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Attract More Skilled Labor With ERP Technology

skilled labor

Attracting skilled labor has become a major challenge for many manufacturing companies. The demand for tech-savvy workers is on the rise, and offering applicants competitive pay, benefits, and flexible work schedules may not be enough to win them over. Manufacturers need to find ways to stand out. One powerful way to help achieve this is by utilizing an advanced enterprise resource planning (ERP) system at your company. Let’s explore how the best ERPs help attract more skilled labor to…

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Accelerate Multi-Channel Order Management with ERP Software

multi-channel order management

Custom manufacturers often need to coordinate sales orders from different sources. Whether it’s online stores, physical locations, or B2B sales, multi-channel order management can be hectic. However, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software provides a comprehensive solution to streamline multi-channel order processing effectively. As online shopping continues to grow and customers want more fluid sales processes, efficient order management becomes increasingly crucial. Yet, challenges like order errors and delays can lead to unhappy customers and lost sales. Explore how your…

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Simplify CNC Automated Cutting with Frontier Cut Part Processing

home improvement business, year-end inventory,

As a custom manufacturer, you depend on your CNC equipment for precise and efficient automated cutting. Do you find it time-consuming or difficult to map production specifications to your CNC machines? Are you tired of entering cut process details by hand or fighting with custom interfaces? If so, it’s time to take a hard look at how Frontier Cut Part Processing can eliminate your cutting nightmares. Frontier Cut Part Processing Frontier Cut Part Processing bridges the gap between your…

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10 Automated Processes That Will Save You Time and Money

Time and money. Many people often say that time equals money. When companies seek ways to save, these two areas are at the top of their list, especially for manufacturers. One of the best ways to achieve that savings is through automated processes. Companies often adopt automated technologies since manual processes are a waste of time and money. They generate inefficiencies, preventing manufacturers from maintaining high quality and service standards for both their products and operations. A quote by…

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How to Support Authorized Dealer Networks and Expand Your Reach

As a make-to-order manufacturer, your authorized dealers are the backbone of your business. They are your link to customers and are vital in getting your products to market. That’s why it’s important to ensure they receive the proper support to make their job more efficient to increase sales. Expanding your authorized dealer network is as important to your business as supporting your current network. Whether you enter new markets or are faced with dealer attrition, you could require new…

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Configure Price Quote Tools for Quicker Sales

home improvement business, year-end inventory,

Configure Price Quote tools (CPQ) streamline the sales process, helping manufacturers configure complex products, apply pricing, and generate professional quotes. This automation saves time, reduces errors, and ensures top-notch customer service. With these tools, sales teams can respond faster to inquiries, boosting customer satisfaction and increasing deal closures. CPQ software is particularly valuable in custom manufacturing, where products have numerous configurable options and pricing rules. When integrated with an ERP system, Configure Price Quote tools enhance efficiency across sales,…

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Importance of Demand Forecast Accuracy: Preparing for Peak Season

demand forecasting

As winter approaches and the holiday season draws near, businesses are preparing for one of their busiest times…peak season. For manufacturers that design, build, or assemble products to order, the peak season brings a surge in demand. To handle increased sales effectively, demand forecast accuracy is a must. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of precise demand forecasting in supply chain planning. Plus, discover valuable insights into how to improve your demand forecast accuracy to ensure a…

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How to Use Your Frontier ERP Features as a Selling Point

ERP features that close more sales

When selecting custom product manufacturers, clients look for industry experience, quality, and price. Whether they want a single decorative iron gate or many unique furnishings for a hotel, their goal is always the same. Using your Frontier ERP features as a selling point can help you attract and maintain these customers. Over the years, many companies have chosen Frontier as their ERP solution to save money and work more efficiently. Our ERP features help internally and give you a…

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Cabinet Building Software Goes Beyond Design with ERP

cabinet building software

Kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturers operate in a fiercely competitive industry. Most manufacturers rely heavily on their cabinet design software for layout diagrams, 3D renderings, and pricing. While design applications are important, cabinet makers should not ignore the advanced features of cabinet building software to improve manufacturing efficiency. A cabinet manufacturing ERP provides features and capabilities that automate cabinet production workflows and much more. The right ERP can streamline processes in many critical areas including design, sales, manufacturing, inventory…

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7 Benefits of ERP Barcode Tracking for Manufacturers

barcode tracking

In today’s modern manufacturing environment, efficiency is the key to success. One tool that greatly impacts business operations is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems with integrated barcode tracking. By incorporating barcode tracking with an ERP, companies can optimize operations and improve accuracy, all while enhancing inventory management, production tracking, and logistics. This post will explore how manufacturers can utilize ERP system barcode tracking to enhance efficiency and streamline processes. What is Barcode Tracking? Barcode tracking is a method used…

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Effective Returns Management for Custom Manufacturers with ERPs

returns management

Unlike mass-produced goods, make-to-order products often come with special circumstances regarding merchandise returns. Many products cannot simply be restocked and resold because they are custom-built based on a customer’s preferences. However, custom manufacturers still need to process returns for damages, quality issues, or order errors. From initial customer requests to product rework, an efficient returns process is essential for businesses today. Not only does this process help to maintain customer satisfaction, but it also ensures that your operations run…

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Master Supply Chain Optimization with ERP

supply chain optimization

Mastering the intricacies of supply chain optimization is no longer an advantage—it’s essential. In this era of heightened demand for customization, the challenges of supply chain management are more complex than ever, and optimization is crucial. For custom manufacturers, the journey toward streamlined operations and enhanced competitiveness demands a powerful ally. Enter Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Manufacturing ERPs are the cornerstone of operational excellence in today’s dynamic business environment. In this post, we’ll explore common issues in manufacturing…

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8 ERP System Myths You Should Never Believe

erp system myths and facts

The right tools can make all the difference for manufacturers looking to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems stand as the pivotal technology-driven choice to achieve those goals. Despite their widespread adoption and proven benefits, however, ERP systems still face their fair share of misconceptions that are simply not true. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths and explore the true advantages of ERP systems for better business processes. Myth 1. ERP Systems Use…

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CPQ Solutions That Drive Window Sales

window manufacturing, cpq solutions

Welcome to the world of CPQ solutions, where boosting custom window sales and enhancing customer satisfaction go hand in hand. In today’s competitive market, window manufacturers need cutting-edge tools to streamline their sales processes. CPQ solutions empower sales teams to efficiently configure custom products, apply pricing, and generate precise quotes in no time. This blog explores how CPQ can enhance your sales strategy, driving higher efficiency, customer satisfaction, and your bottom line. Dive in to discover the transformative power…

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Cloud-Based ERP for IBM: Dispelling the Myths, Uncovering the Benefits

cloud-based erp

Custom manufacturing demands innovation, efficiency, and adaptability to remain competitive in the market. It also requires a robust Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to streamline operations and increase efficiency. As a result, many manufacturers have chosen to employ cloud-based ERP software to improve their business processes, and some based on the highly reliable and scalable IBM i operating system. Yet, misconceptions keep other businesses from capitalizing on the significant benefits of an ERP on the IBM i platform to…

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How Product Configurators Eliminate Pricing Hassles

pricing, product configurators

Manufacturers constantly seek innovative ways to streamline their operations and enhance customer experiences. One significant challenge many companies face is complex pricing for customizable products. Traditional methods often involve manual calculations that are prone to errors and can lead to confusion for both customers and staff. However, with product configurators, these pricing hassles become a thing of the past. Product configurators allow customers to personalize products to their exact specifications and integrate with pricing algorithms to automate calculations and…

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Elevate Your Make-to-Order Business with ERP

make-to-order, door manufacturing

Make-to-order (MTO) manufacturers have much in common with companies that mass-produce merchandise. However, there are significant differences that are unique to MTO operations. A make-to-order manufacturing company must more closely manage complex product configurations and lead time variances. They often have more intricate cost management processes and utilize additional production methods within their custom manufacturing environment. All of these things add layers of complexity. Customization is king, efficiency is critical, and profitability is vital in modern, MTO manufacturing. The…

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10 Steps to Efficient ERP Product Costing Management

erp, product costing

Efficient product costing management is vital for manufacturers to stay competitive in their respective industries. No matter if you manufacture uniquely designed coffee tables or custom entry doors, it factors into your company’s financial health and profitability. Navigating the complexities of product costing can be quite challenging for manufacturers. Fluctuations in expenses, production process variables, and insufficient data management are just a few obstacles that some may face. However, companies can overcome these challenges with the right strategies and…

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Measure Manufacturing KPIs for Peak Performance

manufacturing kpis

Measuring the performance of your manufacturing operations is a complex task. It requires time, energy, and careful monitoring and reporting of key performance indicators (KPIs). Among the measurable metrics, manufacturing KPIs stand out as crucial benchmarks, providing crucial insight into your business operations. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about manufacturing KPIs, why metric measurements are important, and how using the best reporting tools can provide detailed analytics to enable better decision-making for your company’s future. Performance Indicators…

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Manufacturers Can Increase Customer Satisfaction with CPQ 

happy couple in remodeled kitchen, increase customer satisfaction

It’s no secret that customer satisfaction can make or break a company’s reputation. Even one bad experience can spread like wildfire online, leading to many headaches for a manufacturer. Businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing a positive customer experience. The challenge lies in how to increase customer satisfaction metrics without hurting manufacturing efficiency and company profitability. Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) software with ERP product configuration addresses both sides of this equation. Discover how CPQ and product configuration…

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Manufacturing ERP Software Solutions for Business Growth

business growth

Whether planned or unplanned, business growth is an exciting time for any type of company. For make-to-order manufacturers, the journey of business expansion is a monumental step. It presents a spectrum of challenges and opportunities, each requiring meticulous consideration for a successful transition, including manufacturing ERP software. In this comprehensive blog post, we will discuss key factors of an effective expansion strategy for custom manufacturers. We will also explore the pivotal role that manufacturing ERP software plays in facilitating cost-effective,…

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ERP Makes Production Scheduling Easier

production scheduling calendar

Production scheduling is a critical aspect of any manufacturing process. It involves coordinated resources, detailed processes, and on-time product delivery to meet customer demand. However, it can be a daunting and complex task, often requiring careful planning and adjustments. Fortunately, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have emerged as a powerful solution to streamline production scheduling, specifically those that include manufacturing production scheduling software. It works for various manufacturers, making their scheduling effortless and more efficient. Let’s explore how manufacturers…

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CPQ Software for Furniture Manufacturing

ordering options for furniture manufacturing

In today’s rapidly evolving furniture industry, the demand for customized furniture solutions is on the rise. This trend has led to the adoption of technology to improve operations and enhance efficiency. This article explores furniture industry trends, the benefits of ERP and CPQ software for furniture manufacturing, and ways to enhance business operations. Trends in Furniture Manufacturing The furniture industry continues to evolve to meet changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Here are some notable trends: Sustainable Furniture: At…

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CPQ for Window and Door Manufacturers

Various shaped windows on a white background

Transform window, door, and glass manufacturing with the power of CPQ and ERP software. Precision, customization, and operational efficiency are paramount for manufacturers of windows, doors, and glass. This article discusses how configure, price, quote (CPQ) systems in today’s ERP software are changing manufacturing to tackle industry-specific challenges. We’ll focus on the needs of custom manufacturers of windows, glass, and doors, and discuss the benefits of CPQ and a parametric product configurator for complex products. You’ll also learn where…

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Solving Your Order Management Nightmare

order management graphic showing two decorated fingers representing manual order entry

Order Entry Frustration: From Pain to Plan Dear manufacturing order management team, We get it. The daily grind of manually re-entering order data from various sources into your manufacturing ERP can be maddening. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, over and over again. The inefficiency and potential for errors can be soul-crushing, and you’re not alone in this struggle. We’ve heard your cries of frustration, and we’re here to tell you – we…

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Selecting the Right Product Configurator for Make-to-Order

door selection options illustrating product configurator

If your company creates custom or semi-custom products designed to dazzle customers, then you’ve surely come across the term “product configurator.” Whether you’re a seasoned operations guru or a tech-savvy finance whiz, this article is for you. We’ll dive into eight areas to help you understand the various product configurator tools. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be ready to choose the ideal product configurator tool for your enterprise. Examine a Product Configurator Across These 8 Areas Just as there…

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CAD + ERP = Better CPQ for Custom Manufacturing

woman looking at CAD drawings of furniture on her computer demonstrating CPQ for custom manufacturing

In the competitive world of custom manufacturing, combining CAD tools with your ERP system is a move toward greater efficiency and accuracy. Integrating 3D modeling and CAD with your manufacturing ERP software can give your company a significant advantage. This is especially true for configuring, pricing, and quoting … or CPQ for custom manufacturing and specialized product offerings. This article explores the benefits of integrating 3D modeling as part of a CPQ for custom manufacturing. Connecting CAD programs directly…

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The Power of Custom: How an Online Product Configurator Transforms Cabinet Manufacturing

hand using an online product configurator to select cabinet finish in a virtual kitchen

If you’re in the business of manufacturing customizable kitchen and bath cabinets, you can only stay in business by keeping your dealers and customers happy. That means being able to provide them with exactly what they want. Enterprise software helps. But an ERP with an online product configurator that is part of your enterprise software can be a game-changer for your business!

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