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It is estimated that there are around 591,720 manufacturing firms in the USA alone. Yet, choosing the best manufacturing processes is not easy. You need to take into account a host of different factors.
When deciding on what custom manufacturing software you will use, there are some key features you need to look for. By reading this article, you will be able to identify what these features are.
Let’s get started!
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
BOM makes it easy to keep track of and handle all the parts and materials needed for each product. It also shows the manufacturing process in a clear and organized way.
Also, the routing function helps to speed up and improve production by showing the exact steps and order for putting each product together.
Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP)
This feature helps you plan and manage your production resources, such as materials and labor, to ensure optimal utilization and cost-effectiveness. With MRP, you can accurately:
- Track inventory levels
- Schedule production
- Manage purchasing and supplier relationships
Advanced Reporting and Analytics
This feature allows data to be analyzed and presented meaningfully, providing insights into production processes and efficiency. These reports can help identify:
- Areas for improvement
- Track key performance indicators
- Make informed decisions
Additionally, advanced reporting and analytics can assist with forecasting and predicting future production needs. This feature is crucial for businesses to stay competitive, adapt to changing market conditions, and ensure optimal production outcomes.
Product Data Management
Product data management is an essential feature to include in your custom manufacturing software. This feature allows you to organize and centralize all your product data, such as:
- Designs
- Specifications
- Bill of materials
This saves time and reduces errors. It also provides easy access to information for your entire team.
Inventory Management
This feature allows businesses to track and monitor their inventory levels in real time, ensuring they never run out of essential materials or products. An ideal inventory management feature should include functionalities such as:
- Automatic reordering
- Alerts for low stock levels
- Barcode scanning
Additionally, the software should also have the ability to integrate with other modules, such as sales and purchasing, to provide a comprehensive view of inventory movement.
Quality Control and Assurance
This feature is vital for ensuring that all products manufactured meet the highest standards of quality and consistency. This can include features such as:
- Real-time monitoring of production processes
- Automated quality checks
- Data analysis tools
The software should also include the ability to track and trace materials, suppliers, and production steps to ensure full transparency and accountability.
Machine and Equipment Maintenance Management
A maintenance schedule tool should be one of the best parts of this kind of program. This will make it easy to schedule regular maintenance jobs and help keep things from breaking down when they shouldn’t.
A full system for keeping track of equipment is another important trait. This will let you know in real-time how each machine is doing so you can make better decisions and cut down on downtime.
Integration With Other Business Systems
This ensures that all aspects of the manufacturing process are seamlessly connected, allowing for efficient and accurate data sharing. Integration with other systems can streamline operations and reduce the risk of errors and duplications.
It also enables real-time data access and analysis, providing businesses with valuable insights and the ability to make informed decisions. With integrated systems, companies can:
- Optimize their processes
- Increase productivity
- Increase profits
By including a dedicated cloud solution like Acumatica Cloud ERP, the integration can streamline your operations and get you ahead in the competitive manufacturing industry.
Sales Orders
One of the most important features of sales orders is the ability to easily generate and track orders. This includes:
- Creating and sending quotes
- Managing backorders
- Updating order statuses
Mobile Access
In this fast-paced world, the ability to access and manage information on the go is crucial for businesses to stay competitive. With mobile access, manufacturers can easily keep track of:
- Production processes
- Monitor inventory levels
- Make real-time decisions
Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools allow for seamless communication between different teams and departments involved in the manufacturing process. It promotes efficiency and productivity.
Real-time collaboration features make it easier for employees to work together on a project and stay updated on its progress. Some of the features are:
- Instant messaging
- Video conferencing
- File sharing options
Security
With sensitive data and proprietary information at stake, it is crucial to ensure that your company’s information is always protected. This includes implementing measures such as:
- Encrypted data storage
- User authentication
- Role-based access control
Technical Support
This component allows businesses to have access to a team of experts who are readily available to assist with any technical issues that may arise. It should include features such as:
- Live chat
- Phone support
- Knowledge base for quick troubleshooting
Scalability and Customization
Scalability makes sure that the software can grow with your business and handle any changes or growth that may happen in the future. This makes it last longer and reduces the need for changes.
With customization, you can change the software to fit your manufacturing operation’s needs and methods. This not only makes things go faster, but it also makes mistakes less likely.
With scalability and customization, your custom manufacturing ERP software will be able to respond to your business, not the other way around. This will ensure your business is thriving and happy in the long run.
User-Friendly Interface
A user-friendly interface means that the software is easy to understand and use. Users should be able to get to the information and features they need quickly.
This will not only improve the user experience as a whole, but it will also improve speed and productivity by making it easier and faster to do things.
Reap the Business Benefits of Custom Manufacturing Software
Custom manufacturing software is a valuable tool for businesses looking to streamline their processes and boost productivity. By including features such as inventory management, real-time tracking, and customizable reporting, companies can optimize their operations and achieve their production goals more efficiently.
Don’t hesitate to invest in a tailored software solution for your manufacturing needs and see the difference it can make. Schedule a consultation today and experience the benefits for yourself!
Check out our other blog posts for more informative content.
