ERPs are pivotal in streamlining operations; however, not all ERP solutions provide adequate inventory optimization functionality. SMBs need functionality that provides inventory visibility, automated processes to reduce excess stock and avoid stockouts, precise forecasting capabilities, and predictive analytics to minimize supply and demand risks. Customizing your ERP can lead to expensive challenges in the long term, especially when performing automatic upgrades. Consider using best-in-breed inventory solutions from Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to enhance ERP functionality without unnecessary complexity, ensuring long-term adaptability and efficiency To balance inventory and costs, businesses need to understand what tools are fit for purpose to help achieve inventory optimization, financial success, and market competitiveness.   From this discussion, the audience will have a better understanding of: – The functionality of ERPs – How to assess if ERPs deliver on inventory goals and capabilities – Identify missing gaps for better inventory planning and optimization – What key features to prioritize when selecting an inventory add-on solution – Rearview vs front window when it comes to forecasting and risk in your ERP – How to measure ROI – how best-of-breed solutions like Netstock show ROI when integrated with an ERP        

After a year of supplier shortages, demand fluctuations, increased operating costs, and liquidity pinches, supply chain leaders face a crossroads — either maintain the status quo and hope for the best, or reevaluate their business model to ensure they can weather the next storm. For many innovative business professionals, this means embracing new ways of thinking and capitalizing on process improvement and automation to realize real results on their balance sheet.