Supply chains have been with us for most of human history — like, deep BCE, early agriculture days. Even after thousands of years, they still manage to dominate headlines. Minor disruptions can take down massive global economies – sowing discord and uncertainty on a level only natural disasters and large-scale conflicts can compete with. So,…
Your business is distribution, but increasingly, every business is in the technology industry. In order to build a resilient operation that can withstand pandemics, supply chain disruptions, and whatever else may come along, you need the right technology stack. Historically, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) systems have been separate, siloed platforms.…
Historically, discrete manufacturing companies focused mainly on making and selling products and equipment — with minimal effort or consideration re: what happens after the big sale. Manufacturers have always shouldered some responsibility to honor warranties, support 3rd-party technicians and service providers, and investigate recalls. But — these “post-sale interactions” were largely about meeting compliance requirements…
The capability to leverage business intelligence and business analytics tools is critical for distributors. Intelligence helps you understand how well you’re operating and the reasons why. Analytics helps you predict what will happen and make the necessary adjustments ahead of time to achieve your business objectives. You can determine how things are going with vendors,…
Resource routing and project management are some of the most important capabilities a field service provider needs to possess. This guide explores best practices for coordinating everything from routine calls to complex field service projects. Your bid was successful, the customer accepted your quote, and you secured the contract on a major new project. That’s…
What is Field Service Management? “Field service management,” or FSM for short, is used in reference to field service philosophies, processes, and strategies — as well as the technologies used to execute them. That said, all aspects of FSM — people, policies, processes, tech, and on so on — support the same goal: delivering positive…
Field Service Management Challenges and Solutions The modern field services industry face many challenges. There’s the pressure to keep up with rising customer demands and get ahead of growing competition from both new entrants and well–resourced incumbents. There’s also the fact that managing and coordinating large, distributed teams is always a struggle – even under…
At a glance, the ERP isn’t all that exciting. It’s a central database for the entire business — combining all departments, data, and processes in a single platform. But, the ERP’s “unifying powers” pave the way for business transformation at every level. We’re talking in-depth reporting, advanced financial management, AI-powered everything. We know these “benefits”…
Customers are accustomed to integration at every level. Virtual home assistants connect everything from refrigerators and thermostats to your customers’ phones. They fully expect a smooth technology experience when making purchases from you, including accurate inventory, correct pricing, and up-to-date product information. If that doesn’t happen, your sales and your bottom line will suffer. If…
Customer expectations are changing faster than at any other time in history. COVID, new mobile technology, and underlying social trends affecting how we work all play a role in what field service customers want today. Their experience with your employees and the service you offer can make or break your company’s future. Field service providers…