Automation, at its core, is about operational efficiency. Automation gives manufacturers an opportunity to implement technology that streamlines internal processes so that human activity can be better directed and optimized. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are complex software packages that can integrate and manage various systems within an organization, including but not limited to manufacturing, operations, supply chain, commerce and financials, reporting, and human resource activities. With the ability to collect and store data in a centralized location, ERP systems make the data readily accessible and enable companies to automate routine business processes through their ERP systems.
“I’ve seen some instances where automation was employed after uncovering a problem, but mostly our team works to help manufacturers and other clients automate the interactions between their ERP system and other systems,” shares Jolene Williamson, Manager of ERP Services at VIRTUTEM.
One example is how VIRTUTEM is helping one of their California-based clients, a manufacturer of custom flavors and fragrances, integrate BatchMetrics. BatchMetrics is a software solution specifically designed for the flavor and fragrance industries that electronically connects the supplier, supply chain and end user.
“As a food ingredient company, they must complete numerous precise measurements from scales, to be exact for specific formulas. Integrating their ERP LX with BatchMetrics helps them maintain accurate inventory data,” explains Williamson. “We’re also working on automation for their receiving and production processes as well as cycle counting integration.”
Cycle counting is a more efficient way of managing inventory. Instead of closing the entire warehouse once each year to count inventory, companies can automate their ERP Systems to manage their inventory every single day. This is one example of how ERP automation can have major operational efficiency improvement.
The Team at VIRTUTEM can also integrate orders received through Amazon and Walmart.
“We’re working on an EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) project now that will integrate purchases made from both the client’s website and Amazon store,” continues Williamson. “So when people order the company’s products, from either their website or Amazon store, those orders will seamlessly integrate into their ERP System.”
“We’re using Infor ION to complete this integration of the Optimizely platform into our client’s ERP system. The ERP System will serve up accurate inventory data to Amazon and their site so online customers can see what is available. Then orders can be placed, and the website or Amazon will handle the payment processing, then that data is transmitted back into the ERP System so the placed order can be picked, packed, and shipped out. Data about each of these processes is stored in the ERP system in real-time so that invoices and inventories can be accurately managed and shipping info can be provided to the end customer about their newly purchased products.”
Many people are not aware that the newest version of Infor LX has new tools that make it easier to automate. This new version includes IDS (Integrated Development Framework) and ION (Intelligent Open Network), both of which power ERP system automation.
Learn how you can take advantage of the automation possibilities that come with an Infor LX Upgrade.
Whether it’s e-commerce, inventory/warehouse management, or year-end reporting, ERP system automation can save time and make people’s jobs easier. Having the right tools to achieve operational efficiency is key. Read how a manufacturer’s 20-year old ERP system was recently updated without disrupting production.
INFOR LX 8.4 UPGRADE EXPANDS OPERATIONAL & PRODUCTIVITY BOUNDARIES
The new Infor LX 8.4 upgrade pushes the boundaries of what businesses can achieve in terms of employee productivity and satisfaction. Read our guide on what the Infor LX 8.4 Upgrade can mean for you.
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