Top 7 Challenges Epicor® Consultants Help Manufacturers Solve
Top 7 Challenges Epicor® Consultants Help Manufacturers Solve
Blog Article
Manufacturers face unique operational demands that make implementing and maintaining an ERP system like Epicor® both necessary and complex. From inventory visibility to scheduling optimization, the need for reliable, real-time data is constant. Yet, many companies struggle to get the full value from their Epicor® system.
That’s where Epicor® consultants step in—not as software installers, but as transformation enablers. At Epicforce Tech, we work closely with manufacturing clients to solve real business challenges using Epicor® ERP, delivering outcomes that directly impact productivity, compliance, and profitability.
In this article, we explore the top 7 challenges manufacturers face with Epicor®—and how experienced consultants help overcome them.
1. Lack of Visibility Across Production, Inventory, and Supply Chain
One of the most common complaints among manufacturers is fragmented data. Teams work in silos, making it difficult to track raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), or finished goods in real time.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Configure real-time dashboards that connect operations, procurement, and inventory
Implement lot and serial tracking for end-to-end traceability
Set up barcode scanning and automated data capture workflows
Optimize warehouse and material movement modules for greater transparency
At Epicforce Tech, we tailor visibility tools based on how your production lines and supply chains operate, ensuring data is actionable—not just available.
2. Inefficient Scheduling and Capacity Planning
Poor scheduling causes underutilized equipment, frequent rescheduling, missed deadlines, and production bottlenecks. Epicor® includes advanced scheduling tools, but many manufacturers struggle to configure them effectively.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Set up finite and infinite scheduling rules aligned with actual shop floor constraints
Integrate capacity planning with demand forecasts
Automate job prioritization based on customer deadlines and material availability
Train planners on how to use simulation tools and load balancing features
The result is more predictable production timelines, fewer rush jobs, and improved on-time delivery rates.
3. Limited Use of Business Intelligence and KPIs
Without the right KPIs, manufacturers can’t measure performance—or identify where improvements are needed. Many companies rely on Excel or static reports, which offer limited insights and no real-time capabilities.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Build interactive dashboards and BAQs (Business Activity Queries)
Identify key operational and financial KPIs by department
Set up exception-based alerts and threshold monitoring
Align reporting outputs with strategic business goals
At Epicforce Tech, we help manufacturers turn raw data into insights that support smarter, faster decisions.
4. Compliance, Traceability, and Quality Control Issues
Manufacturers—especially those in regulated industries—must maintain detailed records for audits, quality checks, and compliance reporting. Epicor® supports these needs, but only if implemented correctly.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Implement document control, CAPA, and nonconformance tracking modules
Enable full traceability for components and finished goods
Configure audit trails for production and quality events
Align quality workflows with ISO, FDA, or industry-specific requirements
With help from Epicor® consultants, manufacturers reduce audit risk and build confidence in their compliance posture.
5. Data Migration and System Integration Challenges
Many manufacturers move to Epicor® from older systems or homegrown software. Migrating data and integrating with other systems like MES, SCADA, or CRM can be risky without proper planning.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Plan phased data migration with test loads and validations
Clean and normalize legacy data before import
Develop and test APIs or middleware for third-party integrations
Maintain documentation and rollback strategies to reduce implementation risk
Epicforce Tech brings hands-on expertise to ensure seamless data transitions and system interoperability.
6. User Adoption and Change Resistance
ERP systems like Epicor® only succeed when users embrace them. Many ERP failures stem from insufficient training, confusing user interfaces, or resistance to changing legacy workflows.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Develop user-centric dashboards and interfaces by role
Conduct hands-on, job-specific training sessions
Create SOPs and reference guides based on actual tasks
Lead change management efforts to align staff with new processes
We focus on user enablement at every stage—because adoption is what drives ROI.
7. Customization Overload and Technical Debt
While Epicor® is flexible, over-customization leads to long-term maintenance headaches. Some manufacturers accumulate layers of unnecessary BPMs, custom reports, or modifications that slow the system and complicate upgrades.
How Epicor® Consultants Help:
Audit existing customizations to identify redundancies
Replace custom logic with built-in Epicor® features where possible
Standardize and document necessary enhancements
Plan for future upgrades with minimal disruption
At Epicforce Tech, we prioritize sustainable system design—so your ERP environment remains scalable and upgradable.
Why Partnering with Epicforce Tech Makes the Difference
Manufacturers have unique operational challenges—and not every consulting firm understands the complexity of production environments, supply chains, and compliance obligations.
At Epicforce Tech, our Epicor® consultants:
Specialize in manufacturing ERP challenges
Bring cross-functional expertise across operations, IT, and finance
Customize solutions without overcomplicating the system
Focus on performance, usability, and measurable outcomes
Whether you're struggling with inefficient workflows or preparing for a full ERP transformation, we bring the experience and execution that manufacturers can trust.
Final Thoughts
Epicor® ERP offers powerful functionality for manufacturers—but only if it's implemented and managed with your specific challenges in mind. From scheduling to compliance, and from user adoption to customizations, expert Epicor® consultants help you unlock the full potential of your system.
If you're facing any of the challenges outlined above, consider partnering with a consulting team that knows your industry and your software.
Learn more about how Epicforce Tech supports manufacturers with Epicor® consulting services:
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