23
May 2019
0
SourceDay logo

SourceDay Procurement Automation Solutions

Traditionally, the procurement process requires a great deal of manual effort as businesses commit resources to find and

SourceDay Procurement Automation Solutions

Automation , , , , Sean Balogh

Traditionally, the procurement process requires a great deal of manual effort as businesses commit resources to find and acquire goods, services, or work from external sources. These agreements require further attention as contracts need to be drawn, terms agreed to, and those agreements are managed throughout the life of the manufacturer/supplier relationship. This often extends far beyond one source to incorporate many external suppliers who can fulfill needs when another supplier cannot or for materials of varying quality and composition. The process has been most often achieved through a tendering or competitive bidding process. Fortunately, modern procurement automation solutions have enabled manufacturers to hand off many of their manual tasks to self-guided systems. The resulting procurement process improvement frees valuable internal resources for business-critical decision-making and strategizing efforts. Our partners at SourceDay have developed these industry-leading procurement automation solutions for use in an array of manufacturing and supply chain scenarios.

an image of the sourceday procurement automation solutions on a laptop

SourceDay Procurement Automation Solutions

SourceDay Procurement Automation Solutions For Buyers And Suppliers

For suppliers, Managing customers’ needs can be a daunting task. SourceDay allows you to handle it all in one convenient place. Purchase order management and buyer/supplier collaboration solutions work together to eliminate the headaches that come with managing an extensive list of customers. What’s even more attractive is the fact that SourceDay’s procurement automation solutions are free for suppliers.

For buyers, maintaining an effective and intuitive collaboration process with suppliers brings many challenges. when parts are being ordered in vast quantities the sheer volume of parts being ordered and so much relying on those parts arriving perfectly, supplier relationships are critical. A delay, an error, poor quality materials, or miscommunication can have detrimental implications with ripple effects that impact the end customer.

ERP systems, like Infor, SAP, NetSuite, and Epicor, help companies manage their businesses from financial operations to inventory management, production, and customer fulfillment. As good as ERP systems are, they all have feature gaps in functionality. Today’s ERP systems lack effective tools for managing purchase orders and suppliers. Once the ERP establishes requirements and the POs are generated, most buyers leave their ERP systems and rely on static, manual spreadsheets, emails, phone calls, and faxes to handle the rest. This equates to data in the ERP system being out of sync and creates aggravation, and mistakes while making it impossible for manufacturing and distribution companies to schedule production runs and forecast deliveries to their customers.

SourceDay ERP Integrations

SourceDay has developed seamless integrations alongside the most widely used ERP systems. This extends manufacturers’ investments in technology, amplifies the power in controlling internal and external processes, as well as boosts the functionality of existing ERP systems. By digitizing and automating supplier purchase order updates into existing ERP systems, customers receive a complete data transfer that eliminates errors and wasted time that results from manual-entry tasks, all while maintaining up-to-date data in your ERP system. Implementing SourceDay, further increases the return on existing ERP system investments.

SourceDay can integrate into nearly any ERP:

  • Epicor
  • Epicor Eclipse
  • Epicor Prophet 21
  • SAP
  • NetSuite
  • ECI M1
  • Exact Macola
  • Infor
  • Infor CloudSuite Industrial
  • Infor-SyteLine
  • Infor Visual
  • Microsoft Dynamics AX
  • Microsoft Dynamics NAV
  • Plex
  • QAD
  • Shoptech E2

If you don’t see your current ERP system in the list below, you can reach out using the contact us link below to confirm that your system is eligible for SourceDay ERP Integration.

Mobile SourceDay Procurement Automation Solutions

SourceDay is the only procurement management software specifically made to solve the most common challenges manufacturing and distribution companies face in managing their direct spending. Now, with SourceDay Mobile, procurement leaders, and their teams can manage procurement from anywhere at any time from their smartphones. Users will have quicker access to view, acknowledge and communicate on procurement data, where the data is being consumed, for endless collaboration. No other solution brings greater execution and visibility into the procurement and PO lifecycle while reducing risk, costs, and delays.

The benefits of mobility are felt several times over with SourceDay procurement automation solutions, including:

  • Manufacturing and distribution business flexibility that delivers agility in decision-making processes anywhere, regardless of location, country, or time zones
  • Stronger and more easily managed buyer/supplier partnerships with collaboration tools that can be leveraged anytime, anywhere
  • More efficient and proactive customer support to drive supply chain performance
  • Real-time notifications delivered to your mobile devices provide the framework for immediate action and quick decision-making

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 the Industry.

21
May 2019
9
an image of the supply chain of goods and impovements made via procurement automation software

Top 10 Benefits Of Procurement Automation

Traditionally, the procurement process requires a great deal of manual effort as businesses commit resources to find and

Top 10 Benefits Of Procurement Automation

Automation , , , , Sean Balogh

Traditionally, the procurement process requires a great deal of manual effort as businesses commit resources to find and acquire goods, services, or work from external sources. These agreements require further attention as contracts need to be drawn, terms agreed to, and those agreements are managed throughout the life of the manufacturer/supplier relationship. This often extends far beyond one source to incorporate many external suppliers who can fulfill needs when another supplier cannot or for materials of varying quality and composition. The process has been most often achieved through a tendering or competitive bidding process. Fortunately, modern tools have enabled manufacturers to hand off many of these manual tasks to procurement automation solutions. The resulting procurement process improvement frees valuable internal resources for business-critical decision-making and strategizing efforts. Here are our top 10 procurement automation use cases to help start automating the procurement process in your organization.

1. Direct Procurement Tasks: Minimizing The Manual

Spreadsheets, faxes, and emails have long been staples of direct procurement processes. unfortunately, the variability of the results can lead to an unreliable supply chain. There is simply too much opportunity for data entry errors, lost communications, and missed deadlines. This poor visibility in your supply chain and the procurement process can prove to be a significant hurdle to overcome and even potentially cause a halt in manufacturing and machinery. Production stoppages can cost millions in labor, expedited shipping costs, and poor customer satisfaction. By minimizing the manual entry of data and other associated tasks, procurement automation improves your business performance from the inside out.

2. Procurement Automation Elevates Supplier Performance

The benefits of working with a quality supplier cannot be overstated. suppliers are often overlooked as a critical business component as they can impact the functions of your entire organization. Unfortunately,  the manual nature of most procurement management makes it difficult to stay on top of past-due or poor-quality materials.

By operating with outdated and disparate tools, there is no visibility into supplier on-time performance and responsiveness to PO acknowledgments and confirmations. Communication between buyers, suppliers, and stakeholders turns into a moving target when what you need is a predictable performer. Automation tools built specifically for the procurement process bring clear and reliable communication channels to the forefront while helping to reduce errors, missed deadlines, and unhappy customers.

3. Supplier Accountability Improves

Procurement automation solutions hold historical data for you to use when evaluating which suppliers are keeping in line with the standards you have set for your relationship. Scorecards keep track of what matters most, including:

  • Supplier price variance
  • On-time delivery
  • Quality
  • Responsiveness

These scorecards ensure that ISO-certified companies maintain adherence to an in-depth supplier scoring system to remain ISO compliant. If your suppliers are delivering below your expectations, you can see a complete history of events leading to a downgrading of their rating. This makes having conversations about delivery easy, thanks to concrete historical data you can access from anywhere.

4. Procurement Automation Improves Collaboration

The simplicity and clarity of purpose-built procurement automation tools represent a monumental shift in supplier performance and supply chain efficiency. These systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with your ERP system. They deliver the ability to see and react to changes in real time from a single source of data. By automating your needs, from manual buying processes to performance analytics, business becomes streamlined at every level. You’ll find tremendous benefits through procurement automation in:

  • Collaboration – Increase collaboration between the buyer and supplier.
  • Visibility – Update data automatically in the ERP and view the information in real time.
  • Performance – Enhance performance with more accurate information and consistent communication and alerts.
  • Transformation – Improve productivity and supplier performance with better internal resource allocation and more accurate data.

5. Purchase Order Systems Become Streamlined

Automated purchase order management systems extend the power of your ERP. This provides you with the ability to manage direct spending and buyer-supplier relationships. when purchase orders are created these systems expedite purchase order acknowledgments, track due dates, and status changes, and alert your suppliers to important PO changes. All purchase order details and buyer/supplier communications can be tracked directly with each purchase order. Just like with EDI, updates are sent in real-time and immediately sync to your ERP.

6. Better Document Management

As operations expand, more trading partners and suppliers are brought into the fold. Communications, contracts, purchase orders, invoices, and a host of other documents are being routed back and forth between internal and external resources every day. Procurement automation tools will make sharing and managing all types of documents with your suppliers a hassle-free endeavor. By ensuring your suppliers automatically receive the latest revisions of manuals, prints, bill-of-materials, and specifications, they are better able to meet your needs and deliver on their obligations. Uploading your documents into these procurement automation tools will share the latest version of existing documents with your supplier automatically. New documents being uploaded need initial permissions and routing protocol set up, but it’s on autopilot after that, in most cases. You can even require a supplier to confirm receipt of your document and easily send reminders to suppliers who are slow to accept, further aiding in accountability and supplier performance.

7. Advance Shipment Notifications, Simplified

Completing detailed Advance Shipment Notification (ASN) documents, saving them to a given platform, and automatically sending them to buyers before shipment is made easy with procurement automation. The tools help buyers and receiving departments improve performance as it pertains to incoming supplier shipments with standardized barcodes and shipping labels. A quick scan of a barcode and receivers instantly know the contents of any box.

8. Superior Quality Control

Procurement automation tools track the incoming inspection of materials, placing parts in a quality queue and flagging them for review to simplify your quality control processes. If the item(s) fails inspection, the reviewer inputs the reasons into the tool and collaborates with the supplier to disposition the material.

9. Easy Request For Quote (RFQ) Management

Spreadsheets only slow things down when you want RFQs promptly and intuitive layout. With procurement automation, you can send a request for a quote to your suppliers to track every step of the way, automatically. A comprehensive view of every supplier on your list will allow you to make an informed decision without having to jump between multiple sheets. Tracking responses that align with the best pricing and scorecard rating make it easy to compare offers and choose the suppliers who best fit your requirements.

10. Mobile Utilization Of Procurement Automation

Mobility is key for any modern organization. If you can’t make decisions on the move, you are essentially desk-bound. That means, if you’re not in the office, chances are you’re not taking action. Today, procurement automation solutions place simple and intuitive smartphone apps in your hands. These native-developed applications assist in managing procurement and purchase orders from anywhere, at any time. Leveraging quicker access to view, acknowledge, and communicate procurement data where the data is being consumed allows you to make smarter business decisions, faster.

Want to know more about procurement automation? Get in touch with the experts at Encompass Solutions using the contact us link below. We’ll help you identify the ideal procurement automation solution for your business’s unique needs.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm, NetSuite Solution Provider, and Epicor Platinum Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

01
May 2019
0
An image of the Epicor Virtual Agent, EVA, being used on a mobile device

Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA) | Artificial Intelligence For ERP

Interactive interfaces are the next stage in workforce agility, providing more visibility into data and processes while enabling

Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA) | Artificial Intelligence For ERP

Epicor , , , , , , Sean Balogh

Interactive interfaces are the next stage in workforce agility, providing more visibility into data and processes while enabling faster reaction times. Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA) is Epicor Software Corp.’s answer to manufacturers’ desire to extract more value from their current assets and investments without incurring higher costs or sacrificing product quality. The Epicor Virtual Agent, aptly named EVA, is a cutting-edge digital assistant designed to help users work more intelligently.

Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA) At Work

With built-in artificial intelligence, EVA can simplify user interactions with the ERP system and automate manual tasks to speed up operations. Text and voice cognitive skills enable EVA to transform data into visual representations. The result is an intuitive experience that allows users to complete actions on native devices with ease. The technology is powered by Natural Language Processing (NLP), a human-computer interactive technology that users can leverage from mobile devices with requests and tasks that will be addressed by the Epicor Virtual Agent. Targeted information and data to enable faster, better decision-making is then delivered in real-time.

An image of the Epicor Virtual Assistant, EVA, being used on a mobile device

According to Scott Hays, Epicor senior vice president of product marketing, “When EVA responds within the Epicor solution, she does so with more visuals,” offering the example, “If I ask for a typical part, I’ll get back an image of the part with the key information I need to know right away. And, she’ll have a ‘next best action button.” Users can also request more information, including part price or quantity on hand, which will be provided by the Epicor Virtual Agent via the request and response interface.

Taking The Epicor Virtual Agent Beyond Conversation

While the request/response conversational experience may be what most users are familiar with when it comes to virtual agents, the Epicor Virtual Agent extends functionality into proactive suggestions based on best practices. The proactive decision-making process takes into account combinations of events, market statistics, and historical data. Designed to extend and support the workforce, EVA can provide insights teams can easily overlook to improve accuracy, and problem-spotting, and can even forecast or adjust production or distribution levels according to customer demand.

When conversation falls short, actional insights reinforce the agent’s effectiveness according to Hayes, who elaborated on what it means to be an effective virtual agent, stating “The second capability is taking action. If EVA has noticed something going on, she may say that based on what she’s seeing happening on the factory floor I should schedule maintenance on a machine.” The data described includes that from shop floor machines and IoT sensors. These devices, coupled with Epicor ERP, create a virtual nervous system that enables seamless and informed communications between EVA and users’ mobile devices.

The Epicor Virtual Agent In Action

By utilizing the EVA via an interface device, management can confirm or deny suggestions from the Epicor Virtual Agent with just a few clicks or taps. Production managers can schedule maintenance for a machine, shift production to other machines, and carry out an array of other actions with ease.

The Epicor Virtual Agent goes beyond traditional manufacturing scenarios, too. Other applications and industry-specific use cases include:

  • Distribution — EVA can provide outside sales and field service representatives with instant and easy access to information they need, such as product details, price, and availability information, as well as the ability to create a quote on their mobile devices while meeting with customers face-to-face.
  • Retail — EVA utilizes an AI-powered recommendation engine based on market basket analysis to suggest relevant cross-sell or up-sell recommendations in real time. This can take place in the aisle, in real-time, where purchase decisions are made.
  • Automotive Aftermarket — By using AI to evaluate huge datasets that include vehicle registrations and parts failure rates by region, EVA can communicate to auto parts distributors that specific parts are in high demand and stock levels of specific parts need to be replenished or increased to meet that projected demand.

Leveraging The Epicor Virtual Agent Alongside Epicor ERP

Developed using AI services from Microsoft Azure AI services are an integral part of EVA’s development. As such, the Epicor Virtual Agent can accompany any size and type of Epicor implementation, be it on-premise or in the cloud. By delivering the power of EVA to customers of every size, even small and medium-sized companies can leverage the innovative tech the biggest enterprises use to grow their businesses.

Hays emphasizes EVA’s machine learning component and how extended use will make the tool even more ubiquitous, “With EVA, you interact naturally with your ERP system. It’s as easy as just talking or typing to a colleague. This makes the breadth and depth of the industry-specific functionality and information available inside the system directly accessible to a larger audience, boosting productivity and efficiency, and giving the company an improved return on their ERP investment.”

EVA will be available as part of the latest releases of Epicor ERP and Prophet 21, which are planned for general availability in May 2019.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm and Epicor Gold Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

23
Apr 2019
1
an image of the automate 2019 logo

Automate 2019 Recap

We came, we saw, it was awesome. Encompass Solutions’ participation as exhibitors and speakers at Automate 2019 gave

Automate 2019 Recap

Events , , , , , , , , , Sean Balogh

We came, we saw, it was awesome. Encompass Solutions’ participation as exhibitors and speakers at Automate 2019 gave us the perfect vantage point from which to experience the show and deliver an Automate 2019 recap.

an image of the encompass solutions booth team at automate 2019

Automate 2019 At a Glance

Produced by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the show featured more than 500 exhibitors in the massive 160,000-square-feet exhibition space at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. In addition, the show hosted five educational tracks that included practical training in How to Automate, Automation Solutions & Innovation, Collaborative & Mobile Robotics, AI, Digitalization & Smart Manufacturing, Certified Vision Professional (CVP) Basic, Certified Vision Professional (CVP) Advanced, Certified Motion Control Professional (CMCP), and Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Updates. These tracks included content from introductory level to advanced topics for users, students, educators, and operators. While we delivered an introductory seminar on current automation types, robotics in use on the factory floor, and how you can get started implementing in your facilities, we attended several breakout and advanced sessions. During each of those talks, one theme emerged over and over–ours is the age of automation.

Here are just a few more happenings from Automate 2019 regarding new advanced robots and robot vendor developments that are rolling out into facilities worldwide.

Automation 2019 Key Takeaways

There were too many things we learned at Automate 2019 to list in one post. However, we want to share a few highlights that we think everyone needs to consider moving forward:

  • Automation is here and it’s only gaining more momentum as advancements in hardware, software, and utilization become more refined.
  • If you are not thinking about leveraging automation and robotics, you are already behind.
  • While many are expecting an economic downturn between 2020-2022, now is still the best time to begin investing in these technologies.
  • Start small. You don’t have to outfit your entire operation to remain competitive. start with one robot or one instance of automated assembly. build from there.
  • Empower your staff and involve them in the transformation that is coming.
  • Focused Automation and Robotics specializations for employees will be necessary, as there will be less and less room for unskilled staff in modernized facilities.
  • Upskilling current staff will be of greater benefit and lower cost for employers than training and onboarding new staff.=

It’s going to be a hard-fought battle to outpace competitors as automation becomes more affordable and more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises. Start training and experimenting with automation today and you’ll be ready to weather the bout.

ERP At Automate 2019

We spoke with hundreds of users and manufacturers thinking about robotics and automation during the weeklong Automate 2019 event. While the robots and automation enclosures were captivating, to say the least, one thing few seemed to consider during that time was how they were going to connect those robotics and automated systems to the rest of their enterprise. In short, the answer is an ERP solution.

It’s one thing to install a robot on your factory floor to install windshields, make welds, or assemble PCBs. However, what are you doing with that data from your manufacturing processes? Are you even tracking it? By plugging your robotics and automation data into your ERP system, you are getting more detailed accounts of performance, quality, material and time optimization, maintenance cycles, and so much more. Everyone we spoke with, from attendees to exhibitors to organizers, agreed that ERP connectivity is an essential component of automation and robotics on the factory floor. We look forward to carrying those conversations further and urge everyone looking to automate processes or install robots in their facilities to consider the necessity for visibility and connectivity when evaluating such technologies.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm and Epicor Gold Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

28
Feb 2019
10
an image of payment control best practices being used as part of march 2019 news and updates from encompass

Payment Control Best Practices, AP Automation, And ERP

Fraud has been a thorn in the side of B2B business transactions as long as those transactions have

Payment Control Best Practices, AP Automation, And ERP

ERP , , , , , Sean Balogh

Fraud has been a thorn in the side of B2B business transactions as long as those transactions have existed. With more advanced technology at their disposal, illegitimate parties’ payment fraud attempts become more elaborate. According to the Association of Finance Professionals, last year saw the highest percentage of businesses impacted by payment fraud in the last decade. Here are a few of the payment control best practices your business can put into action today to combat fraud.

an infographic illustrating the prevalence of payments fraud experience by businesses with insufficient payment controls best practices.

Photo: Association for Finance Professionals

IT And Security Professionals On Payment Control Best Practices  

The rising instance of payment fraud has It and security staff concerned. As many as 85% of security professionals surveyed responded that their companies lacked the necessary security and infrastructure to combat payments fraud.

The biggest windows of opportunity for fraud reside in the Accounts Payable (AP) department of a business. Errors made during the process of manual data entry and inefficient email communication concerning dozens of invoices at any given time are just two examples of significant vulnerability. However, a majority of fraud cases result from the most insecure payment method accepted by businesses — paper checks.

Why You Need To Implement Payment Control Best Practices

While most businesses are aware of fraud and do implement some steps to mitigate its effects, few are willing or capable of giving the subject the undivided attention it requires.

Common activities businesses use to combat fraud include:

  • Reconciling validity against invoices, department heads, and their vendors
  • manual comparison of invoices to purchase orders
  • compiling checks over time to have the CFO sign off at a later date

These activities may be sufficient to insulate Accounts Payable, in theory. However, with an increase in volume as a company grows, these methods fall short of providing the security AP needs. If Outlook is where your invoice approval process resides, chances are a few of those invoices are getting lost in the shuffle. Bottlenecks emerge when it comes time to audit or get approval through a CFO, who may have only a small window of availability.

Payment Control Best Practices To Mitigate Risk

Despite the growing prevalence of fraud in B2B transactions, here are some payment control best practices you can put into place today to insulate your company from the associated risks.

1. Ditch the paper in favor of electronic payment methods

Electronic transaction support can deliver a lot of benefits to businesses of any size. not only are they convenient, secure, and efficient, these types of payments add multiple layers of security through encryption. Virtual cards take things further with the inclusion of tokenization, a process by which data is assigned a series of symbols that retain essential information without compromising security.

an image of payment control best practices being used

Beyond security, electronic payment methods expedite the payment process significantly. These more opportunities reduce liabilities and increase working capital benefits that your business can leverage. the convenience of electronic payment methods can be felt on the other side of the transaction, as well. customers and vendors that can leverage an easy-to-use payment system in conjunction with your business will feel greater satisfaction from your B2B relationship. Increased partner satisfaction results in stronger relationships and can lead to more referrals for your business.

2. Remove Autonomy Over The Payments Process

Accounts payable are no exception to the rule when it comes to checks and balances. It is never a good idea to give a sole individual complete control of the flow of money in and out of company accounts. Breaking up the process to include several staff members ensures that no single person is responsible for the flow of capital. Designating one team member to set up payments and another to approve and release those payments ensures proper checks and balances during the process.

3. Automate Accounts Payable

Automation isn’t just a buzzword when it comes to your accounts payable department. with volumes of data to be received, recorded, and processed, there is plenty of room for error when the tasks are carried out manually.

Fortunately, modern tools and solutions that can be leveraged alongside your ERP system exist. The automation of these tasks increases security, efficiency, and the benefits your company can leverage as a result. putting manual data entry errors and headaches aside, how easy is it for your accounting department to keep up with rapidly changing rates, rules, and laws? automated software that integrates with ERP delivers that real-time visibility you need to remove mistakes from the equation.

An automated accounts payable process embeds payment controls — like the aforementioned segregation of duties — into the AP process and establishes them as simple and repeatable processes:

Segregation of duties: AP automation solutions designate separate roles in the accounts payable process by creating separate login credentials and separate dashboards. Not only does this make it incredibly challenging to forge approvals, but it also preserves receipt of all approvals in one central location for easy access at any time.

Two-factor authentication: adopting an AP automation solution that requires dual-factor authentication will decrease the probability of an account becoming compromised. the process dictates that a password and text message-delivered verification code must be entered before access to the system is granted.

Auto AP three-way match: For businesses working with purchase orders, AP automation can take the pain out of matching them to corresponding invoices by doing it automatically and flagging any that are mismatched within your ERP system. The “three-way” part of the three-way match refers to the three documents that will be compared:

  • The vendor’s invoice that was received will become part of an organization’s accounts payable when it is approved
  • The purchase order that was prepared by the organization
  • The receiving report that was prepared by the organization

With these controls in place, it’s much easier to protect and sustain your AP process, even as you continue adding vendors every month. The results are felt in:

  • Improved compliance and supplier relationships
  • Simplified vendor setup and management
  • Improved visibility, insight, and control of the entire accounts payable (AP) process
  • Ability to focus your AP team on higher-value work

When automation is factored into the equation, the benefits are felt even further with:

  • Reduced cost per invoice (CPI)
  • Instant storing, securing, and cataloging of electronic documents
  • Streamlined AP workflow processes
  • Dramatically reduced paper and storage expenses
  • Improved cash flow with fewer data entry errors and early pay discounts
  • The ability to work anywhere, anytime, on any device

We Can Help With AP Automation And Payment Control Best Practices

For more information on how to implement these best practices and automate AP for your business, get in contact with the experts at Encompass Solutions.

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 the Industry.

14
Jan 2019
0
an image of the automate 2019 announcement, where encompass solutions will deliver an automation and robotics presentation to attendees

Automation And Robotics Presentation At Automate 2019

Encompass Solutions is proud to announce it has been selected to deliver an educational Automation and Robotics presentation

Automation And Robotics Presentation At Automate 2019

Encompass Solutions , , , , , , , , , Sean Balogh

Encompass Solutions is proud to announce it has been selected to deliver an educational Automation and Robotics presentation at the largest Automation conference and trade show in the United States, Automate 2019.

an image of the automate 2019 announcement as part of January 2019 News And Updates

About Automate 2019

The event will take place April 8-11, 2019 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. Featuring the latest in automation technology and solutions for manufacturers and businesses, Automate 2019 is looked forward to by tens of thousands of industry professionals. Whether you are looking to buy automation technology, learn about the latest trends and applications for businesses, or simply want to admire the innovations advancing manufacturing in the United States, this show is an exceptional experience that you won’t want to miss.

Come visit Encompass Solutions at Booth #9245 to discuss what your business can do with clear direction and clear results.

an image of the encompass solutions booth 9245 at automate 2019 floorplan

About The Encompass Automation And Robotics Presentation

This presentation, developed by senior consultants and industry experts at Encompass Solutions, is designed to be an educational breakout session for manufacturers who are interested in learning more about automation and robotics on the factory floor. Topics covered in the presentation include:

  • Types of automation used in manufacturing processes
  • Types of Robots used in Manufacturing processes
  • Concepts and components that are peripheral to these topics
  • What steps to take as you begin implementing Automation, Robotics, or both in your business

The presenter for this event is Jason Claggett, Encompass Solutions’ Managed Services Manager. Jason is an infrastructure and information systems professional with more than 20 years of experience. With particular expertise in process improvement and business systems, such as ERP and Manufacturing Execution Systems, Jason regularly presents to software user groups throughout the Midwest and southwest regions regarding the latest technology and innovations available to manufacturers.

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.

01
Nov 2018
1

Top 5 Technology Trends in 2019

Technology , , , , , , , Sean Balogh

Whether you’re new to the world of IT or a bastion of knowledge for your organization in all things tech, there are exciting technologies poised to disrupt Industry in the very near future. the top 5 technology trends in 2019 are full of Innovation and advancements. These rapidly maturing and increasingly adopted technologies are some of the most exciting concepts you may or may not have heard of. Each example is poised to change the way we approach fortifying our systems and advancing our workforces to tackle the challenges of corporate and operational growth.

Here are what we think will be the top 5 technology trends in 2019 that will likely have a significant impact on businesses:

1.) Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI)

Hyper-converged infrastructure, or simply hyper-convergence, is a software-defined IT infrastructure. Counter to traditionally constructed systems that involve several components of on-premise hardware that may not speak to each other, HCI seeks to virtualize and combine systems that have traditionally been “hardware-defined”, like storage systems, servers, and networking switches. HCI seeks to modernize organizations through the virtualization of computing, SAN, and networking components of infrastructure into one unified appliance set. That means one source for all resources. The methodology comes in a few forms, including a standalone appliance, a reference architecture, and a software-only model.

a grpahic displaying the benefits of hyper-converged infrastructure as one of the top 5 technology trends in 2019 according to encompass solutions

What Does It Mean For Businesses?

By doing away with siloed physical hardware systems, HCI seeks to establish a business’ IT infrastructure in a purely software-defined environment that eliminates traditional data-center inefficiencies and reduces the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). It is a trend that seeks to marry the agility and versatility of cloud infrastructure without requiring companies to give up their on-premise systems.

When companies no longer have a need to rely on disparate computing and storage systems, management becomes simplified and resource utilization becomes much more efficient. To that end, operations become far less complex and scalability becomes easier to achieve, making HCI one of our first picks for the top 5 technology trends in 2019.

2.) Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD WAN)

To better understand that SD WAN is, it helps to understand standard Wide Area Network (WAN). A WAN is a telecommunications or computer network that extends across a large distance and is capable of transferring data across that distance. This distance can be between regions, countries, or reach across the globe. These networks are generally created with leased telecommunications circuits.

In the case of SD WAN, what you might also refer to as Link Load Balancing, organizations can expand their Wide Area Network to scale alongside requirements, such as increased bandwidth, media streaming, video conferencing, and VOIP calls, much more affordably and with improved performance. SD WAN is designed to address and avoid the pitfalls of networking maintenance and troubleshooting, such as network congestion, packet delay variation, packet loss, and service outages.

According to Gartner, a research firm, SD WAN carries with it four main qualities:

  • The ability to support multiple connection types, such as MPLS, frame relay and higher speed LTE wireless communications
  • The ability to do dynamic path selection, for load sharing and resiliency purposes
  • A simple interface that is easy to configure and manage
  • The ability to support VPNs, and third-party services such as WAN optimization controllers, firewalls and web gateways

What Does It Mean For Businesses?

Because SD WAN is a virtualized WAN, businesses reap the benefit of being able to utilize any transport protocol needed. Uptime is further ensured thanks to the utilization of multiple providers for failsafe and bandwidth allocation as necessary. This virtualization also lends the added security benefit of covering security protocols, like malware defenses and botnet intervention, for multiple branches and remote devices. Provisioning on the fly is another substantial benefit of SD WAN. You can send an un-configured device to a site and have all the required network certificates, keys, and policies applied upon installation, immediately implementing the necessary permissions, documentation of traffic patterns, and access of network users. The tech may not be as new as some of the others to make our list of top 5 technology trends in 2019, but it will no doubt become more prevalent.

3.) Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Connectivity

The Internet of Things (IoT) exists as a network of interconnected devices that communicates data to a central system that makes sense of it all.

an image of statistics on IoT devices suggesting the Internet of Things will becomes stronger as one of the top 5 technology trends in 2019 according to encompass solutions.

* Source: CSGI, Intel, Vison Critical

This network consists of all edge devices connected to the many interchanges of an enterprise. From the deli counter to eCommerce platforms, the data gleaned from this network provides invaluable insight into what is successful and what is not in terms of the products and processes that form the inner workings of a business.

an image of statistics on IIoT devices suggesting the Industrial Internet of Things will becomes stronger as one of the top 5 technology trends in 2019 according to encompass solutions.

* Source: Accenture

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) brings this interconnectivity and data-focused paradigm to the terminals, sensors, and other systems on the factory floor.

What Does It Mean For Businesses?

These data-fueled factories become “intelligent” environments, capable of informing enterprises from the top down of the efficiency and shortcomings of their factory processes and performance both in real-time and over time.  In short, the IoT and IIoT data enables manufacturers further to refine and improve operations with relevant and up to date data for smarter, faster decision making. There is no doubt continued invetment in IoT and IIoT technologies and connectivity secure this concept as top 5 technology trends in 2019.

4.) AI-Enabled Security

As more and more data flows through digital devices and connections, the need for improved security protocol and tools increases in tandem. AI-enabled security is one way enterprise security teams and individuals can protect critical data and infrastructure, even when in-house resources are relatively scarce.

an image reprenting AI-enabled security as a top 5 technology trends in 2019 according to encompass solutions

Did you know that malicious actors will typically spend 200+ days in a system before extracting critical and valuable data? Learning who the players are and who holds the keys to the most protected data takes time and malicious actors have the patience that pays off in the long run. However, AI has the potential to be infinitely more patient, resourceful, and vigilant.

What Does It Mean For Industry Businesses?

AI-enabled security makes the list as one of the top 5 technology trends in 2019 because by establishing baselines for normal behavior, traffic patterns, bandwidth allocation, permissions, and user access, system anomalies can be detected within seconds. Intelligent security systems can then act according to the parameters designed by security professionals.

5.) Augmented Reality (AR) And Virtual Reality (VR)

There are numerous applications for AR and VR. Take for instance training of new employees. If a business operates in a single location, managers can give hands-on training and face-to-face feedback with relative ease. What happens when a business operates in multiple locations and needs to onboard multiple resources in a finite amount of time. With the capabilities AR and VR present, managers can work and train remotely with staff. By using vision systems to see what they see, audio to hear what they hear and communicate clearly, and even present schematics, diagrams, and drawing in real-time, managers can to direct training programs from anywhere and at any time.

an image of applications of augmented and virtual reality as top 5 technology trends in 2019 according to encompass solutions

What Does It Mean For Industry Businesses?

Interactive walkthroughs, first-hand product demos, disaster preparedness, and a multitude of training simulations are only a handful of examples where AR and VR will be one of the top 5 technology trends in 2019 and a major game changer for businesses big and small.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm, NetSuite Solution Provider and Epicor Gold Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing the emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.

30
Aug 2018
14
and image of automation trends effecting industry

Automation in Manufacturing

In the era of Industry 4.0, automation has been one of the most effective apparatuses driving efficiency for manufacturers.

Automation in Manufacturing

Automation , , , , Sean Balogh

In the era of Industry 4.0, automation has been one of the most effective apparatuses driving efficiency for manufacturers. Leveraging automation in manufacturing alongside advanced technologies, like robotics and robotic process automation through ERP software, is enabling even greater gains in productivity to be made each day.

Want to learn more about process automation for your manufacturing business? Contact Encompass to see how we can improve your performance and profitability today.

 

Modern Manufacturing

Modern manufacturing’s goals can be summarized as an attempt to achieve sustained growth and earnings through building customer loyalty, creating high-value products, and weathering disruption in very dynamic global markets. These are not easy components to juggle all at once. That’s why a basic understanding of the most impactful and accessible aspects of automation currently in use is so important.

Industry 1.0 to Industry 4.0

To talk about automation and modern manufacturing. It’s important to understand how the concepts and practical applications of automation have evolved.

Industry 1.0 introduced mechanization. Also known as the first industrial revolution, Industry 1.0 consisted of water-, steam-, and fossil fuel-powered systems that replaced animal power with machine power.

Industry 2.0 introduced mass production. The second Industrial revolution saw the arrival of Aviation, Radio, and Assembly-line manufacturing, with electricity powering it all.

Industry 3.0 introduced digitization. Industry 3.0 was a massive accomplishment in how productivity was achieved. This was due largely to the invention and adoption of such technologies as computers, the internet, and Information Technology. These tools provided the framework required for modern automation, mass production, and robotics.

Industry 4.0, where we are now, features cyber-physical systems (CPS) in the manufacturing environment. These systems consist of machines, their computer-controlled protocols, and their users working together in unison.

a conceptual graphic representing industry 4.0

Keep in mind that Industry 5.0 is not far off and modern manufacturers can expect exciting new technologies and process improvements to emerge in the coming years.

Connectivity With The IoT And IIoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of connected devices that communicate data to a central system that makes sense of it all.

This network consists of an enterprise’s connected edge devices, terminals, and input/output points. The data captured through this network provides an understanding of what is successful and what is not in terms of operations and processes.

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) puts a focus on this interconnectivity and data provided by the terminals, sensors, and other systems on the factory floor.

These data-fueled factories become “intelligent” environments, which are capable of informing enterprises from the top down. They provide visibility regarding the efficiency of factory processes and performance both in real-time and over time.  In short, the data enables manufacturers to refine and improve operations with relevant and up-to-date data.

Types of Automation In Manufacturing Operations

Automation can be thought of as the mechanization of processes in such a way that procedures can be followed and products can be created without human involvement.

There are several types of automation used on the factory floor. The type of automation utilized by a manufacturing operation will be implemented considering the products being produced, the machines required, and the resources available.

In the case of industrial automation, control systems, like computers or robots, and information technologies are utilized to handle different processes and pieces of machinery to complete a task. It can be applied most readily to data collection, data processing, and performing predictable physical work. This includes tasks like welding, soldering, painting, food prep, and packaging.

Fixed (Hard) Automation

In this example, the application is usually simple and will involve a process or assembly that is dictated by programmed commands. It is relatively difficult to accommodate changes in the product design in a fixed automation process, which is set up with one purpose or process per application in mind.

an image of fixed (hard) automation in manufacturing on the factory floor

Examples include:

  • Mechanized assembly
  • Machining transfer lines
  • Automated material handling

Advantages:

  • High production rates
  • Low unit cost

Disadvantages:

  • Relatively inflexible in accommodating product variety
  • The high initial investment for custom-engineered equipment
  • High vulnerability to failure
  • Obsolescence

Programmable Automation

Programmable automation is used most often when manufacturing products in batches. It allows for customization and frequent changes throughout the manufacturing process. In this case, the operation is controlled by a program of instructions that are read and interpreted by the system. New programs can be prepared and entered into the hardware to produce new products at any time.

an image of programmable automation in manufacturing on the factory floor

Examples include:

  • Computer Numerical controlled (CNC) machine tools
  • Industrial robots
  • Programmable logic controllers (PLC)

Advantages:

  • Flexible and able to deal with design variations
  • Suitable for batch production

Disadvantages:

  • High investment in general purpose equipment
  • Lower production rate than fixed automation

Flexible (Soft) Automation

Utilizing multiple tools that are linked by a material handling system, A flexible automation system is capable of producing a variety of parts with virtually no time lost for changeovers from any one part style to the next. The same is true when reprogramming the system or altering the physical setup.

an image of flexible (soft) automation in manufacturing on the factory floor

Examples Include:

Robot arms that can be programmed to assume multiple tasks, such as insert screws, drill holes, sand, weld, insert rivets, and spray paint objects on an assembly line.

Advantages:

  • Continuous production of variable mixtures of products
  • Flexible to deal with product design variation
  • Offers Medium production rate

Disadvantages:

  • Requires a High amount of investment
  • High unit cost relative to fixed automation

Totally Integrated Automation (TIA)

More of a philosophy pioneered by Siemens Automation and Drives, TIA includes three core concepts:

  • A common software environment
  • A common data management system
  • A common communication method

TIA implementation is ideal for many industries, including:

  • Automotive
  • General machine construction
  • Special-purpose machine manufacturing
  • Standard mechanical equipment manufacture, OEMs
  • Plastics processing
  • The packaging industry
  • Food, beverages, and tobacco industries

Defining Characteristics:

  • Facilitates shorter time-to-market
  • Higher productivity
  • Lower life-cycle costs
  • Reduced complexity
  • Greater security of investment

Preventative Maintenance (PM) Versus Predictive Maintenance (PdM)

In Preventive Maintenance, tasks are completed when the machines are shut down. Predictive Maintenance activities are carried out as the machines are running in their normal production modes. Both are essential in saving manufacturers money and maintaining production quality. More recently, special focus has been placed on Predictive Maintenance. Qualities like real-time condition monitoring allow longer periods of operation between preventative maintenance tasks, resulting in less downtime for essential machinery.

Mobile Control Of Automation in Manufacturing

Mobility is the future of your workforce.

This is visible in the increased interconnectivity between applications and hardware we use in our daily lives. Mobile control is flexible, intuitive, and powerful. The concept has taken a prominent focus within manufacturing and a call for new industry-wide standards to be adopted has come from automation research and engineering professionals all over the world.

Mobile apps are already being relied on as fast and user-friendly means of accessing plant information with a tap of the finger or swipe of the hand. Mobile access can save substantially on costs, time, labor, and maintenance. The practice also enables operational problems to be identified and addressed remotely.

The Growing Pains Of Automation In Manufacturing

While it’s true the application of automation upsets work roles and employment demographics within the industries where they are applied, the real pains are felt in the short-term transition process.

“The distinction between work and learning might need to become more amorphous. We currently have a dichotomy where those who work need not learn, and those who learn do not work. We need to think about getting away from the traditional five-day working week to one where I spend 60% of my time doing my job and 40% learning on a regular basis.”

– Bhagwan Chowdhry, professor of finance at the University of California, Los Angeles

In the quote, Bhagwan Chowdhry, a noted professor of finance at the University of California, Los Angeles, explains his reasoning for a shift in thinking when it comes to working and learning.

It’s understood that while robots and automation are being used to scale operations, your workforce and their skillsets need to be scaled alongside to maintain these processes and equipment.

This enables workers to learn about and take ownership of the most technical concepts and roles within a given manufacturing operation.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm specializing 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 the Industry.

 

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.

13
Aug 2018
0
a picture of a gavel on a pile of money as the SCOTUS has ruled on Wayfair vs South Dakota.

South Dakota Versus Wayfair, Inc. SCOTUS Ruling

The South Dakota versus Wayfair, Inc. Supreme Court ruling has had a significant impact on businesses all over

South Dakota Versus Wayfair, Inc. SCOTUS Ruling

News , , , , , , Sean Balogh

The South Dakota versus Wayfair, Inc. Supreme Court ruling has had a significant impact on businesses all over the United States. The decision effectively overturned a longstanding physical presence rule (Quill Corp. v. North Dakota) for determining when a state can make remote sellers collect sales tax.

The Supreme Court ruled on July 21, 2018, and, as a result, South Dakota is granted authority to impose sales tax obligations on out-of-state transactions.

 

a picture of a gavel on a pile of money as the SCOTUS has ruled on South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc.

South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. will have far-reaching implications for businesses operating remotely throughout the United States.

 

In short, sales tax makes up more than 40% of South Dakota’s revenue. The Supreme Court judged it to be unfair that e-commerce and remote sales should be able to avoid the sales tax that can generate as much as $14bn for states annually.

The ruling aims to level the playing field between non-collecting e-commerce and remote sellers and brick-and-mortar businesses.

Overturning Quill Corp. v. North Dakota

The decision of this 1992 ruling effectively prevented states from collecting any sales tax from retail purchases made over the Internet or other e-Commerce routes, unless the seller had a physical presence in the state. Due to the rapid expansion and increased prevalence of e-commerce and remote sellers, the decision to exempt these businesses from paying sales tax no longer made sense and worked to the detriment of states in which those businesses conduct sales.

“Because the physical presence of Quill is unsound and incorrect, Quill Corp. v. North Dakota, 504 U.S. 298, and National Bellas Hess, Inc. v. Department of Revenue of Ill., 386 U.S. 753, are overturned.” SOUTH DAKOTA VS. WAYFAIR, INC., ET AL. NO. 17-494. ARGUED APRIL 17, 2018 – DECIDED JUNE 21, 2018

Who Is Affected By The South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. Ruling

The recent decision directly affects several nationwide sellers. In particular, the decision affects remote sellers not currently registered with the state who meet threshold requirements. Those threshold requirements are:

  • Annual sales over $100,000 or 200 transactions into South Dakota

The ruling does not affect any business already registered and collecting sales tax in South Dakota. Those businesses will be grandfathered in under the new ruling.

It is important to understand that this ruling applies to both online and offline sales. Anyone conducting cross-border sales with South Dakota is bound by the new ruling.

The ruling does not change what is or is not taxable, either. Rather, it is establishing that a physical presence is no longer the criteria by which the state decides who collects sales tax. Services, not just tangible goods and personal property, fall under the new rule. This ruling will apply to manufacturers and wholesalers who sell direct to consumers, too.

Exemption certificates will be available for those businesses selling business to business (B2B).

South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. Setting Precedent and Economic Nexus

To begin, understanding the definition of economic nexus will help businesses realize what this ruling does in terms of setting precedents for other states that choose to implement the same requirements.

an infographic map showing economic nexus states following the South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. ruling

Infographic provided by tax compliance experts, Avalara.

Economic Nexus is a tax collection obligation imposed on sellers based on their level of economic activity within a state. Unlike physical presence, it is based entirely on sales revenue, transaction volume, or both.

These rules vary from state to state. With the recent ruling setting a threshold in South Dakota, it will likely lead other states to utilize the precedent and use the same threshold at a minimum.

What You Can Do

First, don’t panic. Contact your SALT CPA or attorney tax advisor and seek counsel on all nexus-related requirements and law. If you don’t have one, our partners at Avalara are among the best when it comes to tax compliance and they have an extensive directory of tax experts and SALT CPAs who can work with you to get things in order.

You can leverage Avalara Tax Advisory Services (TAS) to:

  • Determine where you have nexus
  • Get ongoing monitoring services to see when new nexus is established
  • Register in new jurisdictions
  • Navigate tasks related to establishing new nexus

For an easy reference, download this 2018 Mid-Year Sales Tax Changes whitepaper from Avalara. Inside, you’ll find many details surrounding recent tax changes that could directly affect your business as well as how you can address the best approach to resolve any identified issues.

About Avalara

Experts in all things revolving around tax compliance Avalara makes tax compliance easy and efficient, enabling you to do what you do best without constantly worrying about rate changes or filing deadlines.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm and Epicor Platinum Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

27
Jun 2018
0
an image of robotics process automation personified by a human in digital space

How Using ERP To Automate Processes Can Empower Businesses

Right now, employment in the US is the highest it’s been in over a decade. That has put

How Using ERP To Automate Processes Can Empower Businesses

Technology , , , , Sean Balogh

Right now, employment in the US is the highest it’s been in over a decade. That has put a lot of businesses in a tough position when hiring talented employees. More and more businesses are running into the same problem: lack of availability of capable manpower. With so much competition, your business may want to consider going down a more progressive route.

By implementing automated processes made possible with ERP software, your business can avoid the resource-intensive undertaking of searching for, hiring, and onboarding new talent in a competitive labor market. Getting rid of the mundane and repetitive tasks on your back-end will free up your workforce to take on more customer-focused tasks, ensure your business is positioned to adapt to a sudden change in your business environment, and improve your bottom line without sacrificing headcount or quality customer experiences.

Addressing Labor Market Constraints

While low unemployment is great for job-seekers, it puts businesses in a tough position when hiring new talent to help their operations expand. Couple that with employees having more bargaining power in the workplace and it’s clear that businesses not only need to improve their benefits but their environment, as well. One of the easiest ways to address the trend is to automate processes. This will free up your employees to take on more creatively demanding and fulfilling roles within the workplace. This not only allows the employee to take on more significant tasks within the organization, but also grow professionally and receive compensation worthy of their increased responsibility and skill set. As a result, their time is more valuable and the work they produce for the company is valued more highly in the eyes of customers.

Combining Process Automation With ERP

One of the biggest buzzwords to come out of Industry 4.0 is Robotics Process Automation (RPA). However, the misleading name is enough to turn off even those who can benefit from it the most. RPA doesn’t involve any robots or mechanical components. Not only this, but it applies to just about any business that deals with ordering, invoicing, and data entry.

an image of light beams cnnecting at points across a city at night.

Let’s break it down by definition:

  • Robotic – an entity being programmed by a computer to complete complex tasks. In this case, the term refers to mimicking human actions.
  • Process – A sequence of steps leading to a meaningful activity or task.
  • Automation – when a task happens automatically, i.e. without human intervention.

RPA is a business process automation technology that automates tasks through the interface a company uses to enter data in the back-end of their operations. In short, RPA initially watches a user perform a task in the GUI, then automates that task and performs it autonomously. One common application can be found in identifying important attachments in emails, like an invoice, extracting that data, and then entering it into the company bookkeeping system. This all happens automatically and in a fraction of the time, it takes a human worker to complete manually.

The Impact of RPA On Employment

While it’s no secret that many workers are skeptical of automation and fear it can lead to layoffs, the incorporation of such technology has had the opposite effect according to a study conducted by the London School of Economics. The study found that rather than a decrease in the workforce, employees were able to achieve greater productivity and work completed with the same number of people.

The same study also found that RPA technology enables repatriation of processes in the workplace, allowing companies to bring processes back to their home soil, rather than outsourcing business processes to cheaper labor markets abroad.

The Impact of RPA on Employees

A company’s greatest resource is its employees and anything a business can do to retain top talent is in its best interest. RPA directly contributes to the benefit of employees by implementing practices that reduce the stress of a cluttered and over-managed environment. Here are a few examples:

Reduction in human error – When RPA takes over the mundane and tedious tasks involving data entry, there are far fewer instances of human error leading to blockers and errors on the paperwork that must then be re-evaluated and re-submitted. With the risk of human error substantially diminished, your employees spend less time going over the same data they’ve already entered and less time thinking about what might have gone wrong after the fact. A more precise and automated workflow allows your employees to spend more time fretting and overdelivering the best service to your clients.

Employee Empowerment – One of the biggest challenges in retaining top talent is providing these individuals and teams with the ability to share innovative ideas and creative solutions to business challenges, have their voices heard, and directly impact the future of their company. They want buy-in and the ability to pursue their full potential within the company. Give them the opportunity by getting rid of the tedious tasks that can suck up most of their day with an automated workflow process.

Organization Of Your Organization – When your workflow and document management are automated, there are far fewer instances of lost documents or searching through the system for the latest iteration. The organization is one of the many byproducts of RPA. When employees aren’t spending the time to track down documents between departments, more time is made available for employees to take a measured approach to more critical tasks with more time to collect, plan, and strategize, or fit in a personalized call to a new customer or prospect you’ve been working on.

Internal Communication Improves – When the opportunity for employees to lose documents or impact another worker’s tasks is removed from the equation, relationships between coworkers improve and productive communication becomes the norm. Cleaner data and better access to their colleagues ensure that your employees have what they need to do their jobs correctly and well. Workflow automation lends itself to effective monitoring of tasks as well, so looming deadlines and tasks past due don’t contribute to office stress levels.

With improved confidence and a new sense of ownership resulting from RPA and an effective ERP software solution, both employees and businesses benefit. The result is a better service, better product, and better working environment, which pleases everyone from the management to the employee to the customer.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm, an Epicor Platinum Partner, and NetSuite Solution Provider that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, IT support, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

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