Tag Archive for: Manufacturing

Mastering Sales ROI in Manufacturing: A SugarCRM Guide

In today’s volatile market, manufacturing sales have morphed into a complex tapestry. Globalization, automation, and digitalization—these aren’t just buzzwords; they’re forces that actively shape how we sell, negotiate, and convert in the manufacturing sector.

Question to Ponder: In this intricate landscape, how do you keep your compass steady?

Navigating with a Reliable KPI: Sales ROI

It’s not just numbers; it’s your operational blueprint. Sales Return on Investment (ROI) serves as a litmus test for performance and sustainability. As you steer through market fluctuations and competitive pressures, Sales ROI emerges as your true north.

CRM: Not Just a Tool, but a Strategy

And here’s where Customer Relationship Management (CRM) comes in, making the climb to optimal ROI a structured, well-guided ascent rather than a haphazard scramble. But let’s zero in on a standout player: SugarCRM.

Why SugarCRM?

Let’s find the answer together…

A. The Strategic Facets of Lead and Opportunity Management

Crafting a Blueprint with Lead Management

Having a robust lead management strategy isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Imagine it as your roadmap for guiding potential customers toward a final sale. SugarCRM simplifies this intricate dance. It meticulously sorts and categorizes leads, empowering your sales team to channel their energies effectively.

The Fine Art of Lead Scoring

When you’ve got an abundance of leads, the knee-jerk reaction might be to chase them all.

But let’s pause and consider: Do all leads merit the same investment of time and resources?

SugarCRM answers this dilemma by skillfully ranking your leads. 

Through its lead scoring algorithms, it places the spotlight on prospects most likely to convert, ensuring your sales team’s efforts aren’t spread thin.

Mastering Opportunity Management for Higher ROI

Opportunity management—tracking and nurturing potential sales—is a cornerstone for improving Sales ROI.

SugarCRM offers a range of functionalities here. You can set and track sales stages, define key milestones, and even get automated reminders to follow up with clients.

One particularly useful feature is Revenue Line Item Forecasts, which utilizes both past and current sales data to provide a realistic view of your future revenue streams. 

The aim is to refine your sales processes continually, and in doing so, elevate your Sales ROI.

In this rich fabric of CRM functionalities, data integration tools like Commercient SYNC weave in almost imperceptibly. They offer a silent yet potent advantage—seamless data integration. By merging ERP and CRM data, they furnish a 360-degree view of each sales opportunity.

B. Sales Forecasting: The Art and Science

Why Forecasting Matters in Manufacturing

Think of sales forecasting like a GPS for your business. In manufacturing, where costs and demand change often, knowing where you’re going is key. You need a reliable way to predict what’s going to happen next.

That’s what forecasting does—it shows you the way.

Using Smart Tools, Not Guesswork

Remember the days when forecasting was just educated guesses? Those days are gone. Now, we have smart tools that use data to give us accurate predictions.

Enter SugarCRM

SugarCRM steps up the game in predictive analytics. One awesome feature? Their Advanced Forecasting Module. This tool takes into account different time frames, how your sales team is doing, and the steps in your sales process.

Say you make air conditioners and your sales peak in summer. SugarCRM helps you use old sales data to predict future sales. It even lets you factor in things like weather and energy prices.

The outcome is a solid plan that tells you when to make more units or hold back.

C. Automating Sales Processes for Maximum Efficiency

Why Automated Workflows Matter in Sales

Let’s be real: Time is money. Especially in sales, every minute counts.

Automated workflows help you make the most of those minutes. By automating tasks, you free up your sales team to focus on what really matters—closing deals.

The SugarCRM Advantage

So, how does SugarCRM fit into this? Simple.

It’s like having an extra set of hands to help you out. SugarCRM lets you set up automated workflows that run smoothly in the background.

For example, let’s say you run a business that makes custom machinery. You could use SugarCRM to automate the initial client onboarding process. After a customer places an order, an automated email could go out thanking them and outlining the next steps. 

This saves your sales team from having to send these messages manually.

Meet SugarBPM: The Game-Changer

But wait, there’s more! SugarCRM takes automation to the next level with SugarBPM. 

This tool simplifies even the most complex tasks. It takes care of everything from following up with leads to renewing contracts.

Imagine you have a long sales cycle that involves multiple checks and balances. SugarBPM can streamline this by automating reminders for each stage of the process.

Your sales reps won’t miss a beat, and you’ll boost your chances of renewing those contracts on time.

D. Analytics and Reporting: Navigating through a Sea of Data

Why Analytics Matter

In the business world, knowledge is power. And how do you get this knowledge? Through data. But raw data can be overwhelming. That’s where analytics and reporting come in.

Unpack Data with SugarCRM

SugarCRM steps in to translate that data into actionable insights.

No more scratching your head over confusing numbers.

These tools transform your raw data into easy-to-understand charts and graphs.

Suppose you make industrial pumps and you want to find out which product is your best seller over the last quarter. SugarCRM’s analytics tools can swiftly provide you with this information, presenting it in a clear, visual format. This allows you to pinpoint where your marketing efforts should focus.

Custom Reports for ROI Analysis: Know What Works

The great thing about SugarCRM is its flexibility, especially when it comes to custom reports. You can tailor these reports to analyze your Sales ROI specifically.

For example, if you’re looking to measure the ROI of your latest marketing campaign, SugarCRM enables you to put together a custom report that factors in marketing spend, lead generation, and actual sales conversion. This can give you a clear picture of whether your campaign is paying off.

Introducing Sugar Discover: The Deep Dive into ROI

And if you’re looking for something even more detailed, Sugar Discover has you covered. This feature lets you dive deep into ROI analytics. You can dissect your data in various ways, finding insights you might not have seen otherwise.

Let’s say you’ve had a spike in sales but aren’t sure why.

Sugar Discover can help you analyze this uptick, identifying the specific factors that contributed—be it a seasonal trend or an effective sales promo.

As a perfect complement, Commercient SYNC feeds real-time data into your analytics and reports. This means your insights are always up-to-date, making your ROI calculations as accurate as possible.

SugarCRM—Your Strategic Asset for Manufacturing Sales

Let’s bring it home: In a complex and ever-changing sales environment, you need more than just a tool; you need a strategy.

And that’s what SugarCRM offers.

From simplifying lead management to offering insightful analytics, SugarCRM goes beyond mere functionalities. It becomes a strategic asset that puts you in control of your Sales ROI.

Your Next Step? Make the Smart Move

If you’re ready to elevate your manufacturing sales, you’re ready for SugarCRM. Combine it with Commercient SYNC for that extra layer of efficiency, and you’ve got a winning formula for sales success.

So, what are you waiting for? Transform your data into actionable strategies today.

As they say: Effective CRM isn’t about data storage; it’s about data transformation.


If you want to start your journey through CRM/ERP integration success with SYNC, click here to contact us to schedule a free demo.

How IoT is Transforming CRM for Manufacturing

Technology is revolutionizing the way manufacturers run businesses day-to-day in the digital era. CRM systems can leverage the Internet of Things (IoT; a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines that have the ability to transfer data over a network with no human interaction)  to enhance end-to-end processes by connecting products, devices and equipment. IoT has the ability to drive insights throughout sales, customer service, and marketing departments. The intelligent coupling of IoT and CRM has the ability to help manufacturers elevate customer experiences by enhancing efficiency and heightening visibility.

Let’s look at the impact of IoT and CRM on manufacturing companies. 

Optimized Customer Experiences

Customers always want to save time. Providing efficient services is key to business success. Research has shown that many customers will move to another brand due to a lack of efficiency and unique experience; IoT and CRM can make it possible to enhance customer experiences in various ways. Manufacturing firms can identify errors and fix them before customers even notice – when issues are solved promptly and accurately, both sales representatives and customers can benefit from this seamless experience. Once the issue is identified, it can be resolved and prevented from happening again. Having all customers’ order history and account information in your CRM system can enhance customer service by speeding up processes. These are some of the improvements manufacturers are already seeing when they connect IoT devices with their CRM systems. 

IoT and Manufacturing Machinery

Smart devices are used to collect data on where and when your product is used by specific customers, which helps manufacturing firms deliver personalized interactions. Having scattered or unstructured data can be challenging for manufacturers. Even smart organizations struggle to make better operational decisions if data is siloed within separate ERP and CRM systems; organized data leads to better decision-making. Experts have developed a solution app called Commercient SYNC, which takes data that is spread on-premise and in siloed data systems, synthesizing it into a system that can help organizations discover, manage and integrate data over its entire lifecycle.

data analytics and manufacturing machinery

Increased Sales

Customers value unique and efficient experiences more than anything else when engaging with brands. The enhanced capabilities of CRM systems, when connected with IoT, can lead to increased sales. IoT can detect customer dissatisfaction, assisting sales reps to put together a tailor-made strategy for each customer. It can also provide predictive analytics on when to reach out and which channel to use when offering discounts or vouchers to retain their loyalty. Marketers can also leverage these insights to deliver content to the specific target audience at the right time.

While a majority of ERP systems in the process of adapting to new technologies such as mobility, wearable tech, and the cloud, the Internet of Things is expected to be the next big movement in technology. IoT brings a lot of potential to ERP, CRM, and the industry of manufacturing. Harnessing the power of data by integrating your ERP and CRM system can put your company ahead of the competition. 

As mentioned earlier customers value unique and efficient experiences, by combining your organization’s ERP and CRM data your sales team can deliver fast-paced customer service by accessing data from one centralized system. Utilizing data integration, IoT and CRM enables manufacturing firms to become more connected enterprises and enables a business to discover innovative ways to engage and connect with customers.

Commercient provides CRM and ERP software integration solutions. We integrate +85 ERPs with Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Sugar CRM, Zoho CRM, and HubSpot CRM. Click this link to find out how Commercient SYNC works.

Commercient’s out-of-the-box “SYNC app”  is so easy to install. There’s no coding, no mapping, and no servers to manage on your end. Just download and go with easy access to sales and customer data when and where you need it.

Contact us today our team of experts will guide you through the digital transformation journey.

IIoT: The Evolution Of The Industrial Sector

To grow and thrive, companies must adapt to industry changes, and recalibrate their business processes and methods when necessary. The rise of the Fourth Industrial Revolution era is rapidly redefining the world in its entirety. Its primary focus on technological advances in communication and connectivity has thrown a spotlight on IIoT. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the industrial sector, and break barriers beyond previous possibilities.

What is IIoT?

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), also known as Industry 4.0, is part of a larger concept known as the Internet of Things (IoT). IIoT is a network of connected industrial machines and devices that use IoT technology to improve manufacturing and industrial processes. IIoT applications enable systems to collect, exchange, monitor and analyze large volumes of data to deliver valuable insights. Companies can then make smarter, data-driven business decisions.

The Difference Between IoT and IIoT

While their basic principles are similar, IoT and IIoT serve different purposes. IoT connects physical devices such as home appliances, vehicles, smart devices and more, to the Internet. IIoT connects industrial machines and devices in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, oil and gas, and others.

The Importance of IIoT

IIoT is one of the major technology trends impacting industrial businesses today. This technology is gaining momentum, and will create entirely new industries. It is paving the way to a digital, data-driven world, and a future with tremendous opportunities for industries worldwide. As the number of connected devices increases, we can expect significant growth in the global adoption of IIoT in the coming years.

The main idea behind IIoT is to connect machines and devices to give real-time information on processes and efficiency. IIoT uses sensors connected to industrial devices which collect and store large amounts of data. This data is then transformed into actionable insights, which enable businesses to make data-driven decisions.

Intelligent Connectivity: The Future Of Manufacturing

The Industrial Internet of Things will transform industries as we know them, and the manufacturing industry is at the top of the list. With IIoT, traditional manufacturers will become connected ones.

IIoT can help you unlock the hidden value of all your machine data. Insights from this data can provide many benefits, including improving operational efficiency and productivity, reducing operating costs and equipment downtime, increasing employee safety, maximizing asset utilization, and so much more.

Connect Your ERP to the Internet with Commercient’s IoT Pulse

The main goal of an ERP system is to give actionable data for decision making. IIoT has the potential to expand the availability and improve the accuracy of your ERP data. IIoT and ERP solutions combine to deliver efficiency and cost savings. This provides a competitive differentiator over manufacturers that are slow to embrace emerging technology.

Commercient’s IoT Pulse improves the pace of digital transformation and maximizes the value of your ERP system by connecting it to more than 1,100 internet apps. This can help automate your digital migrations and your frequent tasks.

IoT Pulse integrates ERP’s such as QuickBooks and Sage to apps like HubSpot, Magento eCommerce, email programs, marketing systems, and more. With all your data connected, you can make data-driven decisions faster because all your data is in one place.

Integrating your ERP with IIoT provides valuable real-time data, which can be used to optimize operations, improve customer service, and create new business opportunities.

The Future Is Now!

IIoT is an absolute necessity if you want to not only stay relevant but keep growing in the face of digital disruption. Industry leaders are successfully leveraging intelligent, connected devices to drive their business forward and stay ahead of competition. Don’t get left behind.

Get connected and call or email Commercient today, to find out about how our IoT Pulse solution can help your business.

SYNC Demo integrate CRM ERP

The Future Of Data Integration For Business Is IoT

The world we now live in is changing in a pace and manner that is unrivaled in human history. Revolutionary advances in technologies are reshaping the way we live and work all around the world. As businesses grapple with the new challenges they present, they are faced with a choice between being overtaken by technological changes, or harnessing their power to succeed and prosper through digital transformation.

IoT (the Internet of Things) is one such technology trend that is leading digital transformation and innovation in the evolving business world. It will forever change the way we connect with each other and the world around us.

What is IoT?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical electronic objects such as vehicles, machines, smart devices, home appliances, and more, that are connected to the internet and to one another. This connection enables them to communicate, gather and exchange data without human intervention.

Simply put, IoT devices share data through a wired or wireless connection. In the home, devices such as the Nest thermostat, are part of the IoT world.

The growth of IoT is leading to an increasingly connected physical and digital world. Gartner predicts that in 2020, there will be 20 billion internet-connected devices.

The statistics of IoT’s growth and global expansion bear witness to its impact and its many potential benefits.

IoT in the Manufacturing Industry

IoT is gaining momentum across various industry sectors, and has already established a strong presence in the manufacturing industry.

Technology applications in the manufacturing industry are currently being used in these areas: To connect machines; enable predictive maintenance; automate and monitor processes in hazardous areas, thus ensuring the safety of employees; and much more.

These technologies hold tremendous potential to drive progress on a global scale. However, this is only the beginning, and the endless possibilities of how it can transform and modernize business operations continue to grow.

The Importance of Data Integration with IoT

In today’s digital and data-driven business environment, the ability for multiple business systems to integrate and share data with one another has become a major success factor.

When a growing business has several siloed business applications, challenges arise that can severely cripple the growth of your business. Running a company with disparate software often leads to wasted employee productivity; lack of real-time visibility; duplicate, conflicting or obsolete data; etc.

Some of the major benefits of data integration include:

  • Timely access to accurate data.
  • Real-time visibility.
  • Process automation.
  • Reduced risk of errors.
  • Improved employee productivity and efficiency.
  • Enhancements to customer service.
  • Streamlined collaboration and data sharing across departments.
  • And much more.

Unlock the Power of ERP Data with Commercient’s IoT Pulse

With Commercient’s IoT Pulse, you can connect your ERP system such as SYSPRO, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, Acumatica, etc., to over 1,100 apps. This will help to automate data migrations and frequent tasks.

IoT Pulse can also connect your ERP system to CRM systems like HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho CRM, and others as well as to 1,100 internet apps, including Magento eCommerce, Mailchimp, Gmail, WordPress, social media apps, and many others.

Integrating your data with IoT Pulse enables you to effectively use data to drive optimal business performance and keep you ahead of the game.

IoT Best Practices

IoT is gaining strength and providing new ways to make life easier and more efficient through connected technology. Invest in the future of your business as a global competitive player, and contact Commercient today to find out how we can help you prepare for the digital future.

IoT Pulse connect ERP to the Internet

Data Integration for Sales and Operations: A Goal for 2019

We are living in a data-driven world where the only thing worse than a lack of information is unreliable or worthless information. New technologies have given businesses access to massive amounts of data, and their ability to read and analyze this data has become even more critical for success.

Forward-thinking businesses are leading the way on the journey to digital transformation by employing data integration technology. This enables them to extract hidden insights from data that would have otherwise remained undetected.

What is Data Integration and Why is it Important?

Data integration is the process of combining data from various software applications in order to provide users with a unified view of all their data.

Integration lets you do more with data. It provides you with a complete view of accurate, complete information, giving you real-time visibility into the overall performance of your business. Data integration provides invaluable insight that leads to efficient processes and more informed decision making. Your business can automate tasks, streamline processes, better trace materials, monitor quality, and so much more.

Commercient SYNC Integration Platform

In today’s fast-paced business environment, relying on data from disconnected systems to make critical business decisions is risky. By keeping data on separate systems, you won’t have the level of detail required to stay competitive. Employees will face challenges collecting and analyzing data from different business systems. Meanwhile, sales and customer service departments will eventually suffer, leading to lost potential opportunities.

Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, integrates your sales and accounting systems. This will give you a 360-degree view of your overall business operations, in real-time. By integrating data from your ERP and CRM, you can prevent data silos and the potential for duplicate, conflicting, or obsolete data.

Your sales team will be able to access ERP data directly in CRM, such as customer information, sales history, bill to and ship to addresses, terms, salesperson’s name, territory, invoicing, serial numbers, inventory, and much more. New accounts, new orders and new invoices are integrated from CRM to ERP. Click this video to watch how integration works.

IoT Pulse App

With Commercient’s IoT Pulse app, you can connect your ERP to the internet and to more than 1,100 business apps, and can help with data migration. We support many integrations, including QuickBooks Desktop and HubSpot CRM. IoT Pulse also connects your ERP with productivity and marketing apps like Magento eCommerce, email, WordPress, social media, and many others.

Data Integration in the Manufacturing Industry

Cutting-edge technologies are rapidly changing the manufacturing industry, as manufacturers reinvent their business models to keep up with industry changes and emerging technologies. Many manufacturers rely on business systems, but the data tends to remain separate. This integration provides them with essential real-time data and allows them to automate their business operations, and so much more.

Commercient was able to help Hatch Lighting, a manufacturing company that provides quality lighting products, unlock the true potential behind their business data. By integrating SYSPRO and Salesforce using the Commercient SYNC app, Hatch Lighting was able to grow their customer base. Read the full story here.

Benefits of Integrating Your Sales and Operations Systems

  • Faster access to critical data from one location
  • Streamline manufacturing and distribution processes
  • Automate specific tasks
  • Improve employee productivity
  • Use data-driven insights to increase efficiencies
  • Improve inventory management
  • Reduce manual data entry tasks
  • Reduce the chances of data duplication and errors
  • Analyze customer data easily and boost customer relationships
  • Use insights gained to fuel sales and marketing efforts
  • Get better insight into customer requirements
  • Make better, faster data-driven decisions
  • Allow teams to share data easily
  • Promote effective team collaboration
  • Improved visibility into your overall business operations

In today’s fast-paced business environment, one of the most valuable assets that a business can leverage is data. Integration tools such as Commercient SYNC and IoT Pulse unlock the true potential behind data, capturing the attention of the business world, not just in 2019, but in the future.

Put your business on the fast track to growth and success with Commercient! Please contact us today to get started with integrating your business.

SYNC Demo integrate CRM ERP

Manufacturing ERP Software For The Food and Beverage Industry

Food is a basic human need that is essential for the survival, health and well-being of all mankind. The role of the food and beverage manufacturing industry in society is therefore of great importance to the general population. And powerful manufacturing ERP software is necessary for these businesses.

Some Challenges Facing the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry

  • Food Safety and Quality
    In contrast to products manufactured by other industries, food and beverage products are made for consumption. When taking into account the number of recurring food poisoning outbreaks around the globe, it stands to reason that product safety must be of the utmost importance for manufacturers in the food and beverage industry.
  • Government Regulations
    The food and beverage manufacturing industry is highly regulated. Regulatory bodies governing this industry require extensive reporting on manufacturing processes, as well as assurances of adequate distribution, packaging and traceability process controls.
  • Consumer Preferences and Dietary / Health Requirements
    The number of consumers looking to turn to a more natural and healthy eating lifestyle is on the rise. As the demand for high quality fresh and frozen products increases, manufacturers in the food and beverage industry have to be more flexible now than ever before.

Why You Need Food and Beverage Manufacturing ERP Software

Food and beverage manufacturing is a complex and labor-intensive industry. Finding the ideal balance between the issues identified above and cost effective processes requires good planning and execution.

Having a quality manufacturing ERP system in place will ensure that material requirements, planning, inventory management, recipe control, and much more, function properly.

Benefits of Using a Food and Beverage Manufacturing ERP Solution

  • Automate existing processes
  • Improve operational performance
  • Reduce production and operating costs
  • Improve visibility across supply chain
  • Streamline key manufacturing business processes
  • Improve inventory management
  • Improve material and product traceability
  • Manage recipes and formulation
  • Maintain quality throughout the entire process
  • Support food safety and regulatory compliance
  • Reduce contamination concerns
  • Reduce raw material shortages and material waste
  • Improve productivity
  • Enhance customer satisfaction levels
  • Increase profits
  • Make data-driven decisions

Examples of Manufacturing ERP’s For The Food and Beverage Industry

  • SYSPRO
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365
  • NetSuite
  • Sage Business Cloud Enterprise Management
  • Infor
  • SAP Business One
  • Epicor
  • Acumatica

Must-Have Features of Manufacturing ERP Software For The Food and Beverage Industry

Manufacturers need specialized solutions that support the complexities of their own industry, and can meet industry-specific requirements.

ERP software designed specifically for the food and beverage manufacturing industry needs to have all of the following features:

  • Process Manufacturing
  • Recipe Management
  • Material Requirement Planning
  • Planning and Scheduling
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Sales and Inventory Management
  • Regulatory Compliance and Reporting
  • Promotions
  • Financial Management
  • Integration Capabilities

SYNC Your Data With an ERP and CRM Integration

By integrating your manufacturing ERP and CRM systems, you have one central location for all company data. This means that everyone throughout the company will have real-time access to important information when they need it, such as customer data, sales history, invoicing, terms, inventory, serial numbers, bill to and ship to addresses, new accounts, etc.

Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, makes ERP and CRM integration simple, quick, and efficient. Over the years, Commercient has helped businesses of all sizes become more efficient by giving them a 360-degree view of their sales.

With your sales and accounting systems integrated, data is synced to both systems, based on a time frame you wish, including real-time. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, and reduces the risk of human error.

Commercient SYNC integration has grown to over 85 ERP systems, including SYSPRO, Sage, Epicor, SAP, QuickBooks, Acumatica, and many others. Compatible CRM includes Salesforce, Zoho CRM, Microsoft Dynamics 365, SugarCRM and more.

How Commercient Helped McClure’s to Improve Sales: A Recipe For Success

In 2006, using their great-grandmother Lala’s famous pickle recipe, Joe and Bob McClure started McClure’s. The company uses Microsoft Dynamics NAV, and recently added Salesforce. To get a 360-degree view of sales, McClure’s selected Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, to integrate their ERP and CRM systems. Read the full story here.

Food For Thought

In today’s complex environment of manufacturing, food and beverage manufacturers need the right tools to tackle the challenges of today and the future. That’s why investing in an ERP system is not only a wise choice, but a necessary one.

If you’d like more information on manufacturing ERP software for the food and beverage industry, please contact our partner Edgeware, who will be more than happy to help. Please read this blog to learn how Edgeware helped Belton Foods with implementing SYSPRO, a powerful ERP system.

If you’d like to learn how Commercient can help you integrate your ERP and CRM, allowing you a complete picture of sales and marketing, please contact us today!

About the Author

Anna Kinnear is a Sage Financials Consultant at Edgeware, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. She has always had a passion for reading and writing.

SYNC ERP and CRM

NetSuite ERP: An Industry-Leading ERP Solution for Manufacturers

The significance of embracing emerging technologies in the manufacturing industry cannot be over-emphasized. Innovative technologies are taking the world by storm and reshaping manufacturing business models, which can no longer be supported by traditional business systems.

NetSuite understands that modern manufacturers need to be connected to keep up with industry changes. Designed for smart, intelligent manufacturing, NetSuite’s ERP software facilitates innovative technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) to help manufacturers stay ahead of their competition.

Forward-thinking manufacturers have realized that they can only thrive if they look towards the future. They are changing their approach to business processes, and experimenting with new ways to deliver innovative products and services to their customers.

The Impact of Industry 4.0 on the Manufacturing Industry

Known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Industry 4.0 is a representation of innovative technologies that are transforming the manufacturing industry. As the manufacturing industry evolves, there is a need to reinvent business models and processes by adopting an innovative approach.

Leveraging innovative technologies can equip manufacturers with an advantage over their competitors by replacing traditional manufacturing methodologies with improved intelligent systems. By incorporating technologies into their processes, manufacturers will benefit from real-time predictive maintenance, optimized manufacturing processes, and so much more.

The Benefits of Using Manufacturing ERP Software

ERP software, such as NetSuite, is a powerful tool for manufacturers. Here are some of the many benefits that a manufacturing ERP solution offers:

  • Transparent operational control
  • Optimized manufacturing processes
  • Complete visibility of your supply chain
  • Reduced costs and increased resource utilization
  • Increased employee productivity
  • Predictive maintenance
  • Real-time data visibility
  • More informed data-driven decision-making

NetSuite ERP Software for Manufacturers

NetSuite ERP is not your typical ERP software. This global, cloud-based ERP platform was designed for the modern manufacturer. NetSuite ERP for manufacturers is a complete, scalable and flexible cloud solution designed to accommodate industry-specific manufacturing business needs. Engineered to scale with businesses as they grow, NetSuite’s ERP software is suitable for high-growing, mid-sized, and large enterprises.

From production control to supply chain management and beyond, NetSuite’s ERP solution gives manufacturers a more holistic view of their business. It provides the tools businesses need to accelerate growth and drive innovation.

Features of NetSuite ERP Software for Manufacturers

  • Product Data Management: Manage all your product data in one place, simplify product design processes, and reduce time-to-market for new products.
  • Order Management: Use inventory more efficiently, reduce shipping costs, and improve customer experience.
  • Planning and Scheduling: Automatically balance demand and supply, ensuring you have inventory in the right place at the right time.
  • Procurement: Manage your vendors and purchasing processes with the visibility to ensure you get the best price and delivery combination.
  • Production Control: Create, release, update, and monitor work orders throughout the production process.
  • Supply Chain Management: Control and monitor your outsourced manufacturing processes as easily as if they were your own.
  • Shop Floor Control: Get real-time updates from the shop floor via NetSuite’s interactive tablet application and traditional barcoding.
  • Quality Management: Define inspection plans, pass/fail criteria, collect results and monitor in real-time.
  • CRM: Powerful CRM capabilities that drives the complete customer lifecycle and strengthens customer relationships.

The Advantages of Integrating your ERP and CRM Systems

Integrating your ERP and CRM systems combines all your business functions into one system, ensuring consistency of your data. Centralized data makes it easy to share information across multiple departments.

Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, seamlessly integrates and facilitates automated data exchange between your ERP and CRM systems. ERP data such as customer information, sales history, serial numbers, inventory, terms, ship to and bill to addresses, etc., can be accessed directly within the CRM. New sales, accounts and invoices are integrated from CRM to ERP.

With the sales and accounting systems connected, the risk of data duplication and errors will be greatly reduced. SYNC increases the speed at which data is exchanged, ultimately improving customer service efficiency and employee productivity.

Furthermore, Commercient’s IoT Pulse provides you with a multitude of internet app integration possibilities for your ERP system. From eCommerce platforms such as Shopify and Magento, and CRM systems such as Salesforce, Daylite, and many more, the IoT Pulse app can connect your ERP to the internet and to over 1,100 apps.

In addition, many business processes are streamlined and automated, and the extended access to data will give your business a competitive edge, and revolutionize the way you do business.

NetSuite ERP 3rd Party Integrations

  • Salesforce
  • Zoho CRM
  • Microsoft Dynamics CRM
  • Shopify
  • Magento

Supported Manufacturing Business Models

From fast-growing start-ups to global enterprises, NetSuite ERP powers innovation and growth across a variety of industries, including:

  • Consumer Packaged Goods
  • Electronics and Hi-tech
  • Fashion and Apparel
  • Fast Growing Manufacturer
  • Food and Beverage
  • Furniture and Home Goods
  • Health and Beauty
  • Industrial
  • Kids and Baby
  • Life Sciences
  • Medical Device
  • Outdoor
  • Pet

Incorporating technologies into manufacturing business processes has become essential for survival. Future-proof your manufacturing business with NetSuite and Commercient SYNC data integration, and take your manufacturing operations to the next level.

If you’d like to learn more about Commercient SYNC and IoT Pulse, please contact us today.

About the Author

Anna Kinnear is a Sage Financials Consultant at Edgeware, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. She has always had a passion for reading and writing.

 

SYNC ERP and CRM

SAP ERP’s for the Manufacturing Industry

Technology is advancing rapidly, and forward-thinking manufacturers are embracing the digital evolution. They are adopting new technologies in order to stay relevant, innovative and competitive. One of these important technologies is the use of SAP ERP’s for the manufacturing industry.

All manufacturers strive to optimize their operational processes by reducing costs, improving efficiency and increasing profits. Advancements in technology have aided many manufacturers in achieving these goals.

Failure to adopt new technologies in your manufacturing business will make it significantly harder for it to thrive and grow in today’s fast-paced, digital business environment.

SAP ERP

SAP was founded in 1972 by five former IBM engineers, and is one of the largest global vendors of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.

It offers industry-specific ERP solutions that support business processes across procurement, manufacturing, service, sales, finance and human resources.

SAP ERP solutions support the following manufacturing types:

  • Discrete Manufacturing: A manufacturing process whereby finished products are distinct items capable of being easily counted, touched or seen. Discrete manufacturing involves parts like nuts and bolts, brackets, wires and individual products. Examples of products made by discrete manufacturing include furniture, toys and smartphones.
  • Process Manufacturing: A process whereby a product is created by using a formula or recipe to refine the raw ingredients. The final product cannot be broken down into its basic components. Examples of products made by process manufacturing include pharmaceuticals, paint, food and beverages.
  • Repetitive Manufacturing: In this process, goods are manufactured by following the same production sequences. This type of manufacturing process often goes hand-in-hand with automated assembly processes. Examples of products made by repetitive manufacturing include small electronic goods and car components.

SAP ERP Integrations

SAP ERP solutions integrate with the following systems:

  • Salesforce
  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • Zoho CRM
  • Oracle
  • Sage
  • NetSuite
  • And many more

The Importance of ERP and CRM Integration for Your Business

Many businesses make use of Client Relationship Management (CRM) and an ERP system to help business processes run efficiently.

A CRM system manages front-end data, such as customer information and new orders. Meanwhile, an ERP system handles back-end information like customer purchase history, billing and shipping details, and information regarding their operations, financial, human resource, and supply chain management.

Both systems will independently offer substantial benefits to a business. But having two systems that are unable to communicate with each other makes it impossible to track all customer interactions, and obtain all your customer data through one interface. Utilizing a powerful integration solution to connect these two systems will provide even further benefits to your business.

Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, provides seamless connectivity between your ERP and CRM system, giving you a 360-degree view of your sales and business processes and providing better customer insight. Click this video to watch how SYNC works.

Integrating your sales and marketing system also reduces the time it takes to make data available, and gives you more time to focus on driving new business. Take a look at the types of SAP ERP’s that can be SYNC’d with CRM here.

SAP ERP’s for the Manufacturing Industry

SAP Business One

Designed for small and mid-size businesses, SAP Business One is an ERP solution that automates and streamlines key business functions in financials, operations and human resources. With SAP Business One, you will gain greater insight into your business, streamline key processes and make strategic decisions based on real-time information. SAP Business One can be deployed on cloud or on-premise and is integrated with business intelligence and the SAP HANA platform.

Key Features of SAP Business One

  • Financial management
  • Sales and customer management
  • Purchasing and inventory control
  • Manufacturing management
  • Inventory management
  • Industry-specific manufacturing capabilities

SAP Business ByDesign

SAP Business ByDesign is a cloud ERP solution designed for fast-growing, mid-market businesses to compete without the complexity and cost. Built for growth, this configurable solution will help your business become more efficient.

Key Features of SAP Business ByDesign

  • Financial management
  • Human resource management
  • Project management
  • Procurement management
  • Supply chain management
  • Manufacturing management
  • Inventory management
  • Quality and sales management
  • Product technology
  • Industry-specific manufacturing capabilities

SAP S/4HANA

SAP S/4HANA is an ERP solution suitable for small, mid-size and large businesses. SAP S/4HANA consists of two editions: (i) SAP S/4HANA On-Premise and (ii) SAP S/4HANA Cloud. Both editions include functionality for finance, accounting, procurement, sales, manufacturing, plant maintenance, project system and product lifecycle management.

Key Features of SAP S/4HANA

  • Financial management
  • Human resources management
  • Manufacturing management
  • Inventory management
  • Purchasing management
  • Quality management
  • Sales management
  • Product technology
  • Industry-specific manufacturing capabilities

The benefits that can be derived from implementing a SAP ERP system in your manufacturing business far outweighs its cost in the long-term. Relying on outdated software when your competitors are embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) and adopting innovative technologies will hold you back and eventually stifle the life out of your business.

Make the leap and contact Commercient today, to find out how we can help your manufacturing business stay ahead with data integration!

About the Author

Anna Kinnear is a Sage Financials Consultant at Edgeware, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. She has always had a passion for reading and writing.

SYNC ERP and CRM

Microsoft Dynamics ERP’s for the Manufacturing Industry

Your business is presumably experiencing a number of growing pains, as most businesses do. With the manufacturing industry undergoing one of the biggest digital transformations in history, these pains will more than likely increase. To remain competitive, manufacturers need to embrace innovation with cutting-edge technologies, such as a Microsoft Dynamics ERP system.

Technology has increased the demand for flexible production processes that can be adjusted in response to the ever-changing market conditions and the needs of the customer. Manufacturers are adopting modern technology to gain insight into their customers’ challenges, and are using this knowledge to strategically plan and build lean business processes.

These manufacturers will be more competitive, even in tough economic environments. Their costs will reduce, their efficiencies will improve and the increase in customer satisfaction will ultimately drive more profits into the business.

Why an ERP System is Critical for your Manufacturing Business

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can put you ahead of your competitors. ERP technology brings all your business processes together to create one fluid system. ERP’s provide a variety of benefits including, improved supply chain management, improved planning, costing and storing. This helps your business reduce waste, operate more efficiently and increase profitability.

Microsoft Dynamics ERP’s for Manufacturing

Microsoft has created a number of ERP systems that provide organizations with the flexibility to adopt technology to improve their business processes. These ERP solutions support all industry-specific production processes from procurement, quality control, recipe management and optimization, through to optimum scheduling and capacity planning.

Microsoft Dynamics ERP’s for Manufacturing

  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations (formerly AX)
  • Microsoft Dynamics Business Central (formerly NAV)
  • Microsoft Dynamics GP

Data Integrations

Nearly all businesses have ERP and CRM systems in place, but they often lack integrated information management. These systems operate in isolation, which brings about a number of disadvantages such as data inaccuracy, duplication, delayed information, and increased administrative costs. To keep up with advances in digital transformation, manufacturers are integrating their information systems to improve business efficiency all around.

Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, can integrate your ERP data with your CRM data with a one-way or two-way SYNC? This will give you a 360-degree view of your business processes in real-time. Your sales team will have access to important data such as customer information, terms, invoicing, bill to and ship to addresses, serial numbers, inventory and more.

With a two-way integration, new and updated customers and orders will be SYNC’d from CRM back to your Dynamics ERP. This eliminates double-entry and possible mistakes, saving your business time and money.

Microsoft Dynamics ERP’s integrate with the following CRM (Customer Relationship Management):

  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM
  • Salesforce
  • Zoho CRM

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations is cloud-based and comes with an industry specific module for process manufacturers which takes the standard manufacturing, stock, bills of material and routing functions and gives them a process manufacturing slant.

However, users of the process manufacturing industry solution are still able to benefit from the same functionality that discrete manufacturers enjoy. Modules such as finance management, human resource management, sales and purchase order processing, shop floor data collection, quality management, customer relationship management, and planning and scheduling are all still available.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations Features

  • Financial management
  • Human resource management
  • Manufacturing management
  • Inventory management
  • Purchasing management
  • Quality management
  • Sales management
  • Product technology
  • Multiple currencies and languages

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations (AX)

Designed for mid-size to larger companies, Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations (formerly AX) is an on-premise, multilingual and multicurrency enterprise resource planning (ERP) software with core strengths in manufacturing. It also provides powerful functionality for the service and wholesale industries.

With complete end-to-end scalability and flexibility, Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations enables multinational companies to take control of their operations and promote growth.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Operations Features

  • Resource management
  • Job scheduling and sequencing
  • Product configuration
  • Shop floor management
  • Inventory management
  • Compliance management
  • Financial management
  • Distribution planning
  • Quality management
  • Project cost control
  • Sales management

Microsoft Dynamics Business Central (NAV)

Microsoft Dynamics Business Central (formerly NAV) is an easily adaptable enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution. It helps small and medium-sized businesses automate and connect their sales, purchasing, operations, accounting and inventory management.

Business Central provides the required platform to help manufacturing businesses empower their employees, optimize operations and reduce inefficiencies.

Microsoft Dynamics Business Central Features

  • Financial management
  • Business intelligence and reporting
  • Human resources management
  • Supply chain management
  • Multiple currencies and languages
  • Production orders
  • Version management
  • Agile manufacturing
  • Demand forecasting
  • Order management

Microsoft Dynamics GP

Microsoft Dynamics GP provides growing and mid-sized organizations with complete financial and operational solutions. With its easy-to-use features, Microsoft Dynamics GP helps companies gain greater control over financials, better manage operations and inventory, and make informed decisions to support business growth.

Microsoft Dynamics GP Features

  • Financial management
  • Business intelligence and reporting
  • Human resources management
  • Supply chain management
  • Multiple currencies and languages
  • Production orders
  • Version management
  • Agile manufacturing
  • Demand forecasting
  • Order management

Transform your manufacturing business with a Microsoft Dynamics ERP solution that is optimized for your needs. It will give you the leverage to move your manufacturing business into the future, while efficiently addressing today’s challenges. For more information, please visit our partner, Edgeware.

If you’d like to learn more about Commercient SYNC, and how it can help your manufacturing business become more streamlined, contact us today.

About the Author

Anna Kinnear is a Sage Financials Consultant at Edgeware, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. She has always had a passion for reading and writing.

SYNC ERP and CRM

How To Use The Power Of Salesforce For Manufacturing

As traditional business processes become increasingly irrelevant in this modern technology era, manufacturers all over the world are rethinking the way they do business. Companies are undergoing digital transformations to change their existing business models to keep up with technology and stay in the race.

Even so, many manufacturers still struggle to compete in today’s environment because of outdated technology. Now more than ever, manufacturers need to adopt the latest technology solutions, such as Salesforce and Commercient SYNC data integration, if they want to stay competitive and in the forefront of their industry.

CRM and ERP Systems

A common challenge facing manufacturers today is the inability to effectively manage order and demand forecasting.This means that there is difficulty incorporating customer wants and needs early in the planning cycle.

To overcome this challenge, many manufacturers leverage a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system such as Salesforce, the world’s leading CRM. It’s also important to have an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, like Sage, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP Business One or NetSuite. CRM systems handle front-end data while ERP systems engage in critical back-end information.

CRM and ERP Data Integration

Connected data is essential for successful business decision-making. Integrating your ERP and CRM systems can add immense value to your company. Implementing Salesforce and integrating it with your company’s existing ERP system often makes sense for manufacturers who want the best of both worlds.

The right integration tool can sync ERP and CRM data, so manufacturers can better manage complex distribution and supply chains, and meet product demand. Ensure a smooth flow of data between the two systems by using Commercient SYNC, the #1 data integration platform for sales, to connect your ERP and CRM data.

The benefits of SYNCing your ERP with your CRM include enhanced customer service, increased data visibility for all departments, increased data accuracy, automation of data management tasks, optimization of business processes, and so much more.

Salesforce Integrates with the Following Business Systems:

  • Sage
  • SYSPRO
  • NetSuite
  • SAP Business One
  • Microsoft Dynamics Business Central (NAV)
  • Microsoft Dynamics AX
  • Epicor 9
  • Epicor 10
  • Epicor Prophet 21
  • Infor VISUAL
  • and many more

Salesforce

Salesforce is the world’s #1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, and is used by more than 100,000 companies worldwide. Salesforce is suitable for small, medium and large businesses, plus enterprise-level, and focuses on sales and support.

Salesforce’s capabilities include sales management, marketing automation, partner relationship management and customer service. The powerful, cloud-based CRM helps companies manage customer accounts, track sales leads, conduct and monitor marketing campaigns, and provide service post-sale.

Salesforce Features

Some of Salesforce’s most popular features include:

  • Account and Contact Management
  • Opportunity Management and Score
  • Lead Management
  • Sales Data
  • File Sync
  • File Sharing
  • Sales Forecasting
  • Salesforce Mobile App
  • Contact Manager
  • Real-Time Visibility
  • Drag-and-Drop Interface
  • Dashboards
  • Visual Workflow
  • Multi-Currency Support
  • In-Line Editing
  • Lead Assignment and Routing
  • Rules-Based Lead Scoring
  • Web-to-Lead Capture
  • Campaign Management
  • Duplicate Blocking
  • Mass Email
  • Salesforce Engage
  • Email Templates
  • Campaign Influence
  • Calendar
  • Opportunity Splits
  • Contracts, Orders, Quotes, Products, and Price Books
  • Chatter, Files, Topics, and Recommendations
  • Case Management
  • Partner Communities
  • Lead Registration
  • Roles and Permissions
  • Process Builder
  • Lightning Platform

Read about how Commercient helped North West Rubber, a leading manufacturer and distributor of recycled rubber solutions, by SYNCing their ERP and Salesforce systems, helping give a 360 degree view of sales.

If you’d like to learn more about how Commercient SYNC can integrate your manufacturing company’s sales and marketing systems, please contact us today.

About the Author

Anna Kinnear is a Sage Financials Consultant at Edgeware, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. She has always had a passion for reading and writing.

SYNC ERP and CRM