Technology in Practice

At Net at Work, we believe that great businesses are built on great people, purposeful culture, and a relentless drive to evolve. That’s why we’re excited to share highlights from a recent episode of the Great Talent, Great Business Podcast, where our co-founder and Co-CEO, Eddie Solomon, sat down with host Rob Levine for a candid, in-depth conversation about Net at Work’s journey, lessons learned, and what it really takes to build a thriving technology advisory firm in today’s fast-changing world.  The Early Days: Learning by Doing  Eddie’s entrepreneurial story is one of learning through experience—and sometimes, through mistakes. In the podcast, he recalls Net at Work’s very first acquisition, a deal that seemed successful until half the acquired employees quit soon after. “They didn’t feel like they had any control, they weren’t empowered with the decision, and they had no knowledge of what was happening,” Eddie shared. That experience became a turning point, shaping how Net at Work approaches both acquisitions and employee integration today.  Talent First: The Heart of Every Acquisition  With over 40 acquisitions under their belt, Eddie and his brother Alex have refined their approach to growth. The lesson is clear: in a professional services business, talent is everything. “We don’t build houses, we don’t make food—we’re all about the conversations we have internally, with our teams, and with our clients. That’s how we move the needle,” Eddie explains.  When evaluating acquisition targets, the Net at Work team prioritizes the talent joining their organization, sometimes even above the client book itself. “Without the employees joining, it makes it very difficult to engage with those clients because it’s new, everybody’s nervous, it’s a very important part of their business,” Eddie notes. The focus is on ensuring a strong cultural and operational fit, and on investing significant time upfront with new team members to build trust and transparency.  Culture: From Afterthought to Cornerstone  Culture wasn’t always a top priority, at least not in the early days. Eddie admits that, like many founders, he was initially focused on survival and growth. But as Net at Work expanded, the importance of a defined, vibrant company culture became undeniable. “It’s all about the culture of the organization. We hope we’re hiring very motivated people who want to do a fantastic job and love what they do, and then we try to inspire them to really be part of our purpose and make an impact with our clients,” Eddie reflects.  Over time, Net at Work formalized its core values, making them both a reflection of who we are and a guide for who we aspire to be. This clarity has been essential for maintaining a unified culture, especially as the company scaled and diversified.  Listen to the Full Conversation  Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode of the Great Talent, Great Business Podcast featuring Eddie Solomon, and discover how Net at Work continues to build a company where people—and their growth—are at the heart of everything. 

How do you manage your food or beverage manufacturing or distribution business? If the answer revolves around inefficient, old-fashioned processes, you have a lot of room to improve. It’s not uncommon for companies to rely on manual tasks and disconnected software to oversee everything from recipes and formulations to inventory management. These systems may have been in place for years or decades, and they can feel entrenched. There’s a much better option out there, however: a modern, specialized enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. ERP in food and beverage manufacturing is a category of solution that exists to streamline and connect every management function. This software is the go-to option for departments ranging from sales to quality assurance, and helps you keep every employee on task. Simply buying a new piece of software isn’t a cure-all for your business’s needs. You’ll have to verify that your chosen platform is designed for the industry, technologically sophisticated and packed with the right feature set. Food ERP solutions that do meet those criteria, however, come with a long list of benefits that can help you maintain a competitive advantage. Why Do You Need a Food Manufacturing ERP System? In the simplest possible terms, you need an ERP platform because it can serve as a centralized hub for your business. Today’s food manufacturing and distribution companies are complex, especially when they span over a large area or offer numerous product lines. Whether you presently operate a major food company or plan to grow, it’s worthwhile to use technology to bring your operations under control. Not only does an ERP system unite all your departments and facilities, from offices to warehouses and distribution centers, but it also incorporates every relevant task. If you’re using separate pieces of software to manage inventory levels, logistics, analytics and more, there’s a real risk of information being lost in communication and of wasted time and effort. It’s difficult to stay competitive in a fast-moving industry with those disadvantages, making ERP a competitive must-have. Those connectivity and efficiency benefits of ERP software apply across industries. There’s a way to unlock further value, however: by purchasing an ERP system specifically designed with the food and beverage industry in mind. Specialized food ERP software stands in contrast to industry-agnostic offerings because it can offer highly relevant functionality without the need for excessive configuration. Useful tasks to complete with the aid of a food and beverage ERP platform include: Management of formulas, ingredients and potency, ensuring consistency and precision across product lines and locations. Compliance management, keeping your items in line with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules and regulations, such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Quality control, including oversight of food production and shipping, as well as testing of products in your facilities. From the everyday tasks of running a business to the specific practices that can set your food company apart from the rest of your field, an advanced and purpose-built ERP system can help you thrive.  Key Features of Food ERP Systems Not every food ERP software offering will contain every possible feature, and not every business comes with the same needs. Finding a solution with a long feature list, one that matches your specific needs and also gives your business room to grow, is your best bet to find a technology tool that will deliver real value. When dealing with specialized food and beverage technology, features tailored to the field can be especially important differentiators, helping the best ERP platforms stand out from the pack. Impactful capabilities to look for include: Shelf life and expiration management: The ability to oversee shelf life and inventory levels includes a few separate practices at different stages of the production process. You can test and use raw ingredients at the right time, while also monitoring the shelf life of finished products as they move through your warehouses and distribution centers, allowing you to strategically move products before they expire and go to waste. Quality control: By managing the differing quality specifications across your separate recipes and product lines, you can ensure you’re using ingredients that meet your standards, while keeping your finished goods in line with industry norms and regulatory guidelines.. Traceability and recall management: A recall is always a challenging and expensive process. It is especially so if you can’t track specific batches of product digitally. An advanced ERP lets you find the destinations of items as they pass through distributors’ and vendors’ hands. This allows you to execute an efficient, compliant recall when necessary. FSMA compliance: Recent updated FDA rules like FSMA mandate that food and beverage providers effectively implement visibility and traceability of their products. A food ERP system grants you these capabilities without excessive manual effort from your team. Ingredient potency management: Striking the exact right balance around raw ingredient concentration is a key calculation in terms of product quality, cost management and waste reduction. A purpose-built ERP system lets your team perform these calculations accurately and quickly. Continuous improvement and non-conformance management: By implementing an ERP system that can identify instances of non-conformance —  when your products, services or products don’t conform to internal or industry standards — you can set up quick and effective continuous improvement functions. Recipe and formula management: Using a food ERP system to implement consistent recipes and formulas across all your locations, you can create reliable quality for customers while promoting internal traceability. You can even manage variations, all without requiring heavy hands-on input from your employees. Change management: Overseeing changes and updates to your recipes and formulas is an essential niche within the overall recipe management process. By analyzing all potential changes and documenting them in detail, you can keep your updates purposeful and apply them consistently, with minimum disruption and no unnecessary resource waste. Trade promotion management: Essential trade promotion management processes, such as implementing discounts, making forecasts and reconciling costs with sellers, are more streamlined when handled through a centralized ERP system. eCommerce integration: Linking your internal processes, as controlled by your ERP, with eCommerce solutions allows you to seamlessly connect food production and shipping management with a commercial website. ERP for the food industry puts these features and more into a single interface. Properly implemented, it’s the beating heart of your manufacturing or distribution business. Advantages of Using Food ERP The benefits of ERP in the food and beverage industry aren’t academic. You can start to feel significant process improvements, starting soon after you adopt a new platform. There are two main classes of advantage: first, the types of effectiveness boosts that come from using ERP software in general, and second, upgrades specific to food and beverage. General ERP advantages tend to include: Reduction in manual effort: When employees have to perform a large number of manual processes, it takes time away from value-adding work they could be doing. Automating common functions via ERP puts hours back in the day, letting you accomplish more with the same number of people. Increased data accuracy and deeper analytics: Data entry and analysis are among the most important functions that can benefit from ERP use. A centralized ERP system allows you to work from a single source of data truth, performing in-depth analysis based on consistent numbers with less risk of human error and less work associated with data entry. Effective, strategic raw material and inventory movement: Planning out your supply chain moves works best with automation. A capable ERP system grants you visibility into your warehouses and distribution centers, as you track ingredients, equipment and products, both at rest and in transit. Specific capabilities from food manufacturing ERP software can include: More accurate fill rate projections: Serving orders to wholesalers, distributors and merchants is a challenging process tied up with complex variables, including differing expiration dates. A purpose-built ERP system can optimize fill rates and minimize stockouts. Improved recall performance: If and when a recall becomes necessary, a food industry ERP system helps food manufacturers maintain centralized visibility, allowing these producers to execute that recall in a quick and orderly manner, meeting requirements and limiting the resulting budget hit. Strong FDA compliance: Obliging FSMA and related regulations is a necessary way to avoid fines and other penalties. When all the necessary compliance functions are embedded within a central ERP system, this process becomes a natural part of business operations. Effective Food ERP Adoption Finding the right partner for ERP adoption ensures you’ll receive both the best Food manufacturing ERP software for your purposes and a smooth, effective implementation experience. You should look for: A feature set designed with the food industry in mind. Cloud-based infrastructure to enable seamless companywide access. Support from an expert team of personnel. The Sage X3 Food ERP solution, provided and enabled by the Net at Work team, is designed to deliver a quick return on investment, as well as lasting value. This ROI comes from a fine-tuned and user-friendly feature set paired with responsive, helpful support. Get Started with a New Food ERP System If your business doesn’t currently use an up-to-date ERP system, or it’s been too long since you assessed the performance of your current system, there can be significant benefits in upgrading. The gains in productivity, precision and overall capabilities that come with a new food ERP system can boost your competitive advantage in the years to come. Contact Net at Work to see how Sage X3 can address your specific needs and challenges.

ERP migration is a transformative process that promises efficiency, scalability, and data-driven decision-making. Yet, the greatest challenges often aren’t technical. Resistance to change can stall or even derail ERP migration projects, undermining ROI and organizational goals. Understanding the roots of this resistance and deploying proven strategies to address it is essential for a successful migration. Why Resistance to ERP Migration Occurs Resistance to ERP migration is a natural, multifaceted reaction rooted in both individual and organizational concerns. Recognizing the drivers of resistance is the first step toward building an effective change management plan. Fear of Change and Job Security: Employees are often anxious about how new technology will impact their roles. Automation and process changes can trigger fears of redundancy or the need for unfamiliar skills. As highlighted by research conducted by McKinsey, up to 45% of current tasks could be automated with existing technologies, intensifying these concerns among staff. Disruption of Established Routines: Legacy systems are deeply embedded in daily workflows. The prospect of learning new processes and abandoning familiar tools can be daunting, especially if the benefits of the new ERP aren’t clearly communicated. Lack of Involvement and Ownership: When employees feel excluded from the decision-making and design process, they may perceive the new system as being forced upon them. This lack of agency can result in disengagement and resistance. Inadequate Communication and Awareness: Poor communication breeds uncertainty. If the reasons for migration, the expected benefits, and the impact on individual roles are not transparently shared, skepticism and reluctance naturally arise. Insufficient Training and Support: ERP systems are complex, and without comprehensive training, users can feel overwhelmed and frustrated. This can lead to avoidance, workarounds, or even reverting to old processes. Usability and Integration Concerns: Employees may worry about the new system’s interface, its compatibility with existing tools, and whether it will actually make their jobs easier or harder. Data Security and Control: Particularly in industries handling sensitive information, concerns about data security, reliability, and loss of control over systems can fuel resistance to cloud-based ERP solutions. Understanding these sources of resistance enables organizations to proactively address them, paving the way for smoother transitions and higher adoption rates. Strategies to Mitigate Resistance Effectively managing resistance is about more than just technology-it’s about people. Here are expanded, actionable strategies for overcoming resistance and ensuring a successful ERP migration: Engage and Involve Employees Early Inclusion from the Start: Involve end-users in the needs assessment, vendor selection, and testing phases. This not only surfaces practical concerns early but also builds a sense of ownership and investment in the new system 9. Feedback Loops: Establish channels for employees to provide input and feedback throughout the project. This engagement helps tailor the system to real-world workflows and increases buy-in. Transparent and Ongoing Communication Clear Rationale: Communicate the “why” behind the migration, linking it to organizational goals such as improved efficiency, scalability, and competitiveness. Regular Updates: Provide frequent project updates, address rumors, and clarify timelines and expectations. Open dialogue helps dispel fears and builds trust. Two-Way Communication: Encourage questions and create forums for discussion, ensuring that concerns are heard and addressed promptly. Comprehensive Training and Support Role-Based Training: Develop tailored training programs that address the specific needs of different user groups. Use hands-on workshops, e-learning modules, and job aids to cater to various learning styles. Ongoing Support: Offer continuous support post-launch, including help desks, super-user programs, and refresher courses to reinforce learning and confidence. Early Adopter Programs: Identify and empower change champions who can mentor peers and model positive adoption behaviors. Address Job Security and Cultural Concerns Emphasize Value Creation: Highlight how the new ERP will eliminate repetitive tasks, freeing employees to focus on higher-value activities. Career Development: Offer upskilling and reskilling opportunities, positioning the migration as a chance for professional growth rather than a threat. Cultural Alignment: Foster a culture of adaptability and continuous improvement, where change is seen as an opportunity rather than a disruption. Phased and Strategic Rollouts Pilot Programs: Begin with pilot implementations in select departments to test processes, gather feedback, and make adjustments before a full-scale rollout. Iterative Improvements: Use lessons learned from pilot phases to refine training, communication, and system configuration, reducing risk and building confidence organization-wide. Leadership Advocacy and Change Champions Visible Leadership: Leaders should actively participate in training, use the new system, and share success stories to demonstrate commitment. Empower Middle Managers: Equip managers with the tools and information to support their teams, address concerns, and reinforce positive behaviors. Recognize Success: Celebrate milestones, acknowledge early adopters, and share tangible benefits realized from the migration to maintain momentum. Robust Change Management Frameworks Adopt Proven Methodologies: Implement structured change management frameworks such as Prosci’s ADKAR model, which focuses on Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement 6. Stakeholder Analysis: Identify primary and secondary stakeholders, assess their concerns, and tailor engagement strategies accordingly. Continuous Measurement: Monitor adoption metrics, gather feedback, and adjust strategies as needed to ensure sustained engagement. Address Technical and Integration Concerns Integration Planning: Map out integration points with other business-critical systems early, and communicate how these will be handled to avoid surprises. User Experience: Prioritize usability in system selection and configuration. Involve end-users in interface testing to ensure the system aligns with their needs. Data Security Assurance: Work closely with IT and vendors to address data security, reliability, and control concerns, especially when moving to the cloud. The Value of an Experienced Technology Advisor Partnering with an experienced technology advisor like Net at Work can be the difference between ERP success and failure. Here’s why: Tailored Change Management: Advisors bring proven frameworks and industry best practices, ensuring that change management is embedded in every phase of the migration. Risk Mitigation: Experienced partners anticipate common pitfalls-such as data migration challenges, integration issues, and user resistance-and proactively address them. Training and Support: Advisors design and deliver comprehensive training programs, provide ongoing support, and help establish super-user networks for sustained adoption. Objective Guidance: With deep knowledge of ERP platforms and business processes, advisors help organizations make decisions that align with both technical needs and company culture. Accelerated ROI: By smoothing the human side of migration, advisors help organizations realize the benefits of their ERP investment faster and more fully. Customer Success: Ink Makes Its Mark with Help from Net at Work and Acumatica Ink, a custom manufacturing company specializing in custom apparel design and manufacturing, had faced significant hurdles over the years with outdated ERP systems. These legacy systems lacked scalability, real-time data visibility, and reliable support, making it difficult for Ink to confidently manage operations and growth. As Systems Development Director Daniel Byrum explained, “If you don’t trust your data, it’s hard to make confident decisions.” “Resistance to ERP migration is a natural, multifaceted reaction rooted in both individual and organizational concerns. Recognizing the drivers of resistance is the first step toward building an effective change management plan.” Seeking to modernize, Ink partnered with Net at Work to implement Acumatica. The decision was driven by Acumatica’s flexibility, robust reporting, and the ability to customize dashboards and workflows to fit Ink’s unique needs. The new platform allowed Ink to automate manual tasks, streamline order management, and gain the real-time insights essential for scaling their business.n> >Net at Work’s consultative approach was a key factor in the project’s success. The partnership was built on trust, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to innovation. Results achieved by Ink after their ERP migration include: Order volume increased from 300–500 orders per month to approximately 2,500 orders per month, without a significant increase in headcount. Year-over-year revenue growth of 25–30%. Enhanced data visibility and reporting for data-driven decision-making. Improved inventory control and streamlined order management. Freed staff from repetitive manual tasks, allowing greater focus on creativity and customer service. “Net at Work has been incredibly responsive,” Byrum says. “I can bring them a problem or an idea, and they’ll walk me through it, help us think it through, and guide us to the best solution. That kind of partnership is hard to come by.” Key Takeaways Resistance to ERP migration is natural and multifaceted, rooted in fear of change, job security concerns, disrupted routines, and lack of involvement. Proactive strategies—such as early engagement, transparent communication, comprehensive training, and leadership advocacy—are essential to overcoming resistance. A phased rollout, robust change management frameworks, and addressing technical concerns further smooth the transition. Working with an experienced technology advisor like Net at Work ensures that both the human and technical sides of ERP migration are managed for success. Is Your Business Ready for an ERP Migration? Net at Work combines decades of ERP implementation experience with a people-first approach to ERP migration. Let us help you turn resistance into resilience. Contact us today to assess your readiness and build a migration strategy tailored to your team.

We’re excited to invite you to Sage Future, a premier event designed to help you unleash bold possibilities for your business. This year’s conference will take place June 3–5, 2025, in Atlanta, GA. Whether you’re looking to explore the latest in AI-powered innovation or connect with a vibrant community of Sage users and authorized independent software vendors – Sage Future is where it all happens. Why Attend Sage Future? ✔ Thought Leadership That Inspires Hear from Sage executives, industry visionaries, and tech leaders as they unveil transformative AI-driven tools and trends shaping the future of business. ✔ Hands-On Learning Get direct access to the latest Sage innovations—including Sage Copilot—and experience how AI and automation can streamline operations and accelerate decision-making. ✔ Unmatched Networking Meet with executives, peers, and change-makers across industries to exchange ideas, solve challenges, and build strategic relationships. View agenda highlights View Session Catalog Register here Plus! Connect with Net at Work Onsite. Booth #3. As a Platinum Sponsor, Net at Work will have a strong onsite presence—including executives and key team members ready to meet with you. We’d love to connect! And don’t miss our complimentary networking event at The Painted Duck on Wednesday, June 4 at 6:30PM EDT—a great opportunity to unwind, mingle, and enjoy food, drinks, and games with the Sage community. RSVP Here Hear from the Net at Work Team at Sage Future If you’re heading to Sage Future, be sure to check out the sessions led by our team and clients. You’ll hear firsthand insights, real-world stories, and practical takeaways from those putting Sage solutions to work every day. Register for these sessions below. Unpacking the ultimate payment experience for customers, presented by Fortis Wednesday, Jun 4 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM EDT Mary Kaufman. VP, Channel Partners B2B, Fortis Brittany Dudman, B2B Integrations Specialist, Fortis Kelly Hummel, Director of Client Transformation, Net at Work ERP Evolution: Our Sage X3 Journey and Preparing for an AI-Driven Future [1475] Wednesday, Jun 4 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Annette Grotz, Dir. of Growth: Distribution and Manufacturing, Sage Angela Hoddick, Director of IT, MGI International Modernize your Sage ERP and create a technology roadmap Wednesday, Jun 4 12:30 PM – 12:50 PM EDT Tyler Bower, Cloud at Work Practice Director, Cloud at Work The future of retail: Achieving success with Sage Wednesday, Jun 4 2:15 PM – 3:00 PM EDT Ryan Sheppard, Senior Director, E-commerce Strategy, Kensium, LLC Ted Stenstrom, Chief Sales Officer, Kensium, LLC Getting a grip on digital transformation: Strategies for 2025 & beyond [1269] Thursday, Jun 5 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM EDT Eric Sluss, Chief Information Officer, Fractional CIO & Advisory, Net at Work Automate Your 990 with Sage Intacct [1080] Thursday, Jun 5 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM EDT Frankie Fernandez, Solutions Engineer, NetatWork Need Help Planning Your Trip? If you’d like help planning your time at Sage Future—or want to set up a meeting with someone on our team—reach out to your account manager or email us directly. We’re happy to help you maximize your experience. Already registered? Let us know here so we can be sure to connect with you onsite. We hope to see you in Atlanta!

Construction projects thrive on precision, timeliness, and seamless coordination, yet fragmented communication and disjointed workflows remain persistent challenges. Delays, cost overruns, and misaligned teams cost the industry billions annually, but modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are transforming how teams collaborate. By integrating data, automating processes, and providing real-time visibility, ERP solutions like Acumatica and Sage empower construction firms to break down silos, accelerate decision-making, and deliver projects successfully. ERP solutions like Acumatica and Sage are empowering construction firms to overcome traditional barriers, improve efficiency, and deliver projects on time and on budget. In this article, we’ll explore how construction ERP systems enhance communication and workflow in construction, examine the challenges of implementation, and share a real-world success story from Fabuwood, a company that redefined its operations with the help of Net at Work and Acumatica.  The Communication Challenge in Construction  Each construction project involves a team of participants such as owners, architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and regulatory agencies. Each member of the project team must coordinate their efforts to achieve a common goal. However, this complexity often leads to communication breakdowns: Information Silos: Critical project data is often scattered across spreadsheets, email threads, and disconnected software platforms, making it difficult for teams to access the information they need when they need it. Version Control Issues: Outdated drawings, specifications, or schedules can circulate among teams, leading to costly mistakes and rework. Delayed Decision-Making: When information is not readily available, project managers and executives are forced to make decisions based on incomplete or outdated data.; Field-Office Disconnect: Field teams and office staff frequently operate in isolation, resulting in miscommunication, missed updates, and inefficiencies. According to McKinsey & Company, poor communication and lack of collaboration are among the top reasons for project delays and cost overruns in the construction industry. The need for a unified, real-time source of truth has never been more urgent. How ERP Systems Improve Communication in Construction Projects Modern ERP systems are specifically designed to address these communication challenges by bringing all project data into a centralized, cloud-based platform. Here’s how a carefully chosen, well-implemented ERP can transform communication in construction: Centralized Data and Real-Time Access With a modern construction ERP, all project stakeholders, from executives to field workers, access the same up-to-date information. Whether it’s a change order, a revised schedule, or a delivery update, everyone sees the latest data in real time. This eliminates version control issues and reduces the risk of errors caused by outdated information. For example, Acumatica’s Construction Edition provides customizable dashboards that display real-time KPIs, project milestones, and budget updates tailored to each user’s role. Field teams can instantly access drawings, safety documents, and work orders from their mobile devices, ensuring they’re always working with the most current information. Streamlined Communication Channels Today’s ERP systems integrate communication tools directly into project workflows. Instead of relying on scattered emails or phone calls, teams can submit Requests for Information (RFIs), share files, and update punch lists within the ERP platform. Sage’s construction software, for instance, allows users to collaborate on documents, track approvals, and manage project correspondence in a single, secure environment. This integrated approach not only speeds up communication but also creates a complete audit trail of project decisions, making it easier to resolve disputes and maintain compliance. Bridging the Office-Field Divide One of the most significant benefits of ERP in construction is its ability to connect office and field teams. Mobile ERP apps enable field workers to submit timecards, report issues, and request materials directly from the job site. These updates sync instantly with the back office, allowing project managers to respond quickly to changing conditions. Acumatica’s mobile capabilities go even further, offering GPS-enabled asset tracking and automated alerts for equipment maintenance or safety incidents. This real-time connectivity ensures that everyone is aligned and informed. Enhanced Collaboration with External Partners Construction projects often involve multiple external partners, including subcontractors and suppliers. ERP systems facilitate secure collaboration by providing controlled access to project data and documents. Partners can upload invoices, submit bids, and track project progress without compromising data security. By breaking down barriers between organizations, an optimized ERP fosters a culture of transparency and trust that benefits all parties involved. How ERP Systems Enhance Workflow Efficiency in Construction Projects Beyond improving communication, ERP systems drive significant gains in workflow efficiency—a critical factor in meeting tight deadlines and controlling costs. Automation of Manual Processes Manual tasks such as data entry, invoice processing, and compliance reporting are time-consuming and error-prone. ERP systems automate these processes, freeing up staff to focus on higher-value activities. For instance, automated procurement workflows notify managers when material inventory falls below predefined thresholds, triggering purchase orders without manual intervention. Job costing modules track expenses in real time, flagging overruns before they escalate.  Integrated Project Management ERP platforms offer comprehensive project management tools that integrate scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management. Project managers can monitor progress, identify bottlenecks, and reallocate resources proactively, all from a single dashboard. Sage’s construction ERP includes Gantt chart scheduling, resource planning, and document management features that help teams stay organized and responsive to changing project demands.  Data-Driven Decision Making With all project data centralized and accessible, construction firms can leverage analytics to make smarter decisions. ERP systems provide real-time insights into project performance, labor productivity, and equipment utilization, enabling managers to identify trends and optimize operations.  Acumatica’s AI-driven analytics help forecast potential delays, assess the impact of weather or supply chain disruptions, and develop contingency plans before issues arise.  Scalability and Flexibility As construction firms grow or take on more complex projects, ERP systems scale to meet evolving needs. Cloud-based solutions like Acumatica allow companies to add new users, integrate third-party tools (such as Building Information Modeling software), and customize workflows without costly infrastructure upgrades. This flexibility ensures that firms can adapt to industry changes and maintain a competitive edge. Overcoming ERP Implementation Challenges in Construction While the benefits of ERP are clear, implementing a new system is not without challenges. Common obstacles include: Resistance to Change: Employees accustomed to legacy systems may be hesitant to adopt new technology.  Data Migration Complexity: Moving data from disparate sources into the ERP requires careful planning and validation. Customization Needs: Construction firms often require tailored workflows and integrations to match their unique processes. Training and Adoption: Ensuring all users are comfortable and proficient with the new system is essential for success. The Importance of the Right Technology Partner Choosing the right technology partner can make all the difference in overcoming these challenges. A knowledgeable partner brings industry expertise, proven methodologies, and dedicated support to guide companies through every phase of ERP implementation. How Net at Work Supports Successful ERP Adoption: Process Mapping: Experts collaborate with your team to document existing workflows, identify inefficiencies, and design optimized processes. Data Migration: Specialists ensure accurate, secure migration of legacy data into the new ERP platform. Customization: Solutions are tailored to fit your company’s unique requirements, from custom dashboards to third-party integrations. Training and Support: Comprehensive training programs and ongoing support ensure user adoption and long-term success. Fabuwood: Transforming Operations with Acumatica and Net at Work Fabuwood, a leading manufacturer of premium cabinetry, faced significant challenges as it outgrew its legacy systems. Manual processes and disconnected tools hindered their ability to scale, track orders, and manage inventory efficiently. After partnering with Net at Work to implement Acumatica, Fabuwood achieved remarkable results: Real-Time Order Tracking: Custom modifications to cabinetry designs are now tracked in real time, ensuring accuracy from sales to delivery. Supply Chain Visibility: Integrated inventory management prevents stockouts, reducing production delays. Scalable Workflows: The cloud-based system supports rapid growth without compromising speed. Improved Collaboration: Teams across sales, production, and warehousing now work from a unified platform, eliminating communication gaps. Shlomo Friedman, Fabuwood’s ERP Project Manager, shared: “If your company is ready for change, Acumatica is a perfect fit,” he says. “But finding the right partner is just as important. Net at Work has been there for us every step of the way. There isn’t a challenge they haven’t been able to support us on.” Building a Collaborative Future in Construction Construction firms that embrace modern ERP systems are better positioned to thrive. By centralizing communication, automating workflows, and enabling data-driven decision-making, ERP solutions like Acumatica and Sage empower construction companies to deliver projects with greater efficiency, transparency, and profitability. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your construction teams? Contact us today for a complimentary Business Health Assessment. Our experts will evaluate your current processes, identify areas for improvement, and design a roadmap to ERP success tailored to your company’s unique needs. Let’s build a future where your teams collaborate smarter, not harder.

The chemical manufacturing industry operates in a complex landscape of regulatory requirements, global competition, and volatile market demands. Success hinges on maintaining precise control over inventory, production processes, and distribution networks.   Modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems optimized for chemical manufacturers provide the tools needed to navigate these challenges while optimizing supply chain operations. By implementing these solutions, chemical manufacturers can achieve unprecedented visibility and control across their entire supply chain, leading to improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction. The Evolving Challenges in Chemical Supply Chains Chemical manufacturers face a unique set of challenges that make supply chain optimization particularly critical. According to an American Chemistry Council survey, 86% of chemical manufacturers report that the overall regulatory burden has increased in recent years, with further regulation expected. These compliance requirements affect everything from formulation to storage, handling, and transportation.  Beyond regulatory concerns, chemical manufacturers must navigate: Complex inventory management of materials with limited shelf lives Hazardous material handling requirements Lot and batch traceability demands Global market pressures and price volatility Increasing customer expectations for transparency and service McKinsey & Company notes that chemical companies implementing digital solutions to transform their operations are seeing significant improvements in profitability and operational efficiency. However, achieving these results requires overcoming the inherent complexities of chemical supply chains. How ERP Systems Enhance Supply Chain Visibility Modern chemical manufacturing ERP solutions like Sage X3 provide comprehensive visibility across all supply chain operations. This enhanced visibility manifests in several key areas: Real-Time Inventory Tracking Chemical manufacturers must maintain precise control over raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods inventory. With a purpose-built ERP system, companies gain real-time visibility into inventory levels across multiple locations. This visibility enables more accurate forecasting, reducing both stockouts and excess inventory.  The McKinsey Chemicals Manufacturing 2030+ report indicates that an end-to-end integrated supply chain enables “reduced inventory across the value chain (including raw materials, intermediates, and finished goods) due to instant visibility of stocks.” This visibility creates opportunities to implement just-in-time inventory strategies and reduce working capital requirements. End-to-End Process Integration Chemical manufacturing involves complex, multi-stage processes that must be carefully coordinated. Modern ERP systems integrate these processes into a single platform, eliminating data silos and providing full visibility from raw material procurement through manufacturing and distribution.  This integration allows for better alignment with customer needs, faster response to market changes, and reduced lead times throughout the supply chain. McKinsey Chemicals Manufacturing 2030+ notes that an “agile supply chain coupled with segmentation reduces NWC requirements and improves market responsiveness. Enhanced Quality Control and Traceability Quality control is paramount in chemical manufacturing. ERP systems designed for the industry provide comprehensive traceability features that track materials through every stage of production. This traceability is essential for quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and efficient recall management if needed. Streamlined Compliance Management Chemical-specific ERP systems include built-in functionality to manage the complex compliance requirements facing the industry. Sage X3, for example, helps “simplify compliance: automate SDS management, ensure traceability, and manage restricted inventory with ease.” This automation reduces compliance risks while improving operational efficiency. Strategies for Optimizing Chemical Supply Chains with ERP Implementing an ERP system is just the first step. To maximize the benefits, chemical manufacturers should adopt these proven optimization strategies: Implement an Integrated Supply Chain Approach By connecting all aspects of the supply chain within a single ERP platform, chemical manufacturers can eliminate information silos and improve overall efficiency. This integration facilitates better coordination between departments and provides management with visibility into the entire operation. Leverage Advanced Analytics Modern ERP systems incorporate powerful analytics capabilities that transform raw data into actionable insights. McKinsey reports that “advanced analytics approaches allow chemicals players to gain new insights into their production lines, revealing complex interrelationships.” These insights enable continuous improvement in supply chain operations. Automate Inventory Management Automation reduces manual errors and ensures optimal inventory levels. For chemical manufacturers dealing with hazardous materials and limited shelf-life products, automated inventory management is particularly valuable. It helps reduce waste, minimize safety risks, and ensure regulatory compliance. Enhance Customer Service Through Self-Service Portals Customer-facing portals integrated with your ERP system allow customers to view transactions, place orders, and track shipments independently. This capability not only improves customer satisfaction but also reduces the workload on staff. How Polycoat Products Achieves Supply Chain Excellence Polycoat Products demonstrates the transformative impact a well-implemented ERP system can have on supply chain operations. Since implementing Sage X3 with Net at Work’s guidance, Polycoat has grown from two locations to ten, with over one million square feet of manufacturing space and a nationwide distribution network.  H.K. Sharma, Vice President of IT for Polycoat, explains that their previous ERP system could not support their ambitious growth plans. “We began looking for our next long-term solution. We only had two locations then but had a long-term growth strategy that would require a powerful ERP that could scale.”  Polycoat now processes thousands of transactions weekly through Sage X3. Their annual audit process, which previously took three months of sorting through paper documentation, now takes just hours with electronic records. The system has also enabled more efficient inventory management across their expanded operation.  With Net at Work’s assistance, Polycoat is implementing a customer self-service portal and web store where “customers can view transactions, shop, and place new orders.” This enhancement will both improve customer service and reduce administrative workload. “Polycoat Products’ annual audit process, which previously took three months of sorting through paper documentation, now takes just hours with electronic records.” The Future of Chemical Supply Chain Optimization The chemical manufacturing industry is increasingly focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and customer-centricity. According to McKinsey, by 2030, chemical companies using digital solutions will achieve significant benefits, including “maximization of profit per hour of processing plant by optimizing process parameters” and “minimization of cost and downtime associated with maintenance/repairs.”  The global chemical industry is projected to grow from $6.182 billion in 2024 to $6.324 billion in 2025, marking a year-over-year increase of 2.3%. Chemical manufacturers who invest in modern ERP systems now will be better positioned to capture this growth while maintaining operational excellence. Take the Next Step Toward Greater Supply Chain Efficiency Is your chemical manufacturing company struggling with disconnected systems, inventory challenges, or compliance concerns? Net at Work specializes in implementing Sage X3 ERP solutions optimized specifically for the chemical industry.   Contact us today for a complimentary Business Health Assessment to discover how our tailored solutions can transform your operations and help you achieve your business goals.

Fabuwood has built its reputation on delivering high-quality, stylish cabinetry at unmatched speed. As one of the industry’s most innovative manufacturers, the company blends mass production with customization, offering dealers a vast selection of designs with tailored modifications—all without the long lead times of fully custom cabinetry. To maintain its fast-paced, tech-driven business model, Fabuwood needed an ERP system that could keep up with its ambitious growth. Managing thousands of orders, tracking custom modifications, and ensuring seamless inventory management required a system built for scalability. That’s why Fabuwood turned to Acumatica and Net at Work, a trusted partner with the expertise to unlock the ERP’s full potential. A System Designed for Growth Before Acumatica, Fabuwood relied on multiple disconnected systems, making it difficult to scale efficiently. QuickBooks couldn’t handle the volume, and the lack of manufacturing and inventory capabilities created inefficiencies. Moving to Acumatica allowed Fabuwood to integrate order processing, inventory management, and production into a single, cohesive system. “Net at Work has been there for us every step of the way. We’re confident that as our business evolves, we have the right technology and the right team behind us to keep pushing forward.” Shlomo Friedman, ERP Project Manager, Fabuwood Net at Work played a critical role in optimizing the implementation, ensuring that Acumatica was configured to support Fabuwood’s semi-custom manufacturing model. “Our business depends on precision and speed,” says Shlomo Friedman, ERP Project Manager at Fabuwood. “With Acumatica, we can track orders in real-time, streamline workflows, and ensure everything moves smoothly—from the moment an order is placed to the final delivery.” Smarter Supply Chain, Faster Turnarounds With materials coming from multiple vendors and a high volume of orders constantly moving through production, visibility into the supply chain is crucial. Acumatica’s robust forecasting capabilities now allow Fabuwood to optimize purchasing and reduce excess stock while ensuring materials are available exactly when needed. “Our business thrives on fast lead times,” Friedman explains. “If we don’t have the right materials on hand, we can’t meet our delivery promises. Acumatica gives us the real-time insights we need to make better decisions and keep production on track.” The Right Technology, The Right Partner While Acumatica’s flexibility is key to Fabuwood’s success, having the right partner makes all the difference. Net at Work helped the company configure workflows that balanced out-of-the-box efficiency with necessary customizations, ensuring the system worked for their unique operations. “You shouldn’t have to customize everything,” Friedman notes. “Most of what we needed was already there. But where we do need adjustments, Net at Work makes it easy to tailor the system to our needs.” As Fabuwood continues to expand, the company now has a strong, scalable foundation to support its future growth. Whether optimizing order management, improving inventory control, or integrating new technologies, Acumatica and Net at Work provide the tools and expertise to keep Fabuwood ahead of the curve. “Net at Work is there for us every step of the way,” Friedman says. “We’re confident that as our business evolves, we have the right technology and the right team behind us to keep pushing forward.” Download the full Net at Work success story to read more about Fabuwood’s pathway to operational excellence.

For B2B merchandising powerhouse Ink, it’s all about customization—on shirts, on hats, promotional products, and in the way they run their business. With a sharp focus on delivering personalized service and standout designs, this creative, energetic company has grown steadily over its nearly 40-year history. In recent years, the order volume—and complexity—has skyrocketed. That meant it was time to rethink how they operated behind the scenes. Ink needed a platform that could keep up with that scale and complexity—without sacrificing the custom workflows and creativity that define their business. That’s where Acumatica, optimized and supported by Net at Work, came in. Sizing Up Since 2020, Ink has seen significant gains in both transaction volume and revenue. Monthly order volume has grown from a few hundred to more than 2,500, with a 25–30% year-over-year revenue increase. Despite that growth, they’ve kept their team lean—thanks to the automation and scalability built into Acumatica. “We’ve scaled significantly, and we haven’t had to grow our team at the same rate. That’s the power of automation—our people can focus on what only people can do, and the system handles the rest.” Daniel Byrum, Systems Development Director Custom Fits, Custom Scripts Ink doesn’t operate like a typical print shop—and that’s precisely the point. From eCommerce and order management to production and fulfillment, their model is “concept to commerce, and everything in between” and it involves moving quickly while still treating every client like they’re the only one that matters. Acumatica’s flexibility made it possible to configure workflows, reports, and integrations to support how Ink really works. Byrum says the team leaned heavily on Net at Work’s consultative expertise to make it all happen. “Net at Work gets it. They understand our business and don’t try to squeeze us into a standard solution,” Byrum says. “They help us shape Acumatica into something that really fits.” Efficiency Woven In One of Ink’s biggest wins is the ability to automate routine tasks like order approvals, inventory updates, and invoicing—freeing up the team to do what they do best. “Humans should be doing the things that only humans can do—like creating art, talking with customers, and solving real problems,” Byrum says. “Everything else? That’s where Acumatica shines.” Beyond the Print Ink prides itself on building genuine relationships—with customers, vendors, and now, their ERP partner. Byrum describes the connection with Net at Work as one built on trust, warmth, and a shared drive to do great work. “We care about the people we work with, and Net at Work has met us there,” he says. “They’re responsive, knowledgeable, and they feel like part of the team.” Creativity, Efficiency, and Room to Grow With Acumatica in place and Net at Work as a trusted guide, Ink is positioned to keep scaling—without losing the personal touch that makes their brand so beloved. The improvements touch every part of the business from faster reporting to better inventory control to a smoother customer experience. And with Net at Work by their side, the Ink team is free to focus on what matters most: putting creativity to work and keeping customers happy. “We’re building something meaningful here,” Byrum says. “And we’ve got the right systems and the right people to make that happen.” Download the full Net at Work success story to read more about Ink’s pathway to operational excellence.

A recent Gartner study reveals that top-performing supply chain organizations are adopting AI-driven optimization at more than twice the rate of their lower-performing peers—66% versus only 28% . This rapid embrace of predictive analytics is setting new standards for accuracy, efficiency, and agility in the distribution sector.  At Net at Work, we see firsthand how distribution companies are modernizing their operations by integrating predictive analytics into their ERP environments. In this article, we’ll demystify the power of predictive analytics, explain how it transforms forecasting and inventory management, and show how a robust ERP, tailored with the right tools and expertise, can deliver measurable, lasting value. Distribution’s Next Act: Ditching Guesswork for Data-Driven Precision Distributors today face a confluence of challenges: unpredictable global supply chains, changing demand cycles, pressure to minimize costs, and a relentless drive for customer satisfaction. The days when “best guess” sales forecasts and static inventory rules sufficed are long gone.  Modern distribution demands: Precision in forecasting: Understanding not just what will sell, but when, where, and in what quantity. Dynamic inventory control: Balancing stock levels to avoid both costly overstock and damaging stockouts. Agility and resilience: Adjusting quickly to market shifts, supplier issues, and consumer trends. Predictive analytics, when natively integrated into a modern ERP platform, is reshaping how distributors answer these demands. “Distributors who embrace predictive analytics capabilities will operate with agility, resilience, and efficiency that competitors will find hard to match.” Beyond Traditional ERP: Predictive Analytics Takes Center Stage Predictive analytics refers to a set of advanced algorithms, statistical models, and machine learning methods that use historical and real-time data to forecast future outcomes. Within a distribution ERP, predictive analytics continuously mines data from sales, purchasing, inventory transactions, supplier performance, and customer behaviors to deliver actionable insights.  A contemporary ERP solution, such as those implemented and supported by Net at Work, goes beyond traditional reporting. It enables distributors to anticipate patterns and automate smarter decisions across key areas: Demand forecasting: Anticipate future customer orders with greater accuracy. Inventory optimization: Minimize excess stock, improve turns, and maintain optimal service levels. Procurement planning: Adjust purchase orders proactively based on expected demand and supplier trends. Exception management: Rapidly detect anomalies and trigger corrective action. Supply chain visibility: Integrate signals from every node in the value chain, from inbound logistics to final delivery. Inventory Optimization—Smarter Stock Decisions on Autopilot Inventory is a distributor’s largest asset and biggest risk. Excess inventory ties up capital and warehouse space, while shortages risk lost sales and customer loyalty. Predictive analytics within ERP enables dynamic safety stock calculations, automatic reorder point adjustments, and alerts for items at risk.  With predictive analytics, the ERP can model different “what-if” scenarios and recommend optimal inventory policies for each product, location, and time window. For instance, Net at Work client case studies show average inventory reductions of 18-22% without impacting service levels, simply by enabling predictive features in their ERP and integrating tools like Netstock and Forecast Pro.  Key Value: Free up working capital for growth investments. Reduce carrying costs and obsolescence. Shrink the “bullwhip effect” throughout the supply chain. Proactive Exception Management—Stay Ahead, Not Just Afloat Modern ERPs equipped with predictive analytics recognize when something deviates from historical patterns—a surge in demand, a shipment delay, or an unexpected return spike. The system can trigger alerts for supply chain planners, suggest alternative sourcing, or automatically adjust procurement recommendations.  Consider a building materials distributor that used its ERP’s predictive exception tools to spot a sudden increase in lead times from a key supplier. The business was able to shift orders ahead of the supplier’s bottleneck, maintaining service levels when competitors experienced significant delays.  Key Value: Turn unexpected disruptions into manageable exceptions. Reduce the need for “firefighting” and manual stock adjustments. Improve customer experience with consistent availability. Inside Modern ERPs: What Drives Predictive Excellence? Not all ERP systems are equal in their ability to harness predictive analytics. A modern distribution ERP—like those delivered by Net at Work—offers: Unified data foundation By consolidating data from inventory, sales, purchasing, production, customer service, and external feeds, an ERP eliminates silos and provides a “single version of the truth.” Accurate data is the foundation for effective predictive models. Embedded analytics and AI capabilities Modern ERPs embed advanced analytics tools that continuously process large datasets in real time. They use AI and machine learning to detect trends, perform pattern recognition, and refine their predictions with every transaction. Automated workflows and prescriptive actions The most valuable predictive analytics solutions don’t just alert you to a forecasted problem—they prescribe and initiate actions. For example, they can automatically generate purchase orders, recalculate safety stock, trigger supplier notifications, or recommend pricing adjustments, all seamlessly within the ERP workflow. Scalability and integration As your distribution business grows, a cloud-enabled ERP solution scales effortlessly and integrates with best-of-breed applications (such as supply chain optimization software, ecommerce platforms, and business intelligence tools). Six Steps to Supercharge Your Predictive Analytics ROI To unlock the full value of predictive analytics in your ERP, we recommend the following steps: Start with a solid data strategy: Prioritize data cleanliness, consistency, and integration. Configure for your business: Tailor models and dashboards to your products, markets, and workflows. Invest in continuous learning: AI and machine learning models improve over time—review and refine them regularly. Engage stakeholders: Involve IT, operations, sales, and finance to align analytics with business goals. Leverage expert partnerships: Work with ERP experts like Net at Work, who understand both technology and distribution industry nuances. Track KPIs and outcomes: Measure the impact of predictive analytics on fill rates, inventory turns, lost sales, and customer satisfaction. Why Distribution Leaders Choose Net at Work for Predictive ERP Net at Work stands out by offering a complete, end-to-end approach to predictive analytics in distribution ERP: Deep industry knowledge: Our consultants understand the unique complexities of wholesale distribution. Technology partnerships: We implement and support leading ERP solutions with embedded and integrated analytics tools. Custom implementation: We tailor ERP and BI solutions to each client’s business model, data challenges, and growth goals. Ongoing support: Our commitment doesn’t end “go-live”—Net at Work offers continuous support, optimization, and training to ensure your predictive analytics initiative is a lasting success. Complementary solutions: We offer best-in-class add-ons, such as advanced Power BI dashboards, for even deeper insights. The Future Is Predictive—And It’s Already Here The predictive analytics journey is ongoing. As AI models become more advanced and ERPs even more integrated, the future promises: Self-learning supply chains that continuously improve their performance. Real-time decision making with instant scenario modeling. Integration with IoT and external data for even richer forecasts (e.g., using weather or transportation data to predict demand shifts). Prescriptive analytics that not only forecast but also recommend specific actions. Distributors who embrace these capabilities will operate with agility, resilience, and efficiency that competitors will find hard to match. Transform Your Forecasting Today Predictive analytics within a modern ERP is the new standard for distributors committed to smarter forecasting, optimized inventory, and customer excellence. With supply chains under constant pressure and margins tighter than ever, the companies that act now will gain significant, lasting advantages.  Ready to future-proof your distribution business? Contact Net at Work today for a complimentary Business Health Assessment and discover how predictive analytics in ERP can drive your next phase of growth and profitability.