Why Customers Move Their ERP to Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Manufacturers are transitioning from traditional on-premise ERP systems to cloud-based solutions, such as Epicor Kinetic Cloud. This shift

Why Customers Move Their ERP to Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Blog Cloud ERP, Encompass Solutions, Epicor Kinetic Cloud, Epicor Kinetic Cloud ERP, On-Prem to Kinetic Cloud Ashley Limbers

Manufacturers are transitioning from traditional on-premise ERP systems to cloud-based solutions, such as Epicor Kinetic Cloud. This shift is more than just a tech upgrade; it’s a strategic decision to boost efficiency and profitability. Epicor Kinetic Cloud is specifically designed for discrete and made-to-order manufacturers, offering tools to streamline processes and cut costs. Discover the benefits of cloud migration and any concerns and improvements in scalability, cost efficiency, security, and collaboration. Recognizing these advantages helps business leaders confidently modernize their operations.

Comprehending Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Epicor Kinetic Cloud is a cloud-based ERP solution designed specifically for manufacturers. It combines pivotal business functions—production, supply chain, finance, and customer management—into one platform. This integration is beneficial for manufacturers that require a system capable of handling complex operations efficiently.

For manufacturers, Epicor Kinetic Cloud is a game-changer. It offers real-time data analytics, helping businesses make quick, informed decisions to stay competitive. The cloud setup means updates and upgrades happen seamlessly, so that manufacturers always have the latest features without the hassle of downtime.

Using Epicor Kinetic Cloud, manufacturers can streamline processes, cut down on operational delays, and boost productivity. Its intuitive interface and customizable dashboards make it easy for everyone—from IT managers to CFOs—to access and use. This ensures all departments benefit from the improved visibility and control that the platform offers.

Key Benefits of Moving to Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Switching from an on-premise ERP to Epicor Kinetic Cloud brings significant advantages for discrete and made-to-order manufacturers. This transition boosts operational efficiency and strengthens a company’s position in the market.

Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

Epicor Kinetic Cloud stands out for its scalability. Unlike traditional systems that demand hefty investments and time for expansion, cloud solutions adjust swiftly to business changes. This adaptability is necessary for manufacturers facing variable demand or planning growth. With Epicor Kinetic Cloud, businesses can easily scale resources, paying only for what they use.

Another significant advantage is flexibility. Cloud-based ERP allows manufacturers to integrate new features or modules without extensive hardware upgrades. This agility helps companies quickly adapt to market shifts and technological advancements, keeping them competitive.

Cost Efficiency and ROI

Switching to Epicor Kinetic Cloud can lead to substantial cost savings. Traditional on-premise ERP systems often demand heavy investments in hardware and maintenance. In contrast, cloud solutions cut these costs by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. This allows manufacturers to redirect funds towards strategic initiatives like innovation or expansion.

Epicor Kinetic Cloud’s long-term ROI is significant. Manufacturers can enhance production and increase output by minimizing downtime and boosting operational efficiency. The subscription-based pricing model also aids in financial planning, helping companies manage costs effectively over time.

Improved Security and Compliance

Security is required for any business, and Kinetic Cloud delivers with robust measures. Cloud providers offer advanced protocols like encryption and multi-factor authentication to safeguard data. This level of security often surpasses what many manufacturers can achieve with on-premise systems.

Epicor Kinetic Cloud also supports compliance with industry regulations. Automatically updating compliance features helps businesses stay aligned with legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties.

Increased Accessibility and Collaboration

Epicor Kinetic Cloud enhances accessibility and collaboration. Employees can access business information anywhere, anytime, using any device. This is invaluable for teams spread across multiple locations or those working remotely.

Another benefit is real-time collaboration. Cloud solutions enable seamless communication and data sharing among departments, improving coordination and decision-making. This leads to faster problem-solving and innovation.

Overcoming Migration Concerns

Despite the benefits, some manufacturers hesitate to move to the cloud due to migration concerns. Fears about data loss, integration challenges, and potential downtime are common. However, these issues can be addressed with careful planning and the right expertise.

Epicor offers comprehensive support for a smooth migration. Data migration tools and services ensure secure data transfer, while integration capabilities ensure existing systems work seamlessly with the new cloud platform. With a well-planned strategy, manufacturers can minimize disruption and quickly benefit from their new ERP system.

Steps to Transition from On-Prem to Kinetic Cloud

Transitioning to Kinetic Cloud requires a structured approach. Start by assessing current systems to identify specific needs and goals and create a tailored migration plan.

Partnering with experienced cloud migration experts is wise. They guide practices, assist with data migration, and ensure the new system is configured correctly. Training and support help employees adapt to the new platform and maximize its potential.

Establish a timeline for the transition, allowing for testing and adjustments before fully going live. This phased approach minimizes risk and ensures successful migration.

Let Encompass Solutions Help You Modernize Operations

Moving to Kinetic Cloud offers manufacturers benefits like scalability, cost efficiency, enhanced security, and improved collaboration. Businesses can modernize operations and maintain a competitive edge by addressing migration concerns and following a strategic plan.

Manufacturers ready to explore cloud ERP should consider migrating to Epicor Kinetic Cloud. Contact us at Encompass Solutions for guidance and support to begin the journey towards operational excellence and innovation.

Oct 2022

Epicor Kinetic 2022.2 Upgrade l Cloud ERP for Manufacturers

Kinetic 2022.2 utilizes the Epicor manufacturing industry knowledge to deliver a best-in-class solution for your organization. The new

Epicor Kinetic 2022.2 Upgrade l Cloud ERP for Manufacturers

Blog 2022.2 Upgrade, Cloud ERP, Encompass Solutions, Epicor, ERP, Kinetic, kinetic 2022.2 Ashley Limbers

Kinetic 2022.2 utilizes the Epicor manufacturing industry knowledge to deliver a best-in-class solution for your organization. The new release features allow you to accelerate, scale, connect, and optimize your business for success.

What’s New in Kinetic 2022.2

May 2021

Epicor Learning Program for Kinetic 2021.1 | Epicor Kinetic Education

There are significant changes to the Epicor Learning Program for Kinetic 2021.1. The video below briefly covers the

Epicor Learning Program for Kinetic 2021.1 | Epicor Kinetic Education

Epicor Cloud ERP, Education, ELC, Epicor Learning License, Epicor Learning Program, ERP, Kinetic Sean Balogh

There are significant changes to the Epicor Learning Program for Kinetic 2021.1. The video below briefly covers the changes.

Epicor Learning Program: The Evolution of Education

Epicor Learning Program: The Next Generation Of Education From Epicor University, A Complete Training Experience

Epicor Learning License includes Full access to Epicor Learning Center with a deep catalog of video-based courses and Hands-On exercises, role-based learning paths, and the tools to quickly manage their entire training program.
Hands-on Courses are new! Hands-On is workshop-based courses for use with the Kinetic education database. They provide step-by-step instruction and hands-on practice exercises through real-world scenarios and are specifically designed to walk the learner through an actual in-product experience to help them master the Kinetic software. Hands-on exercises are also woven into role-based learning paths to accelerate adoption, develop skills, and build confidence for users.
All customers with an Embedded Ed license will have full access to Epicor Learning, ELC, and the full Learning Program.
Embedded Education has moved to sustain mode; the historical courses are available from classic help and ELC, but all new workshop-based courses will be developed as Hands-On.

All customers using Kinetic 2021.1 have access to the Help and Support Panel with help articles, quick answer videos, and guided learning; those with an Epicor Learning License get much more.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers. 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, or 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.

Feb 2020

Epicor ERP 10.2.500.10 Cloud Update Is Scheduled For Week Of February 10, 2020

For customers on cadence, the Epicor Cloud Operations team will deploy your Epicor ERP Cloud update version 10.2.500.10

Epicor ERP 10.2.500.10 Cloud Update Is Scheduled For Week Of February 10, 2020

Epicor Cloud ERP, Epicor, Epicor Cloud ERP, ERP, Software, Update Sean Balogh

For customers on cadence, the Epicor Cloud Operations team will deploy your Epicor ERP Cloud update version 10.2.500.10 next week. This routine update includes enhancements to product quality and Kinetic user experiences. Testing is optional. For more details, please read this email and refer to the release notes in the 10.2.500 folder on your EpicWeb Customer Portal.

What To Expect During Epicor ERP Cloud Update Version 10.2.500.10

Pilot Update

Tuesday, February 11, 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM Local Server Time

Production Update

Saturday, February 15, 4:00 PM to Sunday, February 16, 8:59 PM Local Server Time

While the 10.2.500.10 update deploys, your application may be unavailable for 30-60 minutes during the update window. Once complete you will be prompted to update the Epicor ERP Smart Client. If you happen to encounter unexpected behavior, please open an EpicCare case and include 10.2.500.10 in the details.

More Kinetic Experiences Are Here In 10.2.500.10, we’ve updated five reports and five processes (below) with the sleek, new Kinetic User Interface. As these and other Kinetic forms are periodically enabled in your environment, there will be nothing you need to do. All business logic is exactly the same. Simply enjoy the ease-of-use, modern design, and clear interface.

Like what you see? We rely on your feedback to drive our Kinetic innovations, so we encourage you to share your thoughts. Epicor’s customer experience team will randomly contact several customers to gather input, but please email Kinetic-Feedback@epicor.com at any time to send your comments or request a call.

For more information about the new Kinetic experiences, watch this 90-second video and check out Frequently Asked Questions.

Kinetic Reports in 10.2.500.10:

Sales Order Backlog
Sales Order on Hold
Scheduled Shipments
Open RMA
Stock Status

Kinetic Processes in 10.2.500.10:

Build Project Analysis
Build WBS Phase Analysis
Capture Project Revenue Recognition
Capture WBS Phase Revenue Recognition
Project Invoice Preparation

Epicor Cloud ERP Update Schedule

Here is the latest information on the release and update schedule for Epicor Cloud ERP.

To learn more about Epicor version numbering and deferred release upgrades, see the bottom section of this post.

The Cloud ERP environment is updated as indicated in the table below. Each date represents the day your update is complete. Keep in mind that these dates and update notes are subject to change without notice at the behest of Epicor Software Corporation.

Update	Pilot	Production
10.2.500.5	19 Nov 2019	23 Nov 2019
10.2.500.7	17 Dec 2019	21 Dec 2019
10.2.500.8	14 Jan 2020	18 Jan 2020
10.2.500.10	11 Feb 2020	15 Feb 2020
10.2.500.13	24 Mar 2020	28 Mar 2020
10.2.600.2 (Release 10.2.600)	17-18 April 2020 (one month to test)	16-17 May 2020

The Public Cloud Deferred Customers environment upgrade options for major release are as indicated in the tables below. Subject to change.

Upgrade 400 to 500	Pilot	Production
Flex Option 1: 10.2.500.xx	Week of 16 Dec 2019	25-26 Jan 2020
Flex Option 2: 10.2.500.xx	Week of 20 Jan 2020	22-23 Feb 2020

Note: Prior to 10.2.500, if you chose to defer your upgrade, you continued to receive 400.x updates up to your scheduled deferred upgrade date.

With 10.2.500, if you choose to defer your upgrade, you will not receive any 400.x updates after the 10.2.400.11 update.

Upgrade 500 to 600	Pilot	Production
Flex Option 1: 10.2.600.xx	Week of 22 June 2020	25-26 July 2020
Flex Option 2: 10.2.600.xx	Week of 20 July 2020	22-23 August 2020

Note: With 10.2.600, if you choose to defer your upgrade, you will not receive any 500.x updates after the 10.2.500.13 update.

Epicor ERP Cloud Version Numbering and Timing

A typical Epicor ERP version number is ‘10.2.500.7’. In this example, ’10’ represents the Product, ‘2’ represents the Version, ‘500’ represents the Release, and ‘7’ the Update level.

Updates. Updates are generally applied on a bi-weekly or monthly basis. Updates are applied to the customer’s ‘pilot’ environment on Tuesday or Wednesday evening, and then promoted to ‘production’ environments during Saturday night local datacenter time. You may test if you like, but these are non-disruptive updates to our system, and do not introduce schema changes. We avoid month-end and calendar year-end for your convenience.
Releases. Releases are scheduled twice a year with black-out dates to avoid calendar year end. Because they tend to be larger releases and may introduce new functionality release upgrades are installed into a customer’s pilot environment no less than one month before their promotion to production, allowing customers to test the new features and updates.
Versions. Version upgrades occur approximately every 18-24 months. These often include changes to schema, user interface, and business objects. Like release updates, testing is required, so the upgrades are applied to the customer’s pilot environment thirty days prior to the scheduled production upgrade. Customers also receive an additional sandbox environment for more extensive testing.
Products. Product updates are typically more involved; and accordingly, we allow extended time and support to test and prepare before introduction into production.

Deferred Release Upgrades

If your business is subject to fluctuating seasonal demands or other time constraints, Epicor offers its premium “Epicor Public Cloud Flex Option,” which allows clients to defer upgrades for up to 90 days, for an additional subscription fee. With the Epicor Public Cloud Flex Option you may select among two or three alternate pre-selected dates for your upgrade.

Regardless if you select this option and choose to stay on cadence or select a later date to upgrade, you still receive the standard one month to test releases in the pilot environment. Customers with this option would not have the full 90 days to test upgrades, but rather have the option to test and upgrade up to 90 days later if business needs require. Please contact your Epicor Sales Representative for more information.

Change Notifications Preferences

Use these steps to manage your notification preferences in order to receive alerts regarding Cloud releases.

Navigate to System Setup > System Maintenance > System Monitor. From the Actions menu, select Notifications Preferences.
The In-App Notifications User Preferences window opens. In the Select Roles section, specify the following:
– In the Titles/Levels field, to receive notifications, you must select either User-Power, Executive, or Manager.
Note: If you select a different option, or if you enter your own title, you will not be included in the scheduled in-app messages or email notifications.
– In the Functions/Departments field, you can specify your specific business detail.
In the Types of Business section, define your Primary Sector and Primary Industry.
Use the Select Interests section to indicate what type of notifications you want to receive. Note: This area is configurable and depends on your admin settings.
Verify your email address in the Email field.
Select the Send Notifications via email too checkbox if you are not a regular user of Epicor ERP and you want to receive notifications using email.
Click Close.

Upgrading Custom Items in Cloud Environments

If you are upgrading your cloud environment, you can use the Unique Business Component Dashboard to locate and then update your custom items. To learn how to upgrade your custom items, watch the free, self-paced Epicor University course “Upgrading Custom Items in Cloud Environments”. This course is designed to assist System Administrators in understanding the tools and processes to effectively manage Unique Business Components during a system upgrade. To take the self-paced course, click here.

Alternatively, Encompass is here to help as your Certified Epicor Partner. We can help you upgrade custom business items in cloud environments any time you like. Reach out using the Contact Us link below to discuss your next project.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm, NetSuite Solution Provider and Epicor Gold Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing the emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of Industry.

Feb 2020

Case Study: Medical Device Manufacturing With Epicor ERP

Encompass Solutions recently celebrated another successful go-live with a longtime partner and client. This company has several divisions,

Case Study: Medical Device Manufacturing With Epicor ERP

Case Studies 10.2.400, Case Study, Cloud ERP, E10, Epicor ERP, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Execution System, Medical Device Sean Balogh

Encompass Solutions recently celebrated another successful go-live with a longtime partner and client. This company has several divisions, though this project took focus on Medical Device Manufacturing With Epicor ERP. The project focused on on-site locations in the United States and Costa Rica. The company’s primary Epicor team consists of three resources, supporting approximately 700 employees. The medical device manufacturing company utilizes several Epicor ERP components including all major modules, Advanced Material Management (AMM), Quick Ship, and Manufacturing Execution System (MES).

The Project

The project scope was to upgrade an existing Epicor 9.05.702a to Epicor 10.2.400. The upgrade project would also need to account for hundreds of custom BPMs, Dashboards, Reports, SQL Tools, and linked systems that had built up over the years. Additionally, a transition to an FDA validated environment with proper change control was necessary. All of this happened on a typical non-holiday weekend, with some manufacturing departments on-site and actively working.

The Encompass Solutions Team was responsible for:

Project planning and estimating
Project management
Technical assistance uplifting customizations, reports and dashboards,
Hardware configuration and sizing recommendations
All aspects of the data conversion
Conversion planning and preparation
System test planning

The Plan

An Encompass Solutions project manager was handed the sequencing and timing authority to map the timeline, deliverables, and overall upgrade project plan. At a high level, there were timelines created for Test Conversions, Technical Uplift Tasks, UAT, and Validation.

The project would follow Encompass Solutions’ standard upgrade methodology. This began by estimating the uplift effort, as that would drive the remainder the schedule.

The Execution

Once the project plan was established, Encompass and the client stood up the new 10.2.400 environment and performed the first pass conversion.

The next phase of the project, and most lengthy, focused on uplifting and unit testing over 800 objects (UI customizations, reports, BPMs, dashboard, and more)

Once the uplift was complete, a second pass conversion was performed. This served as the first conversion where we started to look at the length of the conversion, cleaning up errors and started to put together the conversion validation steps. This conversion served as the basis for system test.

System test planning started three months prior to the test. The actual test was conducted over a three-week period by the client and Encompass Solutions.

Upon completion of system test, we executed a third pass conversion. This served to further test our conversion process and procedures. This also provided a clean database for the client to perform their validation process as required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. After FDA validation was complete, we executed a fourth pass conversion to finalize all conversion weekend steps, processes validations, timing, and reconciliation.

As part of planning, a series of test and practice installs took place prior to Go Live. During the weekend of Go Live, the project was within15 minutes of the anticipated Go-Live time. Encompass was onsite for the event, and post-Go Live, as needed.

“Perhaps the most surprising detail was that [Encompass] have taken ownership of most errors and bugs and seen them through resolution, which takes a lot of work off our team.”

– IT Business Analysis Manager

The Results

Go live was a smooth process. The client was able to successfully make jobs, ship parts, and collect payments. Aside from a few hiccups, 90% of the users are having a better experience with the updated Epicor ERP system. Of the 10% that didn’t have as great of an experience, these were mostly due to changes in behavior from Epicor 9 to Epicor 10, almost all of which were discovered during UAT. This means that during Go-Live there were very few surprises.

Next Steps

The company’s next steps including taking the Epicor 10 foundation and expanding it to two more locations in 2020 and a third in 2021. The client has already invited the same Encompass Solutions project team to assist in those future projects.

Encompass has also been engaged to support projects that will provide order integration with the client’s European operations, implement a vendor management inventory solution, as well as bring additional sites onto Epicor ERP.

Company Details

Established: 1999
Location: USA, Costa Rica
Industry: Manufacturing, Medical Devices
Previous System – Epicor ERP 9.05.702a
Current System – Epicor ERP 10.2.400
Deployment – On Prem

About Encompass Solutions

Jan 2020

Having The Cloud ERP Conversation With Your IT Department

Cloud ERP deployments benefit businesses in a big way. They offer security, agility, and can enable your business’

Having The Cloud ERP Conversation With Your IT Department

ERP Cloud ERP, Digital Transformation, Infrastructure, IT, Technology Sean Balogh

Cloud ERP deployments benefit businesses in a big way. They offer security, agility, and can enable your business’ adoption of other modern technologies. However, Information Technology (IT) departments can be one of the greatest sources of resistance when it comes to the adoption of cloud ERP solutions.

Cloud ERP Solutions

Business leaders looking to leverage the benefits of cloud ERP solutions don’t just need to do their own research on cloud ERP deployments. They also have to be able to make the compelling case for transition and convert resistance from IT staff. Adopting a Cloud ERP system is a significant change for the business as well as the departments charged with maintaining integral systems. Namely, your IT department. Here are 7 ways to get IT teams on board with cloud ERP software.

1. Understand And Communicate The Need To Take Action

A healthy sense of urgency can move things in the right direction more quickly than one might think. The call to action from the top of the food chain can grab attention and get all of your business’ moving parts moving towards a much-needed change. It takes compelling arguments and exceptional storytelling skills to communicate why the move to the cloud is what your company needs.

Features, functionality, and, most importantly, benefits to how business gets done every day need to be conveyed. Help your staff to understand that if you are not in control of your digital transformation, your competitors will make that choice for you. Doing nothing can leave you in a poor position to capitalize on beneficial tools as well as leave you vulnerable to the shortcomings of traditional ERP deployments. Advancing your business with more advanced technology signals to top talent that your business is doing what it takes to excel in a competitive marketplace.

2. Don’t Short-Sell The Impact Of This Transition

Transition to the cloud isn’t just an infrastructure change, it’s a change in how your company operates both physically and philosophically. A new way of thinking and working can upset the way your IT department has functioned for years, if not decades. Acknowledge it is a huge change and show your teams you are committed to equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in a new environment.

3. Actively Listen To IT Concerns

Spending time with your IT employees and listening to their questions and concerns will impact buy-in considerably. In many ways, it is your IT staff’s job to think about what could go wrong in ay given scenario involving your business’ technology. Here are some examples of what you might hear:

“Cloud ERP providers won’t understand how unique and complicated our business is.”
“Putting our data in the cloud is way too risky.”
“Our compliance regulations won’t allow us to use the cloud.”
“What will my job be after we move to cloud-based ERP?”

Show your staff that you are actively listening by taking notes, repeating back what you heard, and commit to coming back with answers at a later time. This effort of active listening and showing that you are genuinely interested may well be the best thing you can do to remedy concerns.

4. Get Help In Addressing Concerns And Answering Questions

You may have the perspective needed to move the business forward, but IT staff have the benefit of boots on the ground when it comes to working with technology hands-on. Their concerns are valid and may appear as imposing roadblocks. However, their intent isn’t to scare you into submission. The challenges created by new technology are those keeping your IT staff up late at night and working long weekends. If you are not equipped to provide answers to their concerns, consider enlisting the help of experts to make your case. An experienced partner, vendor, or consultant can provide credibility to your arguments and lay IT fears to rest with the information they are looking for to confidently follow your lead.

5. Learn From Experience

At this point, your company isn’t the first in your industry to move to the cloud. More and more companies are making the move to cloud ERP, from small and medium business to enterprise-sized organizations. Your industry counterparts can deliver invaluable wisdom when it comes to approaching the problem of how best to make the transition to cloud-based ERP systems. This includes both what to do and what not to do. Alternatively, you can enlist the help of a trusted ERP partner to connect you with reference customers that can share their experiences. Value can often be found in following.

6. Make It Clear What IT Will Look Like Post-Transition

IT arguably has the best vantage of a company’s business processes, not to mention how data and customers “move” through the organization. Cloud ERP is designed to help free them of cumbersome tasks, like troubleshooting. When left unencumbered by the burden of these activities, opportunities for cross-functional business process improvements emerge. This can take the form of helping users leverage technology more effectively or assisting with the cleaning and maintaining important data. Essentially, IT transitions from a non-revenue generating department and one of enabling your revenue-generating business components.

It’s important to understand and communicate that the nature of technology work will change for your IT staff. Though, development, configuration, and break/fix work will still exist—along with the need to manage your relationship and activities with cloud ERP vendors. Help your IT employees understand the tremendous technology and business value they will provide after you’ve made the move to the cloud.

7. Create The Plan. Execute The Plan.

Undertaking digital transformation and owning your company’s technological evolution is wrought with distractions and pitfalls. It can be easy to lose your way along the path to your goal. Without a sound change management strategy, you may find yourself very far from your intended outcome, if you ever reach your destination at all. Set up milestones and clear goals for your IT staff to ensure your project is a success.

Maintaining a team mentality may be your biggest asset of all. It cannot be overstated how important it is to offer consistent support and provide the assistance and advice teams need. Don’t forget to celebrate the little victories along the way to complete your transition to the cloud. With discipline and determination, your project will be a success and you’ll be experiencing the benefits of cloud solutions before you know it.

About Encompass Solutions

May 2019

Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update | Cloud ERP Solutions For Manufacturers

The Epicor ERP 10.2.400 update is the first of two major upgrades planned for 2019. Epicor’s cloud ERP solution

Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update | Cloud ERP Solutions For Manufacturers

Epicor 10.2.400, Cloud ERP, Epicor, ERP, Manufacturing, Update Sean Balogh

The Epicor ERP 10.2.400 update is the first of two major upgrades planned for 2019. Epicor’s cloud ERP solution update cadence is a commitment to helping businesses grow through innovation at a manageable pace in-line with manufacturing industry trends. Major releases like this bring benefits of cloud deployment to customers in the form of improved usability, enhanced performance and profitability, and strategic value within a single upgrade. Because of the size and breadth of the Epicor ERP 10.2.400 update, 4 weeks have been allotted to test and explore these updates before upgrading customers’ production system. Now is the time to be testing end-to-end, as the update will be released in full to cloud users on May 16, 2019. The Epicor ERP 10.2.400 update for on-premise users will follow later this month. If you’re trying to choose the best cloud ERP solution for your manufacturing business, consider evaluating Epicor Cloud ERP today.

Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update And Product Roadmap

Among the changes coming with the 10.2.400 update, users can expect to enjoy full use of and coming functionality that includes:

Experiences

Epicor Virtual Agent
Order Entry Automation
Mobile Expense Management
Job Scheduling Board

Industry

Enhanced Project Management
Epicor Mobile Warehouse
Supplier Portal
MES Expansion
Epicor IoT

Analytics

Epicor Data Analytics Expansion
Epicor Data Discovery Expansion

Future (2019-2020)

UX Uplift (ongoing) Mobile Apps
ISV Partner Ecosystem
Compliance Engine
Enhanced BI/Analytics
Connected Enterprise

Experiences

Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA)

Marketed as ERP Intelligence personified, Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA) utilizes Artificial Intelligence to deliver real-time insights and suggestions based on your Epicor system data. As a new feature, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

Conversational digital agent
Azure-enabled, including Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Available for iOS and Android in May 2019

Order Entry Automation

The new functionality enables your organization to capture sales orders and reduce manual order entry and errors through the use of automation. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

Captures customer purchase order data from inbound emails, scanned documents
Validates orders, then flows into Sales Order Entry
Leverages DocStar and Intelligent Data Capture with Epicor ERP
A solution aptly suited for repetitive actions and orders

Job Scheduling Board

Leverage enhanced usability with a modern, Gantt-based view of your scheduling board.

Faster and easier to use
New look and feel of one of the most frequently viewed screens
Leverages Kinetic System to provide modern customer experience

Industry

Enhanced Project Management

Provide key stakeholders with timely financial information to ensure profitability. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

Revenue recognition by WBS Phase
Improved visibility into project stage completion percentage
Delivers real-time project analysis through EDA.

Epicor Advanced Projects adds significantly more functionality with:

Extended Epicor ERP 10 standard Project Module
- Three new modules:
  • Advanced Project Management
  • Advanced Contract Order Management
  • Advanced Sub-contract Management
Available late 2019 in collaboration with Epicor partner Precise

Epicor Mobile Warehouse

Leverage this next-generation mobile handheld for warehouse and distribution. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

Provides workflow optimization for fast and accurate scanning
Part and bin level validation and complex sorting and filtering options
Reduces time to process transactions, increases accuracy, and reduces errors
Available on Android, fully integrated to Epicor ERP

Supplier Portal

Manage supplier relationships, enter purchase transactions, and process RFQs. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

Built on Commerce Connect
REST-based communication between Supplier Portal And Epicor ERP for flexibility, security, and performance
E10 Credit Card module is no longer required to process fully paid credit card orders

MES Expansion

Utilize a modern refresh to improve the usability of popular MES screens.

Provides users with a functional and visual approach that transforms how to shop users interact with the system
Simplified workflow and modern look and feel with anywhere access
Common interface with Mattec Advanced MES Human-Machine Interface (HMI)

Epicor IoT

Leverage IoT connectivity to acquire and analyze device data from across your organization. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor. The workflow is simple and follows this simple logic:

IoT-enabled sensors send their readings to the IoT Hub > Epicor ERP reads events from the IoT Hub > Epicor creates a new maintenance order suggestion > Maintenance department approves suggestion and scheduled maintenance.

Epicor IoT is integrated with the Microsoft Azure IoT Hub
Monitor and visualize data from sensors including
- Equipment
- Assets
- Inventory Locations
- Environmental factors

Analytics

Data Analytics Expansion

This EDA expansion further provides insights into projects and production management. As a new solution, a purchase may be required depending on your current contract with Epicor.

New content packs for field service and preventive maintenance
Updated content packs for production and project management, materials management, and Mattec MES

Data Discovery Expansion

New sidebar display that allows users to work and see EDD views at the same time
“Open with” feature to open Epicor ERP forms and trackers in context
EDD Discovery Dashboard widget as a tab on Active Home Page
EDD IoT widget to alert decision-makers on what needs attention on the shop floor

New Reports

New Inventory and general ledger reports are available with the Epicor ERP 10.2.400 update.

Inventory

The New Stock movement report prints movements in and out per warehouse summarized for a given period
New Stock Aging Report prints the current stock on hand by part, UOM, age of stock, and value of the aged stock

GL

New Booking Voucher report and the Booking Voucher FC report print journal transactions for a selected year and period range. The reports display a separate page for each document or voucher

Enhanced Homepage

An enhanced homepage experience comes equipped with new widgets, layouts, and overall feel of interfaces of Epicor ERP screens.

New Widgets Available
- Discovery Dashboards – A Data Discovery Dashboard is a collection of several views, that enables you to compare a variety of data simultaneously
- Discovery IoT Widget – Use this widget to view the current status of the IoT (Internet of Things) Devices
- Web Applications – Use this widget to host web applications, primarily kinetic-based applications, such as Manufacturing Execution System (MES) forms, scheduling boards, and others
Default Layout
- You can pick a default layout that will be loaded for all users who do not have their layout
- New Kinetic Style brings the new look to all your ERP screens
  - Kinetic features:
    - Quick Access Panel
      - Enables widgets on most of your master table and transaction screens
      - Enabled from the options menu perform
      - Can be used to keep key information handy
    - In-app icon
      - In-app messages have an icon on the homepage notifying you of unread messages

10.2.400 Update Webcast

You can watch the latest update webcast, here.

For more information on the Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update, contact the ERP experts at Encompass Solutions using the Contact Us link below.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions, Inc. is an ERP consulting firm and Epicor Gold Partner that offers professional services in business consulting, project management, and software implementation. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, and renovation of existing systems or addressing emerging challenges in corporate and operational growth, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. As experts in identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

Nov 2018

Epicor Positioned as a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP

Gartner recently published its brand new, cloud-focused 2018 Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Midsize Enterprises where

Epicor Positioned as a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP

Epicor Cloud ERP, Epicor, ERP, Gartner, Magic Quadrant Sean Balogh

Gartner recently published its brand new, cloud-focused 2018 Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Midsize Enterprises where Epicor is positioned as a Visionary player based on the evaluation of our Epicor ERP offering. You’ll find the News Release about this great acknowledgement by Gartner and here is a direct link to the News Release.

Epicor In Gartner 2018 Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP

Cloud ERP offers customers improvements in responsiveness, agility, and costs to help businesses digitally transform and get fit for growth Epicor Software Corporation, a global provider of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, today announced it has been positioned in the Visionaries quadrant of the first ”Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Midsize Enterprises” by Gartner Inc1. The position is based on a full evaluation of the global enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, Epicor ERP. The Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP focuses on ERP systems that are offered in a cloud services application deployment. It covers midsize enterprises across all geographies with annual revenue between approximately $50 million and $1 billion USD. The full report is available to access from the Epicor website.

“Our mission is to be the cloud vendor of choice in the markets we serve. We believe being positioned
as a visionary in the cloud ERP quadrant validates our strategy. We feel that customers trust us to
deliver solutions that helps them grow in an Industry 4.0 world,” said Steve Murphy, Chief Executive
Officer for Epicor Software. “The strength of Epicor solutions lies in our unique ability to deliver
industry-specific functionality and cloud technology that fit our customers’ distinctive ways of working.
With a deep understanding of the industries we serve, our solutions promote growth while easing
complexity. The result is powerful solutions that do exactly what our customers need and free their
resources so they can profitably grow their businesses. Just log in, and everything from daily sales reports to
product locations was right there for review. It’s the easiest system I ever used.”

Michael Schmitz, Chief Financial Officer, Epicor Software Corp.

¹ Report: Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Midsize Enterprises. By Gartner Inc. Analysts: Mike Guay, John
Van Decker, Christian Hestermann, Nigel Montgomery, Duy Nguyen, Denis Torii, Paul Saunders, Paul Schenck, Tim Faith.
Published 31 October 2018.

Gartner Magic Quadrant for Epicor Cloud ERP

In addition to industry-specific capabilities that drive improvements in responsiveness, agility, and costs, the cloud is helping businesses digitally transform and focus on growth. As businesses shift away from traditional on-premises systems to cloud-based ERP they are taking advantage of new capabilities to improve their business and optimize processes. What’s more, it’s enabling teams to access real-time information from across the business and use that data to make better business decisions.

About the Gartner Magic Quadrant

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other
designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About Epicor Software Corporation

Epicor Software Corporation drives business growth. We provide flexible, industry-specific software designed to fit the precise needs of our manufacturing, distribution, retail, and service industry
customers. More than 45 years of experience with our customers’ unique business processes and operational requirements are built into every solution―in the cloud or on premises. With this deep understanding of your industry, Epicor solutions dramatically improve performance and profitability while easing complexity.

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Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update | Cloud ERP Solutions For Manufacturers

Epicor Positioned as a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP

Tag Archives: Cloud ERP

Comprehending Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Key Benefits of Moving to Epicor Kinetic Cloud

Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

Cost Efficiency and ROI

Improved Security and Compliance

Increased Accessibility and Collaboration

Overcoming Migration Concerns

Steps to Transition from On-Prem to Kinetic Cloud

Let Encompass Solutions Help You Modernize Operations

What You’ll Learn:

What’s New in Kinetic 2022.2

Epicor Learning Program: The Evolution of Education

Epicor Learning Program: The Next Generation Of Education From Epicor University, A Complete Training Experience

About Encompass Solutions

About Encompass Solutions

What To Expect During Epicor ERP Cloud Update Version 10.2.500.10

Epicor Cloud ERP Update Schedule

Epicor ERP Cloud Version Numbering and Timing

Deferred Release Upgrades

Change Notifications Preferences

Upgrading Custom Items in Cloud Environments

About Encompass Solutions

The Project

The Plan

The Execution

The Results

Next Steps

Company Details

About Encompass Solutions

Cloud ERP Solutions

1. Understand And Communicate The Need To Take Action

2. Don’t Short-Sell The Impact Of This Transition

3. Actively Listen To IT Concerns

4. Get Help In Addressing Concerns And Answering Questions

5. Learn From Experience

6. Make It Clear What IT Will Look Like Post-Transition

7. Create The Plan. Execute The Plan.

About Encompass Solutions

Epicor ERP 10.2.400 Update And Product Roadmap

Experiences

Industry

Analytics

Future (2019-2020)

Experiences

Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA)

Order Entry Automation

Job Scheduling Board

Industry

Enhanced Project Management

Epicor Mobile Warehouse

Supplier Portal

MES Expansion

Epicor IoT

Analytics

Data Analytics Expansion

Data Discovery Expansion

New Reports

Inventory

GL

Enhanced Homepage

10.2.400 Update Webcast

About Encompass Solutions

Epicor In Gartner 2018 Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP

Gartner Magic Quadrant for Epicor Cloud ERP

About the Gartner Magic Quadrant

About Epicor Software Corporation

About Encompass Solutions