Operating a single operations location can be challenging on its own; managing multiple locations adds another layer of complexity and difficulty. Even so, many manufacturing companies have factories, warehouses, and offices located across the country, or even the world, to better serve their customers. In fact, multi-location operations is becoming common even for small and mid-sized companies.
Without efficient management of multiple locations, the benefits of these sites may be wiped out by the costs. To be successful, it must be fast and easy to share information between facilities. Successful multi-location companies have enhanced access to data from all points of their business to enable increased efficiencies, better planning, and reduced costs. These enhancements are possible with enterprise resource planning (ERP) for manufacturers.
Enhanced Information Sharing
One of the biggest challenges that companies with multiple locations face is sharing data from one part of the company with another. Even when all portions of the company want to share, it’s often hard to figure out the best way to do so. Emailing information makes sense, and it’s fast, but it’s also inevitable that someone is going to be left off of the email chain who needs the information. Shared networks are great, but you have to know where to look for the information in order to find it.
The solution is simple: an ERP for manufacturers like Sage 300 or SYSPRO. With these ERP solutions, all of a company’s information flows easily and seamlessly into one system. They offer access via multiple locations and types of devices, so employees can query the system and receive the data they need. It makes sharing information much easier across the company.
Greater Operational Efficiencies
Another benefit for businesses operating multiple locations is the ability to increase and enhance operational efficiencies. With an ERP system, you can see all points of the supply chain. Automated equipment notifications can help you flag idle machinery and move production to other locations. You can then use all resources efficiently to maximize production and profits.
Better Customer Service
Comprehensive ERP systems like Sage 300 and SYSPRO also enhance customer service for multiple-location businesses. In the past, if a customer called one location, he may have received only a partial answer because information from other locations was lacking. Phone calls had to be made to find parts or portions of an order to provide a status update.
With a manufacturing ERP system in place, you can query a database and receive real-time updates on order status. Supply chain visibility makes it easy to see where everything is in the process and provide customers with an answer to their inquiries. This faster response may mean the difference between keeping and losing a customer.
Scalability
Lastly, ERP systems are highly scalable, so as your company expands to new locations, the data can keep flowing. You don’t have to worry about adding new networks, systems, or updates. Cloud-based ERP solutions scale easily to accommodate new locations.
Making Your Work Easier
ERP for manufacturers make multi-location operations so much easier. Improved visibility, enhanced efficiencies—the list goes on and on. If you manage multiple locations, factories, or warehouses, having easy access to data can have a huge impact on your company’s future.
ERP Systems Made for Multi-Location Operations Management
PositiveVision offers two proven ERP solutions to help you manage multiple locations simply and effectively.
Sage 300 offers strong capabilities with its Multi-Company and Global Operations Management. The software allows you to set up multiple companies in one or more databases, run processes, close books and report results by location or in a consolidated company. It provides enhanced visibility through business metrics and critical operations data you need to operate efficiently.
SYSPRO provides everything that a manufacturer might need for single or multiple locations and from simple to complex operations. It’s highly modular applications allow you to tailor the software to your specific needs. Mobile and cloud-based capabilities offer flexibility for local or remote access.
Contact us to discuss how your can streamline your multiple location manufacturing business.