and supporting enterprise resource planning systems designed specifically for distributors. These ERP solutions streamline operations, enhance inventory management, and improve overall business efficiency.
IT Services: With a deep understanding of the distribution industry, EstesGroup provides managed IT services that ensure your technology infrastructure supports your business goals. From network security to help desk support, they keep your operations running smoothly.
Cloud Solutions: EstesGroup’s cloud services enable distributors to leverage the power of cloud computing for improved scalability, accessibility, and data security. This allows businesses to focus on growth while EstesGroup manages the technical details.

By combining NAW’s industry insights and advocacy with EstesGroup’s technological expertise, distributors gain a competitive edge. NAW members can leverage EstesGroup’s solutions to implement the best practices and strategies learned through NAW’s educational programs and events. Meanwhile, EstesGroup’s understanding of NAW’s initiatives ensures their technology solutions align with industry trends and regulations.

This powerful combination of industry knowledge and technological capability positions wholesale distributors for success in an increasingly digital marketplace. Whether you’re looking to optimize your supply chain, enhance your customer relationship management, or modernize your entire IT infrastructure, the partnership of NAW’s industry leadership and EstesGroup’s technical prowess provides a solid foundation for growth and innovation in the distribution sector.

What is NAW?

NAW represents diverse sectors within the wholesale distribution industry, serving businesses of all sizes. The organization is committed to do the following and more:

Creating policies that strengthen the industry
Providing resources for contemporary market challenges
Promoting success for all member businesses

EstesGroup Supports NAW’s Core Mission

Advocacy

Represents wholesale distributors at federal and state levels
Lobbies for beneficial legislative and policy changes
Acts as the industry’s voice for a better business environment

Education

Offers resources to enhance members’ knowledge and skills
Provides publications and online webinars
Keeps members informed about industry best practices and technologies

Networking

Facilitates member events for industry connections
Fosters community and collaboration
Promotes valuable partnerships and insights

Membership Benefits

Industry representation through advocacy efforts
Access to valuable research and reports
Educational resources for professional development
Networking opportunities within the industry
Discounted services and products from strategic partners

Key NAW Events

SHIFT 2024

Date: September 11-13, 2024
Location: Denver, Colorado
Features: Networking and business insights from industry leaders

NAW Executive Summit 2025

Date: January 27-29, 2025
Location: Grand Hyatt, Washington, D.C.
Features: Learning, networking, and social events

NAW is an essential resource for wholesale distribution businesses, offering advocacy, education, and networking opportunities. Through its events and services, NAW promotes community, collaboration, and sustainable growth in the industry.

The National Association of Wholesale Distributors (NAW) Events in 2024 and 2025: Your Competitive Edge

Visit EstesGroup at NAW events, where our team of experts will be offering complimentary consultations tailored to your distribution company’s needs. Whether you’re looking to optimize your Prophet 21 implementation, explore cloud solutions, or discuss IT strategies, our specialists are ready to provide insights and guidance at no cost. Take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to do the following and more:

Gain personalized advice from EstesGroup’s distribution technology experts
Explore cutting-edge solutions to enhance your operations
Network with industry peers and thought leaders

TALK TO A DISTRIBUTION CONSULTANT NOW