Among ERP trends, one stands out that we believe is here to stay: tailored ERP systems built specifically for different types of manufacturers. 

Let’s be real—an ERP won’t solve all your problems overnight. The needs of a process manufacturer look different from those of a discrete manufacturer. Process manufacturers deal with formulas and recipes. Discrete manufacturers wrestle with BOMs, production schedules, assembly, and more.

That’s where this ERP trend really shines with solutions packed with specialized features that match the unique workflows of discrete manufacturers. 

Let’s take a closer look at specialized ERP systems for discrete manufacturing and the benefits they can provide to your company.

An Integrated Approach to Manufacturing Data

A specialized ERP for discrete manufacturing takes an integrated approach to manufacturing data. What this means is that all of the data streaming into the system from various points in the manufacturing process and plant come together in the ERP to provide workers with the “big picture” and the ability to drill down into specific areas. Production planning, supply chain management, inventory control, financials, customer relationship management, and other systems share data in the ERP, resulting in what’s dubbed a “single pane of glass” through which to view the entire operation. 

Now, instead of spending time searching through multiple systems for the data you need, it’s all in one system. There’s no need to export data into a spreadsheet from each system and manually combine it to generate the reports that you need. It’s a time-saver and an efficiency-booster, and it provides better insights into all aspects of your business. 

Why Choose an ERP for Discrete Manufacturing?

There are many reasons why adding an ERP to a discrete manufacturing business makes sense. 

• Optimize production schedules: Downtime means lost revenues. A discrete manufacturing ERP helps you optimize production schedules to ensure efficient resource use.
• Improve inventory management: Real-time insights into stock levels mean fewer out-of-stocks or excess inventory.
• Enhance quality control: Tracking quality standards across production cycles enables you to improve quality control through the production lifecycle.
• Make faster, better decisions: Real time data and, at your fingertips, insights into all areas of manufacturing helps workers make faster, better decisions.

ERP Trends: Two Examples of How an ERP Helps Discrete Manufacturers

Sometimes it’s easier to imagine what an ERP can do for your company when you read stories of how it’s helped others. Here are two fictional—but totally relatable—scenarios showing how ERP systems make a difference in discrete manufacturing.

Example 1: Demand Forecasting and Supply Chain Management 

Meet an electrical components manufacturer. They’ve been dealing with late shipments, unclear timelines, and supply chain chaos. Not ideal. 

After implementing an ERP, everything changed. The system gave them one place to see it all—supplier performance, inventory needs, and demand forecasting tools. They started planning smarter, cutting costs, and improving profitability. 

Even better? The ERP’s supplier collaboration tools boosted communication, so orders moved faster and with fewer surprises. Happy customers, happy team—and all thanks to smarter tools and better data.

Example 2: Better Compliance and Streamlined Production 

Now picture an auto parts manufacturer struggling with compliance paperwork and production planning hiccups. 

Enter: ERP. Suddenly, compliance reports practically generate themselves, and automated production scheduling helps clear bottlenecks. Less waste, more output, and (maybe most importantly) peace of mind that ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards are met.

What About AI in ERPs?

Among ERP trends, we get a lot of questions about the use of AI in ERP systems. AI has been added to many manufacturing ERPs. It excels at analyzing large quantities of data, which most manufacturers have - and then use that data to improve things like demand forecasting, predictive maintenance, and quality control. In other words, it's like the quiet overachiever in the background, helping analyze mountains of manufacturing data and turning it into actionable insights.

Choose the Right ERP

Choosing the right ERP means choosing the one that will serve your company the best. Start with an honest assessment of your company’s needs. Not sure where to begin? That’s where an ERP consultant (like us!) can help. A trusted advisor can help you explore your options, avoid costly missteps, and turn your ERP dreams into operational wins.

PositiveVision: ERP Consultants 

PositiveVision is a trusted ERP consultant with nearly two decades of experience helping businesses implement and optimize their ERP solutions. PositiveVision provides comprehensive support to ensure seamless integration and customization tailored to each client's unique needs. Our expertise in ERP systems helps businesses streamline processes, improve efficiency, and achieve operational goals. Ready to make ERP work for you? Contact us today to get started.