Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
In addition to features incorporated as part of Precise Solutions’ (developers of Epicor Advanced Requisition Management) scheduled product roadmap, the updates in Epicor ARM 10.3 SP11 have been influenced by requests received from Epicor ARM customers.
Support for Purchase Order (PO) suggestions in Epicor (ERP10) is a major addition to Epicor ARM’s out-of-the-box functionality and a focal point for version 10.3.11.
An overview of this new feature can be viewed below – or you may wish to register for our 30-minute ‘What’s New in ARM’ webinar on Thursday 10 December; which will summarize the last 12 months of module and feature updates, including PO suggestions. Register for the webinar
‘PO Suggestions’ in ARM 10.3 SP11 Explained
For several years now, Epicor ARMs’ broad functionality (coupled with its high degree of automation and integration to Epicor ERP) has earned it the title of the ‘go-to’ solution for ad-hoc and miscellaneous purchasing within Epicor.
For certain organizations, however – particularly those in the manufacturing space – a less-subjective and calculated approach needs to be utilized for inventory purchasing. This kind of purchasing is typically handled in Epicor via a process known as MRP (Material Requirements Planning).
Running MRP in Epicor produces ‘PO Suggestions’ – a calculated list of required parts based on timing, minimums, maximums, and demand. Because Epicor handles this task particularly well, it was not uncommon to see organizations using Epicor PO Suggestions to cater to the bulk of their inventory purchasing and Epicor ARM for all ad-hoc purchasing.
Now, in version 10.3.11, PO suggestions from Epicor are made visible within Epicor ARM under a new menu item labeled ‘PO Suggestions’.
With permission, an Epicor ARM user can now see and create requisitions from the current list of suggested parts.
The user checks a box next to each line to select the part to be requested.
Clicking the ‘Requisition’ button initiates the process, of creating and automatically submitting new requisitions for approval based on the selected parts.
As always, approvers are automatically notified by email once the requisitions have been submitted.
By having Epicor PO Suggestion lists available in Epicor ARM, users can quickly and simply generate requisitions based on demand from Epicor, with the resulting requisitions still being subject to Epicor ARMs’ powerful, multi-dimensional approval functionality.
Epicor ARM 10.3 SP11 is compatible with Epicor 10.
Users upgrading to Epicor ARM 10.3 SP11 should note the following:
If you are upgrading from ARM versions 10.0 SP6, ARM 10.1.0, ARM 10.1 SP1 – SP4, you must run the Upgrade Manager to migrate data to ensure compatibility with the enhanced approvals process that was introduced in ARM 10.1 SP6.
If you are upgrading from ARM 10.1 SP5 you do not need to run the Upgrade Manager to migrate your data as it will already be compatible with the enhanced approvals process (introduced in ARM 10.1 SP6).
Users upgrading to this version should perform a full synchronization on the GLAccountDefinition and GLAccount jobs within Integration Manager.
‘What’s New in an ARM?’ Webinar – December 10
Precise will be hosting a thirty-minute webinar on Thursday 10 December at 11 am (GMT).
We will be highlighting some of the newest and most popular features incorporated in Advanced Requisition Management over the past twelve months. This webinar will cover:
Epicor Advanced Requisitions Management (ARM) is an online workflow and purchase requisition tool which enables organizations to gain visibility and control over their procurement spending and reduce their purchasing costs.
Epicor ARM automates and streamlines the procurement process, utilizing a web browser to integrate with and extend the Epicor Purchasing module. Multiple approval methods provide a flexible framework that can be configured to meet the requirements of any organization.
An award-winning and market-leading provider of ERP software solutions. Precise provides global software solutions, coupled with local business expertise. Precise is a leading provider of business software solutions and associated services to the Australian and international marketplace. A wholly-owned Western Australian company, Precise has been in business since 1989. Over the last 25 years, Precise has assisted organizations to maximise efficiencies and gaining a competitive advantage. Precise Business Solutions is also the developer of integrated companion solutions for Epicor ERP and Prophet 21: – Epicor Advanced Requisition Management (ARM) – Precise Point of Sale (POS) These solutions are distributed worldwide through their alliance partner Epicor Software Corporation. Precise continues to be a market leader in implementation, support, and services. Partnering with their customers to help them be the best they can be, has always been Precise’s primary focus.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
If you have not read the writing on the wall, cloud-based technologies and digital transformation initiatives are quickly becoming the focus for enterprises around the world. Providing more security, reliability, and mobility, cloud technologies simply provide too many benefits to ignore. However, their adoption is not always easy. As with any significant change at the organizational level, cloud ERP implementation challenges can stack up quickly. Here are the top 5 challenges in cloud ERP implementation and how you can address them before they impact your success.
Cloud ERP Implementation Challenges
While there are far more than five challenges that cloud ERP implementation may present to an organization, these are what we have found to be the most common. Several of these challenges are compounded by the increased reliance on remote workforces and the inability to meet in person due to environmental factors.
1. Change Management
While the age-old adage is nothing is certain but death and taxes, in business the only constant changes. For most people who are comfortably entrenched in the predictability of a routine, change can be a “four-letter word”. In most cases, change will be unsurprisingly met with resistance.
Change management will be one of your biggest hurdles in moving towards a complete cloud ERP solution from a system that was either previously on-prem or a hybrid deployment model of on-prem and cloud-based.
The easiest way to address the inherent resistance to change is to illustrate where things will improve. This is done not just by saying things will be new and modern. Show where those improvements will take place, and the cost savings and gains in productivity that system users and the company can expect to reap.
2. Focus
The last several months have pretty much done away with the divide between work life and personal life for a significant portion of the global workforce. Transitioning to remote work from home has presented unique challenges for enterprises of every size.
The result has been a muddying of work hours, family obligations, self-care, and a host of other responsibilities in one venue, without end.
The ability to focus on implementation can be a challenge in the best conditions. In a completely remote environment, where distractions are abundant, maintaining focus will be a challenge that presents itself consistently.
To overcome distraction and maintain focus, set aside specific windows of time for core project components. Businesses need to be open to scheduling compromises with employees and their families when the lines blur between work and home. By compromising on specific project hours, there is a higher probability of remaining focused on the progress of your implementation project. The remaining work time can be more fluid as the separation of workday duties and household obligations continue to muddy.
3. Security
One of your project initiatives may be an effort to move towards heightened system security. This is a great feature of Cloud ERP. However, during the implementation phase, you may not have advanced security in place to maintain your sensitive data. This security becomes even more difficult to maintain between remote resources, like staff and their workstations.
Make it a point to understand the risks upfront. You can take on the challenge alone, hire a consultant, or work in tandem with your implementation partner to find the right protocol for your case. A simple step, like password-protecting Wi-Fi connections, not allowing users other than staff to utilize remote workstations is a necessary first layer of security.
Firewalls and network security software should follow. If you do not provide the hardware your staff will be working from while remote, you may want to consider doing so. A small investment in this area can result in big savings when you consider the alternative.
Lastly, have a plan in place, both documented and practiced, with your staff. Make sure they understand the risks and the results of a security breach and demonstrate the protocol they are going to follow moving forward.
4. Access, Permissions, and Productivity
Yeah, I know that’s three things but each build on the former to deliver a complete effort. So, in the interest of time and space, they’ve been combined.
Not everyone on your cloud ERP implementation project will need access to all components of your system. Working with IT to designate the proper permissions will be critical in ensuring that staff remain on task and don’t have an opportunity to ruin transitioning data, either by malice or mistake.
Provisioning web and mobile access may fit into this implementation scenario, too. If your staff has spotty connections based on their location, consider bolstering their coverage through their provider to ensure your project isn’t impeded by poor connectivity. This is usually as simple as flipping a switch on the provider’s end. This way, you won’t lose precious time in the event cloud cover conceals the satellite internet connection of your data analyst in rural Illinois.
5. Knowledge
When leaping on-prem and, in many cases, outdated data management systems, tribal knowledge, and training will be integral as you move forward.
By relying on your most knowledgeable IT professionals and department heads to deliver their expertise during the cloud ERP implementation process, you have your top minds tackling your biggest challenge yet. However, there will be scenarios for which even they are not prepared. This is where training can be one of your biggest assets. Whether training is provided by your vendor or consultant of choice, or you have chosen to produce your training plan, enabling your project staff with defined direction and knowledge will ensure their success.
Lack of familiarity with a new environment is sure to produce plenty of anxiety and opportunities for missteps. Proper planning can help to mitigate these pitfalls. Having an experienced and knowledgeable guide through the process can eliminate them. That is because every implementation is different, and every company is different. With the experience of an implementation professional, there is a wider breadth of experience to draw from in the event an obstacle presents itself.
There will inevitably be some unexpected challenges for even the most experienced vendors, VARs, and consultants to guide you through. However, doing your research and taking the time to get familiar with the nuances of a cloud ERP implementation will impart the confidence and understanding any business needs to go through the project on their own.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Encompass Solutions delivers an array of useful services to support your business beyond ERP implementation. Whether you need IT support for your on-prem or cloud-deployed ERP system, EDI management, or system patch management services, we are fully equipped to deliver on your needs. Make use of these managed services promotions to ensure your business has the support necessary to enjoy continued success.
Keep in mind, These offers apply to any of the Managed Services coverage levels outlined HERE.
Managed Services Promotions
Whether assisting with infrastructure support, reporting customization, Epicor patch management, or EDI-managed services, we are proud to add value to our customers.
New Managed Services customers committing contracts can take advantage of considerable savings on waived fees and free services.
6-Month Commitment: onboarding fee waived (up to a $2,000 value)
12-Month Commitment: onboarding fee waived and an additional 1-month service included (up to a $4000 value)
Offer Terms and Conditions
To remain eligible for discounts, commitments must be signed by October 30th, 2020
Terms are based on your organization’s Managed Services Proposal
If a 12-month agreement is broken, the user owes the remainder of the contract and waived onboarding fee
If a 6-month agreement is broken, the user owes the remainder of the contract and waived onboarding fee
Contract termination based on service subject to review and approval
As an introductory offer, contract promotions are available to new Managed Services customers only.
For any questions or to request customer referrals on our Managed Services offerings, please contact us to set up a meeting.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
Join Epicor and SourceDay for a webinar to learn about COVID-19’s impact on other Epicor users’ operations and supply chain disruptions.
SourceDay’s VP of Product Josh Tong is going to share data from more than 7,000 companies to ensure supply chain efficiency. Josh will also take time to present data about PO line changes occurring during the pandemic. With the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc on supply chains globally, efficiency is more important now than it ever has been.
Take this opportunity to be proactive in avoiding future supply chain disruptions.
Josh’s 4 tips for better supply chain management:
Focusing on the most critical PO exceptions
Containing costs through communication
Getting quick supplier confirmations
Expediting updates from suppliers
Register for the event, taking place September 15, 2020, at midnight CST, using the link below.
SourceDay’s platform provides a digital interface between a manufacturer’s ERP system and hundreds of suppliers, automatically updating changes to delivery dates, pricing, and quantities throughout the order lifecycle and across the supply chain. Replacing manual processes with software improves customers’ understanding of the many changes that occur throughout the lifecycle of an order. Procurement teams stop spending their time on fire drills and reacting to expensive surprises. Now they have time to manage suppliers more strategically, proactively addressing pricing and quality issues and ensuring their factories receive the materials they need to meet customer commitments on time.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
A press release detailing the Epicor Software Corporation acquisition by investment firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice was published on August 31, 2020. You can read the full press release, Here.
Epicor Software Corporation Acquisition
The purchase of Epicor Software Corporation from KKR, the former owner of four years, represents an important milestone for Epicor.
“This is an exciting day for the entire Epicor family—employees, customers, and partners alike – and validates the company’s leadership position across markets we serve,” said Epicor CEO Steve Murphy. “We welcome this new partnership with CD&R, which shares our vision for growing the company, and I thank KKR for a highly successful partnership these past few years. We are excited to work with CD&R to increase investment in our market-leading product portfolio and to enhance our ability to support an ever-increasing range of customer needs.”
“Epicor’s reputation for quality and performance, and its impressive portfolio of next-generation cloud products, position the company well to accelerate growth in the coming years,” said Jeff Hawn, CD&R Operating Partner. “We look forward to partnering with the Epicor management team to further expand Epicor’s product portfolio as well as make strategic acquisitions to meet customers’ evolving digital transformation needs.”
“We are excited to partner with Epicor and its talented management team to drive the business into a new phase of growth and profitability,” said Rick Schnall, CD&R Co-President. “Our long-standing industrial end-market experience and growing enterprise software expertise align well with Epicor’s value creation plan.”
“Four years ago, we embarked on an ambitious product modernization journey together with Epicor and are incredibly proud of the successes that the company has achieved to date, particularly with its recent cloud releases,” remarked John Park, Chairman of the Epicor Board and Head of Americas Technology Private Equity at KKR. “We are confident that CD&R will provide valuable support as the company continues this product- and customer-centric investments to accelerate growth in the cloud.”
CD&R Operating Partner Jeff Hawn will serve as Chairman of the Epicor Board upon close of the transaction, expected later this year.
We expect more information to follow shortly and look forward to an exciting new chapter in the story of Epicor’s rise in prominence over the past 5 decades.
Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers and Distributors. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.
