An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is important for window and glass manufacturers to manage their operations. The best ERP systems improve efficiency and streamline processes resulting in optimized operations across the company. However, window and glass manufacturers have distinct functionalities that must be included with their chosen ERP system.
Many industry-specific factors should be considered during the ERP software selection process. Keep reading to discover 5 areas to research when selecting the best ERP system for your company.
Understanding Your Company’s Needs
A variety of companies are classified as window and glass manufacturers. They range from residential and commercial windows to product packaging. They make custom glass products to meet the ever-changing demands of residential, commercial, automotive, and specialty glass markets. To do so each business requires different sector-specific production processes as well as typical ERP features.
Before selecting an ERP system, it’s necessary to define your business processes, needs, and goals. This step is essential for choosing the proper ERP software. Consider the different aspects of the window and glass manufacturing sector. While many ERP solutions claim to be adaptable, a customized approach is often more practical for your business operations.
However, there is no need to suffer mass customization and programming fails from an off-the-shelf ERP that simply doesn’t work. Frontier ERP includes built-in industry-specific features for window and glass manufacturing and other business sectors.
Key Standard Features of an ERP System
- Inventory Management: Managing inventory is a critical aspect of window and glass manufacturing. Your ERP system should be capable of tracking raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods. Look for an ERP with real-time inventory updates and supply chain management features. This can help your company reduce waste and ensure that you always have the right materials on-hand.
- Production Scheduling: Efficient production scheduling is essential to meet deadlines and reduce downtime. The ERP should include tools to schedule production runs, allocate resources, and track progress. The best ERP system for manufacturing your glass products will automate these tasks, for even more efficiency. This will help you keep up with customer demands and manage your workflow more effectively.
- Quality Control: Maintaining high-quality standards is crucial in the window and glass industry. Plus, each manufacturer must abide by quality, government, and safety regulations as they relate to their company. Your ERP system should include features to help you monitor production processes, conduct inspections, and manage regulatory compliance.
- Finance Management: Effective financial management is the backbone of any successful manufacturing business. An ERP should provide comprehensive tools for managing budgets, tracking expenses, and generating financial reports. Features like automated invoicing, payroll management, and integration with third-party accounting software can streamline your financial operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with financial regulations.
- Sales Management: Streamlining your sales processes is essential for maintaining a steady flow of orders and revenue. Your ERP system should offer tools to manage customer relationships, track sales orders, and forecast demand. Look for features like CRM integration, sales pipeline tracking, and automated quoting to enhance your sales team’s efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.
It is important to truly evaluate what works well in your company and what gives you the most headaches. Identifying your pain points will help you break down which ERP system is best for your company.
Navigating ERP Selection for Window and Glass Manufacturers
Once you know what your wants, needs, and requirements from an ERP system, it is time to evaluate different ERP software solutions and vendors.
Window and glass manufacturers use Frontier’s Cut Part Processing to successfully optimize their glass manufacturing processes.
1. Look for Industry-Specific Solutions
When selecting an ERP system, choose software made for the window and glass industry, such as Frontier ERP. Industry-specific ERP systems come with features and functionalities tailored to your unique needs.
Glass Cutting Optimization
One such feature is glass-cutting optimization. This tool helps you minimize waste by optimizing the way glass sheets are cut. By using advanced algorithms, the system can determine the most efficient cutting patterns, saving you both time and money.
Pete de Gorter, VP of DeGorter Inc., weighed in on integration in a recent Glass Magazine article on automated software solutions. “Using optimization software with a full ERP system allows manufacturers to label each cut piece with all the information specific to that piece of glass,” DeGorter said. “This improves production flow, as barcoded labels allow product to be scanned in and out of each following processes; if a piece of glass gets damaged the ERP puts it back in line for remake, preventing further cost of production.”
Frontier has advanced machine-cutting mapping technology just for this reason. Whether in one-off runs or cut product batching, Frontier Cut Part Processing integrates with most industry-standard machines and programs. Cut part files are automatically converted to the required machine-cutting format and sent to the set production line. The system allows manual cutting and can create custom cut sheets for specific areas.
Product Configuration
Another essential feature is product configuration management. In most modern manufacturing plants, the ERP system should include advanced product configuration capabilities for complex orders. Product configurators let you manage many custom options. These include different types of glass, sizes, shapes, and extra features like coatings or tints.
Many manufacturers use Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) software to manage custom orders more effectively and accurately. CPQ software takes product configuration to the next level by adding powerful tools for pricing and quotes. This expedites the sales process for quicker deliveries.
Frontier ERP comes with built-in CPQ, including a powerful parametric product configurator, integrated pricing, and dynamic quoting abilities. Frontier ERP CPQ connects directly with configuration management, inventory levels, pricing models, BOM management, and production scheduling. This holistic approach to managing custom orders results in more accurate and expedited quotes and order deliveries.
2. Evaluate Integration Capabilities
The best ERP system for manufacturing window and glass products should integrate seamlessly with your existing systems and technologies. This is crucial for ensuring smooth data flow and communication across different departments.
Integration with CAD Software
Consider an ERP that integrates with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software that can streamline the design and production process. This allows your design team to create detailed drawings for easy transfer to the production floor.
Frontier offers a scalable module that seamlessly links CAD programs and Frontier ERP CPQ. CADFlow automates 3D model generation, drawings, and production information for each configured order. All outputs are created using your existing CAD designs and the configuration rules from within Frontier ERP CPQ.
Quality data transfers and CAD designs can be seamlessly integrated with Frontier ERP and Frontier CADFlow.
Third-Party Data Integration
Data integration is a must for window and glass manufacturing ERP systems. Consolidating data from various departments helps your company achieve a holistic view of operations for more informed decision-making. Additionally, integrated data reduces redundancy and errors, enhancing efficiency and accuracy throughout the organization.
Another key benefit of Frontier ERP is its ability to integrate seamlessly with third-party systems. This is particularly important when working with customers who may be using different software or have portals. Frontier ERP’s integration capabilities ensure that data flows smoothly between systems, reducing the likelihood of communication errors.
- eWeb Services provides a two-way API data exchange between Frontier ERP and your custom-branded portal or website. Frontier eWeb Services improves data accuracy, reduces turnaround times, and improves efficiency.
- DataBroker captures customer quotes and orders without any custom programming. Data can be pulled from customer EDI transmittals and specific window and glass software packages. Customers can even choose what to do with the purchase orders you import.
- eQuote Dealer is an all-inclusive dealer product from Friedman that integrates with the Frontier ERP system. It allows your product dealers to develop precise quotes quickly and accurately. Plus, it promotes effective communication and collaboration with your dealers.
System Scalability
Choose an ERP system that can manage growing transaction volumes, more users, and increased data. It should do this without major disruptions or performance problems. Cloud-hosted ERP systems offer easy access, scalability, and seamless integration with other cloud services.
Frontier ERP for IBM is completely scalable and can be deployed on-site, cloud-based ERP, or as a hybrid system. No matter which option you choose, Frontier can grow with your company.
3. Consider User-Friendly Interfaces
The ease of use is a critical factor in ERP adoption. Difficult interfaces lead to user frustration and errors, as well as lengthy training. A user-friendly ERP ensures that your team can quickly learn and use the system effectively, saving you time and money.
Intuitive Dashboards
Look for ERP systems with intuitive dashboards that provide a clear overview of key metrics and performance indicators. This makes it easier for your team to monitor operations and make informed decisions.
Frontier ERP offers adaptable displays and filters customized to each user’s needs. This not only provides them with greater control over their tasks but lets them work more efficiently. Frontier ERP also includes user-friendly MES software developed to eliminate user errors within the system. Its shop floor management and tracking tools simplify navigation, guiding employees through each step of the production process.
User Training
Additionally, consider the availability of user training and support. A good ERP vendor should offer comprehensive training programs to help your team get up to speed quickly. This includes online tutorials, user manuals, and live support.
Frontier’s user-friendly ERP reduces the learning curve for employees and customers alike. This results in less time spent on training sessions and more time doing what they intended to do. Over time, this can lead to substantial savings for your window and glass business and fewer headaches for your customers.
4. Prioritize Real-Time Data and Analytics
Real-time data and analytics are vital for making informed decisions and improving operational efficiency. Your chosen ERP system should provide access to real-time data and reporting across all departments.
Forecasting and Demand Planning
Advanced analytics can help you forecast demand accurately and plan production accordingly. This ensures that you have the right materials and resources available when needed, reducing downtime and improving customer satisfaction.
Frontier ERP has you covered with real-time data and robust analytics and reporting. You can examine past sales data to identify seasonal metrics that help you forecast future demand. Frontier can also help you spot emerging trends in customer preferences and market conditions. This allows you to adjust your forecasts accordingly for inventory, production, and the like.
Easily generate custom reports for your window or glass manufacturing facility with Frontier’s advanced analytics and reporting tools.
Manufacturing KPIs
Window and glass manufacturers take considerable interest in key performance indicators (KPIs) since they directly affect profits and operational effectiveness. Therefore, you should look for an ERP system that can easily measure these metrics.
From real-time data to demand forecasting, Frontier ERP helps your company gather the full potential of your ERP data. Our extensive library of robust analytics and reporting tools and window and glass industry expertise are second to none. It allows you to uncover actionable insights for helping your company achieve efficient operations and business growth.
5. Check Vendor Support and Services
The level of support and services provided by the ERP vendor is another important consideration. Good vendor support can make a significant difference in the successful implementation and maintenance of your ERP system.
ERP Implementation Plan
Implementing your chosen ERP should not be taken lightly. Make sure the ERP vendor you choose will take the appropriate steps to ensure you receive the most benefit from your investment. Picking the wrong ERP or a difficult implementation can lead to increased costs and operational disruptions.
Friedman’s project management team will work with your team to develop the most comprehensive plan that suits your specific needs. Our skilled and dedicated team will use the COMPASS methodology, proven successful in many industries, including windows and glass.
Training, Technical, and Customer Support
Look for vendors that offer comprehensive training and customer service. This includes initial setup, ongoing support, and troubleshooting assistance. Having reliable support ensures that any issues can be quickly resolved, minimizing disruptions to your operations.
As a comprehensive software provider, Friedman Corporation delivers services and support that extend beyond the initial product purchase. For manufacturers, having a fully trained staff is essential for advancing your business efficiently and productively. We aim to maximize the value of your software investment by equipping your team with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
Conclusion
Selecting the right ERP system is an important decision for window and glass manufacturers. The best ERP systems improve efficiency, streamline processes, and optimize operations across the company. However, window and glass manufacturers have distinct functionalities that must be included with the ERP they choose.
Carefully consider the industry-specific factors and follow the eight tips outlined. In doing so, you can find the right ERP solution that both meets your needs and helps your company achieve greater efficiency and success. With the best manufacturing ERP system in place, your window and glass business can thrive.
To learn more about the Frontier ERP features and modules mentioned in this post, contact us today.
If you are attending the GlassBuild America Expo in Dallas, we invite you to visit us at Booth #42011. The expo runs from September 30 to October 2.
