Epicor Kinetic: A Comprehensive Cloud ERP Solution for Manufacturers

This article explores how Epicor Kinetic can support and even transform your manufacturing processes. We’ll examine its key features, discuss its benefits for global operations, and explore how it supports various manufacturing industries. 

Overview of Epicor Kinetic ERP

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP solution designed for manufacturers, combining AI, real-time insights, and collaboration to enhance profitability. It integrates essential functions such as finance, supply chain, production, planning, and customer management into a single, unified platform, supporting flexible deployment to meet diverse business needs.

Tailored for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturers, Epicor Kinetic empowers businesses to maximize profitability through real-time business intelligence and built-in collaboration tools.

Its flexibility in deployment options allows for cloud-focused solutions with options for on-premises and hybrid deployments, catering to the unique needs of today’s manufacturers.

Key Highlights:

• Industry-Specific Design: Specialized for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing in various industries.
• Flexible Deployment Options: Cloud-focused with the flexibility for on-premises and hybrid setups.
• Unified Platform: End-to-end capabilities with built-in security from a single vendor.
• Future-Ready Technology: Enables businesses to capitalize on data, transform digitally, and innovate without limits.

Epicor Prism and AI Innovations

In the last few years, we have watched Artificial Intelligence (AI) become a popular topic and often requested feature in enterprise software. 

While some ERP vendors have fallen behind on AI, Epicor continues to innovate by integrating advanced AI-driven capabilities. This is prominently exemplified by its new product, Epicor Prism. Designed specifically for complex manufacturing environments, Prism enhances ERP functionality by embedding sophisticated Artificial Intelligence directly into operational processes, significantly elevating productivity, insight, and competitive advantage.

Key Components of Epicor Prism

Let’s take a closer look at Epicor Prism and see how its new technologies can make everyday business tasks easier and more efficient.

Gears (Your System of Record): Epicor Prism leverages Epicor Automation Studio, powered by Workato AI@Work, allowing businesses to customize and embed intelligent AI agents directly into their ERP workflows. These customized agents enhance data accuracy, streamline automation, and ensure your ERP remains agile, responsive, and precisely tailored to operational needs.

Handshakes (Interconnected Data & Apps): Prism facilitates deeper collaboration by employing multiple specialized AI agents, eliminating data silos, and enhancing clarity across complex operations. This integrated AI network enhances visibility into processes, creating an interconnected view of business performance that traditional ERP systems may struggle to achieve.

Sparks: (Your Indispensable Insights): Epicor Prism’s machine learning and predictive analytics generate actionable insights, termed ​“Sparks.” These insights empower manufacturers to forecast market demands, optimize inventory, enhance operational efficiency, and make strategic decisions proactively.

Additional Epicor Prism Highlights

A few of the features and capabilities in Epicor Prism that caught our attention are highlighted below.

• Conversational AI: Enables natural language queries to execute ERP tasks or access critical business insights effortlessly.
• Predictive Insights: Proactively forecast market demand, optimize resource allocation, and drive informed strategic decisions.
• Easy Automations: Automate routine processes, freeing teams to concentrate on strategic initiatives and value-added tasks.
• Insightful Collaboration: Foster innovation through seamless collaboration between AI workflows and human teams.
• Advanced Security Measures: Maintain data integrity and protect sensitive information with robust security and compliance measures embedded within the Prism platform.

With Epicor Prism, manufacturers can directly harness the power of advanced AI within their ERP system, positioning themselves at the forefront of digital transformation and operational excellence. This aligns seamlessly with Epicor Kinetic’s commitment to enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering growth for manufacturing businesses worldwide.

Epicor Kinetic Cloud Platform

Epicor Kinetic leverages a cloud-based ERP platform to help manufacturers grow, thrive, and compete globally. Adopting a cloud-first approach provides scalability, flexibility, and accessibility.

Benefits of the Cloud Platform:

• Global Accessibility: Access your ERP system anytime, anywhere with an internet connection, facilitating remote work and global collaboration.
• Scalability: Easily scale resources up or down to match your business growth without significant capital investment.
• Reduced IT Costs: Minimize the need for on-premises infrastructure and maintenance, lowering overall IT expenditures.
• Automatic Updates: Stay current with the latest features, security patches, and industry innovations without manual upgrades.
• Enhanced Security: Benefit from robust, enterprise-grade security measures and compliance standards built into the cloud infrastructure.

Flexibility in Deployment:

While Epicor Kinetic is cloud-focused, it offers flexibility to suit various operational needs:

• On-Premises Deployment: On-premises deployment is available for businesses requiring control over their infrastructure.
• Hybrid Solutions: Combine the advantages of cloud and on-premises systems to meet specific requirements and regulatory compliance.
• Single Platform Advantage: Epicor Kinetic ensures consistent functionality and security across all platforms regardless of deployment choice.

Integration and Collaboration:

The Epicor Kinetic Cloud Platform fosters seamless integration and collaboration:

• Built-In Collaboration Tools: Enhance teamwork with integrated communication features that connect different departments and locations.
• Data-Driven Insights: Utilize real-time data analytics to make informed decisions and drive business performance.
• Third-Party Integrations: Easily integrate with other applications and services to extend the platform’s capabilities.

Key Components of Epicor Kinetic ERP

Epicor Kinetic offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to optimize manufacturing operations. 

Below are the core components that we feel make this ERP solution stand out:

Materials Management

Epicor Kinetic streamlines materials management by providing real-time visibility into inventory levels and procurement processes. This ensures manufacturers have the suitable materials at the right time, reducing delays and minimizing waste.

• Inventory Tracking: Track inventory levels and revisions for precise, version-controlled management.
• Procurement Automation: Automate purchasing processes to replenish inventory efficiently.
• Supplier Management: Manage relationships and performance metrics with suppliers.

Production Management

Efficient production control is vital for manufacturing success. The production management tools in Epicor Kinetic help businesses enhance productivity and maintain consistent quality.

• Shop Floor Control: Oversee operations in real time to optimize workflows.
• Quality Assurance: Implement quality checks at various production stages.
• Scheduling: Utilize advanced planning and scheduling tools to maximize throughput.

Supply Chain Management

Managing the supply chain effectively is crucial for meeting customer demands and maintaining profitability. Epicor Kinetic offers tools to enhance visibility and control over supply chain processes.

• Demand Planning: Forecast demand to align production and inventory levels.
• Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS): Optimize resource allocation and production schedules.
• Supplier Relationships: Streamline supplier activities with easy-to-use self-service portals.

Financial Management

Robust financial management is at the heart of any successful enterprise. Epicor Kinetic provides comprehensive financial tools to help businesses maintain robust cost control and financial reporting.

• Accounting: Handle general ledger, accounts payable, and accounts receivable seamlessly.
• Budget Planning: Create and manage budgets with real-time financial data.
• Reporting and Analytics: Generate detailed financial reports to inform strategic decisions.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Building and maintaining strong customer relationships is essential for growth. The CRM module in Epicor Kinetic offers a 360-degree view of customer interactions.

• Sales Management: Streamlines lead tracking, opportunity management, and efficient sales processes.
• Customer Support: Manage customer inquiries and service requests efficiently.
• Marketing Automation: Automate sales order entry to reduce errors, save time, and improve accuracy.

Planning and Scheduling

Epicor Kinetic enhances operational visibility through advanced planning and scheduling capabilities, which are suitable for businesses of all sizes.

• Resource Optimization: Allocate resources effectively to meet production goals.
• Multi-Site Coordination: Manage planning and scheduling across multiple facilities.
• Real-Time Adjustments: Respond quickly to changes in demand or supply constraints.

Business Intelligence and Analytics

Data-driven decision-making is critical for manufacturers. Epicor Kinetic provides powerful analytics tools to transform data into actionable insights.

• Customizable Dashboards: Create dashboards tailored to specific roles or departments.
• In-Depth Reporting: Dive deep into operational metrics to identify trends and opportunities.
• Predictive Analytics: Leverage machine learning to forecast future performance.

Global Business Management

For manufacturers operating on a global scale, Epicor Kinetic offers integrated Scalability with multi-site, multi-company instances to efficiently scale an organization.

• Global Transaction Support: Handle currencies, languages, and regulations across international operations.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with regional laws and regulations.
• Multi-Language Interface: Support users across different regions with localized interfaces.

Additional Features of Epicor Kinetic

The feature set of Epicor Kinetic extends well beyond standard ERP offerings. We appreciate its range of specialized tools designed specifically for complex manufacturing environments. 

These additional capabilities address industry-specific pain points and streamline critical processes that generic ERP systems often overlook.

Cloud Business Platform

The cloud-based platform of Epicor Kinetic ensures businesses remain agile and up-to-date with the latest industry innovations.

• Automatic Updates: Receive the latest features and security patches without manual intervention.
• Scalability: Easily adjust resources to meet changing business demands.
• Accessibility: Provide team members with secure access from any location.

Risk and Compliance Management

Managing risk and maintaining compliance is critical for long-term success. Epicor Kinetic offers tools to help businesses navigate these challenges.

• Audit Trails: Maintain detailed records of transactions and changes for auditing purposes.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay compliant with industry standards and government regulations.
• Security Features: Protect sensitive data with advanced security measures.

Project Management

For manufacturers involved in complex projects, Epicor Kinetic provides detailed estimation, planning, and execution tools.

• Resource Planning: Allocate resources efficiently across multiple projects.
• Cost Tracking: Monitor expenses to keep projects within budget.
• Timeline Management: Keep projects on schedule with advanced scheduling tools.

Product Management

Optimizing product lifecycle management is essential for staying competitive. Epicor Kinetic helps businesses manage this process effectively.

• Product Data Management: Centralize product information for easy access and updates.
• Engineering Change Management: Track and implement changes in product designs.
• Collaboration Tools: Facilitate communication between engineering, production, and other departments.

Omnichannel Sales

Enhancing the customer experience across all channels can lead to increased revenue. Epicor Kinetic supports omnichannel sales strategies.

• Ecommerce Integration: Seamlessly connect online sales platforms with back-end systems.
• Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ): Offer configurable products with dynamic pricing options.
• Order Management: Automate order processing from various sales channels.

Why Epicor Kinetic Stands Out for Manufacturers

At Top10ERP, our analysis shows Epicor Kinetic significantly improves manufacturing operations. The system’s automation and real-time data integration address modern manufacturers’ specific challenges. It connects previously separate processes, creating a more unified, data-driven operation. 

Our evaluations of various ERP solutions reveal the effectiveness of Epicor Kinetic in handling complex manufacturing scenarios.

Streamlined Operations

Epicor Kinetic automates repetitive tasks across departments. It reduces manual data entry in inventory management, order processing, and financial reporting, decreasing errors and freeing up staff time for strategic activities.

The system integrates production, supply chain, and finance data into a single platform. This integration enables managers to:

• Identify bottlenecks in production processes
• Adjust inventory levels based on real-time demand
• Make informed financial decisions with up-to-date operational data

Financial Control and Cost Reduction

Epicor Kinetic provides tools to optimize inventory levels and reduce carrying costs. The system uses demand forecasting algorithms to suggest optimal stock quantities for each product.

Production waste reduction is achieved through:

• Precise material requirements planning
• Improved quality control processes
• Real-time production monitoring

These features help manufacturers minimize overproduction and material waste.

Adaptable to Business Growth

The modular architecture of Kinetic allows manufacturers to add functionality as needed. Companies can start with core modules and expand the system as their operations grow.

Kinetic supports multi-site and multi-currency operations. This capability enables manufacturers to:

• Manage global supply chains efficiently
• Consolidate financial data across international subsidiaries
• Comply with local regulations in different markets

Data-Driven Decision Making

The analytics tools in Kinetic transform raw data into actionable insights. Manufacturers can:

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) in real-time
• Generate customized reports for different departments
• Use predictive analytics to anticipate market trends

These capabilities enable proactive decision-making rather than reactive problem-solving.

Future-Ready Technology

Kinetic is built on a cloud-native platform that leverages advanced technologies. The system incorporates:

• Internet of Things (IoT) integration for equipment monitoring
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) for demand forecasting and process optimization
• Mobile access for on-the-go management and decision-making

These features position manufacturers to adapt to Industry 4.0 trends and maintain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.

Support for Global Manufacturing with Epicor Kinetic

Manufacturers operating internationally encounter challenges like managing multiple currencies, adhering to diverse regulations, and overseeing complex supply chains. Epicor Kinetic addresses these issues by automating currency conversions and providing real-time exchange rate updates, ensuring financial accuracy in international transactions. 

The software’s language localization allows users to operate the system in their preferred languages, enhancing usability across multinational teams.

Epicor Kinetic includes country-specific features that automatically calculate taxes based on local laws to maintain regulatory compliance. These features help businesses adhere to regional regulations and avoid legal complications. 

In supply chain management, it offers global inventory tracking, enabling real-time monitoring of stock levels across international warehouses. This visibility optimizes inventory management and streamlines logistics for efficient global delivery.

Epicor Kinetic balances centralized control with local adaptation by maintaining a unified database accessible to all subsidiaries for consistent data and reporting. Simultaneously, it allows regional units to customize processes without affecting the global system, empowering local teams to meet specific market demands while aligning with overall company strategies.

Industries Benefiting from Epicor Kinetic

Epicor Kinetic serves a wide range of manufacturing industries. Its flexible modules and industry-specific features make it an effective ERP solution for businesses aiming to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Nearly all manufacturing sectors can leverage Epicor Kinetic for improved performance. Below is a list of industries that benefit from this ERP system:

• Aerospace and Defense: Manage complex projects and comply with stringent industry regulations.
• Construction and Engineering: Optimize project management, resource planning, and scheduling for timely project delivery.
• Electronics and High Tech: Handle rapid product lifecycles, component tracking, and adapt quickly to market changes.
• Fabricated Metals: Enhance material usage, streamline production workflows, and reduce operational waste.
• Furniture and Fixtures: Customize products efficiently and manage seasonal demand fluctuations through accurate forecasting.
• Industrial Machinery: Oversee custom equipment production and integrate after-sales service management.
• Metal Service Centers: Improve inventory control, streamline order processing, and optimize distribution channels.
• Rubber and Plastics: Maintain strict quality control, manage formulations, and ensure product traceability.
• Medical Devices: Ensure rigorous quality standards, regulatory compliance, and effective document control.
• And More: Epicor Kinetic is designed to serve nearly all manufacturing industries, offering customizable solutions to meet specific industry needs.

Epicor Kinetic: Understanding the Costs and Value

The price tag for Epicor Kinetic varies widely based on business size and needs. Before committing to this ERP solution, it’s essential to understand the full scope of the investment. Let’s examine the costs involved.

Pricing Overview

The pricing structure of Epicor Kinetic is flexible, accommodating businesses of various sizes. The system’s cost ranges from $4,000 to $500,000, depending on the scale and complexity of the implementation. The cost per user for cloud-based deployments starts at around $125 per month.

The minimum fee to implement Epicor Kinetic is approximately $50,000, which covers essential setup and configuration. This base investment ensures that even smaller businesses can access the system’s core functionalities.

Deployment and Scalability

Epicor Kinetic offers cloud and on-premise deployment options, catering to different IT strategies and business needs. The system is highly scalable, supporting user ranges from 10 to unlimited, making it suitable for growing businesses and large enterprises.

Cost Components

The total cost of Epicor Kinetic includes several key elements:

1. Licensing: Choose between subscription-based models or perpetual licenses.
2. Implementation: Covers consulting, customization, and data migration.
3. Training and Support: Ensures effective system utilization.
4. Infrastructure: Varies based on cloud or on-premise deployment.
5. Additional Modules: Expands functionality as your business grows.
6. Ongoing Maintenance: Includes updates and scalability expenses.

Financing Options

Epicor offers flexible financing options, including lease and subscription models, to make the investment more manageable. These options help spread the cost over time, making it easier for businesses to budget for their ERP implementation.

Maximizing Your Investment

To optimize your Epicor Kinetic investment:

1. Carefully assess your essential needs to avoid unnecessary expenses.
2. Consider long-term costs and benefits, not just initial investment.
3. Explore industry-specific bundles for potential savings.

Remember, while the costs are significant, the potential return on investment through improved efficiency, better inventory management, and enhanced decision-making can be substantial.

The ​“Always Current” version of Epicor Kinetic ensures constant updates with the latest features and improvements, maximizing the long-term value of your investment. 

By understanding these cost factors and leveraging the flexibility of Epicor Kinetic, businesses can confidently implement this powerful ERP system and set themselves up for success.

Expert Assistance for ERP Selection

Choosing an ERP system like Epicor Kinetic requires careful consideration. Top10erp​.org offers comprehensive services to simplify your decision-making process:

• ERP Comparison: Use our tools to compare Epicor Kinetic with other leading ERP systems. Our detailed analysis helps you understand how different solutions compare to your specific needs.
• Demo Access: Request product demonstrations to see Epicor Kinetic and other ERP systems in action. These hands-on experiences provide valuable insights into user interfaces and functionality.
• Price Quotes: Obtain customized price estimates based on your business requirements. Our service helps you understand the potential costs of various ERP solutions, including Epicor Kinetic.
• Selection Guidance: Our experts provide personalized advice to help you make an informed decision. We consider your industry, company size, and specific operational needs to recommend the best ERP solution.

By leveraging these resources, you ensure access to comprehensive information and expert support throughout your ERP selection process. We aim to help you find the right ERP system that aligns with your organization’s objectives and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Epicor Kinetic

This section addresses common inquiries about Epicor Kinetic and its impact on manufacturing operations, implementation processes, and comparisons with other ERP solutions.

What is Epicor Kinetic used for in manufacturing?

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP system designed to streamline and optimize manufacturing processes. It integrates various business functions such as production, supply chain, financial, and customer relationship management into a unified platform. This helps manufacturers improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making.

Is Epicor Kinetic suitable for small and medium-sized businesses?

Epicor Kinetic is scalable and flexible, making it suitable for small, medium, and large manufacturing businesses. Its modular design allows companies to implement only the functionalities they need, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

What industries benefit most from Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic is tailored for discrete, mixed-mode and make-to-order manufacturing industries, including aerospace and defense, automotive, electronics, industrial machinery, medical devices, metal fabrication, furniture, and more. Its specialized functionalities cater to the unique needs of these sectors.

How customizable is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic offers a high level of customization. Businesses can tailor modules, workflows, and interfaces to match their processes and requirements. Additionally, it supports integration with third-party applications and tools.

What kind of training and support is available for Epicor Kinetic users?

Epicor offers comprehensive training programs, including online courses, workshops, and user manuals, ensuring users have access to the resources they need to succeed. Additionally, ongoing technical support is available through customer service channels, certified Epicor partners, and the Epicor Knowledge Assistant, an AI-powered tool trained on Kinetic support documentation, providing quick and accurate answers to user queries. 

The implementation timeline varies depending on factors such as company size, process complexity, customization requirements, and resource availability. On average, it can take several months to over a year.

How does Epicor Kinetic compare to other ERP systems like NetSuite or SAP?

Epicor Kinetic is specifically designed for manufacturing industries, offering specialized functionalities that cater to manufacturers’ unique needs. While NetSuite and SAP also offer robust ERP solutions, Epicor Kinetic stands out for its industry-specific focus, flexibility, and scalability tailored to manufacturing processes.