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Freight Forward to the Future: P21 Web UI Migration Options

Freight Forward to the Future: P21 Web UI Migration Options

Transitioning to the P21 Web UI Version

Keeping your Prophet 21 ERP system up to date poses numerous challenges, especially when dealing with upgrades. The testing, retesting, troubleshooting, and remediation processes can be time-consuming and demanding. Transitioning to the P21 Web UI introduces even greater challenges, with larger changes, increased risks, and heightened frustrations for end users. Consequently, the adoption of the P21 Web UI has been progressing slowly, akin to molasses in January, as they say in Canada.

Prophet 21 P21 Web UI Migration Distribution Warehouse

In November, EstesGroup sponsored the Southeast User Group chapter of the P21WWUG, presenting on P21 Infrastructure Best Practices and the elusive topic of Web UI Migrations. Our polls revealed that two-thirds of customers have yet to fully migrate from the P21 desktop application.

For customers still tethered to a desktop version seeking a way out, we recommend two approaches when planning a P21 Web UI migration: incremental or big bang.

An Incremental Approach

For those committed to the last branched version (2021.1) and hesitant to fully transition from the P21 desktop, an incremental approach is advisable. The customer creates an ecosystem as a live testing model, gradually shifting from the old to the new through the following steps:

  • Develop an adoption plan for “branched” usage, initially allocating specific hours for web UI use.
  • Configure a branched deployment in the live environment, allowing parallel use of desktop and web UI.
  • Instruct users to incrementally operate on the web UI during designated hours.
  • Address reported shortcomings incrementally through IT or ERP administrator intervention.
  • Create a remediation work plan for identified issues and initiate resolution.
  • Conduct remediation and testing cycles until all issues are resolved.
  • Increase web UI usage until reaching a predefined cutoff amount of time.
  • Attain user and management signoff, and officially transition all users to the web UI.
  • Stabilize the live cutover environment and provide ongoing support.

A Big Bang Approach

For customers seeking a more significant leap to a web-only version (2022+), the big bang approach is recommended. This involves an implementation-level cutover executed in one decisive move:

  • Deploy the Web UI to a middleware-only test environment.
  • Conduct user testing, addressing and communicating issues as they arise.
  • Create a remediation work plan and resolve identified issues.
  • Document remediations and compile into a cutover plan, expanding the testing pool.
  • Conduct a mock cutover (CRP), regression testing, and address any remaining issues.
  • Attain user and management sign-off for the “go live” decision.
  • Repeat the cutover to the new version in the live environment with Web UI.
  • Stabilize the live cutover environment and provide ongoing support.

The Weight (and Freight) of Risk in P21 Migrations

The choice between incremental and big bang approaches depends on your risk tolerance and desired rewards. If you seek to minimize risks, choose the incremental approach. For maximizing rewards, opt for the big bang. Each approach comes with its own set of risks, rewards, and characteristics. If you need assistance with your Web UI Migration, please reach out to us!

Connecting the Clouds: Website vs. ERP Hosting

Connecting the Clouds: Website vs. ERP Hosting

Manufacturers and distributors can benefit significantly from a Managed Services Provider (MSP) managing one website or kin websites as part of an integrated IT services, IT security, and enterprise cloud strategy. An external IT provider ensures that the world will view web-based company representation with optimal performance, scalability, and security, reduced downtime and enhanced user experience. Through robust IT security measures, a cloud provider like EstesGroup safeguards sensitive data, mitigating the risk of cyber threats. Additionally, integrating enterprise cloud solutions facilitates seamless data access, collaboration, and scalability, enabling manufacturers and distributors to focus on core business functions while staying agile and competitive in the digital landscape.

Website vs ERP Hosting

For businesses, websites serve as crucial repositories for sharing information, necessitating proper hosting and data management to connect with customers, ensure security, and facilitate growth. When exploring website hosting services and ERP hosting solutions, businesses encounter various cloud options, with managed hosting and shared hosting being the primary types. Understanding the distinctions in the website vs. ERP hosting conversation empowers businesses to make informed decisions aligning with their unique identities.

Is your website hosting forgotten data?

While your IT team is focusing on critical tasks, your website might go unnoticed, opening the path to vulnerability and chaos. In the realm of website hosting, discerning between managed hosting and shared hosting is essential. Managed hosting is ideal for businesses seeking comprehensive control and responsibility, with the service provider acting as a dedicated IT department overseeing all aspects of the website. Conversely, shared hosting accommodates businesses needing performance and security but may lack the size or budget for full-service management. Multiple businesses share resources like RAM and CPU under a shared server, potentially impacting performance during traffic surges. Managed hosting suits larger enterprises prioritizing ultimate performance and security, while shared hosting remains viable for budget-conscious smaller businesses.

Managed Hosting vs. Shared Hosting vs. Managed ERP Hosting

Businesses should consider several key differences between managed and shared hosting for websites and ERP hosting for enterprise resource planning applications. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you unravel your web of business data.

  • Resources: Managed hosting provides dedicated server resources, ensuring optimal performance, while shared hosting involves resource-sharing, potentially leading to performance issues during high traffic.
  • Customization: Managed hosting offers customized solutions, tailored to specific business needs, whereas shared hosting tends to be more one-size-fits-all.
  • Security: Managed hosting prioritizes security, protecting individual businesses, whereas shared hosting may compromise security if one business on the shared server experiences a breach.
  • Optimal Performance: Managed hosting eliminates performance issues associated with shared resources, providing consistent and optimized performance.
  • Updates: Managed hosting ensures prompt updates and security patches, while shared hosting may require businesses to schedule updates themselves.
  • Email: Both hosting types offer email services, with managed hosting providing premium plans for enhanced features.
  • Cost: Shared hosting is more affordable, making it suitable for smaller businesses with budget constraints, while managed hosting, though more expensive, offers superior performance and security.

How ERP Hosting Gets Tangled in Your Website Web

The discussion on website hosting parallels ERP hosting, where businesses can opt for a managed service provider to host their ERP software in a remote, cloud-based data center. This centralized approach provides cost-effective, secure, and scalable solutions, enabling businesses to focus on operations rather than maintaining on-premise infrastructure.

Businesses must comprehend the disparities between the many available cloud options to make informed choices for their website and ERP hosting needs. While managed hosting excels in performance, security, and support, startups or small businesses with budget constraints may consider shared hosting initially. Managed hosting proves invaluable for businesses seeking to eliminate on-premise responsibilities, allowing them to concentrate on optimization and growth.

Complex Cloud Hosting Environments

Experience seamless business operations with our fully managed ERP hosting, ensuring optimal performance, security, and scalability as we take charge of your ERP software in a secure, remote, and cloud-based environment. Ready to tackle website vs. ERP hosting? Elevate your online presence with our fully managed website hosting, where a dedicated IT team handles every aspect, providing tailored solutions for peak performance, robust security, and unmatched support. Trust EstesGroup to streamline your technology infrastructure, allowing you to focus on growth and innovation without the burden of managing complex hosting environments.

SYSPRO Error Message: Operator Already Logged In

SYSPRO Error Message: Operator Already Logged In

A warning message that most SYSPRO users will commonly see is the “Operator already logged in” prompt. Under normal circumstances, this message means exactly what it says! The operator is already signed in.

SYSPRO Error Message Operator Sign In

However, the error message can appear for other reasons that may be puzzling to the user. It is most typically associated with users not exiting SYSPRO through normal means (crashes, forced computer shutdown, etc). It is good for both the ERP administrator as well as the end-users to know what this error means and why it may appear despite the user not being signed in.

SYSPRO Error Message Operator Logged In

What does this “SYSPRO Error Message – Operator Already Logged In” message mean?

SYSPRO’s database has a table called AdmOperator. Inside this table there is a column used to indicate whether a SYSPRO operator is currently signed in. The column value is set to “Y” when a user signs in and is cleared when SYSPRO is closed out normally by the user. The “Y” value can linger in the database if the user fails to close out of SYSPRO “gracefully”.

In that case, the “Operator already logged in” message will appear. The user has the option to proceed which will clear any lingering operator entries. If the user is in fact already signed in, any previous session is terminated by the system.

What causes this “Operator already logged in” message?

Besides the intended circumstance of the operator already being signed in on another computer, the message also appears if a user fails to close out of SYSPRO “gracefully”. Examples of this could include:

  • The user shuts down their PC while SYSPRO was running. 
  • The user closes SYSPRO forcefully using the Windows Task Manager. This is common in the event of SYSPRO freezing or crashing. 
  • Network failures between SYSPRO and the app server causing communication errors. 
  • If the user closes their web browser when using SYSPRO Avanti without using the logout functionality in the application.

Some of these events may also result in “Unknown Processes” lingering in SYSPRO. These will have to be closed out using administrative tools in SYSPRO. To learn about these processes, see our article on Handling Unknown Processes in SYSPRO.

So, what should you do about this message?

Clicking “OK” to proceed is all you need to do! If the warning appears because the user is in fact already signed in, that previous session will simply be terminated. If it appeared for any of the other reasons outlined above, the database fields are cleaned up from any incorrect flags and reset to their intended status. It is good to inform users that this error means no harm and that they can safely proceed if they do not believe that their operator is signed in anywhere else.

How ERP Breathes New Life into Medical Device Manufacturing

How ERP Breathes New Life into Medical Device Manufacturing

ERP Ready to Help

The medical device manufacturing sector plays a vital role in supplying essential products that impact lives. Manufacturers must adhere to the strictest compliance standards while successfully organizing and managing their operations. Effective Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can be an important aspect of this organization and management. There are many benefits to implementing ERP systems, and manufacturers will find that the right solutions will improve their operations, ultimately increasing operational productivity and software functioning.

Medical Device Manufacturing

Tracking Data Health

Given the diverse range of medical supplies and their components, manufacturers require software integrations capable of efficiently tracking parts and finished products. ERP systems facilitate seamless tracking and management of order histories, revisions, and product recalls. Tailored ERP solutions offer real-time insights throughout the manufacturing process, aiding in documentation and data export for compliance with medical device manufacturing standards. These systems also enable revision tracking during manufacturing, assisting businesses during inspections and audits. Providing recall tracking, ERP systems empower businesses to identify potential concerns in medical devices, implementing protocols to prevent recalls and ensuring comprehensive tracking support for the complex manufacturing of medical devices.

Healthy Supply Chain Management

ERP systems for the medical device manufacturing industry offer robust support for supply chain management. Businesses can easily manage various aspects, including the Approved Supplier List (ASL), tracking, manufacturing documentation, data reporting, validation and revalidation, risk assessment, and quality control and inspection.

Seamless ERP Integrations

The most effective ERP systems are tailored to seamlessly integrate with existing systems and software. Customized ERP systems provide a unified approach to operational management, allowing for flexible software integrations under a single system. For instance, integration with the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) provides crucial data insights while safeguarding data and permissions. ERP systems collaborate with and enhance existing systems, enabling businesses in the medical device manufacturing industry to focus on quality and efficiency in supplying and distributing medical devices.

 

The Longevity of Med Device Manufacturing 

In a world where medical devices like artificial hips and knees are essential and can change lives, ERP systems emerge as crucial tools for meeting industry demands. A fully-customizable ERP system offers comprehensive data tracking and supply chain management, alongside flexibility in system and software integrations. Implementation of effective ERP systems empowers businesses to gain insights into their manufacturing processes, enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. A unified system with vital software integrations allows businesses to prioritize fulfilling essential orders and providing individuals with the medical devices they need.

Where Security Takes the Pulse

Meet ECHO, EstesGroup’s cloud solution for complex application management. In the rapidly evolving landscape of medical device manufacturing, top-tier security and cloud solutions stand as the vanguards of fortified operations. Paired seamlessly with effective ERP systems, these cutting-edge technologies offer a robust shield against potential threats. Advanced security protocols embedded within the cloud infrastructure provide an extra layer of protection for sensitive data, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards.

Global Health Requires Private Cloud ERP

Cloud solutions enable manufacturers to securely store and access critical information, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment. This integrated approach not only enhances the resilience of the manufacturing process but also aligns with the industry’s commitment to delivering high-quality, life-changing medical devices. As the medical manufacturing sector embraces innovation, the synergy between ERP, top-tier security, and cloud solutions emerges as a formidable force, propelling the industry towards a future of heightened efficiency and reliability.

Epicor Kinetic Cloud Options: Cloud Mastery for Manufacturers

Epicor Kinetic Cloud Options: Cloud Mastery for Manufacturers

Do you understand your Epicor Kinetic cloud options compared to on-prem ERP history?

In the realm of managed service providers (MSPs) and systems integrators (SIs), the names of giant cloud computing corporations like Azure and Google often loom large. However, the allure of these industry giants doesn’t always translate into the best choice for manufacturers and distributors seeking cloud solutions. Did you know that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software comes with many deployment possibilities? Let’s have a closer look at how manufacturers can benefit from knowing their options when it comes to a solution like Epicor Kinetic ERP.

Epicor Kinetic Cloud Options

On-premise ERP isn’t exactly a thing of the past.

As a provider specializing in tailored solutions for all cloud-based services, EstesGroup offers personalized white-glove on-premise and in-the-cloud services that can align seamlessly with the unique needs of manufacturers and distributors, ensuring optimal outcomes and growth. But not all manufacturers will benefit from a move to the cloud. Some manufacturers benefit from a slower migration to full-cloud implementation. Herein lies the value of opting for a custom white-glove ERP consultancy for all of your technology needs that will support your unique ERP deployment:

  • On-premise ERP deployment: On-premise ERP deployment involves hosting the enterprise resource planning (ERP) software within an organization’s physical servers and infrastructure, providing direct control but requiring on-site management and maintenance.
  • Vendor-controlled deployment (Software as a Service or SaaS): Vendor-controlled deployment, commonly known as Software as a Service (SaaS), entails accessing ERP software hosted and managed by a third-party provider.
  • Private cloud deployment: Private cloud deployment involves hosting ERP applications on a dedicated cloud infrastructure exclusively for one organization. This option provides enhanced security, control, and customization compared to public cloud solutions.
  • Hybrid cloud deployment with custom integrations and software solutions: Hybrid cloud deployment combines on-premise, private, and public cloud solutions, allowing organizations to tailor their ERP strategy. Custom integrations and software solutions bridge different environments, offering flexibility, scalability, and efficient data management.

The best ERP deployment for your business begins with the best strategy for your business. With two decades of experience in ERP, the EstesGroup team comes to you with a full suite of on-premise and cloud-based expertise. 

Who doesn’t need customization and dedicated support?

If you are a growing manufacturing company, you will need to know that your ERP system and its underlying technology can support your ongoing operations, ensuring your successful future. Unlike the “big cloud” counterparts, custom white-glove cloud providers such as EstesGroup steer away from one-size-fits-all approaches. Instead, they empower organizations, like manufacturers and distributors, to customize and refine their solutions to match distinct requirements and unique teams.

Rather than contending with universal approaches and impersonal support, choosing a custom white-glove cloud provider allows manufacturers and distributors to craft tailored solutions and gain the personalized support they need. With a complex ERP system like Epicor Kinetic, you will need personalized support on both the functional and the technical end. EstesGroup provides unparalleled individual attention and support for manufacturing ERP solutions, allowing you to make the best choice for deployment when considering all of your Epicor Kinetic cloud options compared to on-premise deployment options. Partnering with EstesGroup offers exceptional flexibility and reliability while keeping costs for services and tools well within target.

Do your Epicor Kinetic cloud options come with hidden fees?

In addition to customization and support, partnerships with custom white-glove cloud providers like EstesGroup aid manufacturers and distributors in selecting cloud solutions that align with their budgets. The approaches of larger cloud computing companies can often be intricate and challenging to migrate, leading many organizations to contend with hidden fees that adversely impact their budgets.

For the ultimate ERP experience, choose an expert ERP and IT consultancy, ensuring that your team can comprehend solutions, pricing models, and contracts with clarity. The simplicity of your cloud solutions and transparent pricing and fee schedules are invaluable benefits of choosing a custom white-glove cloud provider. Choose a cloud provider that takes pride in its commitment to transparency, a quality often overshadowed when dealing with larger cloud computing companies. This transparency allows your organization to stay on budget, reduce costs, and expect effortless growth.

Navigating the selection process for a cloud computing partner can be a formidable task.

For manufacturers and distributors, choosing a custom white-glove cloud provider like EstesGroup over industry giants like Azure and Google could prove to be the superior option. A partnership with EstesGroup grants organizations the flexibility to choose customized plans, transparency in solutions, pricing models, and contracts, along with the essential support, reliability, and performance. Rather than grappling with universal approaches and hidden fees, a custom cloud provider assists manufacturers and distributors in tailoring solutions to their specific needs while staying on budget.

An Introduction to the SYSPRO Database

An Introduction to the SYSPRO Database

An Introduction to the SYSPRO SQL Database Structure

In the early versions of SYSPRO, the ERP’s data was entirely stored in C-ISAM files. These C-ISAM files were essentially text files containing system data. They could cause a lot of trouble if you had to investigate or troubleshoot data problems as they were lacking a stable framework to review and analyze them. Thankfully, a modern SQL database structure was introduced between SYSPRO 6.1 and 7. In today’s SYSPRO 8 version, essentially all components of the ERP have now been converted and are stored in traditional SQL database tables. Knowing what SYSPRO’s database looks like becomes a vital tool if you are tasked to troubleshoot data problems, analyze company data, or build SQL queries to pull data for custom reports.

SYSPRO SQL Database Structure

So what does a SYSPRO database structure look like? 

The “System-Wide” Database

Both SYSPRO 7 and SYSPRO 8 contain what SYSPRO calls the “system-wide” database. While the name of the database can be customized to the business’ liking, it is commonly named “sysprodb” by default. The database contains information about operators, administrative settings, system information, and licensing details. Any data pertaining to system-wide configurations that span all SYSPRO companies will be found in this database. Particularly important tables to take note of in this database are:

  • AdmOperator – Contains data of all operators on file in SYSPRO along with their role, group, and other access level details. 
  • AdmSysVersion – Header table containing the database version details of the SYSPRO environment.
  • SysproAdmin – Table containing a list of the companies in your SYSPRO environment. This table becomes relevant when creating test companies or setting up SYSPRO’s default test databases. 

The Company Databases

Each company created in SYSPRO will have its own database and default company tables. By default, SYSPRO names these companies ‘SysproCompany’ along with the company’s ID at the end. Ex, SysproCompanyT, SysproCompanyA, etc. These are the databases where your company’s transactional data is stored. 

At a first glance, these databases can be overwhelming. A standard SYSPRO database can have over 1000 tables in it. The good thing is that while this full list of tables compromises all of SYSPRO’s functionality, it is unlikely that your environment is both licensed and actively using SYSPRO’s full suite of products. This means that most of these tables will be empty and will not be worth much of your attention.

Instead, there are about 25 – 50 tables in any given environment that sees most of the action. To provide a cheat sheet, here are some of the commonly used tables in SYSPRO that are essential to the daily use of SYSPRO:

  • ApInvoice – Supplier invoices
  • ApSupplier – Supplier header details
  • ApSupplierAddr – Addresses for the suppliers
  • ArCustomer – Customer header details
  • ArInvoice – Customer invoices
  • ArTrnDetail – Details about each invoice. Used extensively for sales reporting
  • BomOperations – Operations against a BOM
  • BomStructure – Structure against a BOM
  • InvMaster – Master for all stock codes in SYSPRO
  • InvMovements – Inventory transaction details against each SKU
  • InvPrice – Sell prices against each SKU
  • InvWarehouse – Master table for inventory counts of each SKU
  • PorMasterHdr – Purchase order header
  • PorMasterDetail – Purchase order details
  • SorMaster – Sales order master
  • SorDetail – Sales order details
  • WipMaster – Master for jobs
  • WipJobAllLab – Labor details against jobs
  • WipJobAllMat – Material details against jobs
  • WipJobPost – History of material/labor issued to jobs

The “Deployment” Database

Unique to SYSPRO 8, this database handles information relating to the release version of your SYSPRO environment. The “SYSPRO 8 Installer” tool uses this database exclusively to verify which products are available to you and whether any recent updates have become available. In addition, it contains information about which machines have SYSPRO clients installed on them and which versions they have installed. 

Admins, do you grasp the SYSPRO database structure for efficient data troubleshooting and analysis?

This covers the databases you will see in a usual SYSPRO environment. Knowing what SYSPRO’s database structure looks like is essential for any SYSPRO admin to effectively be able to find, troubleshoot, and analyze vital company data.