manufacturing Archives | Friedman Corporation

US Manufacturing Growth Leads to Increased Sales for Your Business

March 12, 2025

| Categories: CPQ, Door Manufacturing, Engineer to Order, ERP Software, Furniture, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Metal Services, Sales Order Management, Uncategorized, Window & Door Manufacturing

The resurgence of US manufacturing growth isn’t just good news for factories—it’s creating ripple effects across the entire supply chain. As more companies look to bring production back to the US, demand is rising for raw materials, manufacturing equipment, and commercial infrastructure. This shift presents significant opportunities for businesses that supply materials, components, and specialized manufacturing solutions. Companies that support domestic production are poised for increased sales. But with new opportunities come new challenges—scaling operations, managing supply chains, and…

Frontier 4.2: The ERP Upgrade You’ve Been Waiting For

February 28, 2025

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Uncategorized

The Next Step in Your ERP System Evolution Friedman Corporation is thrilled to announce the release of Frontier 4.2 on February 28, 2025! This latest version of Frontier ERP brings a range of performance upgrades and user interface (UI) enhancements designed to elevate your business processes. If you’re a current customer looking to streamline operations further, this ERP upgrade delivers game-changing improvements. Explore Friedman’s advanced IBM ERP features for details. Why Upgrade to Frontier 4.2? Technology is evolving, and…

2025 US Manufacturing Outlook: Challenges, Trends, & Supply Chain Resiliency

February 10, 2025

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, MES, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized

United States businesses are poised for an eventful year. While supply chain disruptions and uncertainties have been a focus for manufacturers in recent years, most manufacturers have managed to prevail. The 2025 landscape presents both challenges and opportunities, with economic shifts, supply chain uncertainties, and technology adoption shaping the industry. The key to thriving this year lies in the trends shaping the industry and building supply chain resiliency. Economic Trends Shaping US Manufacturing The economic forecast for US manufacturing…

Navigating the Manufacturing Software Maze: How to Find the Best ERP for Manufacturing

February 3, 2025

| Categories: Door Manufacturing, ERP Software, Furniture, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Metal Services, Window & Door Manufacturing, Window Treatment Manufacturing

Choosing the right enterprise manufacturing software for your company can feel like navigating a maze. Some software solutions offer all the bells and whistles that you may never use. Others require extensive custom programming to handle your basic industry essentials. Finding the best ERP for manufacturing can be frustrating if you don’t plan properly. To ensure that you make the right software choice, you must understand what you are looking to gain from an ERP system. This blog will…

7 Steps to Effortless Order Management with Frontier ERP

January 27, 2025

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Sales Order Management

Sales order management can be one of the most complex aspects of running a manufacturing business. Configuring custom products and ensuring timely delivery are just two important steps of sales order processing. Without the right order management tools, these steps can slow down or grind to a halt. Frontier’s robust ERP features make order fulfillment easy and efficient, even for the most complex products. Why Manufacturers Choose Frontier ERP Manufacturers face unique challenges, including custom orders, fluctuating demand, and…

Elevate Dispatch Planning for Truckload Shipping With Frontier

December 30, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Manufacturing, MES, Production Scheduling

For manufacturers, efficient truckload shipping and dispatch planning are key to cost control and efficiency. Whether moving goods across the country or delivering products to dealer locations and job sites, the right tools and plans matter. This blog post will explore truckload shipping and the advantages of using Frontier Dispatch Truckload Planning and iDispatch Load Execution. Importance of Effective Planning for Truckload Shipping Dispatch planning for truckload shipping is the backbone of effective logistics management. Proper planning ensures that…

Attract More Skilled Labor With ERP Technology

November 26, 2024

| Categories: Engineer to Order, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Sales Order Management, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized

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…

Dive Into ERP Advanced Reporting and Analytics to Improve Your Business

November 6, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are important for managing the large amount of data your company collects. ERP advanced reporting and analytics tools help you see a holistic view of your company and its performance. These tools allow you to make data-driven decisions for improved efficiency and help align your business for the future. This blog post explores ERP advanced reporting features and how you can use them to track, monitor, and improve your business operations. Understanding ERP Advanced…

ERP Pricing 101: Navigating the Cost of ERP Systems

October 30, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, Engineer to Order, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Product Configurator, Sales Order Management, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are indispensable tools for companies to streamline operations and improve productivity. They are especially helpful for manufacturers, providing valuable insights into efficient processes. However, when choosing the best ERP, pricing can become confusing with different features and fees. Top10ERP.org even goes as far as saying “…comparing prices can be like comparing apples to oranges…” in their price comparison article. In this blog post, we’ll decipher ERP pricing models, what factors influence price, and how…

How to Support Authorized Dealer Networks and Expand Your Reach

October 9, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Sales Order Management, Uncategorized

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…

Configure Price Quote Tools for Quicker Sales

October 7, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator

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,…

Celebrate Manufacturing Day 2024 – Inspiring the Future Workforce

October 3, 2024

| Categories: Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Manufacturing’s biggest annual event kicks off on Friday, October 4! Celebrated annually on the first Friday in October, with events continuing throughout the month and beyond, Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) is a national grassroots movement showcasing the reality and future of modern manufacturing careers. Thousands of companies and educational institutions nationwide open their doors to students, parents, educators, and community leaders. Why is Manufacturing Day Important? Since 2012, MFG Day has helped students discover financially rewarding job opportunities in…

Professional ERP Software Support and Services

September 30, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Maximizing Your Frontier ERP Investment With Frontier ERP, you gain more than just powerful software—you receive expert professional software support and services. Our client service and support team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your ERP journey; from implementation to everyday operations. Expert Assistance for Successful Implementation Our professional services team provides essential software support to streamline your ERP implementation process. Key services include: Implementation Process Analysis (IPA): IPA lays the groundwork for a successful ERP…

Why ERP Accounting Software is Better for Financial Management

September 25, 2024

| Categories: Accounting, ERP Software, Financial, Uncategorized

When manufacturers first start, they often rely on traditional accounting software like QuickBooks to handle their financial management needs. These tools can be effective in the early stages but may reveal limitations as operations grow and become more complex. To address these challenges, you should use ERP accounting software for a more comprehensive and integrated solution that scales with their business needs. Understanding ERP Systems An ERP system is a comprehensive software platform used by organizations to integrate and…

How the Best ERP Systems Eliminate Communication Breakdowns

September 18, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful business, especially in manufacturing and supply chain operations. Communication issues can lead to costly mistakes, delays, and a host of other issues that impact productivity and profitability. Fortunately, the best ERP systems are designed to eliminate these communication breakdowns. They ensure that all departments are on the same page—from the factory floor to the executive office. In this blog post, we will look at how the best ERP systems improve communication….

Importance of Demand Forecast Accuracy: Preparing for Peak Season

September 11, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Sales Order Management, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized

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…

How to Use Your Frontier ERP Features as a Selling Point

August 28, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Production Scheduling, Sales Order Management, Uncategorized

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…

Proposed OSHA Heat Regulations 2024: What Manufacturers Should Expect

August 14, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Uncategorized

Daily temperatures are rising around the world due to climate change. The U.S. experienced record-breaking temperatures this past June, with the average maximum daytime temperature hitting 84.6F. This has not gone unnoticed by the National Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Rising temperatures have prompted them to propose new OSHA Heat Regulations 2024. In a recent Manufacturing Dive article, Ryan Stygar, a labor lawyer at Centurion Trial Attorneys stated, “Right now we have OSHA’s general duty standard, which basically says…

4 Ways Integrated ERP Customer Portals Drive Efficiency

August 7, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Sales Order Management, Uncategorized

Manufacturers are always looking for ways to improve operations and provide better service to their customers. They often implement customer portals as a result. Customer portals help them streamline processes, enhance customer experiences, and improve satisfaction levels. However, manufacturers can integrate portals with their existing ERP system to add more value and boost operational efficiency. Continue reading to learn about the different types of customer portals, how they integrate with ERP systems, and the benefits they bring. We’ll also…

Manufacturing Trade Shows: Making the Most of Your Experience

July 31, 2024

| Categories: Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Local, regional, national, or industry-specific, some consider manufacturing trade shows a necessary evil. While they can sometimes be costly and cumbersome for exhibitors or attendees, they offer a goldmine of opportunities for professionals in the industry. Expos can be quite valuable actually, whether you’re showcasing a new product, or wanting to meet people and learn. To capitalize on what trade expos have to offer, it’s essential to go in with a good mindset and a great plan. In this…

ERP Software Cuts Wood Product Manufacturing Operating Costs

July 25, 2024

| Categories: Door Manufacturing, ERP Software, Furniture, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Sales Order Management, Supply Chain Management, Uncategorized, Window & Door Manufacturing

High operating costs continue to be a major challenge for wood product manufacturing companies. Managing these expenses effectively is essential for maintaining profitability and growing your business. The wood manufacturing industry is characterized by its reliance on raw materials, labor-intensive processes, and energy consumption. This makes controlling operating expenses a critical factor for success. Finding ways to reduce costs without compromising on quality or productivity can be difficult. Traditional methods of cost management often fall short of providing the…

7 Benefits of ERP Barcode Tracking for Manufacturers

July 15, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, MES, Uncategorized

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…

CPQ Solutions That Drive Window Sales

May 30, 2024

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Uncategorized, Window & Door Manufacturing

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…

Leverage Important ERP Data to Enhance Efficiency

May 22, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems store a considerable amount of data, from product configurations to pricing tiers. However, some manufacturers may not understand how to leverage this important data to plan and drive their business objectives. It is a matter of knowing what ERP data to pull from your system and how to use it strategically. This guide will help you define and use your ERP data to improve operations and enhance efficiency. It includes eight important strategies essential…

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

May 17, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

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…

10 Steps to Efficient ERP Product Costing Management

May 2, 2024

| Categories: Accounting, CPQ, ERP Software, Financial, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing

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…

8 Ways MES ERP Integration Boosts Your Business

March 7, 2024

| Categories: ERP Software, Manufacturing, MES, MES

MES and ERP systems play crucial roles in the manufacturing industry. Each offers a variety of benefits that contribute to operational efficiency, cost reduction, quality improvement, and overall business success. Manufacturers rely on these sophisticated manufacturing planning and execution applications to navigate complex production processes, optimize resource allocation, and deliver high-quality products efficiently. With MES ERP integration, manufacturers realize even more benefits from streamlined processes that enable them to adapt swiftly to market dynamics. The importance of integrated planning…

Manufacturing ERP Software Solutions for Business Growth

November 29, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

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,…

ERP Makes Production Scheduling Easier

November 15, 2023

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Uncategorized

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…

How CPQ Improves Materials Management

November 2, 2023

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

Manufacturers using ERP software with CPQ find greater success in materials management Manufacturing is a highly complex industry, requiring meticulous orchestration of various components to produce high-quality products efficiently. One of the most critical aspects of this process is materials management. This is the area that must handle resources, supplies, and inventory effectively. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of materials management. We’ll define Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ), and detail how combining CPQ with your Enterprise Resource…

ERP Software Implementation: 5 Areas for Focus

October 26, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

What Discrete Manufacturers Need to Know Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a significant endeavor for any discrete manufacturing company. The right ERP software can streamline operations, improve efficiency, and drive growth for your company. However, the wrong choice — or a poorly executed implementation — can lead to cost overruns and operational disruptions. To reduce uncertainty in this complex process, your project team must take a systematic approach. That means looking beyond the names you’ve heard…

Cloud ERP Software: Unleash the Power of IBM

October 4, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

You don’t have to buy an IBM system to get all the benefits of using IBM. Manufacturing software like Friedman’s Frontier ERP is available as a cloud-hosted solution. It will run on the IBM i operating system that runs on IBM Power Systems servers. This makes Frontier cloud ERP software an ideal choice for forward-thinking manufacturing businesses. Cloud ERP Software: The IBM Advantage. Before discussing the advantages of cloud ERP software, let’s recognize the undeniable strengths of the IBM…

Master Product Data Management Software

September 27, 2023

| Categories: Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Uncategorized

Mastering Manufacturing with Product Data Management Software Innovation, precision, and efficiency reign supreme for manufacturers of complex, discrete products. Manufacturing companies are always working to improve processes, cut costs, and deliver good products on time in today’s competitive market. Many organizations use Product Data Management (PDM) software to achieve these goals. PDM is a powerful tool that can change how you manage and work together on product data. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of PDM…

Solving Your Order Management Nightmare

September 20, 2023

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Uncategorized

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…

Manufacturing ERP with WMS: Which of 3 Options is Best?

September 6, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Manufacturing

Two of the most popular types of software in manufacturing today are Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Warehouse Management System (WMS) software. But what are the key differences between them? And if you need both, which approach is right for your business? In this article, we will compare and contrast a manufacturing ERP vs. WMS, and explain when you might need both types of software. We’ll also discuss three options for incorporating WMS capabilities, including using a WMS module…

Selecting the Right Product Configurator for Make-to-Order

August 30, 2023

| Categories: Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Uncategorized

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…

CAD + ERP = Better CPQ for Custom Manufacturing

August 23, 2023

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator

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…

The Evolution of Configurator Software for Manufacturing Complex Products

August 10, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator

Product configuration software has evolved significantly over the years, enabling manufacturers of discrete products to efficiently offer customization options to their customers. In this post, we’ll explore the key stages in the evolution of configurator software for manufacturing complex products so you can choose the tool that’s best for your operation.

9 Ways CPQ Software for Manufacturing will Transform Your Business

August 4, 2023

| Categories: CPQ, ERP Software, Furniture, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order

Delivering accurate pricing and delivery estimates are vital components of a successful business. That’s especially true if you make custom kitchen and bath cabinets, furniture, or other build-to-order, configured products. Fortunately, an ERP that includes CPQ software for manufacturing operations may be the key to unlocking growth for your business. What is CPQ? CPQ stands for Configure-Price-Quote. CPQ is an essential component of the custom manufacturing process. CPQ software for manufacturing streamlines the configuration and pricing of customized products,…

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

July 27, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator, Uncategorized

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!

7 Reasons Why CPQ Software is Crucial for Cabinet and Furniture Manufacturers

July 11, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Furniture, Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator

Find out why cabinet and furniture manufacturers can benefit from configure, price, quote software in this blog post by Friedman Corporation and Frontier.

7 Steps to Choosing ERP Software for Make-to-Order Manufacturers

July 3, 2023

| Categories: ERP Software, Make-to-Order, Manufacturing, Product Configurator

Learn how to choose cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP) software for make-to-order manufacturers in this blog post by Friedman Corp and Frontier.

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