Encompass Events

We had a busy year in 2017 and we’re happy to share a recap of Encompass events and highlights with you, in case you missed the big news.

Team retreat – Asheville NC

Our company retreats are as unique as the people on our team.  Hailing from all over the globe, when our team meets up for a company retreat, you know some amazing and exciting things will happen! This past May, our team met just outside of Asheville, NC for our bi-annual team retreat. This year’s retreat was as intense, educational, and fun as every retreat is, and we can hardly wait until the next one!

 

Customer Appreciation Reception at Epicor Insights 2017

Wine and Cheese!

Thank you to all our Customers who attended and stopped by to visit us during the biggest Epicor Customer event of the year. We loved catching up with you and we look forward to seeing you again very soon!

Kaufman Container – A day In The Life

We would like to give thanks again to Kaufman Container for hosting this open house event with us. Prospects took an up-close and personal tour of how one of our client’s, Kaufman Container, uses Epicor ERP to grow their business. 

It was an opportunity to see and speak to individuals utilizing Epicor ERP. 

Attendees toured six stations showcasing “Day in the Life” demos, depicting how employees in multiple departments are empowered to make the right decisions at the right time due to an integrated MES and ERP system.

This open house format mapped out the various ways that Epicor’s Manufacturing Suite inspires co-workers to collaborate, connect financials and databases, access reports while remote, and communicate effectively.

The Launch Of New Epicor 10.2 Was Announced During The Epicor Ignite 2017 Event   

  • E 10.2 includes a new mobile CRM app, that works with both a limited CRM license and standard licenses. 
  • UI… can make calls directly from the app
  • Epicor is folding the salesforce integration into core product with E 10.2 and adding functionality.
  • Hitachi integration is official with E 10.2
  • Built in KPIs to get customers started with the new home page format.
  • “Growth happens one customer at a time” Steve Murphy, new CEO of Epicor
  • Official announcement: https://www.epicor.com/newsroom/epicor-launches-newest-version-of-epicor-erp/

 Encompass Is Honored As Platinum Epicor Partner 2017

Encompass Solutions continues to provide ERP consulting and industry-leading development of mission-critical enterprise solutions.

The company’s focus is to be an advocate for customers facing the challenges of the market’s fierce competition and is often chosen as experts in the IT field to help enterprises achieve a technological advantage.

Encompass Events For 2018

Office Headquarters expansion: As our company grows yet again, we are going to be expanding our footprint here at Revolution Mills to a bigger office suite.

Updates and exciting news on our Encompass website: We are working hard to bring even more new products and services to the website very soon.

 

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


As an Epicor Platinum partner, we are pleased to announce that Epicor has released a new Epicor ERP software update! We are beyond excited to begin rolling out the new version, expanded features, and improvements to our Epicor clients. Read the details of the latest Epicor ERP software update here.

Epicor ERP Software Update

Epicor Software Corporation, a provider of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth on a global scale, has introduced a new version of Epicor ERP. Epicor is dedicated to delivering ERP solutions to enterprises of every size. Currently, Epicor ERP is in use by thousands of companies in 150 countries worldwide.

The Epicor ERP version update includes robust and expanded functionality that enables manufacturers to thrive, innovate, and remain competitive. Mobile Field Service Automation (FSA) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) are the two largest benefactors of the Epicor ERP version update, while new business intelligence and visual analytics capabilities are available through Epicor Data Discovery. Epicor ERP itself has received a completely redesigned homepage, Active Home Page, Smart Inventory Management, and new country and industry-specific functionality features that include additional country and industry-specific elements within the Epicor ERP system.

“Businesses that adopt the latest technologies in cloud, analytics, and employee experience will be fit to grow and respond to the new digital challenges of tomorrow while achieving a competitive advantage right now. In this, our third major release in the past 13 months, Epicor continues to deliver cloud-enabled, industry-specific functionality, globalization and localization, mobility, and action-oriented analytics, with continued improvements in customer experience, ease-of-use, and performance.”

Scott Hays, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing, Epicor Software

Epicor ERP Software Update: Role-Based Insights For Better, Faster Execution

Gartner recently reported, “In 2018, data and analytics can’t be ignored — analytics will drive major innovation and disrupt established business models in the coming years.”[1] Epicor ERP enables workforces with the essential insights at their fingertips for more relevant, more efficient analysis and action. The Epicor ERP Active Home Page offers role-based analytics through uniquely configurable dashboard views. Epicor Data Discovery (EDD) is what makes all this possible. The tool supports deep, on-demand data exploration to expose real-time operational and business performance analysis to effectively steer intelligent decision making. EDD delivers complex data sets into intuitive graphs and charts that allow users to quickly grasp and gauge performance, trends, and opportunities. drilling down into data sets and testing “what if” scenarios are made easy.

Epicor ERP Software Update: New Mobile FSA And CRM

New mobile Field Service Automation (FSA) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functionality deliver tools that sales and service personnel in the field can leverage conveniently and efficiently. Delivered via the cloud or on-premises, Epicor FSA provides an integrated mapping that supports streamlined scheduling and dispatch activities. The workflows used to automate processes for asset management, contract, warranty and Service Level Agreement (SLAs), and management of service inventory are robust and can be leveraged to great benefit for sales and service personnel. Epicor FSA operates in a reactive capacity, making it a perfect tool for use on smartphones, tablets, and laptops both online and offline. Streamlined communications with back-office workforces enable enhanced productivity and efficiency reaching all facets of the service workforce. The result is improved response, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.

Epicor CRM supports digitally enabled sales engagements for improved efficiency and productivity in buyer/seller experiences and revenue generation. Mobile CRM synchronizes with Epicor ERP and updates data in real time. This enables sales teams to access critical data, such as stock status and customer credit availability quickly and easily in real-time. This can be done in the office or in the field on any mobile device. Robust CRM and sales functionality enable sales teams to keep track of contacts, nurture leads, maintain sales pipelines, and create compelling quotes.

Epicor ERP Software Update: Smarter Inventory Planning and Optimization

The optimum inventory strategies needed to drive profitability and growth are available in Epicor Smart Inventory Planning and Optimization tools. This integrated set of cloud-based functionality delivers solutions for demand planning, inventory optimization, and supply chain analytics that help to propel the adoption of best-practices in both sales and inventory operations planning (SIOP). Leverage this functionality to effectively monitor and prescribe inventory policies and service levels that result in the lowest total cost for your business.

The package provides a mix of substantial forecasting strategies, optimization practices, and consensus demand and inventory planning delivered via an intuitive user interface that can be accessed through any web browser. Reporting and analytics tools deliver the pivotal stats on inventory status that reveal the root causes of operational inefficiencies, stockouts, excess inventory, and late deliveries.

Epicor ERP Software Update: New Functionality And Capability 

New functionality coming in the form of an expanded country- and industry-specific scope provides support for an array of jobs with localized precision. This specific functionality allows for localized geographic supports for global business compliance and reporting, tax and payment processing, and international trade requirements, including legal numbering, and non-recoverable taxes.

Epicor Payment Exchange has been completely integrated with Epicor ERP enabling the customer to take advantage of predictable pricing and low rates. Providing peace-of-mind alongside one of the fastest-growing payment processors in the U.S., Epicor Payment Exchange delivers real-time authorization, next-day settlement, and comprehensive reporting for credit card transactions.

Epicor customers using the Epicor Mattec MES solution haven’t been left out of the update either, thanks to improvements in MES-ERP integration that accounts for various parameters and dependencies related to jobs, scheduling, operators, and/or machines.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


Encompass, Inc. is honored to announce our selection by the Silicon Review as one of the 50 Best Workplaces for 2017.

50 Best Workplaces For 2017

The Silicon Review has noted that our “dynamic and deeply experienced organization” is well-suited to “provide expertise in ERP and business application systems.” Our employee-centric firm gives workers an open forum for discussion because their input is valuable and constructive to the business as a whole. We invest in the professional advancement of each employee as well as foster a positive workplace community to build the trust and communication necessary to function at the high level we do.

In the fifteen years since our first project, Encompass has grown into a global company, turning its ‘virtual offices’ into a physical headquarters in the historic Revolution Mills district of Greensboro, NC. Over that time, Encompass’ tool box has expanded as well, forging relationships with many technology partners and allowing Encompass to offer any client the perfect solution to their needs.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


In recent years, the rising average age of vehicles on the road has presented a valuable opportunity for automotive service providers looking to gain additional business. On the other hand, thriving high-volume shops face limitations to the amount of work they can take on. Those limitations often are dictated by time – the time required to diagnose a needed repair, generate an estimate, order replacement parts and/or complete the repair. Increasing Service Shop Efficiency is an endeavor automotive service providers of every size are constantly striving for.

The Push For Service Shop Efficiency

Service professionals have no control over the number of hours in the day – only how they use them. The good news is that modern technology solutions can have a drastic impact when it comes to how much time is spent on common service-related tasks. One solution is the powerful, web-based Epicor Integrated Service Estimator (ISE) service estimating tool. Implemented by thousands of tire dealerships, oil-and-lube facilities, transmission service businesses, tune-up specialists and general repair shops, the platform enables users to quickly and accurately generate comprehensive repair estimates and source replacement parts from multiple local vendors.

For a limited time, those who rely on ISE to streamline their estimating and parts sourcing processes will have an opportunity to participate in a new sweepstakes promotion. From December 1 through May 31, 2018, Epicor will hold monthly drawings to award a total of 12 professional-grade Innova scan tools to vehicle service businesses using the platform, with each order generated and completed through ISE earning users one free entry. Two scan tools will be awarded each month to randomly chosen winners – one Innova 5160 CarScan PRO for the first-place winner and one Innova 5100 CarScan ABS/SRS for the second-place winner.

How Providers Can Increase Service Shop Efficiency

This new promotion makes sense for Epicor and Innova on many levels. Not only do both companies share a strong, ongoing commitment to the success of their customers, but, in many respects, Epicor ISE is the service counter equivalent of a high-tech diagnostic tool. Both solutions serve the function of automating what traditionally were manual processes to increase overall shop productivity. Both also facilitate a shop’s ability to complete jobs faster and get customers in and out with as little hassle as possible. Not only does this ensure a superior customer experience, but it also gives automotive service shops an opportunity to take on more business.

To learn more about our Epicor ISE solution and the new sweepstakes promotion, contact your Epicor representative or visit www.epicor.com/ISEsweeps.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


Siemens Manufacturing, Epicor ERP, Encompass Solutions

There is a common similarity in name and industry to the German conglomerate Siemens, but Siemens Manufacturing is a great company of its own, based in St Louis. In 1963, Siemens Manufacturing Company was founded by John and Jim Siemens to manufacture custom control and test equipment for industrial customers. Today, their team of nearly 200 employees maintains a commitment to advanced technology, innovative product manufacturing and delivering high-quality solutions to customers.

an image of the Siemens Manufacturing logo

Siemens continues to experience tremendous growth, having outgrown an older and no longer supported information system, they started looking for a fully integrated ERP solution with overall newer technology and capabilities to include stronger manufacturing, production, inventory, user-friendliness, and overall ERP. 

During their evaluation of a new software solution, which took a few months, Siemens also considered another high caliber software solution. In the end, Epicor stood out for having solid features such as Project Management, Resource Management, Financials, as well as equally advanced capabilities for choosing on-premise or cloud deployment.

Epicor did an excellent job in the demo and really showed what Epicor ERP was capable of.

“We were all impressed with the demonstration and the fact that you wrote a mini customization in very short time. This showed us that you could solve the problems we had concerns about as it related to the inventory one to many parts master and BOM.”

John Siemens – President

“We are all behind the selection and want to make this a success for the company.”

Jeff Hamma – Director Materials/Planning

Siemens Manufacturing Selects Encompass Solutions

Siemens has chosen Encompass Solutions to help deliver the Epicor solution their business needs to better handle their tremendous growth. We look forward to building a system for them that goes far beyond the potential they saw at the Epicor Insights convention and will allow them to expand beyond what they thought possible.

Epicor annual user and customer convention ‘Epicor Insights’ was also a great opportunity for Siemens to get a close look at what Epicor has to offer. This year’s event was the largest ever, with over 4,000 attendees from across the world joining together to learn, share, and grow alongside Epicor. While there is plenty of technical talk for veteran Epicor power users, the annual Epicor Insights is one of the best ways for potential customers to learn how powerful Epicor is, and how effectively it can improve and enhance their businesses.

In a speech to a large audience of customers and prospects, Himanshu Palsule, Epicor Chief Product and Technology Officer, discussed growth, industry and the cloud. He said “When you think of Epicor, you think about a company that is fixated on the growth of the customers. Growth in your revenue, growth in your profitability, growth in operations.” 

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


Encompass Solutions, Inc. has won the Epicor Platinum Partner award in the Annual Partner Program Awards event.

Epicor Platinum Partner Award

Recipients were selected by Epicor Software Corporation based on contributions to customers, revenue generated to Epicor as well as other considerations that showcased the partners’ abilities in transforming customers to position them to grow by leveraging Epicor solutions.

“We are honored to be recognized by Epicor as Platinum Partner for another consecutive year as we continue to deliver excellence throughout the implementation, custom solutions, and training of Epicor ERP,” said Sonia Haslam, managing partner, Encompass Solutions, Inc. Encompass is also proud to integrate value-add products and offer e-business capabilities for specific projects.

Encompass expertise extends from project planning and management through the entire implementation, with a special focus on process improvement. Encompass offers a wide range of services from selection to complete implementation of state-of-the-art ERP systems, to integration and renovation of existing systems as well as analysis and solutions to corporate challenges.

“Congratulations to our Partner Program Award recipient Encompass Solutions, Inc., for enabling business growth through Epicor solutions,” said Steve Murphy, chief executive officer, Epicor Software Corporation. “Our partners are an extension of our salesforce and we are fortunate to have such a talented group of IT professionals aligned with us to support customers with business growth, innovation, and enhanced customer experience.”

Epicor Partner Program Awards

The Epicor Partner Program Awards are designed to reward Epicor Channel Partner Program members who have demonstrated their ability to serve as an extension of Epicor’s own salesforce to help businesses worldwide grow and transform. There are several different categories across different geographies in which partners are awarded, ranging from Global Partner of the Year to specific recognitions such as Rookie of the Year and Marketing Excellence.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


Automotive service providers thriving in today’s challenging
economic climate often have one thing in common – a drive to pursue continuous
improvement
. Successful shops are always looking for ways to increase salesan image of the new Epicor integrated service estimator on display. and
revenue and give customers more reasons to remain loyal.  Shop professionals can see a powerful new
solution to this challenge in the Epicor booth at this week’s Automotive
Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. That solution is the Epicor Integrated Service Estimator.

Epicor Integrated Service Estimator (ISE)

Epicor is expanding its presence in the automotive service
sector with each new generation of the powerful Epicor Integrated Service
Estimator (ISE)
web-based service estimating and parts sourcing solution. This
business-building tool provides shop professionals with instant, one-click
access to automotive parts information, pricing and local availability, as well
as labor information, OE service intervals and other critical information
needed to boost mechanical repair sales and bay productivity.

Epicor Integrated Service Estimator Expansion

By extending the Epicor Integrated Service
Estimator 
efficiency benefits to
technicians, the optional “Smart Inspection” mobile tool helps
service providers instantly capture and communicate the results of comprehensive,
guided vehicle inspections. This innovative new feature lets technicians use
tablet computers to photograph and record the condition of key vehicle systems
and components. They can then deliver this information to the customer in a
customized report and import the results to their shop’s point-of-sale system.

By providing quick access to more than 11 million parts from
over 7,800 manufacturer product lines, Epicor Integrated Service
Estimator 
allows users to expand into virtually any mechanical service category and create professional job estimates in as little as one minute. With the addition of our new Smart Inspection feature, the tool has become that much more powerful by giving technicians a way to help eliminate manual data input and offer consumers the information needed to make more informed decisions.

Already, ISE is helping thousands of automotive service, tire, and oil-and-lube businesses increase productivity and boost mechanical sales by allowing them to quickly and efficiently import parts, labor and pricing information into their estimates, work orders and invoices. And the new Smart Inspection tool is indicative of what many successful automotive service businesses already know – there is always room to improve.

Top 10 Benefits Of The Epicor Integrated Service Estimator

Automotive repair shops receive substantial benefits when utilizing the full potential of the Epicor Integrated Service Estimator™, which include.

  1. Expansion into virtually any mechanical service category through instant access to information on more than 10 million parts from over 7,800 manufacturer product lines
  2. Drive sales of high-value/high-margin jobs through an integrated database of OE-recommended service intervals
  3. Enabling service writers fast, confident and effective recommendations when providing add-on services by putting more information at their fingertips
  4. Save time on every estimate with one-click access to part details, photos, pricing, and local availability
  5. Elimination of estimating errors with documented parts and labor requirements for each job
  6. Closing more sales and impressing customers by quickly producing accurate, professionally printed mechanical estimates
  7. Completing estimates and repair orders in as little as one minute by eliminating the need to rekey parts and labor information
  8. Increasing bay and technician productivity by electronically confirming part availability through local suppliers
  9. Quickly creating comprehensive, accurate estimates on complex mechanical repairs through more than 400 custom job packages
  10. Avoid time-consuming software maintenance with a cloud-based architecture that ensures you’re always running the latest and best version Learn more about Integrated Service Estimator.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


As a leading provider of replacement parts information and related content for the automotive aftermarket, Epicor works diligently to stay ahead of market trends, collaborating with leading parts and service professionals to ensure their needs are being met by current and future iterations of our comprehensive eCatalog solutions. The software corporation’s most recent accomplishments in this area are on display during this week’s Automotive Aftermarket: the Epicor PartExpert eCatalog.

an image of the epicor partexpert ecatalog interface

Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, the star of the show being the Epicor PartExpert eCatalog.

Epicor PartExpert eCatalog

Epicor’s latest innovation – a graphics-based interface for the Epicor PartExpert eCatalog – is designed to further accelerate the parts lookup and ordering processes. An optional add-on feature, the new interface enables users to identify parts simply by clicking on interactive diagrams of application-specific vehicle systems. Clicking on a part within the diagram automatically pulls up the component in a catalog search.

Automotive Diagnostics And Maintenance With Epicor PartExpert eCatalog

Moving forward, the catalog technology will become even more intuitive, as seen in the “Catalog of the Future” augmented reality (A/R) electronic catalog interface concept, also being showcased at AAPEX. This proprietary new tool allows parts professionals and service technicians to inspect vehicle systems, access and visualize parts and labor information, view installation instructions, order replacement components and perform a variety of other functions using a tablet computer or wearable device. By enabling users to complete these key tasks directly from the service bay, this latest innovation marks a new benchmark for catalog usability, efficiency, and value.

It’s been more than 30 years since Epicor introduced the first aftermarket parts eCatalog solution, and it’s seen many changes in that time. Ultimately, the continual evolution of the Epicor PartExpert eCatalog has helped ensure accurate, rich product “content” is available when and where it’s needed to the thousands of distributors, jobbers, automotive service shops and others who rely on it. But tangentially, it’s also helped to lead those businesses along a path to stronger growth.

More than ever before, convenience is the key to winning new business and retaining customers, and parts businesses must be able to quickly and accurately identify, select and source the parts their customers need. By facilitating these needs, an effective eCatalog solution translates to more completed jobs and higher profit margins. By making parts searching faster, easier and more efficient, technologies such as the Catalog of the Future and the new graphical PartExpert interface can make those goals a reality.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


The Project For Sunlight Supply

One of the most powerful factors of the ERP systems we install are customized solutions working hand-in-hand with preexisting tools tailor-made for specific industries. Let’s take a look at how we helped one of our clients, Sunlight Supply, further refine their process and increase their efficiency with two solutions.

an image of sunlight meant to depict sunlight supply, the subject of this case study by encompass solutions

Sunlight Supply, Inc., headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, manufactures and distributes gardening supplies. Sunlight implemented Epicor in 2011 and migrated to 10.1 last year, and they have over 150 users.

The Challenge For Sunlight Supply

The first issue we needed to help solve involved Return Material Authorization (RMA). Sunlight was experiencing a large volume of RMAs and the process was bottlenecking because there were too many required Epicor screens for the credit memos to be generated quickly.

The second issue Sunlight was experiencing was with Order Allocation. The standard allocation logic in Epicor was being used differently by just about every user. When orders were not allocated consistently due to staff turnover and training issues, it caused picking problems for the shipping team. Those errors caused customer shipment delays, resulting in dissatisfied customers. Their new headquarters warehouse was more complex, requiring a custom allocation methodology.

Their Customer Service Team used to manually allocate each sales order in the fulfillment workbench and release the picks. This was a two-step process; more steps were necessary if overstock zones were involved. After the changes, the Customer Service Rep ‘reserves’ quantities in the workbench. An automated program then takes over to allocate the orders from appropriate warehouse zones based upon set up for case quantities, pallet quantities, and searching the zones via a prioritized algorithm. The records are then released for picking.

The Solution For Sunlight Supply

Working with us on the first task, Sunlight Supply decided to automate the process using BPMs, Service Connect, and customizations. This is what they accomplished:

  • To create the RMA, it is imported directing from their website or entered manually. Data auto-fills from RMA reason codes, Customer, and Part Master User Defined fields. A UPS return shipping label is generated for customer use.
  • When the product is returned and the receipt is entered, the receiving warehouse and bin are automatically populated. The reason code triggers the disposition as rework, stock, or defective. Service Connect automates the disposition in the background, eliminating data entry.
  • A credit memo is automatically created based on the reason code, pulling in the unit price from the last invoice. Restocking fees are added, and the system reverses the term’s discount. Finally, Epicor posts to the specified GL account.

The changes in the RMA process allowed Sunlight to eliminate data entry errors and simplify workflow. They were able to reduce headcount in RMA and Accounting and respond in a timely manner to their customers. Finally, this automation allowed Sunlight to expand and improve customer service throughout the RMA process.

In the case of tackling the second challenge, Sunlight used user codes, BPMs, and customizations to automate Order Allocation. Automated order allocation saves Customer Service time. It reduced data entry errors and inconsistencies that slow down the entire shipping process. It improves picking & shipping productivity, allowing them to ship orders to customers more quickly. It is expected to increase inventory accuracy and warehouse operations efficiencies as well. The end result is satisfied customers.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.


ERP systems are kinda our thing, so we’re sure you’ll understand when we get really, really excited about version updates. We understand that most people don’t get excited about version updates at all… in fact, a lot of people get nervous at the idea of change. That’s where we come in. We love keeping our clients on the cutting edge and version updates help us make your business more efficient, productive, and streamlined. Get ready for the Epicor ERP 10.2 Update!

announcing the Epicor ERP 10.2 Update

That’s definitely something you can get excited about.

Epicor ERP 10.2 Update Details

Epicor 10.2 has been kept tightly under wraps, but earlier in the month, Express and Multi-Tenant Cloud customers were able to receive a pilot upgrade, and customers with embedded education have access to delta training courses. Our team has been training hard on learning the new features and functionality so that we can continue our commitment to excellence by providing seamless updates and smooth roll-outs.

The new Epicor mission statement—“Ease of Everything”—gives us a clue on what to expect. They’ve made no secret of the fact that there will be a new User Experience with this version, and the new customizable, role-based Home Page will feature active tiles that will display—in real time!—the important data your business needs immediate access to in order to keep your workflow running.

So: Get excited. Epicor 10.2 will be out soon and Encompass will be there to help take your business to the next level.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.