Visual South Insights

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.

Early in my career, someone shared a piece of wisdom that resonates deeply: “There isn’t anything more expensive than cheap ERP.” Over time, I’ve seen the truth in this statement. The top companies view their ERP system as a strategic asset and invest accordingly. Like sophisticated equipment on the shop floor, an ERP system requires regular maintenance, training, and updates to perform at its best. Neglecting these aspects can lead to suboptimal performance and missed opportunities.

What does CPQ stand for?

The software industry has no shortage of three-letter acronyms, so let’s get right to answering the question.  CPQ stands for configure, price, quote.  More specifically, CPQ is a category of software that helps enable the business processes of configuring, pricing, and quoting a product or service.