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Are Supplier Hubs and Co-Location the Answer to a Better Supply Chain?

supplier hubs, co-location, erp system

Unfortunately, supply chain disruptions have become a fact of life for manufacturers. Global shipping delays, raw material shortages, labor gaps, and rising transportation costs force businesses to reevaluate how they source, stock, and deliver critical components. In response, many manufacturers are investing in supplier hubs and co-location strategies, bringing key suppliers physically closer to production facilities. These hubs and co-location scenarios can reduce lead times, improve collaboration, and build resilience against future disruption when paired with a strong multi-site…

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Streamline Millwork Shop EDI Orders With Databroker

millwork shops, edi orders, databroker, wood manufacturing, erp systems, data transfer, wood product manufacturing, sustainability, wood products

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) has become a standard form for incoming orders for manufactured products over the years. However, for many millwork shops, incoming EDI orders can feel like more of a complication than a convenience. Whether you’re supplying dealers, builders, or contractors, EDI is meant to streamline the flow of sales orders. Unfortunately, poorly integrated data transfers can slow things down when your products are complex, made-to-order, or custom-built. Fortunately, tools exist to bridge the gap. In this…

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Furniture ERP: 10 Must-Have Features to Improve Operational Efficiency

Technology is present in nearly every facet of our lives, from smart homes and window coverings to production tracking and automated manufacturing processes. While tech availability is widespread, it must be used properly to realize the biggest benefits in business. This is especially true for residential and contract furniture manufacturers seeking streamlined operations. Therefore, adopting a benefit-rich furniture ERP system is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. In this article, we’ll delve into common challenges that can hinder operations…

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B2C vs. B2B ERP: Unified Solutions for Manufacturing Success

b2b, b2c, erp systems

In today’s evolving marketplace, many manufacturers operate in both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) spaces. As buyer behaviors shift and digital transformation accelerates, companies are under the gun to manage both models efficiently. While the two models share common goals, their requirements differ significantly regarding manufacturing ERP software. To remain competitive, manufacturers need an ERP system that can seamlessly handle both B2B and B2C transactions. This is essential for smooth multi-channel order management, pricing strategies, and fulfillment processes. In…

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Optimize Work Order Management and Reporting with Frontier ERP

Frontier Quick Read, erp features, erp system tools, erp business intelligence

Effective work order management is critical for keeping production on track, controlling costs, and ensuring smooth manufacturing operations. Yet, many manufacturers struggle with outdated or manual work order processes. Those can lead to delays, inaccurate job costing, and a lack of real-time visibility. Without a streamlined system, tracking production progress, labor hours, and scrap can quickly become overwhelming. ERP workflow automation can make a difference in this situation. A top ERP system for manufacturing, like Frontier ERP, automates work…

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US Manufacturing Growth Leads to Increased Sales for Your Business

US manufacturing growth, increased sales

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…

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Frontier eProducts: For Superior Customer Portal Account Management

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

In today’s fast-paced digital economy, manufacturers need efficient tools to streamline customer interactions and ensure seamless transactions. The Frontier eProduct Suite is designed to enhance customer portal account management. It provides a robust eCommerce ERP solution that integrates directly with the Frontier ERP system. Use real-time data access, secure transactions, and flexible user interfaces for an improved online presence. The Power of Frontier’s eProduct Suite The eProduct Suite includes fully integrated applications that facilitate online business activities. These modules…

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8 Cloud ERP System Features for Manufacturing Millwork Products

millwork products, cloud erp system, 3D product configurator

Manufacturers of millwork products face many moving parts in their daily operations. Custom orders, complex product configurations, and design integration add difficulty to workflow management. That’s why many millwork businesses have adopted Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems – specifically, cloud ERP systems. A cloud ERP system is a web-based enterprise resource planning solution hosted on a vendor’s cloud platform. Cloud systems include the same features as on-premises or hybrid ERP systems. They help businesses manage important tasks like finance,…

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Get the Best Shipping Prices and Faster Delivery With Reimagined eCommerce Packaging

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

eCommerce is evolving rapidly, and so is the way products are packaged, sorted, and shipped. One of the biggest shifts in packaging design is the move toward squared-off cartons and right-sized packaging with no voids. This trend leads to faster delivery times and the best shipping prices for manufacturers’ eCommerce shipments. In this article, we will look at how these packaging trends help manufacturers. They can get better shipping rates, ensure faster delivery, and improve eCommerce packaging for automation…

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Custom Window Treatments: How to Increase Sales with CPQ Software

mobile device controlled blinds, custom window treatments

Custom window treatments have continued to increase in popularity for homeowners and businesses over the years. Buyers seek personalized solutions that match their style and functional needs. Whether it’s motorized shades, eco-friendly blinds, or custom drapery, consumers want high-quality, made-to-order options. With the demand increase, manufacturers and dealers face challenges in managing product variations, pricing complexities, and order accuracy. This is where CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) software plays a crucial role. CPQ software simplifies the sales process, enhances the…

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7 Steps to Effortless Order Management with Frontier ERP

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

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…

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Join Our Live Webinar! WMS ERP Integration for Better Inventory Optimization

WMS ERP Integration, inventory optimization

Join us for an informative live webinar on how you can enhance your inventory management with WMS ERP integration. See firsthand how Frontier ERP and Logimax Warehouse Management System (WMS) software seamlessly work together to take your inventory management to the next level! Why Attend the Inventory Optimization Webinar? Frontier ERP includes some great features for comprehensive inventory management. However, by integrating Frontier and Logimax you can realize even greater control and optimized operations beyond tracking stock. Key Benefits of Logimax…

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Unlocking Efficiency: Custom Bathroom Configurations Made Easy with CPQ Software

custom bathroom, cpq software

Customizing a bathroom for clients can be a complicated process. It involves intricate design decisions, precise measurements, and many product options while keeping the customer happy. For some manufacturers, juggling custom bathroom configurations can be more difficult without proper systems in place. This is where CPQ software can help. CPQ software streamlines the entire process. It allows for real-time visualization, accurate pricing, and efficient quote generation. This article will explore how CPQ makes custom bathroom configurations simpler and more…

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Forecast Demand for New Products With Frontier ERP Software

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

Launching a new product or product line is always exciting. However, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to forecast demand for it. Forecasting demand is crucial because it helps you to target the right audience for a successful product launch. The right ERP software can help you with these all-important forecasts that can make or break your new product campaign. In this blog post, we’ll explore the challenges of creating new product demand forecasts and how…

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Guide to ERP Customer Relationship Management Best Practices

erp customer relationship management

Customer relationships are important for any company since they can make or break a business. Lack of communication and undefined customer buying patterns can hurt the bottom line. For custom manufacturers, ERP Customer Relationship Management (CRM) can keep customers well-informed and maintain their loyalty. Dive into this helpful guide to learn how you can improve your customer standings and gain more sales with an ERP customer-focused CRM. What is ERP Customer Relationship Management? An ERP system typically handles business…

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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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Growing Home Improvement Business Increases Demand on Manufacturers

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

During the pandemic, homeowners focused on updating and upgrading their spaces. This resulted in a huge uptick in home improvement business. Higher interest rates over the past few years caused that trend to wane. However, the recent rate cut has seen the upward trend reemerge as more homeowners look to refinance their homes at lower rates. A new report suggests the renovation and home improvement sector will be big factors driving more activity in 2025. The surge in remodeling…

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ERP Pricing 101: Navigating the Cost of ERP Systems

navigation

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…

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eQuote Dealer Webinar: Dealer Software for Manufacturers

dealer software

Are you and your dealer network frustrated with your current quote and order process? If so, eQuote Dealer software powered by Frontier ERP is the answer! Attend our LIVE webinar to learn more! Inefficient quoting and order processing can lead to delays, errors, and extended lead times, causing frustration and harming your operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Why take that risk? Dealers and distributors are an extension of your sales order management team, if not the entire team. eQuote…

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Why to Connect Your Online Payment Portal With Frontier ERP

home improvement business, year-end inventory, door manufacturing erp software, erp and manufacturing, standard operating procedures, forecast demand, erp software, dispatch planning, truckload shipping, order management, supply chain resiliency, ltl freight classification, indirect spend, direct vs. indirect spend, spend optimization, customer portal, account management, eCommerce ERP, distribution requirements planning, erps, drp

Since the advent of Internet banking, online payment portals have become the preferred way for customers to pay their bills. However, a secure online payment portal isn’t just reserved for eCommerce stores or utility companies. It is also for manufacturers. As a result, many manufacturers have connected their portals to their ERP systems for a single data source. According to the payment company Stripe, “ERPs can significantly improve internal operations for businesses, and this is especially true when businesses opt…

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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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Helpful Tips for Selecting the Best Window and Glass ERP System

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….

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Learn How to Supercharge Your Web Services API: Don’t Miss Our Webinar!

promotional products software data integration

Do you want your web services API to go beyond basic data processing?   Frontier’s eWebServices goes above and beyond. Imagine giving your customers and dealers access to your ERP data and ordering tools, ensuring they always have the most accurate and up-to-date information. What if your custom quoting software could instantly check stock levels and account for each dealer’s specific terms with a simplified API? These are just two of the many benefits offered by Frontier eWeb Services….

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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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Simplify Quotes and Orders: Real-Time Data Processing From eWebServices

Imagine simplifying the entire process of quoting and ordering, all while ensuring your data is always up-to-date. With web services, you can turn this into a reality. By leveraging real-time data processing, you can streamline communication, minimize errors, and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether it’s generating quotes or managing orders, Frontier eWebServices provides the tools you need for seamless integration. Let’s dive into how this powerful solution can transform the way you do business. What are Web Services? Before we…

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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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4 Ways Integrated ERP Customer Portals Drive Efficiency

customer portals

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…

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ERP Software Cuts Wood Product Manufacturing Operating Costs

wood product manufacturing, reduce costs

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…

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ERP + CPQ Tools Strengthen Sales Order Management

ERP CPQ Tools, sales order management

Custom manufacturers rely on efficient sales order management to maintain customer satisfaction and drive revenue growth. However, traditional sales software does not provide the necessary features for managing sales of complexly configured products. Many make-to-order manufacturers find that an ERP system with powerful CPQ tools (configure, price, quote) is better suited for managing complex orders than traditional programs. Understanding Sales Order Management Sales order management involves the process of quoting, processing, and fulfilling customer orders. It encompasses quote generation,…

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