We’ve met with a lot of manufacturers over the years, and the one thing that really sets companies apart is something called Business Intelligence Quotient (BIQ). It’s the difference between average companies and great companies, companies that meet their revenue projections and those that surpass them with flying colors.

When BI is part of process manufacturing software, it can make a big difference. Not only will you have access to all data streams, but it pulls them together in an easy-to-use way. 

What Is Business Intelligence Quotient (BIQ)?

Business Intelligence Quotient, or BIQ, is basically how good someone (or a whole company) is at making smart decisions based on data. It’s not just crunching numbers—it’s knowing which ones matter, connecting them to real business goals, and using tools like Power BI or Tableau in conjunction with process manufacturing software to turn those insights into action. High BIQ means you're not just data-savvy; you’re strategic, fast on your feet, and you know how to make data tell a story that people actually care about.

Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing BI with Process Manufacturing Software 

1. Make BIQ Everyone’s BIZ

Business intelligence should be everyone’s business, not just the number crunchers on the team. Talk to everyone—operations, marketing, sales, admin, you name it. Share with them your stories of how using business intelligence changed your work for the better. People use techniques like BI when they understand why it matters in their lives. By sharing your story, you can help them imagine the possible.

2. Make Data Work for You in Process Manufacturing Software

Sure, numbers are great. When those numbers exist in their own separate little silos, however, they can be really hard to use. Bringing them together into one report takes serious spreadsheet chops. It also takes a lot of time. Having the right tools, like software that takes multiple data sources and turns it into bar graphs, pie charts, and other visual ways of sharing data, makes it easier for your team to use data and to share it with others. The old saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” makes perfect sense after you’ve stared at columns of CSV data. Imagine a file of data showing process times, cycle times, run times, and similar information year over year. Now imagine showing the same information in a bar chart comparing last year to this year and it’s clear how you can make data work for you with the right business intelligence as part of process manufacturing software.

3. Use BI for Customer-Facing Stories, Too

Companies are quickly latching onto the secret of BI—that it’s also great for customer-facing info, too. Think about it. Customers are just like you and me. They also like pictures over big spreadsheets. So, use that data in innovative ways in customer reports and dashboards, and share BI with your customers in ways they can understand and use it, too. For example, you can give customers insights into their orders, share data on manufacturing runs and more using your BI data.

4. Gain a 360-View of Your Business

Good BI software not only integrates many data streams, it also shares them in one place. This provides a 360-degree view of business information in ways that can be eye-opening. It helps users draw conclusions and make better decisions because now they see the big picture, rather than separate little silos. It’s like watching a movie on a big screen TV versus on a smartphone screen— you can pick up a lot of details when you have the big picture!

5. It’s a Strategy, Not Just a Solution

Okay, we’ve talked about BI as a software and a solution, true. Let’s not lose sight of the fact that it is a strategy driving innovation. When you’re looking at BI solutions, consider what works now and what can expand for future needs. This helps you pick one that gives you the most bang for your buck.

Invest in BI Now for Benefits Later

BI is more than an investment to help you get more mileage from your data. A good system will also help you make better decisions. This gives you an edge over your competition. And, if you share data with customers, it will help improve customer satisfaction and communication, too.

By making these practices part of your process manufacturing operations, you can raise your Business Intelligence Quotient—and outshine the competition. It’s a cultural shift, but one that process manufacturers can use to really make their mark.

Adapted from: Raising your ‘BIQ’ (Business Intelligence Quotient): 5 Things Your Company can do NOW. 

PositiveVision

Positive Vision is a Chicago-area ERP consulting firm with experience helping manufacturers solve problems with the right software and strategy. We would be happy to assist you in choosing the right ERP for your business and ensuring that its launch is smooth and effective. Contact us to speak to one of our product experts about a customized solution today.

Robert Baran

Robert Baran is the founder and President of PositiveVision. He has worked in a variety of positions including system analyst, computer consultant and programmer, project manager, and division manager.