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How to Maximize Epicor Kinetic ROI with Performance Optimization

by EstesCloud | Nov 20, 2024 | Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Managed IT Services, Manufacturing Innovation

Manufacturers leveraging Epicor Kinetic can achieve substantial returns on their enterprise resource planning (ERP) software investment through comprehensive performance optimization and data-driven decision making.

An ERP Designed for Profitability

The Epicor ERP platform’s integrated business intelligence and real-time analytics capabilities provide deep visibility into critical operational metrics, enabling companies to identify and capitalize on improvement opportunities across production, inventory, quality, and financial processes. By leveraging customizable dashboards and KPI monitoring, manufacturers can track and measure the tangible impact of their system investment, from reduced operational costs to increased throughput and improved quality metrics. As organizations continue to navigate complex market demands and competitive pressures, Epicor Kinetic’s strategic optimization tools help ensure that technology investments translate directly into measurable business value and sustained profitability improvements.

Manufacturers can significantly improve their return on investment (ROI) through strategic operational enhancements and modernization efforts. By implementing advanced production scheduling, companies can reduce costly downtime and optimize resource utilization. Real-time inventory management systems help prevent stock-outs while minimizing excess inventory carrying costs. Employee training programs focused on lean manufacturing principles and quality control often lead to reduced waste and improved product consistency.

A New Way to Put Profit on Auto-Pilot

Modern subscription-based ERP support services, like EstesCare for Epicor Kinetic, provide a cost-effective way to maintain and optimize critical business systems without the burden of hiring specialized staff or dealing with unpredictable support expenses. AI and data analytics tools help identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, allowing manufacturers to make informed decisions about process improvements and resource allocation.

Your Ultimate Epicor Kinetic ROI Strategy: EstesCare ERP

EstesCare ERP support services deliver measurable ROI through proactive system optimization, reduced downtime, and streamlined operations, providing manufacturers with predictable IT costs while maximizing their Epicor Kinetic investment through expert guidance and rapid issue resolution.

Predictable costs through fixed monthly fees instead of variable support expenses
Reduced downtime via proactive system monitoring and rapid issue resolution
Enhanced productivity through ongoing user training and best practices guidance
Lower staffing costs by leveraging provider expertise instead of hiring specialists
Improved system optimization through regular performance reviews and tuning
Faster adoption of new features and updates with expert implementation support
Risk reduction through managed software patches and backup monitoring
Better decision-making enabled by optimized reporting and analytics configuration
Increased system reliability through preventive maintenance and health checks
Resource efficiency from streamlined processes and workflow optimization

Performance Optimization for Epicor Kinetic ROI

Companies implementing Epicor Kinetic consistently report significant returns through strategic performance optimization across their operations. By leveraging the platform’s integrated analytics and real-time monitoring capabilities, manufacturers typically see measurable improvements in key metrics including reduced inventory costs, increased production efficiency, and enhanced quality control. Organizations using Kinetic’s performance optimization tools often report 15-20% reductions in operational costs while simultaneously achieving higher throughput rates and improved customer satisfaction scores. The platform’s ability to identify and resolve bottlenecks, combined with its workflow optimization features, enables manufacturers to maximize their technology investment through continuous improvement initiatives that directly impact bottom-line results.

Kinetic Database Optimization

Implement automated maintenance schedules
Execute regular table reorganization
Archive historical data with retention policies
Optimize SQL query performance through index tuning
Implement data partitioning for large tables

ERP System Configuration

Fine-tune memory allocation based on usage patterns
Optimize application pool recycling
Configure load balancing for multi-user environments
Streamline custom code for efficiency
Implement caching strategies

Infrastructure Enhancement

Assess and upgrade network infrastructure
Implement WAN acceleration
Configure traffic prioritization
Monitor and optimize bandwidth usage
Deploy regional servers for global operations

Epicor Kinetic ROI-Driven Improvements

Manufacturers leveraging Epicor Kinetic consistently achieve substantial returns through targeted operational enhancements and strategic system optimization. By focusing on key performance indicators and leveraging real-time analytics, organizations can identify and implement improvements that directly impact profitability, from reducing production costs and inventory overhead to increasing throughput and quality metrics.

Measurable Performance Gains

Transaction processing speed improvements
Reduced report generation time
Decreased system response latency
Lower resource utilization
Increased concurrent user capacity

Transaction processing speed improvements

Reduced report generation time
Decreased system response latency
Lower resource utilization
Increased concurrent user capacity

Business Impact Metrics

Reduced operational costs
Increased user productivity
Improved data accuracy
Enhanced customer satisfaction
Better decision-making capability

Performance Monitoring Framework

Epicor Kinetic’s comprehensive performance monitoring framework provides manufacturers with deep visibility into system health and operational efficiency through a robust set of measurement tools. The platform tracks essential key performance indicators including system response times, transaction completion rates, resource utilization metrics, user productivity measurements, and error rate tracking to ensure optimal system performance.

Through integrated monitoring tools such as customizable performance dashboards, real-time alerting systems, and detailed trend analysis reports, organizations can proactively identify and address potential issues before they impact operations. The framework also includes sophisticated user experience monitoring and resource utilization tracking capabilities, enabling IT teams to maintain peak system performance while maximizing user productivity and ensuring efficient resource allocation across the enterprise.

Epicor Kinetic ROI Optimization Best Practices

Maintaining optimal Epicor Kinetic performance requires a structured approach to daily operations and scheduled maintenance activities. Critical daily tasks include monitoring system logs, reviewing performance metrics, proactively addressing bottlenecks, managing system resources, and tracking user feedback to ensure smooth operations. This ongoing oversight is complemented by a comprehensive maintenance schedule featuring weekly performance reviews, monthly system optimization sessions, quarterly infrastructure assessments, and annual performance audits, while regular user training ensures the workforce maintains proficiency with the system’s capabilities.

Implementation Strategy

The successful implementation of Epicor Kinetic performance optimization follows a strategic three-phase approach. Phase 1 begins with a comprehensive assessment, benchmarking current performance levels, identifying system bottlenecks, documenting user pain points, analyzing resource utilization, and establishing clear performance targets. During Phase 2, the optimization process implements targeted improvements including database enhancements, system configuration adjustments, infrastructure upgrades, monitoring tool deployment, and user training on best practices. The final measurement phase tracks and validates performance improvements, calculates ROI metrics, monitors user satisfaction levels, documents business impact, and enables continuous refinement of the optimization strategy based on real-world results.

Ready to increase your Epicor Kinetic ROI?

Transform your Epicor Kinetic ERP into a high-performance asset by implementing these optimization strategies. Focus on measurable improvements that directly impact your bottom line through increased efficiency, reduced operational costs, and improved user productivity. Talk to an EstesGroup consultant today! Chat with us, contact us, or fill out the form below to begin a more successful ERP journey and maximize ROI.

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When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

by EstesCloud | Jul 27, 2024 | AI, Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Security, SYSPRO

In a twist of digital irony, AI is fast becoming the ultimate meta-consultant – the sage advisor to the advisors themselves. Seasoned Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and IT consultants, armed with years of experience and polished PowerPoint decks, now turn to their silicon-based counterparts for a leg up. These AI systems, tirelessly crunching data and spotting patterns that would make even the most caffeine-fueled analyst weep, are transforming from mere tools into indispensable collaborators. It’s as if the oracles of the business world have found their own oracle, one that speaks in algorithms and predictive models, even in complex areas like cybersecurity.

Brave New Cloud ERP

The consultants who once prided themselves on having all the answers are now asking AI the questions, creating a cerebral symbiosis that’s redefining the very nature of expertise. In this brave new world, the smartest person in the room might just be the one who knows how to ask the right questions – to a machine.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the business landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges. As companies navigate this new terrain, it’s crucial to understand AI’s impact and potential, especially as it transforms cloud technology. Let’s explore essential questions about AI in business, focusing on perspectives, influences, risks, and strategic planning.

Understanding AI’s Role in Modern Business

AI has become a game-changer across industries. From automating routine tasks to providing deep insights through data analysis, AI is reshaping how businesses operate. It’s essential to develop a clear perspective on AI’s potential in your specific industry and how it aligns with your business goals.

The Impact of AI on Business Operations and Workforce

AI is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a transformative force affecting various aspects of business:

Operational efficiency: AI can streamline processes and reduce human error.
Employee roles: It may change job descriptions and create new positions.
Decision-making: AI-driven insights can inform strategic choices.

Consider how AI might enhance your team’s capabilities rather than replace them.

AI Integration with Existing Systems

One crucial consideration is how AI might interact with your current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Questions to ponder include:

Can AI enhance your ERP’s functionality?
What data integration challenges might arise?
How might AI-powered analytics complement your ERP’s reporting capabilities?

Addressing AI-Related Risks and Concerns

While AI offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

Data privacy and security
Ethical considerations in AI decision-making
Dependence on AI systems
Regulatory compliance

Enterprise Resource Planning in risky business. In AI consulting in ERP, identifying risks is the first step in developing mitigation strategies.

Developing an AI Strategy

To harness AI’s potential effectively, businesses need a well-thought-out plan:

Assess your current technological landscape
Identify areas where AI can add the most value
Set clear objectives for AI implementation
Develop a timeline and resource allocation plan
Consider the need for upskilling or hiring AI talent

Partnering for AI Success

As you embark on your AI journey, consider what you need from technology partners like Estes:

Do you need assistance in implementing AI solutions?
Are you looking for ways to mitigate AI-related risks?
Or do you prefer to navigate AI independently, with minimal external involvement?

AI Consulting in ERP Begins with ERP Consulting

AI’s role in business is continually evolving. By addressing these key questions, you can better position your company to leverage AI’s benefits while managing its challenges. Remember, the goal is not just to adopt AI, but to integrate it in a way that aligns with your business objectives and values.

What’s your take on AI in your business? Are you considering AI consulting for ERP? Reach out to our expert team of ERP and IT / Cloud consultants today to discuss how we can support your AI journey. Let’s find out-of-the-box AI solutions or customized AI tools for your business!

LET'S TALK ABOUT AI IN ERP

Mastering Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

by EstesCloud | Jul 27, 2024 | Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Administration, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting

In today’s data-driven business landscape, creating custom reports in Epicor ERP is crucial for informed decision-making. However, this process can be more challenging than expected. Let’s dive into the best practices for developing custom reports that meet your exact needs and leverage Epicor’s powerful capabilities.

Assessing the Need for Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

Before embarking on custom report development, consider whether it’s truly necessary. Simply replicating legacy system reports or providing vague instructions like “make it happen” often leads to disappointing results. Instead, a strategic approach is key to unlocking the full potential of Epicor ERP’s reporting features.

Key Elements for Specifying Epicor Reports

To ensure your custom reports deliver maximum value, focus on these critical components:

Query Logic

Define the precise data set your report should return. For example, “all active parts in Part Class X” or “uninvoiced sales order miscellaneous charges.” This foundational step guides the developer in structuring the underlying query effectively.

Filters

Determine if your report requires filtering options, such as by part, supplier, or site. This flexibility enhances user experience and report functionality within the Epicor ecosystem.

Groupings

Specify how you want data grouped in your report. For instance, “group by site and customer” provides a clear organizational structure for your information.

Sorts

Within your groupings, establish sorting preferences. This impacts the query structure and data presentation. Examples include “sort by invoice number” or “alphabetically by part number.”

Fields & Field Order

Identify the specific Epicor ERP fields containing relevant data and their desired order in the report. For calculated fields, provide the exact formula (e.g., past due = due date – current date).

Sample Data

Ensure your development environment contains representative data for testing. This might involve creating sales orders with miscellaneous charges to accurately model your reporting requirements.

Visual Mockup

A visual representation of your desired report layout significantly aids developers in organizing the output. When transitioning from a legacy system, adapt the old report format to align with Epicor’s capabilities.

Leveraging Epicor ERP’s Advanced Reporting Tools

Epicor offers robust reporting solutions like Epicor Data Analytics (EDA) and Epicor Financial Report Writer. These tools integrate seamlessly with your ERP system, providing real-time insights and customizable dashboards.

Optimizing Report Performance

To ensure your custom reports run efficiently:

Use appropriate indexing strategies
Implement smart data caching
Leverage Epicor’s built-in performance optimization features

Ensuring Data Security and Compliance

When developing custom reports, always consider data security and regulatory compliance. Epicor ERP provides robust security features to protect sensitive information while allowing authorized access to critical business intelligence.

Continuous Improvement and User Feedback

Implement a feedback loop to continuously refine your custom reports. Regular user surveys and performance metrics can help identify areas for improvement and ensure your reports evolve with your business needs.

Gain Optimal Performance by Mastering Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

By following these best practices and leveraging Epicor ERP’s powerful reporting capabilities, you can create custom reports that provide accurate, timely, and actionable insights. Remember, the key to success lies in clear specifications, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of your business requirements.

Stay ahead of the curve with Epicor ERP’s advanced reporting solutions and drive your business towards greater efficiency and profitability.

Get Help Now For Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

Change Management Tips for Your Epicor Kinetic Upgrade

by EstesCloud | Feb 28, 2024 | Business Consulting, Business Direction, Cloud, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting

The Process

Is your team ready to unlock the full potential of Epicor Kinetic? Don’t fear the upgrade process – with these key strategies, you’ll guide your team through a smooth and successful transition. You can quickly elevate operations with Epicor Kinetic. But before you embark on this exciting journey, let’s address a common concern: Change Management.

Change Management Epicor Kinetic Upgrade ERP

What is change management in an Epicor Kinetic upgrade?

Change management for Epicor Kinetic is your strategic roadmap for a smooth transition from an older Epicor system to the new Kinetic platform. It involves proactively preparing, guiding, and supporting your entire organization throughout the process. The ultimate goal is to minimize disruption, ensure your employees embrace the new system, and maximize the benefits it has to offer.

How to Manage Your Change Management: Epicor Kinetic Upgrade Management

Successfully upgrading to Epicor Kinetic requires a collaborative effort. By implementing these key strategies, you can equip your team with the knowledge, ownership, and resources they need to thrive in the new system:

Keep employees informed about the upcoming changes, the reasons behind them, and the expected timeline is crucial.
Provide employees with the necessary training on the new features and functionalities of Kinetic ensures they can effectively utilize the system and its benefits. Actively involving key stakeholders and employees in the process can foster a sense of ownership and encourage participation.
Use your top talent at all levels to create a detailed plan that outlines the steps required to migrate data, update workflows, and adapt to the new system.

The Culture

Navigating an Epicor Kinetic upgrade requires a strategic approach. Discover how to minimize disruption, ensure user adoption, and maximize the benefits of your new system with effective change management strategies. Learn how to anticipate and address concerns, foster communication, and build a successful transition plan for your team:

Acknowledge and Address Concerns: Understand change can be daunting. Openly discuss potential challenges and proactively develop solutions to keep your team engaged and motivated.
Foster Communication and Transparency: Keep your team informed throughout the process. Share updates, address concerns, and encourage open communication to ensure everyone feels involved and heard.
Empower Your Team with Training: Equip your team with the knowledge and skills to navigate the new system effectively. Prioritize comprehensive training tailored to their specific roles and responsibilities.
Leverage Collaboration and Teamwork: Encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration between team members. Create a supportive environment where everyone can learn from each other and adapt together.
Celebrate Successes and Milestones: Recognize and acknowledge individual and team achievements throughout the transition process. Celebrate milestones to maintain positive momentum and reinforce the value of embracing change.

Prepare for your Epicor Kinetic upgrade with confidence.

Move quickly from your first decision to your building a team that can make the best decisions at every step:

Decide what you truly need from your ERP system. Collaborate to identify essential features and streamline your system.
Customize with purpose. Assess your current customizations, pinpoint those crucial to your workflow, and remove outdated ones.
Discover the power of Kinetic. Break down the new features and how they’ll benefit your specific operations.
Build a rock-solid upgrade plan. Develop a detailed strategy and assemble a dedicated upgrade team for a smooth transition.

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to navigating complex upgrades.

A proactive approach fosters transparency and ownership within your team, paving the way for a smooth and successful transition to the new Kinetic system. By empowering your team with knowledge, you’ll be well-positioned to unlock the full potential of Kinetic and achieve your business goals. Here are a few tips:

Equip your team for success: Leverage EstesGroup’s expertise to provide your team with comprehensive documentation and resources.
Empower them as upgrade champions: Foster confidence by equipping your team with the knowledge to navigate each step of the process.
Gain clarity through collaboration: During an initial consultation, EstesGroup will guide your team through the entire journey, ensuring they feel fully prepared and informed.
Transparency and ownership pave the way: This proactive approach fosters transparency and empowers your team to take ownership, setting the stage for a smooth transition to Kinetic.

Anticipate to Migrate

During your Epicor Kinetic upgrade process, anticipate and address potential challenges and concerns your team might have. Understand that fear of change, unfamiliarity with the new system, and perceived disruptions to workflows are common sources of resistance. Partner with EstesGroup to ease the pain and get peace of mind knowing that your project will be successful, your ROI will be bountiful, and your team will be grateful for change.

BRING ON THE CHANGE: TALK TO A CONSULTANT NOW

EstesGroup Interviews Dan Aldridge: A Journey Through ERP

by EstesCloud | Jan 25, 2024 | Business Consulting, Cloud, Distribution, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting, Prophet 21, Sage, SYSPRO

Celebrating 20 Years with EstesGroup

For two decades, EstesGroup has been immersed in the world of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), aiding companies in harnessing technology for their organizational advancement. In honor of EstesGroup’s 20th anniversary, we embark on a series of interviews with friends and colleagues who have shared in our remarkable journey.

On January 12th, Brad Feakes, President of EstesGroup, sat down with Dan Aldridge, a prominent figure in the ERP community and a burgeoning social media influencer in the realms of digital transformation, change management, and Enterprise Resource Planning.

Begin with Baan

Dan brings a unique perspective to the ERP landscape, having actively participated in ERP since the late ’90s and directly witnessing the Y2K ERP boom and its aftermath. Having gained experience with Baan’s Tier 1 ERP solution at its peak, he observed its subsequent decline and eventual integration into Infor’s comprehensive suite of ERP solutions. One could say he has witnessed it all.

Network Equals Net Worth

Dan’s career is characterized by the relationships cultivated along the journey. Colleagues from past ventures became the foundation for new endeavors. When it was time to expand the team and venture into new territories, his network provided invaluable support. Reflecting on the past, Dan finds new connections emerging based on shared business cultures that transcend their original brands.

Inbound and Outbound Strategies

In marketing and business development, Dan emphasizes the transformative power of relationships. Rather than conforming to algorithmic preferences, he advocates for informative and educational content that fosters genuine connections. “Network equals net worth” underscores the organic growth nurtured by meaningful relationships. Dan’s approach to content marketing aligns with his organizational goals while building his personal brand. In the ERP space, inbound marketing is inherently relational, focusing on solving problems and building connections that drive business growth.

Scaling, Impaling, and Prevailing

Dan’s insights into business growth and operations extend from his experiences as a business owner and a leader tasked with growing an ERP organization in the US market. Scaling organizations presents unique challenges that extend beyond implementation activities. Navigating growth requires tailored approaches in sales and marketing, particularly when transitioning from a smaller market to a larger one.

Solutions vs. Services

A notable challenge in the ERP space lies in the disparity between selling ERP solutions and selling implementation services. Selling ERP solutions emphasizes software capabilities, while selling implementation services focuses on demonstrating domain authority and expertise. As a consultant, selling services is often more straightforward due to the control over delivery, unlike the uncertainties associated with software sales.

Navigating the Future: Cloud ERP and Composable ERP

Cloud ERP dominates the horizon as on-premise models become obsolete. Dan explores the concept of Composable ERP, envisioning dynamic ERP architectures built atop legacy infrastructure without necessitating underlying system upgrades. This approach offers large organizations the flexibility to create common business processes across divisions with disparate systems, heralding a new era in ERP adaptability.

Next Steps: More EstesGroup Interviews to Come!

As the year unfolds, EstesGroup will continue celebrating its 20th anniversary by reflecting on the journey alongside the friends and colleagues who have been part of this remarkable story. We look forward to sharing more EstesGroup interviews with you along the way.

ASK US ABOUT UPCOMING ESTESGROUP INTERVIEWS

Watch EstesGroup Interviews on YouTube to Learn More about ERP in 2024

Frenetic to Kinetic: 5 Tips for Epicor Kinetic Upgrades

by EstesCloud | Dec 21, 2023 | Cloud, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, ERP Risks and Challenges, Hosting, Managed IT Services

Transforming ERP Upgrades into Smooth Operations

As your manufacturing company considers upgrading its current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to Epicor Kinetic, the prospect of navigating potential challenges and complexities might seem daunting. However, with the right approach, this transition to advanced enterprise software can be a smooth and beneficial process for your organization.

Preparation for ERP Upgrade Team Success

Begin by thoroughly preparing for the transition to Epicor Kinetic. Evaluate your ERP needs, customize the solution to align with your requirements, and identify any redundant aspects of your current system. Gain a comprehensive understanding of Kinetic’s new features and formulate a detailed upgrade plan tailored to your company.

Utilize Documentation for a Stress-Free Epicor Upgrade

Leverage available documentation and industry best practices to make the upgrade to Kinetic a stress-free experience. Conduct an initial consultation to walk through the planning and upgrade process, ensuring your team is well-informed and prepared for the transition.

Adopt a Three-Stage Approach to All ERP Upgrades

Implement a three-stage approach to streamline the upgrade process. Develop checklists, tools, and data fixes that align with the flexibility and customization needs of your current system. This approach minimizes disruptions and ensures a seamless transition during each stage of the upgrade.

Harness the Power of ERP Upgrade Tools

Prior to your upgrade, use tools to identify necessary customizations and anticipate potential obstacles. Post-upgrade, utilize tools to understand your new configurations and operating system. This analytical approach enables your team to make well-informed decisions throughout the transition. Software is alive, and Epicor Kinetic upgrades often become part of a holistic digital transformation process, and the abundance of tools will help your team optimize every digital step.

Invest in Employee Learning for Optimal Performance

Maximize the performance of your updated system by investing in employee learning. Develop a comprehensive training plan to ensure that your staff can fully utilize the functionality of the new Epicor Kinetic system. Proactively schedule training sessions to facilitate a smooth transition and enhance overall workflow and productivity.

By adopting these strategies and focusing on internal capabilities, your manufacturing company can smoothly transition to the Kinetic upgrade. Navigate each step with careful planning, industry knowledge, and a commitment to optimizing your ERP system for enhanced efficiency and productivity. Embrace the benefits of a newly customized system without hesitation, and position your company for success with Epicor Kinetic.

Totaled Tip: Choose Your ERP Cloud Wisely So You Don’t Crash

When considering the Epicor Kinetic upgrades, businesses often find themselves deliberating between the private cloud deployment and the Software as a Service (SaaS) web-browser version. The private cloud option provides companies with a dedicated environment, offering greater control over customization, security, and data management. It is an ideal choice for organizations with specific compliance requirements or those seeking a tailored solution. On the other hand, the SaaS web-browser version, being a cloud-based option, offers flexibility and accessibility. With this model, businesses can benefit from reduced infrastructure costs, automatic updates, and seamless scalability. The decision between private cloud Kinetic and SaaS depends on factors such as organizational needs, preferences, and the level of control desired. While private cloud ensures a more personalized approach, SaaS brings the advantages of convenience and agility in adapting to evolving business requirements.

Are you looking for help with Epicor Kinetic upgrades and updates?

Chat with us now for immediate help, or schedule a free introductory consultation with one of our Epicor experts.