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When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

by | 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. 

AI Consultants in ERP

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

Mastering Custom Reports in Epicor ERP

by | 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.

Epicor ERP Custom Reports

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

How Epicor Kinetic ERP is Revolutionizing Industry 4.0

by | 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.

Epicor Kinetic Industy 4.0

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!

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How to use the SYSPRO e.net Diagnostics Tool

How to use the SYSPRO e.net Diagnostics Tool

by | May 2, 2024 | Business Consulting, Disaster Recovery, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Manufacturing Innovation, SYSPRO

If you are looking to test, learn, or develop with business objects in SYSPRO, look no further than the e.net Diagnostics tool. This is a utility program that can optionally be installed on either the SYSPRO Server or SYSPRO client machines using the SYSPRO installer. The program allows you load sample business object schemas and post/test various transactions in a convenient, user-friendly manner.

SYSPRO e.net ERP

Getting Started with the E.Net Diagnostics Tool

To get started with the E.Net Diagnostics Tool, click the “Logon” button in the toolbar. This is the button with a green plus sign on it. A Logon screen will appear where you will have to provide various credentials in two separate tabs. 

In the “Service Settings” tab, the program will request a WCF service base address. All business objects use either a WCF or SYSPRO e.net Load Balancer service to transact. The WCF service is optional and used in SYSPRO 6 and 7 environments whereas the e.net Load Balancer is the latest service for SYSPRO 8 where it is required. To use the e.net Diagnostics tool, you will have to provide a base address to your WCF or e.net Load Balancer service. You can find this address in your SYSPRO Setup Options under System Setup E.Net Service Details.

SYSPRO e.net Diagnostics

SYSPRO ERP Sign-In

In the “Logon Credentials” tab you will have to specify a SYSPRO operator to sign-in with as well as the SYSPRO company you wish to connect to. By default, your SYSPRO environment should be using an “Instance” value of “0” (zero). Once your credentials have been provided, click “Logon” at the bottom of the screen.

SYSPRO Logon Credentials

Generating Schema Samples

If you provided valid connection credentials, you should now receive a “Session” variable GUID in the top right of the screen. This is a token used by SYSPRO to know that you are successfully signed in. You are now able to specify, load, and transact with business objects in the provided company.

SYSPRO ERP Session

The Business Object

To load a business object, you use the “Business Object” field in the toolbar. You can either provide the direct business object code or browse using the library button next to the field. In this example, we will be using the INVTMB object for Inventory Bin Transfers. To load the sample schemas, press “Enter” in the “Business Object” field. The default schema for our business object will load to the “Business Object Input” tab as all as the “Business Object Parameter” tab (if applicable) in the main editor on the screen. 

SYSPRO Business Object Input

The Results

You are now able to edit the business object details and post your transactions. You post the business object transaction by clicking the “Run” button found in the top toolbar. If you are only looking to test a business object, make sure to edit the “ValidateOnly” option in the business object parameters’ section. This ensures that the results you get are only validated but not actually posted to SYSPRO.

SYSPRO Multiple Calls

Schema Files Consideration

One thing to keep in mind is that the e.net Diagnostics program will not be able to load sample business object schemas by default if you install it on a SYSPRO client machine. Schema files for business objects are only found on the SYSPRO server. To retrieve sample schemas on a client machine, you will have to edit the program’s settings to point to the “Schemas” folder on the SYSPRO server or copy the schema files from the server to your client machine. You can change the schema directory by going to File Settings Specify Schema Path.

SYSPRO Schema Path

SYSPRO e.net EstesWay

The e.net Diagnostics Tool by SYSPRO facilitates testing, learning, and development with business objects by allowing users to load sample schemas and conduct transactions conveniently through a user-friendly interface, requiring logon credentials including WCF service base address and SYSPRO operator information, and offering the option to edit business object details and validate transactions before posting, with a note that schema files are only available on the SYSPRO server and may need to be manually retrieved or configured on client machines.

EstesGroup ERP and IT consultants provide valuable expertise and support for organizations leveraging SYSPRO ERP, offering comprehensive assistance in maximizing the utilization of SYSPRO’s functionalities.

With deep understanding of SYSPRO’s capabilities and extensive experience in ERP implementation and optimization, EstesGroup consultants can aid businesses in streamlining processes, enhancing system integration, and optimizing workflow efficiency. Whether it’s tailoring the e.net Diagnostics Tool to suit specific business needs, providing guidance on best practices for SYSPRO configuration, or offering training and ongoing support for users, we serve as trusted partners in driving success with SYSPRO ERP solutions.

The Ancient Art of Specifying Report Requirements in Epicor

The Ancient Art of Specifying Report Requirements in Epicor

by | 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.

Report Requirements in Epicor

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:

  1. Simply pulling out a paper copy of a report from the legacy system and saying, “Do it in Epicor,” is not sufficient.
  2. 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.

Key Elements for Specifying an Epicor Report

To ensure your custom report meets your expectations, consider the following key elements:

Query Logic

What should the underlying query return? For example, specifying the report logic might involve “all active parts of Part Class X” or “all sales order miscellaneous charges that have not yet been invoiced.” Providing this basic logic helps the developer structure the underlying query.

Filters

Do you need to run the report filtered by something, such as the part, supplier, or site? If so, note it, as this will affect how the report is created.

Groupings

How do you want the data in the report grouped? For instance, you may want the data grouped “by site and customer.”

Sorts

Within the groupings, how should the data be sorted? This will impact how the underlying query is structured before the data is passed to the report designer. For example, you might want to “group by site and customer, and sort by invoice number” or “sort alphabetically by part number.”

Fields and Field Order

It’s important to know the specific ERP fields where the data lies, and the order they should appear in the report. If it’s a calculated field, you need to provide the calculation (e.g., past due = due date – current date).

Sample Data

Often, to build a report, you will need the underlying data in the development environment. For example, if you are specifying a report that collects all miscellaneous charges, you may need to create some sales orders and sales order lines with miscellaneous charges.

Mockup

Providing a visual mockup of what you are looking for helps the developer organize the output. If you are replacing an existing report from a legacy system, this may be a good time to use the legacy report copy, albeit with the necessary edits to make it specific to the new ERP system.

By considering these key elements and providing clear specifications, you can help ensure that your custom report meets your expectations and delivers the insights you need.

When defining report requirements in Epicor ERP, it’s crucial to provide clear and detailed specifications to ensure the final output meets your expectations.

Epicor report requirements should include query logic, filters, groupings, sorts, fields, sample data, and a visual mockup to guide the developer in creating a custom report that aligns with your business needs. By effectively communicating your Epicor report requirements, you can streamline the development process and obtain the insights you need to make informed decisions and drive your business forward. Creating custom reports in Epicor ERP can be a complex process, but by understanding and addressing the key challenges, you can ensure your reports meet your specific needs. The most significant hurdle is often not the technical aspects but rather the difficulty in clearly defining your requirements. By providing detailed specifications, you can help bridge the gap between your expectations and the final deliverable. Remember, effective communication and collaboration are essential to overcoming challenges.

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Embrace Cloud, Save the Planet with Sustainable ERP Migration

Embrace Cloud, Save the Planet with Sustainable ERP Migration

by | Apr 22, 2024 | Cloud, Disaster Recovery, Distribution, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Managed IT Services

Optimize Enterprise Resource Planning and Contribute to a Greener Future

As manufacturers and distributors face increasing pressure to optimize operations, reduce costs, and minimize their environmental impact, many are considering the move from on-premise Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions to cloud-hosted alternatives. This transition to cloud ERP offers numerous benefits, including improved scalability, accessibility, cost-efficiency, and reduced carbon footprint. In this blog post, we’ll explore three key categories of helpful tips to guide manufacturers and distributors through this transformative journey while incorporating sustainable environmental tactics.

Sustainable ERP Migration

ERP Migration to Cloud: Planning and Preparation

STEP ONE: Assess your current ERP system. Evaluate your existing on-premise ERP solution to identify its strengths, weaknesses, and pain points. This assessment will help you determine which features and functionalities are essential in your new cloud-hosted ERP system. Consider the environmental impact of your current system, such as energy consumption and hardware disposal.

STEP TWO: Define your goals and requirements. Clearly outline your objectives for the transition, such as improved performance, enhanced security, reduced IT maintenance costs, and minimized environmental impact. This will guide your decision-making process and ensure that the chosen cloud-hosted ERP solution aligns with your business needs and sustainability goals.

STEP THREE: Engage stakeholders. Involve key stakeholders from various departments, including finance, operations, IT, and sustainability, in the planning process. Their insights and buy-in will be crucial for a smooth transition and successful adoption of the new system while prioritizing environmental considerations.

STEP FOUR: Develop a comprehensive migration plan. Create a detailed plan that outlines the steps involved in the transition, including data migration, system integration, and user training. This plan should also include a timeline, resource allocation, and contingency measures to address potential challenges. Incorporate strategies to minimize data transfer and energy consumption during the migration process.

Sustainable ERP Migration: Vendor Selection and Deployment

If you’re hoping for a smooth migration, you should invent substantial time into researching and comparing cloud vendors. Not all cloud are created equal. Thoroughly investigate potential cloud-hosted ERP providers, considering factors such as industry experience, product features, scalability, customer support, and environmental sustainability practices. Look for vendors that use renewable energy sources, energy-efficient data centers, and responsible e-waste disposal methods. Request demos and references to make an informed decision.

Prioritize data security and compliance. Ensure that the selected vendor adheres to robust data security standards and complies with relevant industry regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA. Inquire about their data encryption, backup, and disaster recovery practices. Consider the environmental impact of their data storage and processing practices.

Plan for successful data migration. Work closely with your chosen vendor to develop a data migration strategy that minimizes disruption to your operations and reduces data transfer energy consumption. This may involve data cleansing, formatting, and validation to ensure a seamless transfer from your on-premise system to the cloud-hosted ERP. Identify and eliminate redundant, obsolete, and trivial (ROT) data to minimize the amount of data migrated, thereby reducing energy usage.

Consider a phased implementation approach, starting with critical modules or departments and gradually expanding to other areas of your business. This incremental approach allows for better risk management, provides opportunities to refine processes along the way, and enables you to monitor and optimize energy consumption and environmental impact at each stage.

Change Management and Continuous Improvement After a Sustainable ERP Migration

PRIORITY ONE: Communication After Cloud ERP Migration

Keep your employees informed throughout the transition process, highlighting the benefits of the new cloud-hosted ERP system, including its positive environmental impact. Address any concerns they may have and emphasize the importance of sustainable practices. Clear and consistent communication will help foster a positive attitude towards the change and encourage eco-friendly behaviors.

PRIORITY TWO: Training in Cloud ERP

Invest in thorough training programs to ensure that your employees are comfortable and proficient with the new system. Include modules on sustainable data management practices, such as proper data categorization, retention policies, and responsible data sharing. Offer a mix of in-person, online, and self-paced learning options to cater to different learning styles and schedules while minimizing travel-related carbon emissions.

PRIORITY THREE: CLOUD ERP KPIs

Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the success of your cloud-hosted ERP implementation, including metrics related to energy consumption, carbon footprint, and e-waste reduction. Regularly monitor these metrics to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the system is delivering the desired benefits while minimizing environmental impact.

PRIORITY FOUR: Sustainable ERP Migration Feedback

Foster a sustainable culture of continuous improvement for your users. Encourage your employees to provide feedback and suggestions for optimizing the use of the cloud-hosted ERP system and promoting sustainable practices. Continuously assess and refine your processes to maximize the value of your investment, drive ongoing operational excellence, and reduce your organization’s environmental footprint.

Are you ready to save your users and save the planet with a seamless on-premise or cloud-to-cloud ERP migration? 

The transition from on-premise to EstesGroup’s cloud-hosted ERP solution presents an opportunity for manufacturers and distributors to not only transform their operations but also contribute to a more sustainable future. By incorporating environmental considerations into the planning, vendor selection, implementation, and continuous improvement processes, businesses can minimize their carbon footprint while reaping the benefits of a cloud-hosted ERP system. With the right approach and a commitment to sustainability, manufacturers and distributors can navigate this shift successfully, driving efficiency, agility, and growth in an increasingly competitive and environmentally conscious landscape.

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