The recent Financial Service Network (FSN) survey on Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting (PBF) showed two key characteristics for those organizations that produced the most insightful financial forecasts. First, was the ability to leverage non-financial data. Second, was the application of advanced analytics. We will look at how the most successful organizations expand their vision beyond the narrow financial view of the future to produce more valuable foresight in their PBF processes.
Finance: The Home of Truth
The financial component of enterprise resource planning, whether part of a full-fledged ERP system or a mom-and-pop shop running Quickbooks, has historically been the ‘home of truth’. Finance was where everyone turned for answers since the only quantitative test of performance and sustainability was the P&L and the balance sheet. Finance largely birthed the IT function in a bid to automate the production of some of these answers. Most famously, in the production of payroll. Despite this, finance has now lagged in technology investment for some years, being overtaken by marketing, sales, and operations.
With new technology at their fingertips and an increasingly scientific approach, other functions in the business have begun to answer their questions, collecting and analyzing their data. The numbers in marketing may still be a little hazier than in finance but marketing has begun to offer insight into things that finance cannot, or has not. Market trends and consumer behavior tell leaders not just about what is but what might be. This forward-looking insight has often contrasted with finance’s view of the future.
The Past, Give or Take
Finance’s view of tomorrow has, by contrast, been rather singular in its source – the past. Predictions of tomorrow have been based on the evidence of the most recent year, with management’s desire for growth most often being the biggest factor steering the positivity, or otherwise, the forecast for the year ahead. Only negative macro factors have dissuaded forecasters from positivity about the bottom line and all the pressure that brings to bear on sales for revenue growth and operations for ever greater efficiency.
The figures from FSN’s report might suggest this had changed. 72% of finance leaders say their forecasting processes are now inclusive, drawing on sources from across the company, but dig further into the figures and this starts to feel more like an aspiration than a reality.
78% of the senior finance executives surveyed agreed that greater use of non-financial data is the best way to improve their PBF process and outcomes. 76% recognized the importance of connecting with more stakeholders from outside of the finance function to improve the accuracy of forecasts. The need to connect with other functions and share data is acknowledged.
But 74% say they are struggling to identify all relevant non-financial data sources. Why? Over 55% of respondents say that the lack of involvement of non-finance personnel is amongst the greatest barriers to forecast accuracy.
The obvious conclusion is that the connections between finance and the rest of the organization just aren’t there.
Additional Barriers
The lack of cross-cutting relationships through the business is not the only issue blocking the better application of non-financial data for improved forecasts. A quarter of respondents say their senior managers do not appreciate the value of non-financial data. And surprisingly, 23% delegate non-financial data tasks to more junior staff despite 43% of respondents ranking it in their top 3 sources of ‘most insightful data’.
Insightful it may be but there remain concerns about the quality of non-financial data when compared to the sources with which finance professionals are more familiar. 41% of CFOs are concerned about its integrity and believe it is less reliable than financial sources. This may well be true but these issues can be addressed, with appropriate weighting and analysis. The potential value of the data is clear, to ignore it would be nonsensical.
Taking Steps
So, how do finance leaders address these issues to improve insight into their planning, budgeting, and forecasting?
Relationships across the business rely on reciprocation and communication, not just shared goals. Finance has to be able to bring value to the other functions of the business if it is going to extract value back.
That value comes from the insight finance can bring. Most functions in the business are seeking better analysis of their situation and environment, and finance should have the skills to deliver that.
That comes with a time penalty of course but increasing automation of the base functions of finance should be releasing resources. This is a great way to apply the released resources to improve results.
Relationships will be hard to build without the soft skills of communication, and this is another area where finance has historically fallen. In our interactions with younger members of finance teams, we consistently find a lack of training on offer in anything beyond technical skills. This frustrates the ambitious and leads them to move on. Training then offers a two-fold benefit to the business: better collaboration and a greater chance of retention.
This isn’t to say technical skills aren’t important. Finance leaders need to be constantly up-skilling their teams in planning and analysis, and equipping them with the right tools to apply their learning. Then, they can efficiently integrate non-financial data into their models, improving forecasts and returning value to the other business functions.
As FSN says in its report, “Mastering non-financial data is the key to being able to forecast accurately and further into the future.” The only way to do this is to enhance the relationships that finance holds across the organization, by investing in the skills of its people.
For more information on ERP and the future of financial systems, read the FSN report on the topic – HERE
Prophix develops innovative software that automates critical financial processes such as budgeting, planning, consolidation, and reporting — improving a company’s profitability and minimizing its risks. Thousands of forward-looking organizations in more than 90 countries use software from Prophix to gain increased visibility and insight into their business performance.
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.
The latest update for Epicor ARM (Advanced Requisition Management) has been released as Epicor ARM 10.3 SP7. The developer, Precise Business Solutions, is an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) creating Epicor ERP solutions and more tools dedicated to minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency for small and medium-sized businesses.
What is Epicor Advanced Requisition Management?
Epicor Advanced Requisition Management (ARM) is online requisition management and workflow solution designed to deliver full-cycle procurement functionality securely to your organization’s desktops or mobile devices. ARM’s real-time budget visibility empowers your company to make informed purchasing decisions, while consolidated purchase orders allow you to negotiate contract pricing with your suppliers-ultimately reducing costs and maximizing efficiency across your entire enterprise.
Solution Benefits
Epicor Advanced Requisition Management (ARM) is an online solution for managing the cycle of requisitioning, ordering, and receiving. Benefits include:
Reduce purchasing costs and effort
Improve communication internally and with vendors
Assign preferred suppliers or default supply locations
Gain visibility of the purchasing process
Features
The web browser-based application allows easy deployment throughout the enterprise and facilitates the entire requisition process electronically-from requisition submission through to purchase order creation and optional distribution to vendors.
Epicor ARM automates and streamlines the procurement process, utilizing a web browser to integrate with and extend the Epicor Supply Chain Management module. Multiple approval methods provide a flexible framework that can be configured to meet the requirements of any organization.
Epicor ARM 10.3 SP7
In addition to features incorporated as part of the Epicor ARM scheduled product roadmap, the updates in this release have been influenced by requests received from Epicor ARM customers.
Epicor 10.2.600 compatibility, enhanced attachment capability, and support for multiple invoices against a single purchase order receipt are just some of the features we have incorporated in this release to enhance your overall ARM experience.
An overview of some of these enhancements is outlined below.
New features and enhancements in Epicor ARM 10.3 SP7
E10.2.600 Compatibility (E10) – ARM 10.3.7 is compatible with E10.2.600.
Split BIL for APM and non-APM Environments (E10) – ARM has now split BIL with one version supporting APM and the other supporting non-APM environments. Choose the appropriate version when installing this product in your environment.
Support Edit Tax at Line level in AP Module (E10) – This is a ‘Manual Tax Override’ function that enables you to edit and override the tax on the line. Note that the line tax will be reset to the default values when copying the Invoice.
Support Project, Phase, and Cost Code (APM) in AP Module (E10) – AP Invoice and Debit Memo now support Project, Phase, and Cost Code (APM).
Support Hold Invoice and Hold Payments in AP Module (E10) – When selected, the ‘Hold Invoice’ check box represents a hold status on the entire Invoice. If you post a group that contains an Invoice on hold, this Invoice will not be posted. You will need to clear this check box and then re-post the group. When selected this check box also indicates that payments will not be made against the Invoice. ARM only enables this check box functionality in the time before the AP document is approved.
Support PO Receipt Attachments (E10) – Users can now attach a receipt document when entering PO receipts. ARM receipt attachments will not be integrated into Epicor at this time.
Support Receipt Attachment Visibility in AP Approval (E10) – In addition to the support for PO Receipt Attachments (above), ARM also supports the ability to view the Receipt Attachments during the AP Approval process.
Original Order Value on AP Invoice (E10) – Some new read-only fields have been added to the AP Invoice screen. The Ordered field shows the original value of the order raised. The Un-receipted field shows the value of the line that is not received yet.
AP Invoice Filter Settings Enhancement (E10) – The AP Search filtering criteria are retained for each ARM user.
Support Multiple Invoices Against a Single PO Receipt (E10) – ARM now supports partial Invoices for a single Purchase Order receipt. After adding a PO Receipt line to an AP Invoice, a new check box entitled ‘Final’ is shown on the main Invoice screen. When ticked, this action indicates the line is finished with Invoicing stage. To perform partial Invoicing the AP documents need to be within the same Invoice Group. When the first partial Invoice is created and approved, it will move from the ARMUNAPP Group to the nominated Invoice Group. If a second Invoice is raised, an error will be shown in ARM due to the two Invoices present in different Groups. Therefore, the first Invoice will require posting in Epicor to proceed with creating any subsequent Invoices. This functionality requires configuration in Epicor. Go to Company Configuration> Modules> Finance> Accounts Payable and enable the ‘Allow Multiple Invoicing of Receipts’ check box.
AP Invoice Search Results Set and Export (E10) – The Export feature now includes the Vendor name and Invoice Date on the export file.
AP Approval Process Enhancement (E10) – A new <Next> button feature has been added to the AP document screen. This allows the user to move and load the next AP document from the AP Search results.
Punchout Enhancement (E10) – The PunchOut processing has been altered to conform with the SameSite cookie policy that was introduced in newer versions of Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge browsers.
Epicor ARM 10.3 SP7 is compatible with Epicor 10, Epicor 9.0.5, and Enterprise 7.4 SP7.
Users upgrading to Epicor ARM 10.3 SP7 should note the following:
If you are upgrading from ARM versions 10.0 SP6, ARM 10.1.0, or ARM 10.1 SP1 – SP4, you must run the Upgrade Manager to migrate data so that it will be compatible with the enhanced approvals process that was introduced in ARM 10.1 SP6.
If you are upgrading from ARM 10.1 SP5 (or above) 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 the Integration Manager
Spotlight on ‘Blanket Order’ functionality
Two common questions we receive are “What is a blanket order?’ and “Can I use it for the ordering of maintenance and repair services?”
‘Blanket Orders’ go by a few names – sometimes called ‘blanket purchase agreements’ or ‘call-off orders. These orders allow an organization to create a requisition for a contracted amount with a supplier, to be consumed over some time. Expenses can then be ‘drawn down from this approved amount incrementally, as required. This makes it very convenient for utilities and services-related expenses, where the exact amount cannot be known in advance.
Epicor ARM Blanket Order Demonstration
To see how ARM Blanket Order functionality works, click the demonstration video below:
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 maximize efficiencies and gain a competitive advantage. Precise Business Solutions is also the developer of integrated companion solutions for Epicor ERP – 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, 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.
Sudden and abrupt changes can interrupt anyone’s mode of operation. This couldn’t be truer than in the manufacturing and distribution industries. When that change affects supply chains, livelihoods, and communities, anxieties are compounded. In these situations, people look for business leadership as a source of answers to the unknowns that are feeding their anxiety. Here are 3 ways to lead your organization through a crisis and towards a better outcome.
Business Leadership – Success From Uncertainty
Many qualities make a great leader, such as passion, delegating, owning responsibility, honesty, and active listening. However, not all leadership qualities are created equal when it relates to business. This is punctuated when situations are considered critical. Our current business and economic climate qualify soundly for this designation. From this point of view, below are three of the most effective and essential business leadership qualities that will help your organization endure a tough situation and lead to overall business success.
1. Give Clear Direction
A light in the dark can be more than a means of finding your way around after the power goes out. A clear path delivers comfort and confidence to move forward. In the dark, your teams may stumble over their anxiety about what may or may not come next. Direction delivers many essential signals to your organization, here are four among the most effective:
Be Calm – “Calm is Contagious” I’m not sure if it’s an idiom, but it should be. People react to the signals they are given every day. The most primal of which is behavior. Your calm and reassuring body language, sincerity, and timeliness reinforce the reassuring effect that is essential to every level of your organization. Understanding you’ve provided a behavior to emulate every member of your organization can move forward focused and unencumbered with anxiety.
Communicate Openly – By maintaining direct and open communication, you negate the inherent anxiety that comes with moving through the dark. Whether delivering good or bad news, your communications need to come when they are needed and provide details that lead forward. You don’t have to have all the answers, but you must let your teams know the ones you do have.
Be Precise – Clarity is an important part of giving direction. Don’t leave room for misinterpretation. Keep your workplaces free of inefficient language and processes. By communicating in clean, clear, crisp directives, everyone remains on the same page and works towards the common goal.
Maintain Your Connection – Your organization may have been founded by an individual, but I guarantee it was built by people. Some of them may be senior members of your organization, and some of them may have joined you days before any significant change upended your day-to-day. It’s important to remember that they are all invested in your continued success. If you don’t treat them as though they have a stake in the game, you may be compounding the problems you are already facing.
By giving your teams a clear direction moving forward, you enable them to keep their focus and put the unanswered questions out of their path. This leaves them free from distractions to continue towards their goal. This leads us to the next point.
2. Outline achievable goals
One of the biggest components of business leadership is to include yourself as part of the solution. Having a goal in mind helps to maintain focus. To that effect, the notion of “here’s what I, you, and we can do now…” can be real foundational support for those who can let their minds wander into the great expanse of what comes next.
By ensuring everyone has a goal, is on task, and maintains accountability throughout your organizational structure, your place in the supply chains remains uninterrupted, your products reach their destinations, and your relationships remain in good standing.
3. Identify Opportunity And Implement
This is where you show your organization that you are in control of the situation. You’ve given everyone the rundown on what’s happening from an operational standpoint and measures being taken to alleviate constraints. With the staff at ease, they can go about achieving goals and completing tasks in their “new now” modes of operation.
By identifying key opportunities that you can take advantage of during this change of pace, you communicate to everyone that growth is still happening, even if it may not be apparent on the surface. Big ships take time to steer and those efficiency projects that kept being pushed onto the back burner due to high volume orders fulfillment or staff shortages are now primed and ready to be implemented. At the very least, you can outline your strategy to achieve the implementation of new ideas and projects so that you can hit the ground running when the conditions permit.
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.
The Epicor ERP 10.2.600 update is the first of two Cloud release upgrades planned for 2020. This is a major update that brings greater usability, performance, and strategic value in a single upgrade.
Epicor ERP 10.2.600 Highlights
As with past releases, the breakdown of what’s been added has been categorized into four major components: Experiences, Industry, Cloud and Analytics, and Global updates.
Epicor ERP 10.2.600 Experiences Updates
Epicor ERP Kinetic Dashboards and Trackers
Epicor ERP Kinetic Application Studio
Kinetic Help and Support Panel
Epicor Collaborate Phase 2
EVA Skills
Kinetic Highlights For Epicor ERP 10.2.600
184 reports and processes
20 Trackers (Located on a new Trackers – Kinetic menu)
Ability to deploy dashboards to Kinetic UI
Ability to create BAQ Reports in Kinetic UI
Ability to personalize and customize Kinetic forms
Epicor Application Studio (version 1)*
Enhancements to Kinetic Home Page
Kinetic App Maintenance*
Kinetic version alert banner*
*coming in 10.2.600.2
Refer to Release Notes for a cumulative list of Kinetic forms.
Kinetic Help and Support Panel
One-click access to videos, articles, and guided learning
Context-sensitive results
Easy access to Epicor Learning Center, EpicCare, and EpicWeb
Display field help
New In-App Feedback
Give Epicor your direct feedback
Not a replacement for Support calls
Epicor Collaborate
Cloud-based, collaboration solution within Epicor ERP
Simple, intuitive experience
New in 10.2.600:
• Editing, sharing, flagging and tagging messages
• Creating groups to make communication easier, including private groups
• Creating custom notification rules
• Designing BPM workflows to post notifications to Collaborate
• Integrations with EVA, EDD, IoT, and Microsoft Teams
• Support for 11 additional languages
Epicor Virtual Agent (EVA)
Conversational digital agent
EVA is enhanced with new skills each release:
• Collaborate API – @EVA user posts message to a Collaborate group or individual
• Return Material Authorization (RMA) Skill – “Create RMA for X pieces of [part] to [Customer]”
Available for iOS and Android
Epicor ERP 10.2.600 Industry Updates
Epicor Financials Enhancements
Epicor Quick Ship
Epicor Cash Collect
DocStar ECM 2020.1
Epicor AMM PCID Transfers
Epicor ERP Core Financial Enhancements
Centralized AR collections
AR/AP netting settlement
AP invoice cancellation
AR/AP invoices-WHT timing option through interim accounts
Epicor Quick Ship (Manifest)
Cloud enablement on Microsoft Azure
Data mapping tool
New carrier integrations with:
• CH Robinson’s freightquote.com
• Canadian carriers Loomis and Canada Post
Epicor Cash Collect
User-friendly Customer Portal empowers businesses to better serve their customers
New Communications Assistant enables collection representatives to record, transcribe and store calls
Document Creation gives users a PDF print driver that enables printing a batch of invoices
Advanced Workflow allows the ability to create custom workflows within Epicor Cash Collect
Epicor Data Analytics Financial Reporting
Replaces Advanced Financial Reporting with a modern, cloud-based BI and analytics solution
All-in-one easy-to-use solution
Robust financial reports such as financial statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports in a pre-packaged format
Offers Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
Device-agnostic
Epicor Advanced Project Management
Provides integrated project management for customers with modules for:
• Project Contracts
• Project Accounting
• Project Subcontracts
Simplifies and streamlines the contract management process and tracks at the sub-ledger level
DocStar Enterprise Content Management 2020.1
Provides automation to route and process business documents more efficiently, faster, and more accurately
Integrates to Epicor ERP for storage of documents and attachments, pre-built automated processing of documents for sales order entry and accounts payable
New features include AP Automation enhancements, integration with Epicor ERP identity, supporting multi-factor authentication, and new Kinetic screens
Package Control Identification Transfers
Reserve and allocate Advanced Materials Management PCIDs for sales orders
Enables customers to supply multiple sites with raw materials from a central location
Allow a customer to receive a single PO line or job info multiple PCIDs in a single transaction
Epicor ERP Public Cloud Multi-region Multi-company Transactions
Run Epicor ERP in multiple company locations from any geography, in the cloud or on-premises
Enable intercompany transactions such as purchasing, sales orders, and reporting across multiple databases
Roll out a cloud strategy in phases, meet local requirements, and gain global visibility and alignment
Epicor ERP Cloud Regions
Epicor Cloud Communication
The email address on the In-app user profile is now where you enter your preferred communication email address
Need to update your notification preferences?
Access your profile from the System Monitor -> Action Menu
Epicor ERP 10.2.600 Global Updates
Country-Specific Functionality updates
Epicor Electronic Reports
Epicor Country Specific Functionality
Countries providing updates for:
China
Colombia
France
Germany
India
Indonesia
Malaysia
Mexico
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Sweden
Taiwan
Thailand
UAE
UK
and all countries in the European Union (EU) with support for the EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number.
Epicor Electronic Reports
Prepare electronic reports for third-party organizations
Work efficiently with advisory companies and auditors
Leverage simple e-invoicing
Strengthen your global business management with legally required electronic reports
Timeline for 10.2.600
Preparation Checklist
Pilot/Additional Env Upgrade Weekend
Pilot/Additional Systems offline Friday 12:01 AM local data center time
Not able to log in during upgrade process
Timeline
For live Public Cloud customers: We start copying your Production data to Pilot on Wed April 15 at 8:00 PM CDT and through Thurs
For MT, Express: We start copying your Production data to Pilot on Thurs at 8:00 PM CDT
Additional environments are not auto refreshed
When upgrades are complete, your users can login
Download happens automatically
No changes to Users \ menu \ permissions
10.2.600 in the Pilot system available for testing on Sunday, April 19
Production Upgrade Weekend
Production System offline Saturday 12:01 AM local data center time
Not able to log in during upgrade process
Approximate time for an upgrade 4-10 hours once your upgrade has started
During this time the Epicor Cloud Ops team will…
Upgrade your Production
Install UBCs solution from Pilot if requested by Tuesday, May 12
Send “all clear” messages
▪ First to administrators, second to all users
When complete, your users can login
Download happens automatically
No changes to Users \ menu \ permissions
Local system admin import UBCs previously saved to local drive and not included in the solution
Pilot changes will be retained on a backup copy until May 29 if needed
Data Refreshes for Customers in Public Cloud
All live customers staying on cadence—your pilot database will be automatically refreshed Wed, Apr 15 and upgraded Fri, Apr 17
Additional environments are NOT automatically refreshed. But if you would like a refresh prior (so you test the latest data) please raise a ticket in EpicCare – this must be completed ASAP, to be ready for 12:01 Friday AM local data center time.
All implementing customers –your pilot database will not be automatically refreshed. You will be upgraded on Fri, Apr 17 with the data in place.
But if you would like a refresh prior (so you test the latest data) please raise a ticket in EpicCare – this must be completed ASAP and ready for 12:01 Friday am local data center time.
Implementing customers will not be able to have the database refreshed from Production to Pilot during the upgrade testing month – so if you want this done it must be done by Thurs, April 16.
Customers with Option to Flex Their .600 Upgrade
The deadline was Wed, April 8 to submit your Flex request
Updates:
Note: if you choose to defer your upgrade, you will NOT receive any scheduled 500.x updates after 10.2.500.10.
However, Kinetic forms (User interface refresh) will continue to be turned on during this Flex period, regularly, with no downtime required
Option 1
Week of June 22 – your pilot system will be refreshed from live and upgraded
Additional will be upgraded and not refreshed. But if you would like a refresh prior
(so you test the latest data) please raise a ticket in EpicCare – this must be completed ASAP and ready for 12:01 Friday AM local data center time.
Saturday, July 25 at 12:01 AM – your live system upgrade will start
Option 2
Week of July 20 – your pilot system will be refreshed from live and upgraded
Additional will be upgraded and not refreshed. But if you would like a refresh prior
(so you test the latest data) please raise a ticket in EpicCare – this must be completed ASAP and ready for 12:01 Friday AM local data center time.
Saturday, Aug 22 at 12:01 AM – your live system upgrade will start
Testing in Pilot
Use this time to test end-to-end
A sample test plan is available for download on EpicWeb
Personalize the test plan and distribute it to your power users
Monitor for any failed Unique Business Components
(UBCs)
Tues, May 12 is your last day to fix any UBCs and “opt-in” by requesting via EpicCare that the Epicor Cloud Ops team moves your UBCs to Production
If you need changes later, that’s ok. You’ll just have to update your Production after go-live.
Export all UBC changes to a known local location (Don’t take the default location)
Pilot/Additional will be upgraded to 10.2.600.2 May 12 just before the Live upgrade May 16-17
If you need help, please submit an EpicCare ticket
Testing Your SSRS Reports in Pilot
Open both your Production and Pilot applications from the same computer
Print the report in Production
Download your Production report from Production
Upload the report into the Pilot
Print the report in the Pilot
Compare the two documents
If you need to make modifications, make them in Pilot, and take notes so that you can move them post-upgrade
If you need help, please submit an EpicCare ticket
Unique Business Components (UBCs)
Vendor/Partner-side Teams Will: Upgrade your UBC items to 10.2.600
You need to:
Use the UBC Tracker to prioritize what needs your attention: clean up old data and fix issues
Use the sample test plans to walk through your business processes end-to-end (including reports)
Work to resolve items by Tuesday, May 12
Create an EpicCare Ticket IF YOU WANT* Epicor Cloud Ops to move your UBCs from Pilot to Production for you
Note: *In 10.2.400 and earlier, Epicor moved your modified UBCs files automatically, unless you opted out by requesting that they not be moved. Like the 10.2.500 process, with 10.2.600 Epicor will only move your modified UBC files if you choose to opt-in by submitting an EpicCare ticket.
Unique Business Components Tracker
Provides a read-only overview of your UBCs in one spot
Tabs organize your items so you can see what is good to go
Use it to identify obsolete or prototype items for cleanup
Dynamically reads your data
Customization panel refreshed every 4 hours
UBC Customization Tab
Three fields help you identify and prioritize customizations needing resolution
On the menu – Any customization used on a menu that has a problem is your highest priority
Is Cosmetic – These customizations have fields that may need attention
Duplicate – Review and delete
These fields are updated in Customization Maint by the verification process
Access a “how-to” video on the EpicWeb Cloud Documentation site
Training Courses
Epicor ERP Cloud 10.2.600 features over 60 new and updated titles in our Training on Demand library
Epicor ERP Cloud Embedded Education has over 100 courses with several updates
Remember to leverage the cloud upgrade training:
Getting Started with Epicor ERP in the Cloud
Epicor Support and Cloud Operational Excellence
Leveraging the Unique Business Component Tracker to Manage Your Customizations During an Upgrade
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.
As we near the Epicor ERP Cloud 10.2.600 Update, here are the important dates and enhancements you should know.
Epicor ERP Cloud 10.2.600 Update Important Dates
Tuesday, April 7, 2020,New Kinetic forms are turned on in your pilot environment. Your systems will not experience any downtime during this simple enhancement, and your version will not change. Details can be found in the Epicor ERP Kinetic FAQ for Customers.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020Deadline for Flex customers to submit an EpicCare ticket indicating their preference to defer their upgrade to one of the alternate upgrade dates. This has been extended from April 6.
Saturday, April 11, 2020,The new Kinetic forms are turned on in your production environment. Your systems will not experience any downtime, and your version will not change.
Tuesday, April 14, 2020, and Wednesday, April 15, 2020Upgrade webinars are held live, recorded, and posted as documentation. Please plan to join or watch the replay so you are aware of the upgrade process. Registration information will be sent shortly.
Friday, April 17, 2020 – Saturday, April 18, 2020Pilot system upgrade to 10.2.600. During this time, your pilot system will be unavailable while Epicor performs your upgrade, but don’t worry—your production system will not be affected by the new release. Once it is complete, log in to your pilot system and start exploring what’s new.
Tuesday, May 12, 2020Pilot system update to 10.2.600.2 and UBC Opt-In Deadline. The final version that will be loaded into your Production system will be 10.2.600.2, so we’ll update your Pilot environment on this date. Also, if you want Epicor to move your UBCs from your Pilot environment to your Production environment, you must submit an EpicCare ticket to opt into the process. If you do not submit an EpicCare ticket to opt into the process, the UBCs from your Pilot environment will not be moved by Epicor to the Production environment.
Saturday, May 16, 2020 – Sunday, May 17, 2020Production system upgrade to 10.2.600.2. Your upgrade weekend arrives! While Epicor upgrades your production system to Epicor Cloud ERP 10.2.600.2, your system will be unavailable for several hours during this time.
Note that dates are subject to change.
What’s New in Epicor ERP Cloud 10.2.600
A few highlights include:
Multi-region Multi-company Cloud Transactions—Accelerate your growth plans. New in 10.2.600 is the ability to connect separate instances of Epicor ERP across Azure datacenters—or even across Azure datacenters to on-premises locations—through multi-company transactions to enable a distributed cloud or hybrid cloud business model.
User Experience—Ease of use continues to be a top priority. We’re introducing new personalization tools, enhancing Epicor Functions, and updating visuals throughout the application. You get new file attachment options with Google Drive and Dropbox. And for your mobile time and expense apps, get the ability to edit timesheets and expense reports in offline mode.
Epicor Collaborate—Get connected to get it done. Building on the first release of Epicor Collaborates in our last release, 10.2.600 features so much more. Epicor Collaborate will offer custom notifications, multiple channels and groups, filtering options, translation support for eleven more languages, and fit-for-purpose integrations with Epicor Data Discovery, Epicor Virtual Agent, Epicor IoT, and Microsoft Teams.
General Enhancements—This release features enhancements throughout the applications, including Epicor Advanced Project Management, Financials for Epicor Data Analytics, four new modules in Epicor Cash Collect, full cloud enablement for Epicor Quick Ship, and more.
How to Prepare Epicor will upgrade your pilot system one month before your production system so you have the opportunity to explore the updates in 10.2.600 without affecting your production system. As a best practice, please use this time to review and make any necessary changes to your Unique Business Components—custom reports, BPMs, User Interface customizations, etc.—to ensure everything continues to operate as expected. If you submit an EpicCare ticket for help with moving your UBCs from Pilot to Production, Epicor will do so for you during the upgrade weekend.
Flexing Your Upgrade Subscribers to the Epicor Public Cloud Flex Option can follow the same schedule, but you have the option to defer your upgrade to Epicor Cloud ERP 10.2.600. Below are the two date options for your flex upgrade.
If you choose to defer, you must submit anEpicCareticket with your selected upgrade date (Option 1 or Option 2) and we will send you a personalized confirmation with your instructions. We must receive your deferral no later than Wednesday, April 8, 2020. If you do not choose to defer, we’ll keep you on cadence and automatically upgrade your system in April 2020.
Note: If you choose to defer your upgrade, you will not receive any 600.x updates after the 10.2.500.10 update, but you will continue to receive any planned Kinetic form enhancements that we turn on during the Flex period. We only host the upgrade webinars on April 14 and 15, but replays are accessible at any time afterwards as documentation on EpicWeb. If you defer, you are strongly encouraged to either attend or watch the replay so you are aware of the upgrade process.
About the Upgrade Epicor Cloud ERP, 10.2.600 is the first of two major upgrades planned for 2020, as part of our regular cadence and commitment to helping your business grow through innovation. Unlike the more frequent monthly updates that are minor yet enhance your daily experience, major releases like this bring you greater usability, performance, and strategic value in a single upgrade. That’s why we give you advance notice and the opportunity to test and explore the updates in the pilot before upgrading your production system.
Next Steps You are invited to join educational webinars on April 14 and April 15 to learn more about Epicor ERP 10.2.600, how to prepare, and ways to leverage the new functionality for driving business growth. Documentation will also be made available on the Epicor customer portal EpicWeb. And as a reminder, reach out to EpicCare anytime you have a question or need application support.
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.
Epicor invites you to a series of Epicor ERP webinars, deep-diving into the typical needs of a financial team and how these can be fulfilled by the Epicor ERP software and its add-on products. We picked a week in our calendar and scheduled several live sessions on Epicor financials as below. All webinars will be recorded and made available.
Epicor ERP Webinars
Every business needs to perform financial accounting and reporting periodically in one or another way. Epicor ERP has a vast range of financial core capabilities, modules and add-on products available to our customers helping streamline their financial processes by doing more with fewer resources in a shorter time. It is all about making their life as a financial professional easier and helping them to do their day-to-day job more efficiently.
Epicor ERP Financials Core Overview
Review of the Epicor ERP Financials Core capabilities, what’s new in the Epicor ERP 10.2.500 version and what is expected in Epicor ERP 10.2.600. Highlights of the optional Epicor ERP financial modules and a quick overview of the add-on products delivered by our ISV partners.
The new Financial Management package in EDA is the latest addition to our BI and Analytics product portfolio. Learn how to make intuitive, easy-to-use, dynamic, device-agnostic financial reports and dashboards with EDA in the cloud.
The delivery of electronic reports and e-invoicing solutions has never been easier than with Epicor Electronic Reports. You can extract any data from your Epicor ERP system in a structured format and use it for integration with any third-party systems, for audit processes, e-invoicing, legally required electronic reports and more.
The best Excel-based reporting product offers direct connection to the Epicor ERP database. You can create arbitrary reports with the REST API utilizing your own BAQ in Epicor ERP. Send reports and the underlying data to business analysts with the PackNGo or schedule repeated report delivery with the Broadcast functionality.
Date/Time: Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at 10:00 am CT
EFP is a great financial budget planning product integrated with Epicor ERP. This cloud-based product features an Excel add-in and a web-based interface, allowing a real-time collaboration with all stakeholders in a workflow-based budget approval process, as well as the comparison of budgeted figures and actuals.
If you need to tackle with late payments and outstanding customer invoices, Epicor Cash Collect is an excellent product to establish an efficient credit and collection process at your organization. Automate customer communication processes, transcribe and search calls, attach invoices to e-mails. Key customers can manage their invoices with the Customer Portal functionality.
Sales and use tax determination at the best quality. Thanks to our partner, by connecting to an industry-leading, always up-to-date service through Epicor Tax Connect, you can save a lot of time on looking up the appropriate tax rates and preparing tax returns for all the states you do business in.
Description: Many elements of the entire credit card payment process are covered now by Epicor, helping you to save costs on processing credit card transactions securely, absolutely complying the industry standards. Review and manage transactions in real-time, make the payment experience to your customers flawless and easy by allowing them to pay with their credit cards.
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 Industry.
Epicor Advanced Projects Module addresses the industry need for project-based ERP software with embedded contract management and billing. With this unique tool, you can manage projects, contracts, claims, subcontractors, variations and revenue recognition within one single user-friendly system. Take advantage of a tool that gives you full ERP functionality, including manufacturing and supply chain management, for a complete solution.
Advanced Projects for Epicor ERP
Advanced Projects for Epicor ERP is built in the Epicor development framework and is a fully integrated software solution. Built for businesses that have a need to manage complex contracts and multi-faceted projects within their Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system Epicor Advanced Projects is the solution.
Advanced Projects for Epicor ERP is a specialist solution, addressing the challenges of complex contract management in a world-class modern ERP environment. Enjoy a consistent experience while unique business requirements can be easily accommodated within the flexible toolset.
Capture all costs and invoice everything, on time, as per the contract
Many companies involved in the design, delivery, fabrication and construction of major projects need to capture costs on a project for labour, equipment usage, material, expenses and subcontractors. These costs then need to be invoiced based on the agreed contractual billing terms which could be fixed price, progress percentage, quantity-based or a complex combination of all of these. On top of this, these businesses also need to manage retentions, claims and variations, all of which add another layer of complexity to the billing process.
Improve cash flow and forecasting through effective management of contracts and projects
Large, complex projects present a lot more risk to the business. Managing cash flow is critical, and if claims are missed, it impacts more than just the bottom line. Businesses need the visibility to enable them to bill or claim everything they can, at the time they are allowed contractually. This process must be systemised with workflows and automation, to help the Project Managers and Cost Accounting team do their jobs effectively and keep the projects on a profitable track.
Get control of the numerous subcontractor obligations and on-charges
Complex projects are rarely a 1:1 relationship between the customer and the vendor. More often than not, many aspects of the job are contracted out to other companies and this web of multiple contracts must be managed very carefully. The management of subcontractor terms and deliverables can prove challenging, especially if they are not linked with the one or more customer contracts they are working on. Spreadsheets and memory soon become unreliable and more revenue is lost through charges not being billed.
Eliminate spreadsheets and manual journals from your revenue recognition process
Long term contracts are not unusual in these industries, so the management of revenue recognition is key, especially with the changes to the revenue recognition standards. Gone are the days when Cost Accounting teams battled with spreadsheets to manipulate period accruals at month and year-end, hoping they have captured all costs and revenue. What they need is an easy to use workbench that generates proposed accruals but allows them to make changes to the calculations as required. When the accruals are agreed, the GL journals are posted automatically upon commitment. What they want and need is flexibility.
Epicor Advanced Projects Contract Management
• Manage complex contracts.
• Contracts can be tied to a single project, or many projects.
• Manage small and long-duration contracts.
• Multi-level item/scope definition.
• Revision control and variation controls.
• Retention management.
• Ability to do complex invoices with a mixture of fixed-price, progress, and quantity-based billing methods.
Epicor Advanced Projects Project Accruals
• Financial recognition of revenue and expenses based on various valuations methods, including; amount billed, progress percentage, cash received.
• Enables true project profitability based
on current performance and expected completion.
• Ability to adjust accrual calculations as required.
• Automatic posting of accruals to the GL.
• Manual journal adjustments to projects as needed.
Epicor Advanced Projects Claims Management
• Cumulative claims management.
• Applications for payment/proforma invoice processing.
• An approval process to validate prior to submission to the customer.
• Integration to Accounts Receivable to enable holistic customer reporting.
• Invoicing based on valuations, not just part shipping.
• Flexible invoice and claim layouts to show summary or detailed lines.
• A budget approval process to lock in an original/baseline budget.
• Cost code/cost head budgets.
• Comparison of spent vs recognised.
• Budget and capture costs by phase and by cost code.
Epicor Advanced Projects Subcontract Management
• Manage complex contracts.
• Subcontracts can be tied to a single deliverable or many.
• Revision control and variation controls.
• Retention management.
Epicor Advanced Projects Subcontract Claims
• Cumulative claims management.
• Integration to accounts payable to enable holistic vendor reporting.
• Payments based on valuations, not just goods received.
Epicor Advanced Projects Built-in ERP Benefits
• Advanced workflows and approval functionality to manage everyday business functions.
• Integrated procurement functionality to manage the requisition, purchase and invoicing lifecycle.
• Full project sub-ledger with cost capture from the core ERP system.
Managing the financial aspects of large and complex contracts is not an easy task, and if it isn’t done well, can result in costly mistakes.
• Variations not billed, resulting in missed revenue.
• Penalties and potential lawsuits through not meeting contractual obligations.
• Manual integration of disparate systems, costing time and facilitating mistakes.
• Cashflow stress caused by the mismanagement of claims and subcontractor payments.
• Lack of collaboration across the business due to misalignment of contract obligations within departments.
• Poor customer, subcontractor and employee experience due to lack of visibility, inaccurate invoicing and processes that aren’t consistent.
• Reporting that is slow, manual and always historical, with no real-time visibility of the health of the business and the status of the projects.
Ask yourself can your business afford to continue working like this?
How many more contracts can you take on when it is a challenge handling the ones you already have? What you really need is an integrated system that works for you. One that generates efficiencies in the business, automates manual tasks and streamlines processes so that mistakes are kept to the bare minimum, if at all. You need to ensure that every project is profitable so that your business flourishes.
The benefits are endless and extend beyond systemisation. Epicor ERP teamed with Advanced Projects has been built with your challenges and goals top of mind. We know and understand the importance of managing complex contracts and multifaceted projects within companies like yours.
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 Industry.
Epicor Insights 2020 Cancellation (Updated March 23, 2020)
Due to the growing concerns over the spread of COVID-19, Epicor has decided to cancel this year’s Epicor Insights 2020 conference. Refunds will be issued over the coming weeks for event registrations. Any additional inquiries can be submitted to the contact us through the link at the bottom of this post. We will endeavor to answer your questions as best we can.
Epicor Insights 2020
Epicor Insights 2020 is right around the corner. Taking place May 3-6, 2020 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN, Epicor Insights 2020 delivers “Your 2020 Vision” to businesses around the world. Join us for this exciting event to learn more about the powerful tools developed by Epicor Software Corporation, speak with existing and prospective customers, and speak to Epicor Certified Partners, engineers, and developers.
Dedicated education tracks are made available. Each focused on specific products and solutions, these educational tracks deliver all the details as well as practical applications of the tools available, not to mention the many more opportunities to network across products and industries.
Learn about each specific Epicor solution, network with your peers, and enjoy the core benefits of a global customer conference. Gain valuable insight on how to utilize your Epicor solution to grow your business, your employees, and your bottom line. We hope you’ll join us—and your peers—in Nashville!
Offered on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 prior to the conference. Valued at $495, these four-hour training sessions are only $275.
Valuable One-On-One Sessions
Schedule individual meetings with Epicor executives and product experts.
Technical Insight
Learn how to reduce costs, increase ROI, and deal with compliance issues.
Peer Insight
Network with fellow professionals, discuss common challenges, and share solutions.
Education ROI
Extended education sessions offer a deep dive into the business software you’re using today.
Practical Insight
Attend labs with Epicor technical staff demonstrating practical software solutions.
Expert Insight
Hear from Epicor executives regarding what lies ahead and schedule meetings with Epicor experts.
Epicor Insights 2020 Extended Education
Extended education sessions will take place Saturday, May 2 and Sunday May 3, 2020 on-site at the Opryland.
These are elite training sessions developed by the Epicor worldwide education, product management, development, support, and services teams. They move beyond traditional labs and are conducted by Epicor professionals for product-specific training with your own Epicor-provided computer, small class size, and direct access to technical experts. These sessions will be available Sunday and Monday before the conference.
Pricing
Extended Education Sessions are not included in your Insights registration fee. These additional courses are valued at $495, but are offered at the conference for $275/session. Sessions are four hours long and run from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. or 1–5 p.m. Some courses consist of two parts from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at $550. Registering for only one portion of a two-part session is not permitted.
Increased visibility of your business as an industry leader
50% discount off the regular registration fee for accepted single presenters
20% discount off registration for accepted presenters on 2+ panels
10% discount off registration for accepted presenters on one panel
Please take a moment to tell us what information you would like to present or what business issues you have solved using Epicor solutions. Presentations can be organized as best practices, case studies, general business, technical, or tips and tricks. Submit an abstract with 500 words or less, and a member of the Insights team will contact you if you have been selected to speak.
Epicor Insights 2020 Hotel and Travel
Hotel Reservations
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center 2800 Opryland Dr. Nashville, TN 37214 Book Your Discounted Insights Hotel Rate!Book before March 29, 2020, to secure your discounted rate.
Group rate: $199 (9.25% sales tax & 6% occupancy tax plus $2.50 city tax per room per night)
Daily Resort fee of $26 plus applicable taxes will be added to each guest room rate.
Discounted Group Rate cut-off: March 29, 2020
Check-in 3 pm
Check-out 11 am
Office: 615-889-1000 and Toll-Free: 1-877-382-7299 *Please note that Insights attendance is limited to current Epicor customers, authorized partners, and invited guests only. As in past years, full conference registration includes all conference sessions, access to the Solutions Pavilion, meals, and the evening events. All conference sessions and meals will take place at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN.
Shuttle Service Information
Gaylord Opryland offers a daily roundtrip shuttle service from the Nashville Airport to the Hotel. Purchase tickets here online, or upon arrival to the airport, find the Gaylord Opryland Welcome Desk on the lower level of the airport between the two escalators. An agent can assist with travel needs and ticket purchase, or guests can use the resort kiosk, which is located at the welcome desk. Daily shuttle schedule:
CASCADES LOBBY CANOPY located outside the Cascades Lobby to the left.
MAGNOLIA CANOPY (Inn at Opryland upon request) 7 am – 6 pm (departs every 30 minutes)
Cost: $35 per person, roundtrip fareGuests ages 18 and under will receive complimentary admission with an accompanying paying adult.
Guests 65 and older receive a discounted rate of $32 for roundtrip fares.
Epicor Insights 2020 Entertainment
Little Big Town
GRAMMY, ACM, CMA, and AMA Award-winning group, Little Big Town — consisting of members Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman, and Jimi Westbrook — first entered the music scene over 20 years ago with hit songs “Boondocks,” “Bring It On Home,” “Good As Gone” and the GRAMMY-nominated “Little White Church.” Their breakthrough albums Tornado and Pain Killer produced multiple #1 singles, including “Pontoon,” “Tornado,” and “Day Drinking,” as well as the history-making, best-selling country single of the year (2015) “Girl Crush.” 2017’s, The Breaker, debuted #1 on the Billboard Country Charts and Top 10 (No.4) on the Billboard 200 to critical acclaim, marking the group’s fourth Top 10 debut on the Billboard 200 chart. The album features their GRAMMY-winning, multi-week #1 single, “Better Man,” as well as the 2019 GRAMMY-nominated, “When Someone Stops Loving You.” The band recently released new music from their upcoming ninth studio album, Nightfall, the Grammy-nominated song “The Daughters,” country single “Over Drinking,” and “Sugar Coat.” The album is set for release January 17, 2020. Little Big Town has earned more than 40 award show nominations and in the past five years has taken home nearly 20 awards, including multiple GRAMMY, AMA, People’s Choice, CMA, ACM awards, and an Emmy award. The Grand Ole Opry inductees (2014) went onto receive their star on the Nashville Walk of Fame in 2017. In July of 2018, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville launched their lead, yearlong exhibit called LITTLE BIG TOWN: THE POWER OF FOUR showcasing the bands powerful and storied 20-year history within the country music community. The band recently launched 4 Cellars wine, their first non-musical project as a band, with Browne Family Vineyards. The collaboration features exclusive wine blended by the foursome and recently released canned wine spritzers called “Day Drinking.”
Epicor Insights 2020 Keynote Speaker
Marcus Lemonis
As an impressionable youth, Marcus Lemonis read the description of the Entrepreneur to his mother from the dictionary while working on a school project, which inspired him to challenge himself and make his dreams come true. His humble beginnings and journey through life represent the heart and soul of what true entrepreneurism is. Although he was not born in America, he is proud to be living the American Dream through hard work, determination and believing. Those who have had the chance to hear his story through his moving speaking engagements would say that he is humble, down to earth and 100 percent brutally honest. A past nominee for the 2018 Critic’s Choice Award for Best Structured Reality Series for his work on CNBC’s The Profit, Marcus lends his business expertise to struggling businesses in various industries across the country while using his famous People-Process-Product principle. Through his 3P mantra, he analyzes every business by the quality people, whether they have an excellent and relevant product, and the best possible process for creating, delivering, and selling that product. While many people frequently call him the “business turnaround king,” he will be the first to say that he really helps people with tough love so they can use the experience to inevitably succeed. Marcus was born in war-torn Beirut, Lebanon in 1973; and, at nine months old, was adopted by a couple living in Miami, FL. As a young child, he was exposed to positive and prosperous business values at his family-owned auto dealership. His entrepreneurial spirit bloomed at age 12 while attending Epiphany Catholic School, when he started a lawn mowing service to generate money for a candy business while enlisting his friends for their help. He then graduated from Christopher Columbus High School and moved to Milwaukee, WI to attend Marquette University, where he studied Political Science, Criminology and Economics. With approximately 225 locations in 36 states and a comprehensive e-commerce platform, Marcus has long time served as the Chairperson at America’s #1 source for RVs, camping accessories, RV maintenance and repair – Camping World and Gander RV& Outdoors. In 2017, he became the RV Business Newsmaker of the Year for “evolving into one of the most transformational characters in the U.S. recreational vehicle industry.”With multiple ventures on his resume, Marcus can be seen sharing his knowledge through numerous business and entertainment television programs and is also regarded as one of the most sought-after industry experts and keynote speakers in the small business sector today. Marcus drives results through collaborations, partnerships and relationships. His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: know your numbers, trust the process and remember that he’s 100 percent IN CHARGE!
Conference FAQs
What is Epicor Insights?
Epicor Insights is the official global customer conference for Epicor customers. It brings together Epicor customers, partners, and industry experts for a three-day learning and networking experience focused on Epicor products, solutions, and future plans. With more than 500 sessions and extensive hands-on labs, the conference offers the opportunity to learn, connect with peers, and understand your industry best practices.
When and where is Insights held?
Insights 2020 will be held Sunday, May 3-Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
615-889-1000
2800 Opryland Dr.
Nashville, TN 37214
Who should attend Insights?
Users of Epicor products who want to extend functionality and protect their investment in Epicor solutions are encouraged to attend. The conference has something for everyone—from IT-focused professionals to business executives.
Please note that Insights attendance is limited to current Epicor customers, authorized partners, and invited guests only.
Are meals provided during the conference?
All conference attendees and paid guests with either a guest pass or Tuesday night pass have access to that pass’ applicable meals.
What is the dress code for the conference?
The attire for Insights is business casual. The meeting space can be cold, so please bring a jacket or a sweater for your comfort.
How do I book my hotel at the Epicor rate?
Epicor has reserved a block of rooms at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center for the Insights 2020 Customer User Conference. Book your discounted hotel rate for Insights 2020 here.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else in my company in the event I cannot attend?
Yes. Substitutions can be made in writing to Insights registration at insights@epicor.com with the names of both the original and substitute registrant and/or guest.
What if I need to cancel?
There is a $150 fee for cancellations made prior to April 3, 2020, the full conference amount is non-refundable. All cancellations must be made in writing and addressed to “Epicor Insights 2020—CANCELLATION” and faxed to (949) 341-4994 or sent by email to insights@epicor.com
How do I get a copy of my registration invoice?
A link to your invoice(s) will be sent to you in your registration confirmation email. Please click on that link to print out the invoice(s) to send in with your company check for payment. If you need an additional copy, you can access your invoice(s) through your registration record or email insights@epicor.com
How can I pay?
Acceptable methods of payments are check, credit card, or wire transfer.
Getting Involved
Are you accepting speaker applications?
Information and best practices shared by users is extremely valuable content that we look to maximize every year. There’s also a significant discount if your abstract is selected. Please visit the Call for Speakers section for more information on submitting your application.
Are there any sponsorships or exhibit spaces available?
Yes, sponsors are included in Insights every year. Sponsorship opportunities are available to all Epicor Alliance Partners. To get more information on becoming a sponsor of the event, please email insights@epicor.com
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 has helped modernize operations and automate 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 Industry.
As we continue making progress through the Epicor Kinetic journey, more reports and processes are now available to our customers to test and provide important feedback that shapes Kinetic innovations. Providing early access helps drive user adoption among Epicor ERP cloud customers and gain interest from prospective users.
New Epicor Kinetic Design Reports And Processes
We have recently communicated to cloud customers that as part of the Epicor ERP 10.2.500.10 Cloud update, they will get access to the following reports and processes, which have been redesigned with the sleek Kinetic User Interface:
Kinetic Reports
Sales Order Backlog
Sales Order on Hold
Scheduled Shipments
Open RMA
Stock Status
Kinetic Processes
Build Project Analysis
Build WBS Phase Analysis
Capture Project Revenue Recognition
Capture WBS Phase Revenue Recognition
Project Invoice Preparation
Epicor Kinetic Design Introduction
Epicor ERP Kinetic Design FAQ
As one of the newest additions to the Epicor architecture, Kinetic delivers entirely new experiences to a system and users who have been utilizing Epicor software Products for decades. Here are the most common questions submitted regarding this new technology.
What is Kinetic?
Epicor Kinetic provides a clean, intuitive and easy to use experience for all ERP users. By utilizing modern research in user interface design, Kinetic delivers consistency in navigation, simplified visuals that reduce the clutter and noise from your daily tasks, and improved accessibility and productivity. Over time Epicor Kinetic design will be applied to all ERP forms.
What is the difference between the Kinetic and classic versions of forms?
Designed with the user in mind, Kinetic forms have a streamlined user interface with expandable and collapsible panels which provide easy access to information but only when you need it. Classic forms have a tab structure which requires you to click through tabs to get to the information you need, oftentimes requiring more clicks to access data. In most applications the functionality and business logic will not change. However, the layout and navigation will.
Can I still run the classic version of a form that has been converted to Kinetic?
Yes, you can choose to run the classic version of any Kinetic form. You configure the default form to use in Menu Maintenance for each form. The default value is to open the form in the Kinetic UI, with the ability to override globally by an administrator or by a user.
Can I still use classic forms that have not been converted to Kinetic during the transition?
Yes, during the transformation you can use both classic and Kinetic versions of a screen. Forms not yet converted will open in the same smart client window. You will continue to log into one system from the same home page. When you select a menu item, the form will either open in Kinetic or the classic version depending on your settings and whether it was converted yet.
Can I customize a Kinetic Report or Process form?
Currently, you cannot customize a Kinetic form. Customization capabilities will be available in an upcoming release of Epicor ERP.
Can I personalize a Kinetic Report or Process form?
Currently, you cannot personalize a Kinetic form. The personalization toolset will be available in an upcoming release of Epicor ERP.
What if I currently have customization on a form that was converted to Kinetic?
You can still use your customized forms by launching the classic version. By default, the application opens any form in the classic UI when you have customization attached to it.
As an administrator, can I globally set access to Kinetic forms for all users?
Yes, as an administrator you can define Kinetic as the default form that launches for each form and user.
Can I still use a custom report type on a form that was converted to Kinetic?
Yes, you can still generate the same report output that you do today.
How do I submit feedback on the Kinetic forms?
We want your feedback! Please send your feedback to Kinetic-Feedback@epicor.com. If you run into an issue, please submit a support call just like you would do for any other issue in the software.
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.
Encompass Solutions’ Managed Services offers a simple, structured patch management cycle to keep your on-premise Epicor installation aligned with Epicor’s update cadence policy.
The Encompass patch update program keeps your Epicor ERP system running at peak performance. This update cadence keeps your business in sync with the latest iteration of your Epicor software. The benefit Encompass provides is a dependable and iterative service that leaves you more time and energy to focus on revenue-generating activities for your business.
Stop spending time on tedious back-end tasks that can distract your teams from making real headway in the form of productive work.
What Is Patch Management?
Patch management is a component of overall system management that generally includes acquiring, testing, and installing multiple patches. Common patch management tasks include, but are not limited to:
Maintaining knowledge of available patches
Determining which patches are appropriate for specific systems
Proper patch installation
System testing prior to and following installation
Documentation of configurations and procedures
Patch Management Service Schedule
The whole patch process takes roughly two weeks to complete before the cycle is ready to start anew. Here’s how the Encompass Solutions Patch Management Service works:
Day 1 – A new patch is released from Epicor Software Corp. and notification follows
Day 2 – Epicor ERP system patch updates are disseminated and installed
Days 3 through 12 – Testing of processes and Unique Business Cases (UBCs) takes place in the test environment to ensure no process is impeded with new patch rollout.
Day 13 – After testing is completed, the new patch is pushed to the live Epicor ERP environment.
Day 14 – A new patch is released from Epicor Software Corp. and notification follows
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.
