What the future holds for ERP for the Manufacturing Industry
What does the future hold for manufacturing ERP?
“Going digital” is a phrase that many businesses throw around to prove they are on trend and ready to keep up with society’s ongoing digital transformation. And companies in the manufacturing industry must also embrace this evolution. ERP for manufacturing must be primed to leverage the latest technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Today’s manufacturer is challenged to improve productivity, manage complicated supply chains, and keep up with changing customer demands. As manufacturing enters a new era of advanced technology, manufacturers need to consider new best practices. Make sure your manufacturing and supply operations are ready for the newest waves of innovation by staying alert to these 5 trends directing the future of ERP for the manufacturing industry.
Warehouse Automation
Automation has long been a prominent trend in manufacturing. It is a critical driving force behind increased productivity and reduced cost. A new revolution of robotic technology is arriving and will shape the future of the manufacturing sector. ERP for manufacturing companies will offer warehouse automation capabilities that include Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) integration and tracking.
Smart Equipment
Thanks to cloud-based and mobile ERP technology, significant opportunities have been created for a new level of inter-connectivity between machines, and between machines and people. Employees have the ability to manage assembly lines from a distance, and operator input can be more strategically allocated to maximize operational efficiency. Production order received and fulfillment through an internet or Bluetooth connection opens up significant opportunities for manufacturers.
Analytics and Reporting
Newer ERP for manufacturing will come equipped with more comprehensive reporting. As the software improves, so will the data and that data will help business managers and owners to make sound decisions. Utilizing advanced analytics will allow companies to stay on par with competitors, forecast sales and keep a tab on market trends.
Improved Manufacturing Processes
New and better methods of production are revolutionizing how things are made. Manufacturing will continue to benefit from progressively faster and less chaotic ways of creating products. Additionally, there are potential software applications for Wi-Fi or RFID-connected machines to actively inform users of equipment wear and tear or other incidents. Future features may even include automated self-repair of deteriorating tools, removing the need for manual checkups and repair requisitions, and therefore reducing downtime.
As ERP technology continues to evolve, it will still be a centerpiece of the manufacturing sector for years to come. Even the most technologically-advanced manufacturer knows the latest equipment is only as useful as the business management solution the business runs on. It is important to have an equally advanced ERP when dealing with any technologically-advanced manufacturing business.
The possibilities seem endless when it comes to the capabilities of this incredible age of technology. For example, just as new innovations like three-dimensional printing and cloud computing have opened up avenues for many businesses, ERP for manufacturing industry is sure to get better and better than what is available now.
Mobility, cloud-based ERP software, and real-time business intelligence analytics are a few factors that are sure to equip manufacturing companies like never before.