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Tech Stack Fragmentation: What’s Holding Distributors Back?

Tech Stack Fragmentation: What’s Holding Distributors Back?

by | May 6, 2025 | Cloud, Cybersecurity, Distribution, Managed IT Services, Network Security, Prophet 21, Security

What is a Fragmented Tech Stack?

Duplicated data. Delayed reporting. Missing information. Missing opportunities. Even local distribution businesses are feeling the heat of global competitors winning the technology integration marathon. As tariff turmoil creates a supply chain fervor amongst procurement specialists, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software vendors and resellers push customers into solutions that challenge control, distributors are facing the chaos of digital dissonance. The distribution industry is especially vulnerable to tech stack fragmentation because the entire foundation of the business is built for mobility. This means the entire system, from ERP to IT to cloud, is vulnerable to breakage, to disruption.

The Solution

Read on to learn how distribution companies are leveraging ERP systems like Epicor Prophet 21 with third-party integrations to move, shake, and innovate−without the risk of breaking the business.

Data center server room with IT engineers addressing tech stack fragmentation concerns for distribution and manufacturing industries.

Table of Contents

  • ERP: The Digital Box Unboxed by IT Disconnects
  • CRM: Syncing Departmental Windmills or Hopping Sales Silos?
  • Business Intelligence: Data’s Untapped Tapped
  • Integration: The Great Chain of Tech Strategy
  • Distribution Tech Stack Tips

Rethinking Tech Stack Fragmentation

According to industry insights, 60% of mid-market manufacturing and distribution companies use more than five disconnected tools to manage core processes. Without integration, businesses struggle with duplicated data, siloed teams, and decision-making that’s reactive instead of strategic. 

Mid-sized distributors typically operate with lean teams and legacy tools. Sales reps track leads in spreadsheets. Inventory lives in an ERP system. Customer data floats around in a CRM—or worse, email threads. BI dashboards are built once, then forgotten. None of these systems talk to each other.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

ERP software promises operational harmony, yet without integration, it often adds to the noise. Systems need to talk to each other intelligently.

ERP software promises profitability. But even with ERP in place, distribution companies still face costly digital risks:

  • Inventory management discrepancies
  • Long, profit-draining quote-to-cash cycles
  • Invisibility due to limited visibility into stock or order status

Takeaway for IT Leaders

ERP is essential—but not sufficient. Look for ERPs with strong API support and native integration options.

CRM

A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool can transform how sales teams manage leads, follow up, and retain accounts. But when it doesn’t integrate with ERP or BI systems, it contributes to tech stack fragmentation—becoming just another disconnected app that limits visibility and slows down the sales cycle.

Without integration, sales problems multiply:

  • Sales can’t see real-time inventory
  • Reps manually enter order data across platforms
  • Managers lack a unified view of the customer journey

Takeaway for Sales Leaders

A CRM is only as powerful as the data it connects to. Ensure it’s embedded in your ERP workflows—not floating above them.

Business Intelligence (BI)

Business Intelligence (BI) tools help distributors visualize data trends—if the data is accurate and timely. But many BI implementations pull outdated or incomplete information from siloed systems, limiting their value.

When fully integrated, BI tools can do the thinking for you:

  • Forecast demand and reduce overstock
  • Analyze customer buying patterns
  • Identify profit leaks across departments

Takeaway for Finance Teams

BI needs clean, connected data. Integration isn’t optional—it’s foundational.

ERP Integrations

A truly modern tech stack connects ERP, CRM, and BI platforms into a single system of intelligence. Integration doesn’t just reduce friction—it increases revenue potential by aligning every team around the same data.

When these tools are integrated:

  • Sales, finance, and ops share real-time data
  • Customer experience improves dramatically
  • Leadership gains visibility for better forecasting

Takeaway for Company Leaders

Integration isn’t just an IT team responsibility—it’s a strategic imperative for business agility and growth.

5 Tech Stack Fragmentation Tips

  1. Map the Fractures: Identify all your disconnected systems and where data overlaps or is duplicated.
  2. Simplify First: Choose tools that play well together—favor platforms with open APIs and distribution-specific capabilities.
  3. Train Cross-Functionally: Don’t let departments optimize in isolation. Train teams on how data flows across the organization.
  4. Partner Smart: Work with integrators and solution providers who understand the distribution space—not just generic software.
  5. Measure ROI Early: Use KPIs like quote-to-order time, error rates, and customer satisfaction to track integration impact.

If your team is rekeying data, struggling with reporting, or working across multiple platforms without sync, your stack is fragmented. Ready to fix your ERP and IT problems? One hour could save hundreds. Schedule your free tech stack review with the EstesGroup team today.

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Options When Managing an ERP Implementation

Options When Managing an ERP Implementation

by | Apr 26, 2025 | Business Consulting, Business Direction, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Administration, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Prophet 21

Epicor® ERP Project Management Approaches

Managing an ERP implementation is like setting out on a major expedition. The right guide can make all the difference between smooth sailing and getting stuck halfway to your destination (without a single fish!). Read on to make your Epicor® Kinetic or Epicor® Prophet 21 project easier today.

Options when managing an ERP implementation with three different manufacturing ERP users in a factory views. Project management theme.

Fishing for You: Full-service Team Project Management Model

In traditional “Big ERP,” a fish-for-you method is often used. People in the industry sometimes call this “Big ERP,” and this approach was popularized in SAP implementations. In this case, the consulting partner comes in and extracts business information from your subject matter experts (SMEs), then uses that information to configure the system.

Often, the individuals who are extracting this information are quite different from those actually performing the system configuration. This model expects less of a time investment from your subject-matter-expert community, but it requires a significantly larger team of consultants and business analysts. As such, the consulting cost to an organization can be significantly higher. This model also tends to take longer to complete, which is typical for the big fish-for-them format.

In a full-service project management model, a consulting partner like EstesGroup takes the lead role. We handle the detailed planning, day-to-day management, and problem-solving so your team can stay focused on operations.

Teaching You to Fish: The Core Team Model

The other approach is often referred to as the core team model. In this model, a core team is assembled from the company’s subject matter expert community. These SMEs form a core team that operates in conjunction with the consultants’ core team. The core team is responsible for understanding and communicating the organization’s core requirements, and then working with the consultants to configure the system.

This model expects a much larger time investment from the subject matter experts — often requiring full-time commitment.

In the coaching model, your team stays deeply involved. A team like EstesGroup comes in to guide, mentor, and support, but you lead the charge. This approach focuses on building in-house ERP project management capabilities so your business isn’t just implementing a system—you’re growing internal experts who can optimize it for years to come.

How do companies decide between options when managing an ERP implementation?

The truth is, many successful Epicor® ERP projects use a blend of both approaches. You might start with full-service project leadership to hit critical milestones and transition to a coaching model as your team grows more confident. At EstesGroup, we tailor project management to your unique needs — whether that means handing you the fishing pole or helping you “reel in” the challenging bits and bytes, such as supply chain management or cybersecurity protocols.

What Full-Service ERP Management Looks Like

  • Project Planning and Roadmapping: Aligning system goals with business strategy.
  • Timeline and Milestone Tracking: Keeping all work-streams moving smoothly.
  • Task Management: Overseeing everything from system builds to user acceptance testing.
  • Risk and Issue Resolution: Proactively identifying and addressing roadblocks.
  • Vendor and Stakeholder Coordination: Managing communication so your leadership team stays informed.

Advantages of Full-Service Project Management

  • Faster Timelines: Seasoned project managers keep things moving efficiently.
  • Minimal Business Disruption: Your employees don’t have to juggle day jobs with project work.
  • Proven Playbooks: Experienced teams bring best practices honed across many ERP implementations and new risks like tariff volatility.

Considerations for Project Costs and Culture

  • Higher Costs: You’re paying for a complete service, start to finish.
  • Knowledge Retention Risk: Your team may feel less connected to the system if they weren’t hands-on during the build.
  • Culture disruption: Your team will be stressed by too much interference, which is why EstesGroup focuses on the partnership aspect of projects throughout every step.

Full-service ERP project management is a great fit if your team is bandwidth-constrained or if hitting a tight go-live deadline is critical.

What Coaching and ERP Partner Empowerment Looks Like

  • Collaborative Roadmapping: Your team helps design the project plan.
  • Training and Skill Development: We coach your team on best practices for project leadership.
  • Guided Execution: Your employees manage tasks, with access to expert advice whenever needed.
  • Ownership and Confidence Building: Your team grows into a force of independent ERP stewardship.

Advantages of the Core Team Model

  • Sustainable Success: Your organization develops strong ERP project management skills.
  • Lower Total Cost of Ownership: Consulting hours are often lower since your team leads key tasks.
  • Higher System Adoption: When users are involved early, change management feels more natural.

Considerations for Project Costs and Culture

  • Time and Resources: Team members must invest time to learn and lead.
  • Longer Implementation Timelines: Learning curves can extend project schedules.
  • Culture, Culture, Culture: Long-term internal expertise requires that employees are content and will stay to coach others.

Building in-house ERP project management capabilities is essential for organizations that want not only to implement a system successfully, but also to develop lasting internal expertise that drives continuous optimization over time.

When considering all options when managing an ERP implementation, why partner with EstesGroup?

Choosing the right Epicor® project management approach shouldn’t be overwhelming. Our team has helped businesses across manufacturing, distribution, and services industries implement ERP successfully — with flexible support models that build lasting success. We’re here to manage your project if you need a steady hand. We’re also here to coach your team to become future ERP champions if that’s your goal. Teaching ERP project management skills is what we do every day. We’re not only here to help you choose your path forward — we’re here at every step on your ERP implementation project. ERP implementation. On-premise or cloud deployment. ERP upgrades. We have the ERP expertise to help you know your options for every little detail of your Epicor® ERP implementation approach.

Want to explore your options for managing an Epicor® ERP implementation? Chat will us now, give us a call, or fill out the form below and we’ll email and call you faster than you can say ERP!

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How to Manage Tariff Risk in Distribution

How to Manage Tariff Risk in Distribution

by | Apr 6, 2025 | Business Consulting, Distribution, Epicor, Epicor Administration, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, ERP Risks and Challenges, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Security, Software

In today’s global economy, tariffs can shift overnight — and for distributors, those changes ripple quickly across pricing models, supplier relationships, and customer expectations. While tariffs are nothing new, the pace and complexity of trade updates in recent years have made it harder for teams to react quickly and plan confidently.

If you’re a U.S.-based distributor running Epicor Prophet 21 ERP — particularly one sourcing products from international suppliers — understanding and mitigating your tariff exposure has become a critical part of your supply chain strategy.

Manage Risk Distribution Prophet 21 Supply Chain Freighter

When deciding how to manage tariff risks, companies need to consider risk mitigation solutions and risk management strategies.

Key Considerations for Managing Tariff Risks

  • Solution: Implement automated tariff management tools like the Recurrency Tariff Manager
  • Solution: Leverage third-party software for real-time data and alerts
  • Solution: Diversify supplier base to reduce dependency on high-tariff regions
  • Strategy: Conduct regular tariff exposure assessments
  • Strategy: Establish contingency plans for sourcing and logistics
  • Strategy: Collaborate closely with trade compliance experts and consultants

The Tariff Challenge: Limited Visibility, High Stakes

Tariff exposure often hides in plain sight. Vendor records might show countries of origin or product categories, but few ERP systems offer a clean, consolidated view of which suppliers are likely to be impacted by new tariffs — and what those impacts could mean financially.

Procurement and finance teams are often left piecing together spreadsheets, customs data, and supplier intel to make urgent decisions. And by the time a potential risk becomes clear, the cost implications may already be felt.

Oversight, Strategy, and Control: Three Ways to Get Ahead of Tariff Risk

1) Invest in Strategic Supplier Diversity

By diversifying your supplier base across multiple countries or regions, you reduce reliance on any one source that may become tariffed. Your ERP system should help track and categorize suppliers by region, and your team should regularly audit where your critical parts or products are coming from.

2) Improve Cross-Functional Visibility

Tariff risk isn’t just a procurement issue — it touches pricing, forecasting, inventory, and even customer experience. Integrating trade visibility into dashboards accessible to operations and finance leadership is key. This means making tariff exposure a regular part of your supply chain reporting, not a fire drill when changes hit.

3) Use Purpose-Built Tools for Trade Risk Management

Rather than rely solely on generic ERP reports, modern distributors are turning to specialized tools that augment their ERP environment. These tools often bring in external data, enrich vendor records with AI insights, and suggest actionable strategies like pre-purchasing inventory or temporarily shifting pricing models.

If you use Epicor Prophet 21, there’s a new solution available that may be worth exploring: the Recurrency Tariff Manager.

This lightweight dashboard plugs directly into your P21 system and uses AI to analyze your vendor list for likely tariff exposure. In under 15 minutes, it can show you where you’re at risk — and help you take action, whether that means sourcing alternatives, adjusting purchasing, or planning pricing changes.

It’s a smart way to bring clarity into a complex challenge — without requiring months of development or a full system overhaul.

Managing tariff risk isn’t just about compliance or cost control. It’s about building resilience into your operations — so that when change comes, you’re prepared. By improving visibility, sharing insights across teams, and using the right tools, you can turn tariff challenges into strategic opportunities.

If you don’t want to explore things like how to manage tariff risk in distribution ERP without industry experts helping you the mitigate risks, our team at EstesGroup is always available to help you make sense of your data and identify the right tools for your ERP and business strategy.

TALK TO AN ERP CONSULTANT NOW

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Do Epicor Kinetic and Prophet 21 Work Together?

Do Epicor Kinetic and Prophet 21 Work Together?

by | Mar 19, 2025 | AI, Business Consulting, Epicor, Epicor 10, Epicor Kinetic, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, ERP Selection, Prophet 21, Software

No Native Handshake, No Problem: Making Epicor Kinetic and Prophet 21 Work Together

Running both manufacturing and distribution operations? You might find yourself juggling Epicor’s two flagship systems: Epicor Kinetic (for manufacturing) and Prophet 21 (for distribution). While these platforms weren’t designed to talk to each other out of the box, getting them to communicate doesn’t have to give your IT team nightmares.

Epicor Kinetic Prophet 21 Laptop. Young woman sitting on online meeting in outdoor cafe, talking to laptop camera, explaining something, drinking coffee.

Different ERP Systems, Different Strengths

Think of Epicor Kinetic as your manufacturing maestro – handling production schedules, materials, and shop floor activities with robust features for BOMs and shop floor control. 

Meanwhile, Prophet 21 excels at distribution – managing inventory, supply chains, and sales orders with streamlined workflows designed specifically for distributors.

They’re like siblings raised in different households – related but with distinct personalities and skill sets. Both use Microsoft SQL Server behind the scenes but speak somewhat different languages when it comes to sharing information. Epicor Kinetic uses a service-oriented architecture with a comprehensive REST API, while Prophet 21 operates through its Middleware API with OData services for queries and transaction processing. So, how do you get Epicor Kinetic and Prophet 21 to join forces?

Option 1: Use Epicor’s Own Toolbox

  • Automation Studio: This low-code platform is embedded in both systems and lets you build “recipes” that automatically sync data between systems without heavy programming.
  • Integration Cloud: Epicor’s cloud solution offers pre-built connectors for both platforms, though P21’s connector has some limitations with filtering capabilities.

Option 2: Bring in a Mediator

  • Third-party platforms like DCKAP Integrator can bridge the gap with drag-and-drop simplicity and pre-built error handling.
  • Custom API integrations work well for companies with technical resources who need complete control over their data mapping.
  • Traditional EDI exchanges can handle batch transfers of orders and invoices when real-time sync isn’t required.

Best Practices for Using Kinetic and P21 Systems Together

If you’re taking on this integration project, keep these best practices in mind:

  • Divide and conquer: Let each system do what it does best – Epicor Kinetic for manufacturing, P21 for distribution.
  • Start simple: Use Epicor’s built-in tools before diving into custom development.
  • Establish clear rules: Decide which system “owns” which data (your “source of truth” for customers, inventory, etc.).
  • Map your journey: Document which fields need to sync, how frequently, and in which direction.
  • Test thoroughly: Simulate real-world scenarios to ensure the integration handles both successful transactions and errors gracefully.
  • Roll out gradually: Start with master data sync before tackling complex transactions.
  • Keep an eye out: Monitor your integration points and optimize as needed.

Case Study: Seamless Order-to-Manufacturing Flow

A metals distributor using Prophet 21 for sales and inventory acquired a fabrication company running Kinetic. Rather than forcing everyone onto one system, they integrated the two platforms:

  • Customer orders entered in P21 automatically create work orders in Kinetic.
  • As manufacturing progresses, status updates flow back to P21.
  • When products are completed, inventory is updated in both systems.
  • The sales team can provide real-time production updates without switching applications.
  • They used Epicor’s Automation Studio to build this workflow, allowing each division to keep using the software best suited for their operations while maintaining a single view of the customer order.
  • Result: Order fulfillment time decreased by 35%, and customer satisfaction scores jumped by 22%.

Case Study: Building Business Intelligence

A building materials company with manufacturing (Kinetic) and distribution (P21) divisions struggled with inconsistent reporting until they integrated their systems:

  • Sales data from P21 now automatically feeds production planning in Kinetic.
  • Inventory levels stay synchronized across both platforms.
  • Management accesses unified dashboards showing end-to-end metrics.
  • Financial reporting consolidates data from both systems for accurate forecasting.
  • Result: Inventory carrying costs decreased by 18%, and the time to generate company-wide reports dropped from days to minutes.

Do you have a good reason to use Epicor Kinetic and Prophet 21 together?

EstesGroup is here to help! While Epicor didn’t design these systems to seamlessly integrate, new tools make connecting them entirely achievable. With the right approach, you can create a unified ecosystem that handles both manufacturing and distribution without missing a beat. The result? Less manual data entry, fewer errors, and a smoother operation from production floor to customer door.

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EstesGroup Joins Elite Inc. 5000 Ranks

EstesGroup Joins Elite Inc. 5000 Ranks

by | 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.

Business Team Puzzle

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

Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

Hardware System Requirements for Epicor Prophet 21

by | Aug 6, 2024 | Distribution, Epicor, ERP, ERP Consulting, ERP Implementation, Hosting, Managed IT Services, Prophet 21, Software

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.

LEARN ABOUT CLOUD OPTIONS FOR PROPHET 21