Visual South Insights

Balance compliance and functionality

Government contractors have a unique set of requirements for their business systems, and that includes ERP. This article focuses specifically on ERP for government contractors that do production and service. Manufacturing-centric requirements will be part of any ERP evaluation, but the priority for those in the defense industrial base is to ensure the system provides an infrastructure for meeting Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 compliancy and other government requirements.

What is production planning?

ERP production planning can mean many things to many people, so let’s start by explaining what it means to me and therefore, what I’ll be writing about. ERP production planning is the coordination of people, machine capacity, and raw materials, so you can make what you make when you need to. The key phrase of “…when you need to” is based on a customer demand or an internal demand (sub-assembly, forecast, etc.). The need for better production planning is usually a major driver for the search and purchase of an ERP system.

You need a plan to select the right ERP

Visual South has helped thousands of manufacturing businesses evaluate ERP software since we launched in 1994. During all those evaluations, we have engaged in both good and bad experiences.

Address your business issues

When looking for the best discrete manufacturing ERP software, you need to pick an application that addresses your business issues. Yet we often see the focus of an ERP evaluation shift to matters that do not impact the business. Cool features can distract you from choosing a system that can help discrete manufacturers manage their business better. That’s why you need an ERP Evaluation Checklist—it will help you stay focused on these best practices.

Effective training is crucial for maximizing the value of any ERP system, and Infor ERP is no exception. Whether you’re using Infor VISUAL, CloudSuite Industrial (SyteLine), or any other Infor product, having access to high-quality training resources is essential for ensuring your team can fully leverage the software’s capabilities.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) often grapple with resource constraints and operational challenges that can impede growth and efficiency. In the manufacturing industry, cloud ERP solutions offer a way to overcome these hurdles by streamlining processes and enhancing flexibility.

The benefits of training

CloudSuite Industrial (SyteLine) is a sophisticated, robust ERP solution with a full complement of functionality that provides solutions to enterprises of all sizes. ERP software depends on processes, and tools to support those processes, along with people who understand how to do their jobs. Think of the software as an airplane—even the newest, best model still needs a pilot, so training is key. A plane is no good if the person commanding it does not know how to fly it.

About Visual South

Visual South is an Infor Certified Gold Channel Partner for both Infor CloudSuite Industrial/SyteLine ERP and Infor VISUAL ERP. We have been helping manufacturers use Infor ERP to run their businesses better since 1994, offering deep expertise on the implementation and execution of these solutions.

Why upgrade?

Your ERP is the systematic backbone of your company, and it is important to get the most value you can from your investment. New releases and versions of Infor VISUAL contain enhanced functionality that can make your company run more efficiently. In addition, Infor VISUAL upgrades allow you to take advantage of new versions of underlying technology, like Windows, server operating systems, and database platforms. Having a regular cadence of upgrading keeps you current and up to date with all the latest technology and reduces your risk of falling behind with an unsupported version of your ERP.