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

BPR for ERP: Reimagining Business for the AI Era

by EstesCloud | Jul 27, 2024 | AI, Business Consulting, Business Process Review, Distribution, Epicor, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Sage, SYSPRO

The BPRs of ERPs

Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) or Business Process Review (also BPR) have evolved into a crucial strategy for companies navigating the rapidly changing digital landscape. If you’ve been in your industry for even a short time, you’ve likely encountered both terms and recognize the growing importance in driving innovation and maintaining competitive, especially in regard to new AI technologies.

Business Process Re-engineering and Business Process Review, both conveniently abbreviated as BPR, are two sides of the same coin in the realm of organizational improvement. While they share the goal of enhancing business operations, their approaches and outcomes differ significantly. A Business Process Review is like a health check-up for your company, diagnosing issues and suggesting minor tweaks to existing processes. It’s the corporate equivalent of adjusting your diet and exercise routine.

On the other hand, Business Process Re-engineering is more akin to radical reconstructive surgery, completely reimagining and rebuilding processes from the ground up. It’s not just about losing a few pounds; it’s about getting an entirely new body. Both BPRs aim to boost efficiency and effectiveness, but while a Review might suggest switching from manual to digital record-keeping, Re-engineering could propose scrapping the entire department and replacing it with an AI-driven system. In essence, these BPR twins are united in their quest for improvement but diverge in their level of ambition and disruption.

Modern businesses and ERP solutions are intricate ecosystems of processes designed to optimize quality, efficiency, and profitability. However, in today’s fast-paced environment, these processes require constant evolution. To stay ahead, companies must embrace continuous transformation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.

Regular, comprehensive reviews of your business processes are no longer optional—they’re essential for survival and growth. This may involve:

Harnessing the power of big data and advanced analytics
Integrating AI and machine learning into decision-making processes
Reimagining customer engagement through personalized, AI-driven experiences
Adopting blockchain for enhanced security and transparency
Exploring the potential of augmented and virtual reality in various business functions

Legacy systems that once formed the backbone of operations may now be holding you back. It’s time to consider next-generation solutions built on cloud-native architectures and powered by AI.

Enter the New Era of ERP in an Era of AI

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) has undergone a radical transformation. Today’s ERP solutions are intelligent, interconnected platforms that serve as the central nervous system of your organization.

A state-of-the-art ERP system should do all of the following and more:

Leverage AI for predictive analytics and autonomous decision-making
Offer seamless integration with IoT devices for real-time data collection
Provide advanced cybersecurity measures to protect against evolving threats
Enable hyper-personalization in customer interactions
Facilitate sustainable and ethical business practices
Support remote and hybrid work models with robust collaboration tools
Offer immersive data visualization for enhanced insights

The best part? These advanced ERP solutions are designed for the mobile-first world, allowing secure access and management from any device, anywhere on the planet.

If this sounds like the future your business needs, it’s time to speak with an EstesGroup AI + ERP consultant. Imagine your business processes reimagined by AI – EstesGroup can turn that vision into reality, transforming your operations from outdated to cutting-edge through strategic BPR (Business Process Review or Business Process Re-Engineering project), leaving your competitors wondering how you leaped so far ahead so fast.

At EstesGroup, we specialize in propelling businesses into the future. As leading implementers of cutting-edge ERP solutions, we excel in BPR for the AI age. Our team identifies the processes holding your business back and tailors ERP solutions that unlock your company’s full potential in this new digital era.

Reimagine Your Business for the AI Era with BPR for ERP Expertise

As we stand on the cusp of 2025, the dual forces of Business Process Re-engineering and Business Process Review are more critical than ever in navigating the AI-driven future. Whether you’re looking for incremental improvements or radical transformations, these BPR approaches offer powerful tools to optimize your operations for the challenges ahead. At EstesGroup, we understand that every business’s journey is unique. We’re here to guide you through whichever BPR path best suits your needs, leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies and our deep industry expertise.

By embracing these forward-thinking strategies, your organization can not only adapt to the rapidly evolving business landscape but thrive in it. Don’t let your processes become relics of the past—partner with us to reimagine your business for the AI era and position yourself at the forefront of innovation. The future is here, and with the right BPR approach, you’ll be ready to seize every opportunity it brings. Take the first step towards future-proofing your business. Connect with us today and discover how we can transform your operations for the challenges and opportunities of 2025 and beyond.

GET A BUSINESS PROCESS REVIEW TODAY

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

How Epicor Kinetic ERP is Revolutionizing Industry 4.0

by EstesCloud | Jul 17, 2024 | Epicor, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Selection, Hosting

In today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, staying competitive means embracing digital transformation. Enter Epicor Kinetic ERP – the game-changing solution that’s redefining how manufacturers approach Industry 4.0. Let’s dive into why this powerful platform is creating buzz across the sector.

Cloud-First Approach: Unleashing Flexibility and Scalability

Epicor Kinetic ERP’s cloud-native architecture is a cornerstone of its appeal. With flexible deployment options – on-premise, cloud, or hybrid – manufacturers can choose the setup that best fits their current needs while ensuring easy scalability for future growth. This adaptability is crucial in an industry where agility can make or break success.

Real-Time Insights: Powering Data-Driven Decisions

In the age of Industry 4.0, data is king. Epicor Kinetic ERP shines with its robust reporting and analytics capabilities, offering real-time visibility into every aspect of operations. From production floor metrics to supply chain performance, manufacturers gain the insights needed to make informed decisions quickly.

Enhanced Collaboration: Breaking Down Silos

One of the most significant challenges in manufacturing has been the existence of information silos. Epicor Kinetic ERP tackles this head-on by facilitating seamless communication and data sharing across departments. This improved collaboration leads to streamlined processes, reduced errors, and ultimately, better products.

Tailored for Manufacturing: Industry-Specific Functionality

What sets Epicor Kinetic ERP apart is its deep understanding of manufacturing needs. The platform offers specialized features for various production models, including make-to-order and mixed-mode manufacturing. This industry-specific focus ensures that manufacturers aren’t just getting a generic ERP, but a solution tailored to their unique challenges.

User-Centric Design: Boosting Productivity and Adoption

A major pain point with many ERP systems has been user adoption. Epicor Kinetic ERP addresses this with its intuitive, modern interface. The focus on user experience means less time spent on training and more time leveraging the system’s powerful capabilities.

Mobile-Ready: Empowering the Connected Workforce

In an increasingly mobile world, Epicor Kinetic ERP stands out with its robust mobile capabilities. Whether on the shop floor or at a client site, employees can access critical information and perform tasks on-the-go, enhancing responsiveness and efficiency.

Future-Proofing Manufacturing Operations

Perhaps most importantly, Epicor Kinetic ERP positions manufacturers for the future. With its modern technology stack and continuous updates, the platform ensures that businesses can easily integrate emerging technologies like IoT, AI, and machine learning as they become more prevalent in the industry.

Industry-Specific Capabilities of Epicor Kinetic for Manufacturing Users

As manufacturers navigate the complexities of Industry 4.0, having the right ERP solution is more critical than ever. Epicor Kinetic ERP is emerging as a frontrunner, offering the perfect blend of industry-specific functionality, cutting-edge technology, and user-friendly design. For manufacturers looking to drive digital transformation and gain a competitive edge, Epicor Kinetic ERP is undoubtedly a solution worth exploring.

Ready to revolutionize your manufacturing operations? Epicor Kinetic ERP is Revolutionizing Industry 4.0! Talk to EstesGroup’s top consultants today to find out how!

TALK TO AN EPICOR KINETIC EXPERT NOW

The Ancient Art of Specifying Report Requirements in Epicor

by EstesCloud | Apr 24, 2024 | Distribution, Epicor, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, Managed IT Services, Manufacturing Innovation, Prophet 21

Designing Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

Creating custom reports in any Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, including Epicor Kinetic, can be a surprisingly difficult endeavor. I’ve seen numerous cases in custom report development where the final deliverables did not match the expectations. Why does this happen? Most often, it’s not due to technical challenges but rather the difficulty in defining what you actually need.

If you are considering creating a custom report and are in the process of specifying report requirements in Epicor, there are a few things to keep in mind.

When requesting a custom report in Epicor ERP, simply providing a paper copy of a report from your legacy system and asking the developer to recreate it in Epicor is not enough to ensure a successful outcome. While the legacy report may serve as a starting point, it’s essential to recognize that the data structure and available fields in Epicor may differ from your previous system. To create an effective custom report, you need to provide more specific details about your requirements, taking into account the unique features and capabilities of Epicor ERP. Similarly, offering a one-line description of your desired report and expecting the developer to “get it done” is insufficient for achieving the desired results. A brief, vague description leaves too much room for interpretation and can lead to misunderstandings. So, make note of these two things not to do when planning your approach:

Simply pulling out a paper copy of a report from the legacy system and saying, “Do it in Epicor,” is not sufficient.
Providing a one-line description and saying, “Get it done,” is also inadequate.

Investing time in creating detailed specifications can save you from multiple rounds of revisions and ensure a more efficient and successful custom report development process in Epicor ERP.

In other words, if you want a good report, you need to specify the details.