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How to Get to the Point of Endpoint Management

How to Get to the Point of Endpoint Management

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!

The Power of a Policy-Led IT Strategy

The Power of a Policy-Led IT Strategy

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.

Bill McCord IT Policy Webinar

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:

  1. Define Clear Policies: Start by creating comprehensive policies that cover all aspects of IT usage, security, and governance.
  2. Align Policies with Business Objectives: Ensure that your IT policies support and enhance your organization’s overall goals.
  3. Communicate and Educate: Make sure all stakeholders understand the policies and their importance.
  4. Implement Technology Solutions: Choose and implement technologies that support and enforce your policies.
  5. 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.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

What are the hardware system requirements for Epicor Prophet 21?

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems like Epicor Prophet 21 (P21) play a crucial role in streamlining operations and driving business growth in the distribution industry. However, the hardware requirements for on-premise ERP deployments present an ongoing challenge, constantly evolving with technological advancements and software updates.

Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

Epicor P21 – Background and Evolving Capabilities

Epicor positions Prophet 21 as a solution “made by distributors for distributors.” As the distribution industry continues to change, P21’s capabilities expand to meet new challenges. These include advanced Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Order Management, eCommerce integration, and Business Intelligence features. With each new version and feature set, the demands on hardware infrastructure often increase.

The Moving Target of Hardware Requirements

The performance of on-premise Epicor P21 systems is intrinsically tied to the underlying hardware infrastructure. As the software evolves, so do its hardware needs. This presents a significant challenge for IT teams, who must continually reassess and potentially upgrade their hardware to maintain optimal performance.

Key Things to Consider When Addressing Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

While specific requirements may shift, some general hardware considerations for P21 deployment include the following:

  • Servers: Both database and application servers need regular evaluation to ensure they meet the latest requirements.
  • Processing Power: The demand for more powerful, multi-core processors (such as the Intel Xeon series) tends to increase over time.
  • Storage: The shift towards faster storage solutions like SSDs and advanced RAID configurations is ongoing.
  • Memory: RAM requirements typically trend upwards with each major software release.
  • Networking: As more features become web-based or cloud-integrated, network infrastructure becomes increasingly critical.

Back to the Basics of P21

Servers

  • Database Server: Responsible for managing and storing data that the ERP system uses; key features for optimal functionality and performance include robust storage and memory, ensuring users can quickly access and process data
  • Middleware/Web Applications Server: Essential for organizations that utilize P21’s web-based components; requires minimal to moderate processing capability and memory, depending on the number of users

Processing

  • Server CPU capabilities determine performance
  • Multi-core processors are recommended

Storage

  • Solid-State Drives (SSDs) perform the best
  • Redundant Array Independent Disks (RAID 10) enhance data processing

Memory

  • Adequate RAM is essential for operation
  • For the Database Server, 32 GB RAM or greater is recommended
  • For the Web Server, 8 GB RAM or more is needed, depending on the number of users

Networking

  • Web-based or cloud-integrated network infrastructure becomes necessary
  • Advanced cybersecurity and compliance regulation needs demand IT talent

Scalability has become one of the greatest challenges when addressing hardware system requirements for Epicor Prophet 21.

One of the biggest challenges in on-premise ERP deployment is planning for scalability. As businesses grow and P21 capabilities expand, the hardware infrastructure must be able to scale accordingly. This often requires significant foresight and investment, as upgrading hardware can be costly and disruptive.

Cloud vs. On-Premise ERP: A Shifting Landscape

The evolving nature of hardware requirements is pushing many organizations to reconsider the total cost of ownership for on-premise deployments. Cloud-based solutions, which offload the burden of hardware management and upgrades, are becoming increasingly attractive. However, this shift introduces new considerations around data security, customization, and control.

Staying Ahead of the Cloud

To manage the ever-changing hardware requirements for on-premise P21 deployments, organizations should do the following:

  • Maintain close communication with Epicor about upcoming releases and their potential hardware impacts.
  • Regularly audit current hardware against the latest requirements.
  • Develop a long-term hardware upgrade strategy that aligns with both business growth projections and P21’s development roadmap.
  • Consider hybrid approaches that leverage both on-premise and cloud resources to balance performance, cost, and flexibility.

The hardware system requirements for Prophet 21 deployments are not static.

They represent an ongoing challenge that requires constant attention and adaptation. While this document outlines some general considerations, it’s crucial to recognize that these may change rapidly. Organizations must stay informed about the latest requirements, plan proactively for hardware upgrades, and continually evaluate their deployment strategy to ensure they’re maximizing the benefits of their P21 system while managing the complexities of evolving hardware needs.

NAW Events 2024-2025: Networking for Distribution Leaders

NAW Events 2024-2025: Networking for Distribution Leaders

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

When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

When AI Consulting Becomes the ERP Guru Behind the Gurus

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!

How Epicor Kinetic ERP is Revolutionizing Industry 4.0

How Epicor Kinetic ERP is Revolutionizing Industry 4.0

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!