As we have already discussed in previous articles, manufacturing companies who use ERP systems as their main business system are able to successfully reduce manufacturing costs, as well as reduce their inventory by up to 20% and improve overall efficiency. While up to 72% of manufacturers are currently employing ERP systems, many are not receiving the full benefits that an ERP system can offer. In order to continue growing the company and operating efficiently, CEOs and CFOs of manufacturing companies need to develop a strong ERP strategy.
How Do You Develop Your ERP Strategy?
It is safe to say that current economic conditions are a significant challenge for businesses of any size. Smaller companies, however, do not cite it as their top challenge. Focused on creating a name for themselves, smaller manufacturing companies are most challenged with brand awareness and market exposure. While larger manufacturing companies struggle with the increase of competition within the market, employee retention and rising operating costs, the current economy remains their greatest challenge.
The overall goals and challenges of a business impact a company’s ERP strategy. Smaller companies tend to be more focused with the market and customer awareness while larger companies focus on costs and managing the growth of their organization. These concerns contribute to the development of the all-important ERP strategy. Small and medium-sized companies look to ERP systems to manage and drive their cost position, while preparing for future growth. Smaller companies also look to ERP systems to manage their operations; however, they place a higher priority on the customer experience.
Top ERP Drivers
While small and large manufacturing companies have different challenges that create distinctive ERP strategies, cost reduction is still the main driver of successful ERP strategies. As a result, manufacturing companies must focus their ERP strategies on business process execution. The strongest ERP strategies are developed by companies wishing to:
- Streamline and accelerate processes to improve efficiency and productivity
- Standardize business processes
- Provide visibility to business processes across functions and departments
- Optimize the use of current capacity
- Link global operations to improve interoperability and collaboration
Taking an Integrated Approach
ERP is not a “one-size-fits-all” type of business management system. Every manufacturing company comes with its own unique sets of needs and standards, and a strong ERP strategy should meet the unique needs of each company. For that reason, many companies are turning to a multi-tiered ERP strategy in order to operate to their full capacity. In fact, recent research has shown that significant benefits can be gained from an integrated ERP solution.
Manufacturing companies who take an integrated approach to ERP are 3.4 times more likely to report a reduction in operational costs than companies who run a “one-size-fits-all” model. They are also 85% more likely to report a reduction in inventory costs and 2.6 times as likely to report an increase in profit.
Benefits of an ERP Strategy
The ongoing success of an ERP system and its contribution to the success of a manufacturing company is dependent upon the overall ERP strategy (not just the ERP implementation). Companies must take the time to set guidelines for how they define, monitor, support and apply their ERP system. Companies that maintain their ERP strategy and align that strategy with their overall business strategy, internal capabilities and business needs derive real operational benefits. Successful manufacturing companies monitor and measure not only their business operations, but they also monitor their ERP system and how it is performing and aligning with the business. With the proper strategy, ERP will bring greater visibility, lower manufacturing costs, reduced inventory and improved efficiency to any manufacturing company.
If you are currently considering making an ERP investment or would like to fully utilize your current ERP solution, developing an ERP strategy is key. Download your copy of “ERP in Manufacturing 2011: Defining the ERP Strategy” now for tips on developing a strategy that will help you lower manufacturing costs and improve your overall operational efficiency.
If you are ready to take action and need practical advice on the next steps toward reducing costs, click here to sign up for a free 30-minute business consultation.