Tips

Tips

• WMS vs. WCS vs. WES: Learn the differences

  Companies often implement a WMS, then potentially add a WCS or a WES later. Learn more about WMS, WCS and WES as well as the differences between the three systems.  Continue Reading

• WMS vs. OMS: Learn the differences between the two systems

  While WMS streamlines warehouse processes, OMS can help improve order management and customer data tracking. Discover more about the differences between WMS and OMS.  Continue Reading

• 7 tips for implementing a transportation management system

  Implementing a transportation management system can be a challenging process, so supply chain leaders should follow some best practices to ensure success. Learn more.  Continue Reading

• MES vs. ERP: What are the differences?

  MES software focuses on manufacturing processes, while an ERP system focuses on company operations. Learn more about the differences between MES vs. ERP.  Continue Reading

• 7 advantages, disadvantages of using a TMS

  Using a TMS can help companies in various ways, but it can also bring disadvantages. Learn more about the pros and cons of using a transportation management system.  Continue Reading

• 3 benefits of integrating WMS and TMS software

  The right software can help many logistics companies streamline operations, improve shipment visibility and optimize processes. Discover how a WMS-TMS integration can help.  Continue Reading

• 6 advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis

  Company leaders seeking to optimize efficiency and reduce costs should learn the advantages and disadvantages of value chain analysis to determine if it's the right choice.  Continue Reading

• Value chain vs. value stream: What are the differences?

  Understanding value chains vs. value streams can be difficult, but both approaches can help companies improve their operations and customer service. Learn more.  Continue Reading

• PLM vs. ALM: Compare the differences

  Company leaders must be aware of the critical distinctions between PLM and ALM. Learn each system's features and how they can potentially work together.  Continue Reading

• PLM and PDM software: Learn the differences

  PLM and PDM software may seem similar, but they fulfill different needs for manufacturers. Learn the differences and which is more useful for your company.  Continue Reading

• PLM vs. PIM: What are the differences?

  Users primarily work with PLM data during product development, while users work with the data from a PIM system when marketing the final product. Learn more about PLM vs. PIM.  Continue Reading

• Value chain vs. supply chain: What are the differences?

  Although value chains and supply chains can be interchangeable, they are separate approaches to producing goods. Learn more about value chain vs. supply chain.  Continue Reading

• 5 ways AI can help in field service management

  AI can help service companies improve their field service management in a myriad of ways. Learn some of the benefits of organizations using AI for this purpose.  Continue Reading

• 7 benefits of ERP in accounting

  ERP and accounting applications operate separately, but ERP systems can deliver valuable financial insights for companies. Learn about the benefits of ERP in accounting.  Continue Reading

• 5 uses for IoT in field service management

  IoT can benefit field service management in various ways. Learn about some of its applications in FSM, including inventory management and remote monitoring.  Continue Reading

• 6 benefits of field service management software

  6 benefits of field service management software  Continue Reading

• ERP vs. accounting software: What are the differences?

  A financial management system helps organizations efficiently record and report financial information. Discover how accounting software differs from ERP.  Continue Reading

• 6 features to look for in field service management software

  Company leaders should make sure their field service management software includes some important features. Learn what to look for, including mobile access.  Continue Reading

• MRP vs. MPS: What are the differences?

  Learn about MRP vs. MPS, including how each focuses on different aspects of the manufacturing process but can help manufacturers in a variety of ways.  Continue Reading

• 9 benefits of MRP software

  MRP and MRP II software can offer multiple benefits to manufacturers. Learn how manufacturing companies can use them to potentially improve key production processes.  Continue Reading

• 8 steps for an ERP post-implementation audit

  A post-implementation audit can help determine if an ERP system is working well or not. Project leaders should consider these eight steps to ensure a successful audit.  Continue Reading

• 9 ERP KPIs for post-implementation success

  Project leaders can ensure ERP system success by deciding on useful metrics ahead of time. Consider these 9 ERP KPIs to help measure post-implementation success.  Continue Reading

• 10 steps you need to carry out post-ERP implementation

  Project leaders can navigate post-ERP implementation challenges by taking these steps. Get tips on when to tackle to-do list items and other tasks.  Continue Reading

• ERP vs. BPM: Which is best for your company?

  Some companies may need BPM software to supplement their existing ERP system. Learn more about ERP vs. BPM and how these tools can work together to improve efficiency.  Continue Reading

• MRP vs. MRP II: Learn the differences

  MRP II software gives companies much greater control over their scheduling and production processes than MRP software. Learn more about MRP vs. MRP II.  Continue Reading

• ERP and APS: What are the differences?

  Manufacturing companies may find their ERP software isn't fulfilling their needs. Learn how APS can help with challenges like capacity planning and what-if scenarios.  Continue Reading

• 7 3PL KPIs that can help you evaluate success

  Supply chain leaders should look at some particular KPIs to determine whether their company's 3PL provider is meeting their needs. Learn the most helpful KPIs.  Continue Reading

• ERP and SCM: Understand the differences

  Some companies' supply chain management needs may not be fulfilled by their ERP software, so they may require SCM software. Learn more about ERP and SCM software.  Continue Reading

• 3PL brokerage vs. freight brokerage: Which fits your needs?

  A 3PL brokerage and a freight brokerage offer different services, so supply chain leaders should learn the differences between the two to decide which fits their company's needs.  Continue Reading

• Additive manufacturing: Learn about powder bed fusion

  Powder bed fusion may cost less than other additive manufacturing approaches, but it can be time-consuming. Learn whether powder bed fusion is right for your manufacturing needs.  Continue Reading

• Additive manufacturing: Learn about sheet lamination

  Sheet lamination, which is one type of additive manufacturing, is a comparatively cheap and quick way to prototype products. Learn more about sheet lamination.  Continue Reading

• ERP vs. EPM: Which should you choose?

  ERP and EPM differ in several ways. Learn how the individual systems work alone, how they complement each other and how they can increase an organization's efficiency.  Continue Reading

• 10 digital transformation goals to consider

  Setting goals before embarking on a digital transformation will help an organization allocate resources and measure progress. Learn some common digital transformation goals.  Continue Reading

• Centralized services as a hedge against shadow IT's escalation

  Proliferation of cloud, AI and integration tools has increased the deployment security risks of shadow IT and the need to centralize business functions and share support services.  Continue Reading

• Building a shared services organization structure

  Amid the shifting economic climate and new reality of hybrid workforces, there's no better time for companies to consolidate business functions and centralize support services.  Continue Reading

• HR shared services models benefit employee experiences

  In the new reality of hybrid and remote workforces, shared services organizations smooth work processes, increase collaboration, and improve employee engagement and productivity.  Continue Reading

• Learn the 7 types of additive manufacturing

  Additive manufacturing is a process in which technology creates 3D shapes by layering materials. Learn how additive manufacturing can support a company's supply chain strategy.  Continue Reading

• Learn difference between additive, subtractive manufacturing

  Additive and subtractive manufacturing are two different approaches that are often combined by manufacturers. Learn the difference between the two methods.  Continue Reading

• Learn the 6 digital transformation stages

  Company leaders should know the six digital transformation stages so they know what to expect when undertaking the sometimes complicated and intimidating process. Learn the stages.  Continue Reading

• Learn the 4 types of digital transformation

  A company's business requirements affect which type of digital transformation strategy is most likely to succeed. Learn more about the four types of digital transformation.  Continue Reading

• Active vs. passive RFID tags: Which to choose

  There are benefits and challenges to both active and passive RFID tags. An organization should learn what they are and what they do before implementation.  Continue Reading

• RFID vs. IoT: What are the differences?

  Users often combine RFID and IoT, but the two technologies are different in some important ways. Learn more about RFID vs. IoT and the uses for each in the supply chain.  Continue Reading

• 7 benefits of RFID in supply chain management and logistics

  RFID can help companies in their supply chain operations by assisting with product tracking and potentially improving product availability. Learn some of RFID's other benefits.  Continue Reading

• RFID vs. barcodes in supply chain: Which should you choose?

  Both RFID and barcodes are valuable in the supply chain, but each is more useful for particular scenarios. Learn what to consider when deciding between RFID vs. barcodes.  Continue Reading

• RFID vs. NFC: Learn the pros and cons of each

  While NFC is a subset of RFID technology, the two have some key differences, including cost and security. Learn more about RFID vs. NFC and which works best for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Big bang vs. phased ERP implementation: Which is best?

  Selecting the big bang approach vs. the phased approach for an ERP implementation is a crucial choice for project leaders. Learn the pros and cons of each.  Continue Reading

• Follow these steps when recovering from ERP project failure

  An ERP implementation failure is a worst-case scenario. However, project leaders who follow these steps can still potentially salvage the project. Learn how to recover.  Continue Reading

• Why companies should make ERP security a top priority

  Whether your ERP system is on premises or in the cloud, it's still vulnerable, and you need to take the right measures to secure it. Here's advice on how to do just that.  Continue Reading

• MRP vs. ERP: Understanding the difference

  Did you know today's ERP systems evolved from yesterday's MRP systems? Learn the differences between MRP and ERP, including their functions, applications and benefits.  Continue Reading

• 8 tips for a successful ERP upgrade project

  Follow this expert advice to avoid surprises such as data mapping hassles and scope creep and ensure that the new ERP system is a change for the better.  Continue Reading

• 5 supply chain management tips for 2021

  Understanding recent forecasts and events -- such as difficulties in the COVID-19 vaccine supply chain -- can help you create more effective supply chain management in 2021.  Continue Reading

• RACI matrix for project management success, with example

  A lack of clarity around roles and responsibilities is a common cause of project failure. A RACI matrix can help project managers address this issue.  Continue Reading

• EAM vs. CMMS: What are the differences?

  When it comes to EAM vs. CMMS, making the right choice comes down to understanding what each software type does. Here's an overview of each to help you decide.  Continue Reading

• 10 cloud ERP implementation challenges during COVID-19

  A new cloud ERP system can help your company create digital transformation and find new opportunities. But first, you must address implementation challenges.  Continue Reading

• Remote ERP implementation: 10 project management essentials

  Implementing ERP remotely can be challenging because for many IT teams it's new territory. Here are ways to make it easier.  Continue Reading

• Supply chain recovery post-COVID-19: Risk, disruption and tech

  The coronavirus pandemic exposed the fragility of global supply chains and leaders must turn their attention to boosting resiliency. Here's how to start.  Continue Reading

• Should COVID-19 halt your ERP implementation? 12 questions

  The COVID-19 pandemic is casting doubt on whether ERP and enterprise business applications projects should move forward. Here's help on deciding.  Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of non-RFP vs. RFP procurement process

  The decision to use an RFP procurement process or skip it rests on each companies' unique needs. Understand how each method works and why each has its own pros and cons.  Continue Reading

• Essentials of EDI in supply chain management

  Electronic data interchange (EDI) applies to many different business aspects. Learn three ways EDI has streamlined supply chain management.  Continue Reading

• ERP integration strategy: 3 common approaches

  Integrating ERP with other business systems is critical to ensuring organizations are able to access data and streamline processes. Here are three approaches that can help ensure success.  Continue Reading

• Top 8 ERP implementation best practices to prevent failure

  Deploying a new ERP system is a risky endeavor, and danger lurks at every turn. Learn how to lower the risk of failure with these eight tried-and-true best practices.  Continue Reading

• 3 emerging technologies changing the finance department

  Learn how three different ERP technologies -- cloud ERP, AI and robotic process automation -- are changing the world of finance.  Continue Reading

• How to choose the right ERP project team: 5 secrets to success

  Without the right people on your ERP project team, your implementation is doomed to fail. Here's how you should structure roles and responsibilities.  Continue Reading

• Hybrid ERP considerations: Choosing on-premises vs. cloud

  Deciding what to run where requires balancing business processes and strategic goals with infrastructure options. Several experts share advice on how to approach the problem.  Continue Reading

• ERP support now calls for skills in cloud services, products

  The gradual shift from on-premises to cloud ERP makes the old emphasis on IT infrastructure less relevant and the ability to piece together cloud products more important.  Continue Reading

• Cloud broadens scope of ERP support to focus more on users

  A truly modern ERP support strategy must consider the needs of both internal and external users and ERP's expanded role in the employer and customer experience.  Continue Reading

• 6 supply chain management tips

  A poorly maintained supply chain can spell disaster for your business. Here are six supply chain management tips to ensure success and mitigate risk.  Continue Reading

• Finance transformation efforts soar with cloud ERP

  Although some CFOs resist moving financials to the cloud, the process can help streamline processes and save money. Here's a look at what's involved.  Continue Reading

• 6 steps for building a digital transformation strategy

  The failure rate of digital transformation is high, but a smart and detailed strategy can vastly improve the outcome of your digital transformation. Here's how to create one.  Continue Reading

• 7 demand planning strategies to beat the competition

  Today's supply chain management rests on refining your demand forecasting and creating partnerships. Here's a look at what that means.  Continue Reading

• Follow these guidelines for a successful ERP upgrade project

  Get a handle on the time and cost variables of upgrading an ERP system and stay laser focused on value drivers, like analytics, that have the biggest impact on business strategy.  Continue Reading

• How to improve the manufacturing process: 6 keys to tech success

  AI, analytics, IoT and modern apps can serve important roles in today's manufacturing companies. Learn six steps that put these technologies to good use.  Continue Reading

• Process management team can be bridge between IT, business

  Process automation efforts, such as chatbots and predictive modeling, are more likely to succeed if you have a clear understanding of operational levels and team roles.  Continue Reading

• ERP implementation success: Program management vs. project management

  ERP program management provides the framework to manage the portfolio of projects that ensure ERP deployment success. Here's what that looks like.  Continue Reading

• For ERP ROI, pay attention to these 12 business processes

  ERP consultant Jeff Carr explains how digitally transforming processes such as inventory and sales management, product development and forecasting can speed up the payback from ERP.  Continue Reading

• Hybrid ERP demands process integration, easy data access

  SaaS apps can strengthen areas where ERP is weak, but to ensure the combo adds value, both sides must communicate seamlessly at the business-process, messaging and data levels.  Continue Reading

• Nine critical features of budget management software

  Workflow tools, multidimensional data structures and flexible reporting are among the capabilities that ensure the budgeting process supports strategic and financial goals.  Continue Reading

• Software troubleshooting steps work best with these 10 tips

  There are efficient ways to troubleshoot enterprise software, and frustrating, time-consuming ones. Follow this advice to sidestep obstacles and find a fix quickly.  Continue Reading

• Capital budgeting software helps manage complex investments

  ERP vendors' BI platforms, corporate performance management software and niche budgeting tools are all places to find the technology for maximizing the ROI of capital assets.  Continue Reading

• ERP reporting tools effective first step in exploiting data

  Here's how ERP's built-in reporting and SQL tools can be effective at exploiting company data without full-blown analytics -- within limits.  Continue Reading

• How to use a new ERP system to improve business processes

  Packaged ERP will not match your business processes exactly -- and that's a good thing. Here's why you should use the prospect of a new system and its implementation to become better.  Continue Reading

• Seven supply chain risk factors that affect assessment, mitigation

  Over the years, managing supply and demand has become increasingly complicated. Here's a look at factors that influence today's supply chain risk assessments.  Continue Reading

• Why internal supply chain alignment is critical -- and how to get it

  The internal supply chain -- from procurement to sales -- is critical to your company's success. Here's how to make sure your departments are aligned, and not working at cross-purposes.  Continue Reading

• Three measures for capturing the value of data-driven decisions

  Here's advice on how to track not just the amount of use of the analytics team's data and insights, but the value of the analytics they bring to the entire organization.  Continue Reading

• Why customizing ERP software is usually a bad idea

  To get the functions and flexibility that support your organization's competitive edge, try these five solutions first, before customizing ERP as a last resort.  Continue Reading

• How lean production systems cut the fat out of manufacturing, ERP

  From its introduction, the lean approach has influenced manufacturing efficiency, and ERP systems have incorporated its concepts to a greater and greater degree. Here's a look at how lean and ERP have grown increasingly intertwined.  Continue Reading

• How supply chain partners can help create IoT adoption success

  IoT adoption tends to be an organic, step-by-step undertaking for enterprises -- but a coordinated effort between partner companies can improve the supply chain faster and more economically.  Continue Reading

• Expert tips for implementing procure-to-pay software

  P2P software touches many departments, ties in suppliers and has a big impact on financials. You need all the major stakeholders at the planning table.  Continue Reading

• S&OP software can coordinate integrated, data-driven planning process

  Sales and operations planning is certainly possible with spreadsheets and paper, but collaboration and benchmarking across departments are much easier with specialized software.  Continue Reading

• Value drivers must be constant focus of digital technology initiatives

  Getting caught up in the enterprise digital technologies hype is dangerous for your company. Here's what to do instead.  Continue Reading

• How manufacturers can use an MRP system to reduce inventory

  By focusing on compensating factors such as safety stock and shrinkage, you can counteract the tendency of an MRP system to increase inventory, especially in the beginning.  Continue Reading

• How material requirements planning can lead to more inventory

  It seems counterintuitive, but inventory can actually increase after implementing an MRP system. Here are some reasons why it's so hard to zero out the excess in the supply chain.  Continue Reading

• S&OP inventory a key metric in sales and operations planning

  Inventory is just one output of sales and operations planning, but it's also one of the best S&OP metrics for how well a plan is working and serves as a shock absorber between supply and demand.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing execution systems now key in digitized world

  MES technology links plant systems to business applications. As more devices go digital over the Internet, it's positioned to be the control center for digital manufacturing.  Continue Reading

• Eight keys to supply chain sustainability

  Figuring out how to create a comprehensive and compelling supply chain sustainability initiative can be overwhelming. Here's guidance on getting it right.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturers: Use a warehouse for product customization

  Leveraging warehouses for product customization, or late personalization, adds flexibility, shortens delivery lead time and helps better meet customer expectations.  Continue Reading

• Procurement and finance: Be partners, not enemies

  Finance and procurement must be partners, working together to contribute to a company's goals, including operational and financial performance objectives  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing operations management merges ERP and MES

  As integrated manufacturing systems evolve, a new term -- manufacturing operations management -- signifies the merger of ERP and MES.  Continue Reading

• Using predictive analytics methods to answer business questions

  Need to know where to put your next store? Or whether or not a promotional campaign will work? Predictive analytics methods may be the answer.  Continue Reading

• Tracking too many KPIs is counterproductive

  Don't overdo KPIs -- a handful should be enough to capture the essence. Any more than that dilutes the user's attention, drawing focus away from key measurements.  Continue Reading