Technology in Practice

Manufacturing isn’t what it was five years (or even five months!) ago. Supply chains are shifting, tariffs and trade policies are evolving, and economic uncertainty is forcing process manufacturers to rethink how and where they operate. At the same time, the U.S. is experiencing a resurgence in domestic manufacturing investment, with businesses reshoring production and navigating complex and shifting compliance requirements. Now more than ever, efficiency is a competitive necessity. Process manufacturers that can pivot quickly, optimize costs, and streamline operations have the advantage. Those relying on outdated ERP systems, disconnected processes, and manual workarounds risk falling behind. Now is the time to look hard at technology’s role in your business. The question isn’t whether an outdated process manufacturing ERP is costing you—it’s how much. The Silent Costs of Outdated Technology The reality is that legacy systems weren’t built for today’s manufacturing challenges. They lack the agility to adapt to fluctuating costs, supply chain disruptions, and the demand for real-time data. Companies that continue to rely on aging technology will struggle to compete in an era where precision, speed, and digital connectivity define market leaders. Process manufacturing is notoriously slow to adopt change. A recent ERP study found that 70% of chemical companies still rely on technology between 6 and 20 years old, with 30% operating systems over a decade old. These aging ERPs actively slow businesses down. Finance teams spend hours reconciling data, operations teams rely on spreadsheets to track production, and base inventory decisions on incomplete information. Additionally, compliance reporting takes longer than it should, increasing the risk of costly errors.” At first glance, your legacy ERP inefficiencies may seem minor. The system still runs. Reports get compiled. Orders go out. But behind the scenes, outdated technology slows production, inflates costs, and limits visibility. Instead of driving innovation, your ERP is becoming a constraint. Technology also plays a critical role in attracting and retaining talent. The next generation of leaders expects intuitive, data-driven systems that provide instant insights. Clunky, outdated software limits efficiency and reduces engagement, making it harder to build a workforce that thrives in a competitive industry. What Your Competition Is Doing Differently Industry leaders in chemical and food manufacturing aren’t waiting for their systems to fail before they act. They’re replacing fragmented, outdated platforms with modern ERP solutions that give them real-time insights, automation, and the agility to stay ahead of disruptions. These companies aren’t just modernizing for the sake of it. They’re seeing tangible returns: streamlined supply chains, better forecasting accuracy, and increased agility in responding to market shifts. Real-time data gives them an edge, allowing them to optimize inventory, improve compliance reporting, and confidently make strategic decisions. Meanwhile, companies still relying on outdated process manufacturing ERP systems are falling behind. They struggle to integrate new technologies. They react to industry changes instead of leading them. And they pour money into maintaining legacy software that wasn’t built for today’s challenges. The Risk of Doing Nothing Many executives hesitate to upgrade their ERP because they see it as a massive, disruptive investment. But staying put isn’t a neutral decision—it’s an expensive one. IT maintenance costs climb as aging systems require constant fixes. Security vulnerabilities multiply. Compliance risks increase, especially in industries with stringent regulations. And when a legacy system finally fails—whether through an unplanned outage or a vendor discontinuing support—the consequences can be severe. At some point, upgrading isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity. The real question is whether you’ll make the change on your terms or be forced into it when your current system can no longer keep up. Future-Proofing Your Business Technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Five years ago, AI-powered analytics and IoT-enabled factories were cutting-edge concepts. Today, they’re becoming standard in forward-thinking manufacturing operations. But here’s the catch—companies still running on outdated ERP systems are often locked out of these innovations. A modern ERP delivers benefits beyond operational efficiency—it creates the foundation for future technology adoption. It positions process manufacturers to integrate new tools seamlessly instead of patching together disconnected systems. The most advanced ERPs are built with open architecture, cloud connectivity, and AI-driven workflows, making it easier to take advantage of whatever comes next. Consider the rise of smart factories. Real-time data integration between machines, suppliers, and business systems reduces waste, optimizes production schedules, and minimizes downtime. IoT sensors continuously monitor equipment health, allowing predictive maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns before they happen. AI-powered analytics can identify patterns in supply chain fluctuations, helping companies anticipate and mitigate disruptions before they impact operations. These innovations aren’t theoretical. They are reshaping manufacturing today. Yet, they are only as effective as the systems they connect to. Legacy ERP struggles to process real-time data, integrate with IoT devices, or leverage AI-driven insights. Without a modern process manufacturing ERP, companies remain stuck in reactive mode, unable to take advantage of automation, machine learning, or digital twins. And then there’s the unknown. Five years ago, generative AI wasn’t on anyone’s strategic roadmap. Today, it’s transforming everything from predictive analytics to automated workflows. The same will be true for the next wave of innovations. Companies that have already modernized their ERP can quickly adopt and integrate new technologies, while those clinging to legacy systems will be forced into costly, disruptive overhauls just to keep up. A Modern ERP Creates Opportunity—and Generates ROI Technology should enable growth, not slow it down. A modern ERP system like Sage X3 provides a foundation for efficiency, scalability, and insight-driven decision-making. Real-time data eliminates guesswork, automation streamlines operations, and cloud-based platforms offer the flexibility to adapt to evolving business needs. A recent Forrester study revealed that organizations implementing Sage X3 experienced a 213% return on investment (ROI) over three years, with payback periods as short as six months. Some of the specific benefits include: Inventory Reduction: Customers enjoyed a 12% annual reduction in inventory levels, optimizing inventory management and reducing carrying costs. Operational Efficiency: Customers saved 2,080 customer service hours annually, highlighting significant improvements in operational processes. These outcomes underscore that successful ERP implementations require careful planning, industry expertise, and the right technology partner. Process manufacturers that select systems tailored to their specific industry challenges and collaborate with experienced teams are more likely to achieve these substantial benefits. Now Is the Time to Act Every business reaches a point where the systems that once supported growth become a barrier to it. That moment may already be here. If manual processes are increasing, reporting takes too long, and decision-making lacks the data to be effective, it’s time to rethink what your ERP is doing for you. The best-run companies don’t wait for technology to force their hand. They take control of the future by investing in tools that strengthen operations, improve resilience, and position them for long-term success. If your process manufacturing ERP no longer supports where your business is headed, let’s talk about your next steps.

We learned with and from our customers, met new friends, and solidified our position as a leading Acumatica partner at this year’s Acumatica Summit in Las Vegas. And thanks to the hard work and expertise of our internal Acumatica team, we brought home some new accolades and awards. First, we were honored to receive the Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of the Year Award in Distribution and to be named as a member of the Acumatica President’s Club—recognition of the service the team provides to our customers every day.  At the annual Summit Show and Sell Contest, our own Mike Davies secured first place when competing against some of the best in the business, walking away with a $5,000 prize.   Additionally, we’re proud of three Net at Work team members who are Acumatica MVPs of the Year. Dermot Comerford (Consultant), Manikanta Dhulipudi (Senior Implementation Consultant), and Zoltan Ferbert (Senior Developer), who were recognized for going above and beyond to make the Acumatica community stronger.  “These awards validate our team’s dedication to helping businesses optimize their distribution operations with Acumatica’s powerful platform,” said Chris Cleary, Net at Work’s Acumatica Practice Director. “But more than anything, the Summit was a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and engage with the entire Acumatica ecosystem.”  Summit Highlights Our time at Acumatica Summit 2025 was packed with valuable moments:  Booth #210 in the Summit marketplace was our home base for catching up with long-standing partners, meeting new faces and having great conversations.  Deirdre Waite, Acumatica Training Administrator, co-hosted an insightful session withClicklearn and their VP of Strategic Alliances, Daniel Garcia, entitled “Implementation and Onboarding: Get More Value, More Quickly Out of Your Acumatica Migration.”  John Oakley, Implementation Team Manager, led a session entitled “Master Replenishment and Planning with Acumatica,” sharing expertise on optimizing inventory management.  A Night to Remember: Our Exclusive Net at Work Event We were thrilled to host a spectacular event at Las Vegas Flight Club for nearly 200 customers, partners, and new friends. This social gathering featured:  Co-sponsorship from eight leading ISVs: Avalara, Traild, Velixo, BigCommerce, Lumber FI, Conversight, Fortis (AKA Acumatica Payments), and Netstock  A variety of darts game modes for attendees to enjoy  Connection and fun over food and drinks  Ready to Take the Next Step?  Interested in learning how Net at Work can transform your business operations with Acumatica? Contact us today for a complimentary Business Health Assessment.  

In today’s fast-paced healthcare landscape, where efficiency and precision directly impact patient care, relying on outdated systems is a risk. Legacy ERPs often fall short, leaving practices unable to adapt to changing demands. The Hidden Cost of Operational Challenges in Healthcare Inefficiencies in revenue cycle management (RCM) or patient scheduling don’t just drain resources, they can ripple across your practice, affecting everything from compliance to patient satisfaction. Here are a few examples of how outdated systems often create constraints: Disjointed scheduling and billing lead to reimbursement delays and frustrated patients. Manual financial reporting increases audit risks, impacts operating cash flow, and wastes valuable staff time. Limited access to real-time data forces reactive decision-making instead of proactive planning. These challenges not only negatively impact your profitability but also distract your staff from their main goal: delivering quality patient care. But what’s the solution? Enter modern healthcare ERP solutions—agile, AI-powered, and purpose-built to meet the unique challenges of healthcare. Key Considerations When Choosing an ERP Solution To address your healthcare practice’s unique operational challenges, keep these factors in mind: Identify Persistent Issues: Pinpoint inefficiencies in billing, scheduling, or reporting that affect metrics such as patient satisfaction or hospital readmission rates. Prioritize Flexibility and Scalability: Modern ERP systems such as Sage Intacct grow with your practice, adapting to increased patient volumes or new regulatory demands. Seek Healthcare-Specific Features: Choose a solution designed with your practice’s unique needs in mind. How Sage Intacct Solves These Issues Modern ERP solutions, like Sage Intacct, offer the speed, flexibility, and intelligence that are essential in healthcare today. By improving operations and refining data integration, these systems help healthcare practices thrive. Financial Accuracy with Automation: Eliminate manual errors with automated billing and gain real-time financial insights for faster, more accurate decisions. Optimized Scheduling: Enhance patient flow with integrated scheduling systems that reduce downtime and improve resource allocation. Simplified Compliance: Ensure regulatory compliance and improve patient safety with automated reporting and real-time audit trails tailored for healthcare. Actionable Insights: Empower your team with centralized data for actionable insights that improve both business performance and patient care. Contact us today to learn how Sage Intacct can help.

In the competitive HVAC distribution industry, where service, reliability, and innovation are paramount, Russell Sigler Inc. has remained a trusted name for over 65 years. From its beginnings as a family-owned business, the company has grown into a regional powerhouse, with over 800 employees, 35 locations, and $1.3 billion in annual sales. Behind this success lies a commitment to continuous improvement and a partnership with Net at Work that ensures its technology keeps pace with its ambitions. Powering Growth with Smart Tech Russell Sigler began relying on Sage X3 approximately 15 years ago. As one of the ERP’s earliest adopters, the company quickly recognized its flexibility and scalability, tailoring the system to fit its evolving workflows. From managing transactions to integrating tools like eCommerce platforms and warehouse systems, Sage X3 became a cornerstone of its operations. “Net at Work isn’t just a partner—they are the partner. Their depth of resources and expertise gave us confidence that we could grow and adapt without missing a beat.” Matt Osborne, COO, Russell Sigler, Inc. However, when Sage Professional Services Group—which initially implemented Sage X3—disbanded, Russell Sigler faced a turning point. They needed a new partner capable of supporting their highly customized ERP system and helping them unlock their full potential. After interviewing multiple resellers, Net at Work emerged as the clear choice. “Net at Work isn’t just a partner—they are the partner,” explains Matt Osborne, COO. “Their depth of resources and expertise gave us confidence that we could grow and adapt without missing a beat.” Technology That Keeps the Pace Scalability is critical for a fast-moving company like Russell Sigler. Over the past decade, the company has doubled its workforce and branch network, expanding its reach across the western United States. Sage X3, supported by Net at Work’s expert team, has scaled seamlessly to meet these demands, handling increased transaction volumes and integrating new systems that streamline operations. For example, customers can now place orders online through Russell Sigler’s eCommerce platform, with transactions flowing directly into Sage X3 for processing. Payment solutions empower customers to easily pay invoices online or at branch locations. These innovations save time, reduce errors, and enhance the overall customer experience. “Every enhancement we make to Sage X3 is about making life easier for our employees and customers,” says Osborne. “It’s a system that grows with us, and Net at Work ensures we’re always leveraging it to its full potential.” A Partnership Built on Trust What truly sets Russell Sigler’s success story apart is the strength of their partnership with Net at Work. The continuity of support—some consultants have been with the company’s Sage X3 practice for over 15 years—ensures a deep understanding of their business and customizations. This trust allows Russell Sigler to confidently tackle challenges and pursue new opportunities. “Sage X3’s flexibility is only part of the equation,” says Vladimir Shvidky, ERP Manager. “Net at Work’s team knows us inside and out. They understand how to put the puzzle pieces together, so we can focus on what matters—improving our business.” Always Moving Forward With plans to implement barcoding and explore additional system enhancements, Russell Sigler shows no signs of slowing down. Their dedication to continuous improvement, paired with Sage X3’s adaptability and Net at Work’s support, positions them for long-term success in an ever-changing market. “Our goal is simple: make things better every day,” Osborne concludes. “With Sage X3 and Net at Work, we’re more than keeping up—we’re leading the way.” Download the full Net at Work success story to read more about Russell Sigler’s pathway to operational excellence.

Choosing and implementing a modern ERP is a significant undertaking for most small to medium-sized businesses, and even the thought of going through this process can be daunting. But organizations like Riley Sales, who upgraded to Acumatica with the support of Net at Work, realized benefits such as: Reducing their monthly close from 22 days to 5 days Eliminating the need for an additional FTE position Removing quoting responsibilities from sales and granting AR access to statements In this article, we take you through the primary benefits of a modern ERP system and provide more examples of Net at Work customers who are experiencing these benefits through savings and increased efficiency. Understanding ERP Systems ERP systems serve as a central database for the entire company, offering valuable reporting potential and numerous ways to increase productivity and lower costs across the organization. By centralizing data, ERP systems provide cross-departmental visibility, enable efficient analysis, resolve data conflicts, and drive process improvements. This translates to cost savings and better productivity as employees spend less time searching for needed data. Benefits of Modern ERP Systems for SMBs Data Security and Centralization: Modern ERP systems enhance data security by storing all company data in one place, reducing the risk of data breaches and improving compliance with regulations. This centralized approach also standardizes data formats, making it easier to generate reports and analytics. Increased Productivity: ERP systems can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on higher-value projects. For instance, automation can reduce manual data entry and processing, allowing staff to concentrate on strategic initiatives. This increased productivity means SMBs may not need to add as many new employees as they grow. Visibility and Decision-Making: With real-time visibility into business operations, managers can make faster and more informed decisions. This visibility helps identify inefficiencies and opportunities for cost savings, such as preventing over-production or rush orders. Scalability and Flexibility: Modern ERP solutions are scalable and flexible, adapting to changes in business operations as the company grows. Cloud-based ERP systems, in particular, support growth by managing hardware and software updates, ensuring that the company always has the latest version without additional IT costs. Collaboration and Customer Service: ERP systems improve collaboration by providing a unified view of business processes, allowing teams to work together more effectively. Additionally, they enhance customer service by offering a complete view of customer interactions, enabling personalized experiences and timely issue resolution. How ERP Systems Help SMBs Save Money Reduced Manual Labor: By automating tasks such as data entry and financial reporting, ERP systems significantly reduce the need for manual labor, decreasing costs associated with employee time and reducing the likelihood of human errors. Improved Financial Management: ERP systems enhance cash flow management by providing insights into financial health, improving invoicing accuracy, and ensuring timely payments. Advanced accounting features help small businesses manage their finances more effectively, reducing costs associated with financial mismanagement. Efficient Resource Planning: ERP systems support optimal planning and management of a company’s resources. They help ensure efficient use of resources in areas such as merchandise management, production, warehouse management, and human resources, leading to time and cost savings.   Real-Life Examples of Savings and Increased Efficiency After Genesee Country Village & Museum migrated to Sage Intacct,  they noticed several areas of savings: A dozen hours saved during the budgeting cycle by automating manual processes Heightened efficiency allows their finance team to operate with just 3.5 FTEs, saving 2 additional hires Real-time financial visibility enables managers to monitor budgets and make timely adjustments Midway Industrial Supply replaced a legacy ERP with Acumatica and realized the following ROI: 25% efficiency gains across teams and departments Automated workflows and business reduce staff touchpoints, decreasing the time to payment and increasing cash flow Even with three acquisitions, only one new finance hire was needed Polycoat Products migrated to Sage X3 after their legacy ERP was sunsetted. The benefits they received from this upgrade include: Annual business audit reduced from a few months to a few hours Growth from 2 to 10 locations seamlessly supported, handling thousands of transactions weekly Customer self-service portal improves customer service and saves staff time Choosing the Right ERP System When selecting an ERP system, SMBs should perform a thorough needs assessment to ensure the chosen system supports current and future business requirements. It’s crucial to evaluate vendors based on their track record, scalability, and customization capabilities. Additionally, assessing the total cost of ownership, including implementation and operating expenses, is essential for making an informed decision. Upgrading to a modern ERP system can be transformative for small to medium-sized businesses. By automating processes, enhancing efficiency, and providing real-time data for informed decision-making, ERP systems help SMBs save money and allocate resources more efficiently. Whether it’s through cost savings, improved financial management, or enhanced customer engagement, the benefits of a modern ERP are undeniable. To explore how a modern ERP system can transform your business, contact us today for a complimentary Business Health Assessment.

For nearly 40 years, Mission Tile West has been a premier destination for homeowners, designers, and builders seeking high-quality, beautifully crafted tile. With an extensive selection from over 200 vendors—from small artisan workshops to major manufacturers—the company has built a reputation for excellence and expertise. But Mission Tile West is more than just a tile supplier. Its knowledgeable sales team provides a high-touch experience, helping customers design entire spaces, guiding them through material selection, layout, and finishing details. Founded in 1984, the company has grown from a small operation into a respected leader in the tile industry. It now has three retail locations and two manufacturing facilities. Throughout this, the company has remained deeply rooted in family values, strong relationships, and a commitment to its customers. “As companies grow, they have to disrupt old processes to make room for better ones. Net at Work has given us the right foundation to move forward with confidence.” George Adamson, Co-Owner, Mission Tile West The company’s sense of responsibility extends beyond the showroom. Mission Tile West serves communities significantly impacted by the recent Southern California wildfires, and it has taken an active role in supporting affected homeowners, builders, and designers. Whether helping customers navigate product selections during difficult times or delaying orders when necessary, its mission goes beyond selling tile—it’s about caring for the community it calls home. This philosophy of care and commitment drives every decision the company makes, including its approach to business technology. When they realized their ERP implementation wasn’t serving their needs, they sought a trusted partner who would prioritize their success as they prioritize their customers. That partner is Net at Work. A Rocky Start with NetSuite Mission Tile West recognized the need for a more advanced ERP system and selected NetSuite, following a recommendation from another industry leader. Initially, they worked directly with another implementation team, expecting a seamless transition. Instead, they encountered a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach that didn’t account for their business’s specific needs. The implementation process felt slow and impersonal, with multiple team members cycling in and out, forcing them to re-explain challenges in every meeting. George Adamson, co-owner of Mission Tile West, describes the experience as frustrating. The system itself had the capabilities they needed, but the lack of customization and strategic guidance left them with inefficient workflows and missed opportunities. Instead of feeling empowered by their new system, they found themselves working around it rather than with it. A Better Way Forward Determined to turn things around, Mission Tile West sought a second opinion. A fellow tile company introduced them to Net at Work, a trusted NetSuite implementation partner with a reputation for tailoring solutions to meet each client’s specific needs. The difference was immediate. Instead of a revolving door of consultants, they had a dedicated team that took the time to understand their business model and objectives. With Net at Work’s expertise, they quickly made progress. Instead of waiting weeks for simple adjustments, consultants worked alongside them in real-time, configuring reports, refining workflows, and addressing inefficiencies on the spot. One of the biggest wins was setting up centralized purchasing, shifting ordering responsibilities from individual salespeople to a dedicated purchasing team. This eliminated duplicate efforts, improved efficiency, and allowed the sales team to focus on what they do best—helping customers bring their design visions to life. Growth with Confidence The transformation has been profound. Mission Tile West now has a NetSuite system that works for them, not the other way around. Sales teams have better financial visibility, with real-time access to order tracking and sales performance metrics previously only available at the end of the month. Payment processing is faster and more seamless, reducing the time spent on administrative tasks. Net at Work continues to provide ongoing support, ensuring that the system evolves alongside the company’s needs. As the business grows, Adamson sees NetSuite and Net at Work as essential to the company’s future. The transition wasn’t just about upgrading software—it was about creating a foundation that allows them to scale without sacrificing the personalized service that has defined Mission Tile West for decades. “As companies grow, they have to disrupt old processes to make room for better ones,” Adamson says. “Net at Work has given us the right foundation to move forward with confidence.” Download the full Net at Work success story to read more about Mission Tile West’s pathway to operational excellence.

Net at Work is happy to be exhibiting at this year’s SOCMA Show, an annual conference held by the Society for Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates (SOCMA), which will take place from February 19 through February 21 in Nashville.   “The theme of this year’s SOCMA Show, ‘Adapting Supply Chains for a Changing World,’ is particularly important to us as technology advisors,” says Samantha Marshall, Net at Work’s Sage X3 Practice Director. “We’re proud to partner with chemical manufacturing companies to help them choose and implement technology that can help them thrive amidst the growing complexities of today’s global supply chains.”  Event Highlights We’re also excited to gain insights into the latest chemical manufacturing industry trends and hear from experts about regulatory developments, technological innovations, and many more topics. Below are two sessions that we are particularly interested in:  “Driving Innovation Through AI and Next-Generation Products”  Speaker: Jessie Walters, Global Procurement Director – External Manufacturing, Evonik  Wednesday, February 19 at 2:00 pm  This session will explore how AI, machine learning, and innovative technologies are reshaping the way companies source, evaluate, and manage specialty chemicals, driving both operational efficiency and product innovation.  “Localization and Building Regional Supplier Networks”  Speakers: Jonnie Woertink, Business Development, Huntsman   Charise Kahre, Global Tolling Director, Momentive  Moderated by  Brian Burkhart, Vice President, Milliken   Thursday February 20 at 2:00 pm  Industry experts will explore how localization and the development of regional supplier networks can not only reduce risks but also enhance competitiveness, operational efficiency, and responsiveness to market demands. They will share insights on how companies can strategically localize their sourcing and supplier relationships to achieve greater supply chain resilience.     Connect with Us at Booth 418 Net at Work specializes in helping chemical manufacturers and distributors meet industry requirements such as regulatory compliance and process optimization through the configurable features of modern ERP solutions, such as Sage X3. If you’re attending, please stop by Booth 418 to discuss the unique needs of your company and see how we can help you adapt to the ever-changing world of chemical manufacturing. 

In today’s business landscape, distributors face unprecedented challenges in managing complex supply chains, meeting customers’ growing expectations, and maintaining competitive advantages. A holistic technology infrastructure is a necessity for the survival and growth of your organization. Let’s explore how an integrated approach to technology can transform your distribution operations.  What is a Holistic Technology Infrastructure? When we say holistic, we want to look at all your systems as a whole unit. We’re interested in how each piece of technology works to run your business and how those systems support not just the department or functional area that primarily uses them, but also how the critical data it holds is made available to cross-functional teams.   The Challenge: Fragmented Systems Hold Distributors Back It’s common for organizations to operate with a hodgepodge of disconnected systems: separate solutions for inventory management, order processing, accounting, and customer relationship management. This fragmentation creates data silos, reduces visibility, and forces staff to waste valuable time on manual data entry and reconciliation. The result? Increased errors, delayed decision-making, and missed opportunities for growth.  Understanding Holistic Technology Infrastructure A holistic technology infrastructure is built on modern software, which creates a seamless, integrated ecosystem where all components work together efficiently. This approach encompasses:  Core Business Systems Integration At the heart of a holistic infrastructure is a unified business platform such as NetSuite, which connects critical functions including:  Financial management and accounting  Inventory and warehouse management  Order management and fulfillment  Customer relationship management  E-commerce integration  Supply chain management  Real-Time Data Flow When systems are properly integrated, data flows automatically between departments and functions. This enables:  Accurate inventory visibility across all locations  Immediate order status updates  Real-time financial reporting  Automated purchase order generation  Dynamic pricing adjustments  Advanced Analytics and Reporting A holistic approach transforms raw data into actionable insights through:  Predictive analytics for demand forecasting  Customer buying pattern analysis  Inventory optimization recommendations  Performance metrics and KPIs  Custom reporting capabilities  Sonic Packaging’s Industries and the Benefits of Going Holistic  Sonic Packaging Industries, an innovative packaging and distribution company, was challenged by disconnected applications that couldn’t fully address its diverse business model, causing it to take many tasks offline. So, they partnered with Net at Work to design a modern, configurable ERP solution that can support its growth initiatives for years to come.   Since their implementation of NetSuite, Sonic Packaging has received substantial benefits including:  Optimized custom processes within one cloud business management solution  Eliminated duplicate data entry   Automated workflows and approvals provide compliance with Sonic Packaging’s Quality Management System and Risk Management review process   Targeted software enhancements create end-to-end solution providing visibility at every step  Harry Paulison, Sonic Packaging’s COO, notes that one of the mistakes companies make during software implementations is trying to replicate exactly what they were doing in the old system. “This is where Net at Work adds value,” Paulison says. “They worked with us to revise our processes in order to optimize — not duplicate — them within NetSuite.”   As a direct result of careful pre-planning and project management, Sonic Packaging was live inside of six months.  “Net at Work really kept the project focused and on track,” Paulison says. “As a result, we were fully operational from day one.”  Building Your Organization’s Holistic Infrastructure   NetSuite offers distributors a comprehensive platform that serves as the foundation for a holistic technology infrastructure. Its cloud-based architecture ensures:  Seamless integration between business functions  Regular updates and new features  Enhanced security and reliability  Mobile accessibility  Scalability for growth  Taking the Next Step Creating a holistic technology infrastructure is a continuous journey that takes twists and turns as markets and your business needs change. You can start by assessing your current systems and identifying gaps and opportunities for integration.   To accelerate your journey, consider working with an experienced partner like Net at Work. We understand both the technical and business aspects of distribution operations, and we can help you develop a technology infrastructure that meets your current needs and can adapt as your organization changes in the future.   Contact us for a complimentary business assessment that will help identify your current needs and plans for continued growth.

Over the past fifty years, BGR Packaging has evolved from a small startup into a trusted powerhouse in the packaging industry. As the company grew from selling packaging tape out of a garage to establishing a strong presence in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio, BGR has always valued its close-knit, supportive culture. Now, with a bold new vision, BGR is on a journey to become a national packaging supplier by 2040, and its path forward involves evolving and expanding its business model, becoming a supply chain partner, and prioritizing sustainability. But this ambitious plan requires a streamlined, efficient back-office system — and that’s where the company’s collaboration with a technology partner plays a pivotal role. Rising to the Challenge with a Trusted Partner BGR has relied on Sage X3 for many years, but as their growth ambitions ramped up, so did their need for a partner who could help them make the most of this system. BGR needed to optimize Sage X3’s capabilities without sacrificing the customizations they had carefully tailored to their needs. Following a considered and careful search, BGR chose Net at Work and its Sage X3 consulting and development teams. Chris Dreyer, BGR’s Information Systems Manager, was impressed by Net at Work’s depth of knowledge and their reputation for innovation. “Net at Work brings both the big-picture perspective and attention to detail,” Dreyer shares. “Their goal is to help us get the most out of our existing system so we can keep innovating in packaging and supply chain solutions.” Tackling Complexity Head-On Over the years, BGR’s Sage X3 system had accumulated many customizations, which were critical to its operations but also added layers of complexity. As the company focused on growth, it became clear that it needed to streamline its system. Net at Work collaborated with BGR to review these customizations to reduce unnecessary complexities and increase efficiency. The long-term plan? Move closer to a “vanilla” version of Sage X3, allowing BGR to leverage new features and avoid the heavy upkeep that customizations require. “They’re not just managing our system. They’re partners in our mission. Net at Work allows us to focus on expansion and strategic goals. It’s been a night-and-day difference.” Chris Dreyer, Information Systems Manager, BGR Rather than continually investing in on-staff developers, BGR redirected those resources toward these streamlining efforts. With Net at Work’s support, they’re optimizing their system and taking full advantage of Sage X3’s latest capabilities, achieving innovation without the overhead of extensive custom code. “It’s all about staying nimble,” Dreyer notes. “By reducing costs, we’re freeing up more resources for growth.” Building a Support System that Adds Value One of the most significant benefits of partnering with Net at Work is their structured, client-focused approach. BGR has a dedicated point of contact at Net at Work who coordinates support and services across the board, allowing Dreyer to focus on strategic projects rather than day-to-day system management. As a result, BGR’s team can concentrate on high-impact initiatives, like expanding their offerings in sustainability and supply chain analysis, while knowing their Sage X3 infrastructure is in expert hands. Dreyer emphasizes how Net at Work has allowed them to keep their focus where it matters most. “They’re not just managing our system. They’re partners in our mission,” he explains. “Net at Work allows us to focus on expansion and strategic goals. It’s been a night-and-day difference.” A Future Focused on Growth and Innovation Looking ahead, BGR is committed to scaling smartly and sustainably. They’re transitioning to platforms like Azure and Boomi, paving the way for seamless data integration and process automation. By building a solid technological foundation, BGR is preparing for national expansion while staying true to its roots as an innovative packaging leader. With Net at Work as their support system, BGR is confident in their ability to tackle the challenges ahead and capitalize on new opportunities. Download the full Net at Work success story to read more about BGR’s pathway to operational excellence.