Today’s manufacturers are under pressure to automate their operations. They have the usual concerns about staying competitive in the marketplace. The challenges presented by the continuing global pandemic have put even more pressure on the manufacturing sector to look at all aspects of the way they do business and find ways they can work smarter. One way they can accomplish this goal is to modernize by introducing a cloud-based ERP system.
Why Consider a Cloud-based System?
Previously, manufacturing companies had no choice but to manage their IT locally. The development of cloud computing changed the playing field. It was now possible for companies of all sizes and types to work with cloud computing companies who could look after hosting and maintaining their data. A cloud computing company could also take over managing software updates and other tasks that were formerly managed in-house.
Advantages of a Cloud-Based ERP
Turning these responsibilities over to a specialist means you can spend more time working on your business. The cloud isn’t just about convenience, though. Here are some other reasons why a cloud-based ERP system makes sense.
1. A cloud-based ERP can be rolled out very quickly.
According to Forbes.com, cloud-based systems have the advantage of being faster to roll out as well as being “easier to customize.” Manufacturers can get their team members up and running sooner, which saves time and money.
2. It centralizes financial and operational information for improved visibility within the company.
Once the cloud-based system is up and running, you get a complete picture of everything that is going on in the business. You may have had multiple systems that did not communicate with each other previously, which would have put you and your management team at a disadvantage when trying to make decisions. This process would have been slower, and it would have been much more challenging to make the best decisions without having all the facts readily available. A cloud-based ERP provides the data required to make decisions with real-time data.
3. A cloud-based ERP makes generating reports an easy task.
When you or your managers need to generate reports, you can count on your cloud-based ERP to produce the data required quickly and efficiently. All the details will be generated on demand. Your team can rest assured that the data is accurate and up-to-date.
4. It improves customer service.
With a cloud-based system, customers can stay informed about the status of their orders and delivery dates with ease. You can set up the system so that your customers can log in to check on the status themselves without revealing data that needs to be kept confidential. This frees up your customer service team members to perform other tasks.
5. A cloud-based ERP can be accessed from anywhere.
Your sales representatives, field service representatives, and customer service representatives don’t necessarily always work from the same location where your shop floor is located. They do need to get access to data contained in the company database, though.
A cloud-based ERP makes it easy for your team to log into the system from wherever they are and get the information they need at any time. You can set controls by job function, so your company’s sensitive information stays confidential, and your team members still have access to the data they need to do their work.
You can learn even more in this video from Acumatica.
Move your Manufacturing Business Onto the Cloud
Investing in a cloud-based ERP for your manufacturing business is one of the best things you can do to keep it competitive today and into the future. You don’t have to take this step alone, though. ASI is your leading source for Acumatica ERP software and accounting solutions. Contact us today to request your free consultation.