Guides on ERP, WMS, EDI and data migration
Cost drivers, checklists and decision methods for people choosing and running business software.
- ERPCustom ERP vs off-the-shelf: how to decideA fit-gap method, a three-year cost worksheet and the cases where you should buy: packaged ERP, custom, or a mix of both.
2 min read - ERPHow much does custom ERP software cost?The drivers that move a custom ERP budget, a way to estimate one yourself, and what every quote should state so you can compare them.
2 min read - OperationsHave you outgrown spreadsheets and QuickBooks? Ten testsTen checks a manager can run this week to see whether spreadsheets and basic accounting software are costing more than they save.
2 min read - InventoryQuickBooks inventory limits: when to add a WMS or ERPWhat QuickBooks handles well for inventory, where it stops, and the signs that lots, locations and pick accuracy call for more.
2 min read - MigrationHow to replace an Access database or Excel inventory sheetA phased way to replace an Access app or macro-heavy Excel workbook without stopping the business: audit, rebuild or buy, parallel run and cut-over.
2 min read - WarehouseWarehouse management system implementation checklistWhat to settle before, during and after a WMS rollout: floor walk, location scheme, labels, picking method, counts and go-live.
2 min read - WarehouseCycle counting vs an annual physical inventoryHow to set up cycle counts by class, triggered counts and variance approval, and how to get finance to accept them.
2 min read - 3PL3PL billing: rate cards, storage calculations and accessorialsHow third-party logistics billing is built: billable events, storage methods, rate card structure, pass-through charges and disputes.
2 min read - MigrationWhy ERP data migration fails, and how to rehearse itWhy ERP migrations go wrong, a rehearsal method, the control totals to reconcile, who signs off, and when to roll back instead of going live.
2 min read - IntegrationConnecting your CRM, ERP and warehouse: an integration mapWhich system should own which data, how orders and stock flow between CRM, ERP and WMS, and the edge cases where integrations break.
2 min read - ImportLanded cost for importers: components and a worked exampleThe components of landed cost, how to allocate them to items, and how to handle estimates and true-ups. Includes a simple made-up example.
2 min read - EDIEDI for small suppliers: 850, 855, 856 and 810 explainedWhat a retailer requires of you: the document flow, VAN versus direct connection, label rules, partner testing and how to avoid deductions.
2 min read - FoodFSMA 204 traceability: what your inventory system must recordA plain overview of the FDA food traceability rule: covered foods, critical tracking events, key data elements and the July 2028 compliance date.
2 min read
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