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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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Top 10 Benefits of Discrete Manufacturing ERP Automation

discrete manufacturing process automation

Automation is not just a buzzword, it is a requirement for today’s manufacturers to increase productivity and lower costs. It requires more than robotic machines and assembly lines to aid with discrete manufacturing production. Manufacturers must adopt faster and more accurate automated operations across the board. To stay competitive, many manufacturers are turning to ERP systems. For discrete manufacturers, embracing ERP automation isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic move towards enhancing operational efficiency, optimizing workflows, and achieving greater agility….

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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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ERP Data Quality Issues Can Harm Your Business

data quality issues

For modern manufacturers, the need for accurate, reliable, and timely data cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, some custom manufacturers struggle with data quality issues within their ERP systems. This can cause problems such as running out of inventory and making mistakes in production, which can hurt your company. The efficacy of an ERP system hinges on one crucial factor: data quality. This post will explore how data quality impacts business operations. Plus, discover solutions for fixing quality issues to get…

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How to Reduce Your Metal Service Center Costs

metal service center

Running a steel or metal service center comes with its fair share of challenges. From managing inventory and optimizing production to maintaining quality and meeting customer demands. In this highly competitive industry, finding ways to save money without compromising on efficiency and service quality is crucial. That’s why it’s important to use software applications that can help optimize resources and streamline operations. In this post, we will explore the benefits of ERP, CPQ, and MES systems and how embracing…

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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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Maximize Efficiency with Woodworking Design Software and ERP Integration

woodworking design software

Nothing says quality like custom-crafted wood products, whether it is state-of-the-art cabinetry, ornate entry doors, or one-of-a-kind furniture. Woodworking and the manufacture of wooden products have come a long way from the days of hand tools and simple machines. Today, modern shops use advanced woodworking design software to enhance their creative techniques. They also may use software for manufacturing and for accounting. But in many cases, these are siloed tools that are not connected.  Even with a more comprehensive…

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Solve Your Commercial-Grade Furniture Configuration Challenges

commercial-grade furniture

Furniture manufacturers face many challenges with product configuration. This is particularly true for commercial-grade furniture companies that offer complex product customizations. As more companies seek unique, tailor-made furniture for their spaces, custom manufacturers often navigate complicated design and production requirements while trying to maintain high customer satisfaction levels. Whether you manufacture arena seating like ‘The Wall’ for Clippers’ fans, retail fixtures for a new chain of clothing stores, or the latest designs for medical waiting areas, using the right…

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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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Leverage Important ERP Data to Enhance Efficiency

ERP data

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…

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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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Keys to Better Field Service Management for Manufacturers

field service management

Let’s say that your company manufactured, delivered, and installed a custom-designed product for a customer. While installation sets the stage for product quality and dependability, follow-up service is essential to maintain product performance and customer loyalty. This is when it’s critical to focus on your company’s after-delivery responsibilities as a manufacturer – field service management. Read on to learn more about the importance of field service management and how Frontier ERP can help streamline your processes. Understanding Field Service…

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Multi-Site ERP for Manufacturing Efficiency

multi-site erp, erp for manufacturing

Manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to boost efficiency, streamline operations, and stay ahead of the competition. For those operating from a single location, an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system has long been a cornerstone for achieving these goals. However, for companies with operations spread across multiple locations, the need for an integrated ERP for manufacturing becomes even more critical. Multi-site manufacturers require an ERP solution that can seamlessly connect various facets of their operations across different locations. In this…

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The Best ERP Systems for Manufacturing are User-Friendly

usability, ERP systems for manufacturing

Custom manufacturers implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to increase efficiency and optimize processes. However, using an ERP system for manufacturing with a complex user interface is counter-productive. Note that all ERP systems are not created equal. The best ERP systems for manufacturing are those that include user-friendliness along with their valuable features. Red Flag Scenario Have you ever had this frustrating experience? EmployeeX’s job is to generate ERP reports, however, they are out sick today. You need a…

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How Digital Transformation Impacts Sustainable Manufacturing

digital transformation

We live in an era defined by technological innovation and environmental consciousness. Businesses are facing pressure to adopt more sustainable manufacturing methods. In response, manufacturers are implementing digital transformation as a path to reach their sustainability goals. Many are shifting to ERP software solutions to help them digitize operations while advancing their sustainability objectives. What Does Digital Transformation Mean? Digital transformation encompasses a wide array of technological advancements and innovations, each aimed at optimizing business operations and unlocking new…

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Q&A: Production Tracking for Cabinet Manufacturing

production tracking, cabinet manufacturing

Custom cabinet manufacturing involves many different processes from the initial quote to the finished product. One such process is production tracking. Tracking isn’t just about keeping records; it’s about analyzing operations, maintaining quality, and meeting customer demands effectively. Efficient production tracking is essential for cabinet manufacturers to monitor and cost-effectively control their operations. Whether you’ve been manufacturing cabinets for a long time or just starting, monitoring your manufacturing processes is important. Read on for answers to the most common…

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Increase Your Shop Floor Control with MES Software

millwork, shop floor control, mes, furniture manufacturing

For custom manufacturers, staying ahead of the curve requires more than just efficient production methods; it demands precision, adaptability, and seamless coordination across every aspect of the shop floor. That’s why many businesses rely on MES software that effectively manages and streamlines production activities for better shop floor control. At Frontier, we understand the critical role that shop floor control plays in enhancing manufacturing operations. That’s why shop floor software, also called Manufacturing Execution System or MES, is a…

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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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8 Ways MES ERP Integration Boosts Your Business

mes erp integration

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…

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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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A Guide to Choosing the Right Promotional Products Software

promotional products software, pens

Promotional products, branded merch, ad specialties, tchotchkes, or swag. No matter what you call the items, competition in the personalized product giveaways sector is fierce. From branded shirts and signage for a store opening to coffee mugs and pens for a new campaign, customers will request anything. That is why using well-developed promotional products software is essential to manage and process their requests. Selecting the right software solution is pivotal for sustained growth and efficiency for any business. This…

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How Shipping Software Integration Boosts Control, Savings, and Customer Satisfaction

shipping software integration shows cartons in a high tech setting

Discover how shipping software integration with Frontier ERP reduces frustrating bottlenecks. In today’s fast-paced world, efficient shipping is critical for delivering on customer promises. Yet, for many companies, this final hurdle can become a frustrating nightmare due to order delays, inaccurate deliveries, and rising costs. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The challenges of manual data entry, fragmented workflows, and limited visibility plague businesses of all sizes. These pain points translate into real consequences like error-prone processes, time-consuming tasks,…

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3D Product Visualization: How to Strengthen the Buyer Bond

3D product visualization

In a world where unique design is increasingly important to buyers, custom-manufactured products have gained immense popularity. From custom window treatments to distinctive bathroom cabinetry, consumers want designs that reflect their individuality. For custom product manufacturers, one thing remains constant amongst their customers. They want to see what their custom orders will look like before purchase. How can that be accomplished? Traditionally, contractors or dealers provide the consumer with static images or 2D drawings during the design phase. This…

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Critical Custom Manufacturing Year-End Tasks

end of year 2023

The end of 2023 is nearly here. Companies are hustling to fill the last purchase orders before the holidays so employees can take a much-needed break. While many in the custom manufacturing industry would rather be enjoying festivities, critical end-of-year obligations cannot wait. Typical assignments at this time usually include holiday production scheduling, financial closing, and yearly physical inventory. Often these are considered daunting and unpleasant duties for those involved. However, businesses can improve their year-end processes while planning…

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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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How CPQ Improves Materials Management

Letters CPQ held in a woman's hand. Materials Management superimposed on back of her monitor.

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…

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ERP Software Implementation: 5 Areas for Focus

ERP software image of word and icon cloud in an outstretched hand

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…

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10 Key Benefits of Cabinet Software for Manufacturing

close-up of cabinet software controlling CNC machine

In the world of custom and semi-custom cabinet manufacturing, precision, efficiency, and versatility are paramount. To meet these demands, manufacturers turn to cabinet software manufacturing solutions that streamline their operations, from design to production. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 benefits of cabinet software for manufacturers. We’ll also highlight the key features of cabinet ERP (enterprise resource planning) software. Finally, we’ll explain the significance of a strong product configurator for making personalized cabinets for different industries….

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Cloud ERP Software: Unleash the Power of IBM

Cloud ERP Software Hosting illustration with hand holding cloud and tech icons

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…

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Master Product Data Management Software

product data management software

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…

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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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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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