Maintaining strong customer relationships is more crucial than ever. Acumatica CRM provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to enhance their customer connections. This article explores how Acumatica CRM can transform your customer relationship management and drive business success.
Acumatica dashboards are powerful tools that provide real-time insights into your business operations. With a well-configured dashboard, you can streamline data visualization, improve decision-making, and enhance overall productivity. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up your Acumatica dashboards effectively.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is integral to modern businesses, providing comprehensive solutions to streamline various processes. The best ERP systems are robust and multifaceted, offering a range of features designed to enhance efficiency and productivity. In this blog post, we’ll explore the core features that define powerful software ERP, helping you understand what to look for when selecting an ERP solution for your organization.
Suit says ECi is forcing unwanted services on clients and attempting to prevent competition
COLUMBUS, Ohio. Nov. 9, 2018 – Macola Channel Partners and resellers recently filed a multi-count lawsuit against software developer ECi Macola/MAX, LLC, (“ECi”) alleging antitrust violations, tortious interference, breach of contract, and other claims.
On October 1st, 2018, resellers of Macola Software received a notification from ECi Software Solutions, Inc., the parent corporation of ECi Macola/MAX, that in the coming months it would be discontinuing its partner channel that had been running for more than 25 years. The notification also stated that customers would no longer be allowed to work with their reseller partners on ECi products in the future.
Macola resellers have for many years provided sales, support, and consulting services for users of Macola, an enterprise resource planning software system used primarily by small- to mid-sized businesses in manufacturing. According to the lawsuit, ECi has decided to cut out its former reseller partners and prevent them from offering support and consulting services to businesses using Macola. By preventing competition, the lawsuit says, ECi will create a monopoly for itself in the markets for support and consulting of Macola. The complaint contends that ECi is already exercising monopoly power over Macola users, forcing them to purchase services they do not want in exchange for continuing to receive routine Macola software updates.
According to the lawsuit, ECi is attempting to prevent competition by fraudulently telling Macola users that they will breach their software license agreement with ECi if they continue to do business with their reseller. At the same time, the complaint alleges, ECi is pressuring Macola users to sign new software license agreements that contain restrictive language that would prohibit Macola users from hiring anyone other than ECi to perform support or consulting on Macola software. In addition, the lawsuit claims that ECi has committed or threatened multiple breaches of its contract with the resellers, including cutting off earned commissions and other benefits under the contract.
On November 7th, 2018, a seasoned group of Macola resellers with hundreds of combined years of service, represented by the law firm Organ Cole LLP, filed suit against ECi in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, alleging that ECi’s conduct constitutes breach of contract, tortious interference, unfair competition, and violates state and federal antitrust law.
“It’s a daunting task for a handful of small businesses to take on ECi’s millions, but we made a promise to help our customers grow their businesses and we’ve become an integral partner with those companies,” said Michael Oswalt, CEO of Algorithm, Inc., one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
“We believe every customer is valuable,” agreed Jeff DeSchon, Vice President of iPro, another of the plaintiffs. “We will continue to serve them, and we will protect our employees and their families. That is why we’ve taken this action.”
Chuck Wise, President of another plaintiff in the lawsuit, Copious Solutions, added, “We believe that our customers should carefully review any new contract documents put in front of them by ECi, including click-through documents and sales order footnotes, and seek legal counsel where appropriate.”
Currently pending before the court is the Macola resellers’ request for a temporary restraining order. If that request is granted, the order would prevent ECi both from telling Macola customers that they are prohibited from doing future business with the resellers and from requiring customers to purchase unwanted services as a condition of receiving software updates.
You can find a copy of the complaint here and a copy of the motion for a temporary restraining order here.
We encourage your feedback. Comments or questions may be sent to ECiMacolaSuit@algorithminc.com
This email address will be forwarded to the resellers as a group.
If you would rather, address your feedback to me directly at jmayer@mayererp.com
Enterprise Resource Planning systems (ERP) make business work. They allow you to see the big picture so you can move your business in the right direction. However, just having a solution is not enough to lead your company to success. Your success will largely depend on your ERP implementation strategies. You need to consider your implementation strategy as soon as possible so to maximize the benefits. No single blog post can fully explain every strategy, but here is a quick guide to get you started.
ERP implementation strategies are necessary for the transition from your legacy system to the new ERP software. It makes sure the transition is smooth, efficient, and aligned with your business goals. Choosing the right strategy minimizes disruptions, enhances user adoption, and helps you realize the full benefits of your ERP system. Whether you opt for a Big Bang approach or a phased rollout, understanding these strategies will guide you in making an informed decision that fits your company’s unique needs.
Big Bang Implementation
Big bang Implementation happens all at once. You install every module on every computer system in your entire organization in a single night. While there are some pre-implementation tasks, there is no turning back once you changeover to the new system.
Big bang has its supporters and critics. Most people claim the risk factors as their main reasons to not use a big bang. However, you can set up your ERP quickly and more cost efficient with a big bang. If you choose this strategy, be prepared for temporary reduced productivity as your personnel get used to the new system.
Phased Rollout
With phase rollout, you install components over time rather than all at once. Your company moves from your legacy system to your new one in a series of predetermined steps. You can complete these steps using one of the following formats.
As with big bang, phase rollout has its own fair share of pros and cons. Phase rollouts let your company ease into the new system. However, they also make your network and infrastructure more complex and error-prone. You also risk data loss as ERP modules exist to work together as a single unit.
Parallel Adoption
Also called parallel conversion, parallel running, or parallel cutover, parallel adoption is the least risky of the three implantation strategies. With this strategy, you run both the old and new ERP systems at the same time. Then, once the new system is fully functional and employees are comfortable using it, you phase out the old one.
Parallel adoption is slower than big bang but faster than phased rollout, with a smaller learning curve compared to big bang. While it is more challenging than phased adoption, the main trade-off of parallel adoption is the increased cost, as it requires twice the resources.
The ERP implementation you should use depends on your business goals and needs. There is no one size fits all solution here. Every business is unique and requires a unique implementation based on careful planning and analysis.
At Mayer Group, we specialize in helping businesses identify and implement the best ERP strategies for smooth transitions and long-term success. Our expertise in ERP implementation, combined with our knowledge of Acumatica’s flexible and scalable software, allows us to offer solutions that fit your specific business requirements. For advice on which is right for your business, contact us today, and we will help you devise a strategy that will lead your business to success.
Throughout the business world, enterprise resource planning (ERP) is enabling new standards of efficient collaboration. Regardless of one’s industry, ERP software is a vital and well-recognized tool for success. To fully understand the future of ERP, it is helpful to know current innovations and how they will impact businesses in the coming years.
It makes sense to separate applications into the categories of ERP, II and III. Classic ERP integrates processes within organizations. In the ERP II category, applications integrate supply functions and draw in exterior enterprises and vendor-affiliated partners. ERP III extends dichotomy even further by strengthening ties with customers and sales processes.
In the near future, a number of trends like Work Spaces should improve the outlook for ERP customers. Leading developers should double down and further improve current innovations. For instance, ERP systems are now including features that go beyond basic inventory or accounting functions. For example, medical device manufacturers benefit from ERP software that includes serial lot traceability. This guarantees full compliance with industry regulations.
ERP applications will include numerous new functions. These are essential solutions designed around customer feedback. Of course, it does little good to add features without maintaining adequate usability. In the early days of ERP, applications were notoriously opaque and difficult to master. Modern ERP providers will meet the public demand for convenient interfaces and shallower learning curves.
Increasingly, ERP applications will become more useful for companies of all sizes. Historically speaking, a sharp divide separated software for small firms and larger corporations. As ERP solutions gain more flexibility, users will be able to keep using familiar applications as their enterprises grow.
Innovative software solutions in the medical technology sector address a range of common challenges. Previously, medical device companies often wasted significant resources trying to coordinate between various departments.
Personnel responsible for accounting, HR, and inventory frequently relied on different versions of data sets, leading to regular misunderstandings. Today, ERP software enables departments such as accounting, HR, and inventory management to access a unified source of information. The integration minimizes misunderstandings and streamlines operations.
Several exciting trends are shaping the future of ERP software. For instance, WorkSpaces is a concept gaining traction in the industry. It is poised to change how ERP users interact with their systems. With configurable workspaces, businesses can adjust their ERP software to match specific workflows for better efficiency and productivity.
Another emerging trend is the integration of ERP software with Business Activity Monitoring (BAM) and Business Process Management (BPM). These tools allow businesses to monitor real-time data and automate processes. This facilitates faster and more accurate decision-making.
Additionally, cloud-based ERP solutions are becoming increasingly popular. They allow businesses to access valuable data from anywhere, at any time. Such flexibility is particularly valuable for companies with distributed teams or remote workers.
ERP software is changing to meet the demands of modern businesses. It’s progressing and delivers greater flexibility, scalability, and usability than ever before. From small businesses to large corporations, companies in various industries are benefiting from innovative ERP solutions that optimize operations and drive efficiency.
As we look ahead, the future of ERP software will continue to focus on enhancing usability, integrating new technologies like cloud computing, and offering more customization options. Whether you’re in the medical device industry or another sector, the next generation of ERP software will bring the tools you need to succeed in the market.
Mayer Group stands as a trusted partner in this journey. With our expertise in ERP implementation, fixed-fee pricing, and dedication to customer success, we promise that your business can fully utilize the power of modern ERP software. Let us guide your business through the next generation of ERP solutions to guarantee smooth operations and sustained growth.
This is a good time to fully recognize the potential of innovative business software. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a fairly recent software discipline that addresses many important needs. ERP streamlines varied processes that previously demanded costly individual attention. Quite a few industries have widely adopted ERP solutions. The medical device industry offers an interesting case study in adopting new technologies quickly. In this fast-growing sector, competition is relatively fierce. Only organizations that rapidly adapt to new technology trends can remain fully competitive.
Mid-sized companies face unique challenges as they manage numerous subordinates on a regional or international level. An integrated ERP solution can bridge the gap for managers who need more control over remote teams and projects. Like virtual “boots on the ground,” ERP gives managers more direct control over broader swathes of people and processes.
In recognition of developing trends, ERP developers are broadly addressing the needs of the medical sector. The best developers have fully mastered inventory management software for medical device manufacturers or distributors. With a more centralized inventory management system, it is simple to keep well stocked without overbuying. In any industry, inventory shrinkage is a constant, nagging source of concern. Medical device manufacturing solutions with serial lot traceability are critical for containing shrinkage.
It isn’t hard to find a business software solution for small to midsized medical device manufacturers or distributors. In the competitive software industry, developers who consciously address user needs quickly gain visibility. The most prestigious of these developers are now providing serial lot traceability for medical device manufacturers. Only time will tell how many more ways ERP will change the ace of modern manufacturing.
Even with dedicated software support, learning new software is a time-consuming process. Nevertheless, cutting-edge ERP software is generally a worthwhile investment. Updating software is an essential way to improve workflow processes for medical device manufacturers and distributors. Some managers stubbornly cling to older software that is conveniently familiar. That convenience might come at the expense of slow-bleeding company resources. Modern ERP solutions increase transparency; crucially, they identify processes that are quietly dragging down organizational efficiency. Maintaining an innovative tradition, ERP developers provide crucial tools for connectivity. With ERP, one manager can keep track of key data points for far-flung warehouses, annexes and offices. By allowing greater transparency and communication, ERP helps professionals prioritize their best efforts
Wouldn’t it be great if you could run your business on autopilot? All of the human capital that goes into producing your product would be automated. Most small to medium-sized businesses spend thousands to millions of dollars each year on manual labor to carry out their business processes.
Of course you are going to need people to run your business, but where many businesses go wrong is when they do not take advantage of the technology that is available to them. Macola, for example, offers extremely intelligent business software systems that eliminate the need for so many employees. If you wish to set your business on autopilot, a software system like Macola ERP solutions may be a great choice to consider.
Consider, also, the competition and its effect on your bottom line. With so many similar businesses, not to mention large companies, to compete with in the marketplace, your enterprise must stay on top of the market and get an edge over other companies that offer similar products. A great way to do that is to upgrade to smart business software that can complete many tasks and lower your business overhead.
Macola ERP Solutions is designed with Business Process Management capabilities. Your partner works with the business to determine needs and then design a system to assist or totally accommodate those requirements. Macola’s software can cover almost all aspects of your business needs. The software contains applications that are designed to complete tasks in accounting, manufacturing, distribution, HR, document management, CRM, and much more.
Macola applications are designed for exceptional accuracy and efficiency. Using Macola ERP Solutions, your company can have a single human resources employee instead of an entire team doing busywork.
Instead of hiring an IT team to create applications for your business, you could simply have one IT employee to run software and train new employees. Macola’s programs are already designed to complete common business tasks, and with a partner who can handle custom solutions, there is less need for an IT department.
Accounting can benefit from automation as well. Macola software is capable of completing tasks such as writing and sending invoices, sending late payment notices, sending non-payment notices, auto-detects, automatic e-mail reminders, accounts receivable and accounts payable tasks, and more. The business automation solution can handle workflow processes, triggers, and has an event manager. Almost all common tasks that burn the majority of employee’s work time can be automated to allow them to handle more important and complex duties throughout the day.
The technology is here and the small investment for a business to purchase software like Macola ERP Solutions is definitely a smart move. Get an edge over your competition and lower your overhead costs by purchasing Macola software through a trusted partner.
Some of the most frequently repeated principles regarding business are concerned with competition. We are constantly being reminded to study, track and outperform our competitors. This advice, however, can lead us astray if it causes you to focus on what others are doing rather than maintaining emphasis on your own efforts.
Be Aware of the Competition
You should not ignore the competition or deny that it exists. That would be silly and counterproductive. It’s helpful to be aware of your competitors and to know what they’re up to. For example, if one of your leading competitors releases a new product in your niche, you will naturally be concerned and want to know everything about it. It’s sensible to keep a watchful eye on your industry and to be familiar with the players. There is no denying that competitors can have an impact on factors such as product features, prices and policies. It’s equally important, however, not to become obsessed with the competition.
When to Forget About the Competition
Essentially, you should take note of what your competitors are doing and then get back to your real job, which is to focus on your own products, services and, most of all, customers. Too many companies forget this and keep the spotlight on other businesses, those they are trying to outshine. This strategy can easily backfire. For example, if your advertising and promotional campaigns are constantly discussing why you are superior to Product X or Company Y, you are inadvertently calling attention to these other products and companies. Even when you are criticizing something, you are causing people to think about it. What you want people to be thinking about is you.
Where to Keep Your Focus
Your primary focus should be on your own business, products and customers. When you try too hard to beat the competition, you are going to be neglecting these crucial issues. Remember, few products are unique in every way. It’s pretty much guaranteed that there will be competitors who offer something similar to you. It’s also true that you are never going to control 100 percent of your market. Fortunately, it’s not necessary for you to beat your competitors into the ground in order to succeed. Your job is to provide the best possible value to your customers so they don’t have a reason to go anywhere else. The best way to do this is to foster an ongoing relationship. Developing that interchange allows you to offer the best possible products and services, clearly convey the benefits you provide and show your customers how much you value them. The more effective you are at catering to your customers, the less bothered you will be by others in your industry. While you want to be aware of your competitors, they should never be your main concern. Differentiate yourself by offering the best possible customer service every day. Create loyal fans and they will be your best salespeople.
