As process automation grows, it is becoming increasingly advantageous for manufacturers to connect their ERP system to their ordering platform. This trend highlights the importance of digital transformation in the manufacturing industry, as well as the need to meet the new demands of B2B and B2C customers.
What is an ERP?
An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is an integrated management information system (ERP) that enables companies to effectively manage their key business processes, such as resource planning, inventory management, accounting, purchasing and sales management, production management and other operational processes, in an integrated way. ERP systems are designed to be a single, centralized source of information for the whole company, enabling different departments to work together in a coordinated way and gain an overview of the company's activities.
Discover now the many advantages of integrating your management system with your ordering platform, as well as concrete examples to illustrate these benefits.
Reduce order processing costs
Eliminate ordering errors
Automating the order process using a customer portal reduces order errors caused by manual data entry by the sales team. Customers can enter their orders directly via the manufacturer's platform, minimizing the risk of transcription or comprehension errors. This avoids incorrect order returns, re-shipments and associated costs.
Reduced manual data entry
ERP integration enables data to be automatically synchronized between the customer portal and the ERP system. This means that information such as order details, customer contact details, quantities and prices are transferred directly to the ERP system, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This reduces the labor costs associated with order entry.
Streamlined order processing
Automating order management with ERP streamlines the order processing process. Online orders are integrated directly into the ERP system, where they can be processed efficiently and consistently. The various steps in the process, such as stock checking, invoice generation, delivery planning, etc., can be automated, reducing the time and effort required to process each order.
Resource optimization
ERP integration with the customer portal enables better management of company resources. With greater visibility of orders and inventory in real time, it is possible to optimize resource planning, including inventory management, human resource allocation, delivery management and more. This reduces the costs associated with inefficient resource utilization.
Better inventory management
Real-time inventory visibility
This integration provides a real-time view of stock levels. When an order is placed online, it is automatically registered in the ERP system, which updates available stock levels. This enables manufacturers to accurately monitor their inventories and gain immediate visibility of available quantities.
Optimized production planning
With better visibility of inventories, manufacturers can plan their production more efficiently. They can anticipate orders and adjust their production capacities accordingly. ERP can also generate reports and analyses on customer demand, sales trends, etc., enabling more accurate planning and reducing the costs associated with over- or under-production.
Reduced storage costs
By integrating the customer portal with ERP, manufacturers can avoid overstocking or stock-outs. They can adjust their stock levels in line with actual customer demand, thereby reducing the costs associated with overstocking unsold products, or the costs associated with product shortages. Better inventory management optimizes resource utilization and minimizes unnecessary storage costs.
Improved customer satisfaction
This integration also enables faster response to customer requests. Manufacturers can ensure they have products in stock and meet agreed delivery times. This improves customer satisfaction by avoiding order delays or cancellations due to stock problems.
Speeding up the ordering process
Instant order placement
ERP integration with the customer portal makes it possible to select the desired products or services, add the required quantities and finalize an order in just a few clicks. This eliminates the need to go through traditional ordering processes, such as phone calls, faxes or e-mails, which can lead to delays and miscommunication.
Automated order processing
When an order is placed online, it is automatically transmitted to the integrated ERP system. This enables immediate, automated order processing, without the need for manual data entry. Orders are entered directly into the ERP system, reducing processing times and minimizing the risk of errors.
Real-time notifications
In general, a customer portal can send real-time notifications to customers and the company. Customers receive instant order confirmations, order status updates and delivery notifications. Similarly, the company can receive alerts on new orders and customer requests, enabling greater responsiveness.
Reduced delivery times
Accelerating the ordering process also reduces delivery times. Online orders can be processed quickly and efficiently, enabling them to be dispatched to customers more quickly. This improves the customer experience by providing shorter delivery times and increasing overall satisfaction.
Data analysis
Customer demographics
Ordering technology solutions can collect customer demographic data, such as age, gender, geographic location, etc. This information enables manufacturers to better understand their customer base and target their marketing efforts more accurately. This information enables manufacturers to better understand their customer base and target their marketing efforts more precisely. They can tailor their offers, promotions and advertising campaigns to their customers' demographic characteristics.
Purchasing behavior
The data collected can be used to analyze the most popular products or services, sales trends, average baskets, products frequently purchased together, and so on. This information helps manufacturers to identify customer preferences, anticipate future demand and adjust their offer accordingly.
Customer satisfaction monitoring
Ordering solutions can include customer rating and feedback functionalities. This data enables manufacturers to track customer satisfaction in real time, identify potential problems and take corrective action quickly. Analysis of comments and ratings can also provide insights into product, service or process improvements.
Personalizing the customer experience
Manufacturers can use the data collected to offer targeted product recommendations, special offers or loyalty programs tailored to customers' preferences and purchasing behavior. This creates a more personalized experience and strengthens customer relationships.
Solution for manufacturers
Looking for an interoperable technology platform? dvore has developed a customer portal including order, customer and product management modules that can be integrated with your ERP and other existing systems.
Request a demo and meet one of our digital transformation specialists.
