Send us a text In 2023, when you delve into the realm of supply chain suites, you'll discover a landscape filled with highly specialized solutions tailored to specific industries. These suites are not one-size-fits-all; instead, they are meticulously designed to cater to the unique challenges and requirements of particular sectors. The top 10 supply chain suites in 2023 exemplify this trend, offering industry-specific solutions that empower businesses to streamline their operations, enhance...
Nov 27, 2023•21 min•Ep. 540
Send us a text While several companies claim to have supply chain tower capabilities and visibility platforms, very few of them own a network. Also, companies that might own a network might not be open, requiring vendors to opt in each time with every customer. So, even if a software vendor claims to have millions of businesses in their network, they might not be meaningful unless you have access to them and their data. One such network that is completely open and perhaps the largest is E2 Open,...
Nov 21, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 539
Send us a text Supply chain planning and management have witnessed a significant transformation in recent times, largely attributed to the emergence of industry-wide networks. The intricate web of connections among supply chain stakeholders has proven to be a powerful force in shaping the industry's dynamics. COVID-19's disruptive impact accelerated this shift, forcing businesses to reevaluate their strategies and adapt to new challenges. In 2023, these business networks hold even grea...
Nov 20, 2023•23 min•Ep. 538
Send us a text While everyone would talk about the importance of understanding your customers, it’s even more critical when working with stressed and distressed businesses. Most CEOs, when they are given an assignment for fixing a distressed business, all start with evaluating their team, but then what really moves the needle is the deep understanding of the customer and crafting strategies around that. But even that is not enough, as you would need enough liquidity to ensure that you have enoug...
Nov 14, 2023•39 min•Ep. 537
Send us a text Supply chain management is a complex field that relies heavily on the seamless integration of various software components. One of the common challenges faced by supply chain professionals is the distinction between the planning and execution aspects of enterprise software. This struggle to differentiate between planning and execution can hinder organizations from optimizing their supply chain operations effectively. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses a critical aspect...
Nov 13, 2023•23 min•Ep. 536
Send us a text While the ERP space has seen some independent companies, the independent term is even more important in the TMS and WMS space. This is because the large majority of the TMS platforms are owned by managed transportation and supply chain companies. The space is also interwoven, with most vendors collaborating with each other because of data sharing, even with their competitors. Also, while TMS platforms have advanced their technology, most are still running on legacy platforms. So, ...
Nov 07, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 535
Send us a text If you're in the market for a Warehouse Management System (WMS), you're about to embark on a journey through a vast landscape of options. The world of WMS is brimming with diverse solutions, each designed from a unique perspective, offering specific layers of functionality that cater to various business needs. As you delve into your evaluation process, it's crucial to recognize that the success of your operations hinges on selecting the right WMS. With so many choic...
Nov 06, 2023•28 min•Ep. 534
Send us a text The planning systems serve a critical function in architecture. They are not meant to be a replacement for an ERP. They are also not supposed to host the ERP processes inside them. The planning systems could vary per industry and sometimes could be even more complicated than an ERP. So where does Kinexis stand in its capabilities, and how does it compare with other supply chain systems? In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on Linked...
Oct 31, 2023•57 min•Ep. 533
Send us a text If you're in the market for a TMS (Transportation Management System) solution, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming. The landscape of TMS systems in 2023 is vast and diverse, making it challenging to identify the ones that truly align with your specific needs. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the world of transportation management systems and explores the top 10 TMS systems in 2023. He also discusses how narrowing down your choices and focu...
Oct 30, 2023•31 min•Ep. 532
Send us a text There is always a fine line in running a business. eCommerce businesses take trademark and IP issues very lightly until they are involved in a transaction where business buyers might see them as a risk if their brand assets are not protected. eCommerce merchants take these issues lightly as they don’t understand what’s necessary to protect vs. what may be overkill. So, what does an eCommerce merchant need to know about protecting assets that matter the most during business transac...
Oct 24, 2023•50 min•Ep. 531
Send us a text If you're currently on the hunt for project management software, brace yourself for an array of choices that can easily overwhelm you. Evaluating these options is a crucial step. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top project management systems in 2023. He also discusses the differences between different architectural needs for project-centric companies and why that could drive an appropriate choice for project management software. For more information on gro...
Oct 23, 2023•30 min•Ep. 530
Send us a text The WMS systems come in various shapes and sizes. While it may not be appropriate for every business model, getting a WMS pre-integrated still matters. WMS integration is extremely hard, especially for the high volume businesses. It might also be substantially expensive for mid-market companies that might not have as much IT budget. Also, does international localization matter for WMS systems the way it would for ERP systems? So where does Infor WMS differ from other solutions in ...
Oct 17, 2023•52 min•Ep. 529
Send us a text What are the roles and responsibilities of the Director/VP of IT? Also, the role has changed substantially with cloud technologies. Additionally, each industry may have different expectations from the Director/VP of IT role. So are IT directors/VPs responsible for managing the helpdesk or infrastructure? Or would their responsibility be primarily to manage business systems? So which are the KPIs they need to measure to manage their function? In today's episode, we invited a p...
Oct 16, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 528
Send us a text Navigating the ERP industry can be challenging. While numerous companies offer ERP-related services, not all are independent ERP consultants dedicated solely to unbiased advisory and guidance. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 types of companies that might provide some level of ERP-related assistance but are not independent ERP consultants. He also discusses that while they all have great strengths in their respective areas, they are not necessarily fit for ...
Oct 10, 2023•20 min•Ep. 527
Send us a text Forecasts are often wrong. But not planning in the fear of forecasts being wrong is like operating in the dark. Some companies are likely to be slightly more mature in planning, while others might not be as sophisticated. The same thing goes for the industries as well. Planning is must-have in certain industries but not so much in other industries. Regardless of how much time and money you invest in planning, not planning is not smart. In today's episode, our guest, Lee Bartl...
Oct 09, 2023•37 min•Ep. 526
Send us a text Maintaining data integrity post ERP implementation is crucial for the sustainability of an ERP implementation. Most companies end up corrupting their data right after implementation as soon as they release it to users due to the lack of governance processes. Some issues might be so severe that they are irreparable. The issues are of special significance in the world of cloud as now companies don’t have access to databases, and because of this, they don’t have the same level of con...
Oct 03, 2023•16 min•Ep. 525
Send us a text What do you have in common in the retail and healthcare market? You would think nothing. Believe it or not, it's Workday and Tecsys. In fact, they both are installed together and tightly collaborate. In a world with plenty of Supply Chain solutions out there, Tecsys is unique. It not only has the software components such as WMS, TMS, OMS, etc., but it also has several hardware solutions integrated with it. So where does Tecsys fit in its capabilities? And how does it compare ...
Oct 02, 2023•57 min•Ep. 524
Send us a text Data re-engineering plays a crucial role in successful ERP implementation. If not handled well, they can lead to implementation failure regardless of how good the technology or the new system may be. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 ERP data re-engineering candidates that demand careful consideration during your implementation journey. He also discusses why if you don’t re-engineer these datasets, they might drive even more complications with the new system...
Sep 26, 2023•19 min•Ep. 523
Send us a text Even the coolest DTC brands are struggling now as investors look for accountability and profitability. The cost of shipping and products has added substantial pressure for DTC brands to rethink their operations. Also, consumers' demands are harder to manage with their expectations of one or two days delivery. So what can DTC brands do to stay competitive in this market? In today's episode, our guest, Manish Chowdhary, discusses why only acquiring customers is not enough ...
Sep 25, 2023•33 min•Ep. 522
Send us a text Choosing an ERP solution that delivers business results is challenging. The foundation of this momentous undertaking lies in a well-crafted Request for Proposal (RFP). Whether you plan to write a formal RFP or not, understanding its components can help you hit on the points that are make or break for your ERP selection and implementation. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 critical components that must take center stage in your ERP Selection RFP. He also disc...
Sep 19, 2023•14 min•Ep. 521
Send us a text There is a clear divide in the TMS market. Some TMS systems are provided by technology companies, while others are marketplaces that combine their managed services. The marketplaces also compete as a carrier on their own platform. The question is: how much would you trust their data when they have a clear conflict of interest with their rating engine? This is very similar to carriers such as UPS or FedEx providing their software and integrating with every other vendor in the marke...
Sep 18, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 520
Send us a text When contemplating an ERP project, one of the primary obstacles you'll face is establishing a structured process for selecting the right ERP solution. It is crucial to have a well-defined roadmap that can guide you through the decision-making journey. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 steps of the ERP selection process in 2023. He also explores the individual steps that constitute an effective ERP selection process. Finally, he shares valuable insights ...
Sep 12, 2023•25 min•Ep. 519
Send us a text If you're considering embarking on an ERP project, one of the critical choices you'll have to make is whether to incorporate a comprehensive selection process. It's natural to have some uncertainties about the benefits you can expect from this process. However, grasping the essential deliverables is vital to guarantee the success of your ERP implementation. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 ERP selection deliverables in 2023. He also explores ...
Sep 11, 2023•27 min•Ep. 518
Send us a text In discussions about ERPs, it is common for individuals to criticize the technical vendors or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and argue that their biases stem from financial arrangements or compensation. While these monetary factors can undeniably influence biases, it is important to acknowledge that biases in ERP selection can arise from various sources, each posing equal dangers. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the Top 10 ERP Selection Biases. He also thoro...
Sep 05, 2023•17 min•Ep. 517
Send us a text The startup, consumer, and enterprise markets are like different planets in the business galaxy. Disrupting the consumer market doesn't guarantee enterprise success. It's like rocking the party but struggling with a corporate ball. Also, the convergence of the consulting and enterprise market is not new, whether consulting companies bundle products as part of their portfolio or product companies offer consulting as part of their bundle. Transplace was one of the most clo...
Sep 04, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 516
Send us a text There are several techniques for conversion rate optimization. But unless you test, it’s hard to know what may perform. Also, the conversion techniques could have nuances based on the platform. What may work on Shopify may not work on BigCommerce. So which are the conversion rate techniques that are most effective on the Shopify platform? In today's episode, our guest, Eric Even Haim, discusses conversion rate optimization stories and techniques. He also discusses the differe...
Aug 28, 2023•34 min•Ep. 515
Send us a text Running warehouse operations for an enterprise isn't easy. Most people talk about the complexity of SAP. But when you are heavy lifting at that level, you need firepower besides layers of data objects. You get traceability because of these objects. But that also makes implementation extremely challenging. Also, when you are over $1B in revenue with warehouse and retail operations, you need to figure out how you would decouple your architecture. If you have an embedded WMS wit...
Aug 21, 2023•58 min•Ep. 514
Send us a text You get bad results faster by automating broken processes. And warehouse is a classic example where thinking through your physical processes and aligning the physical and digital layout is important. But most digital consultants, not experts in products or retail operations, miss the intel that is critical for safety and warehouse efficiency. They might put a product at a location where it might not be safe for warehouse workers or might feel like a cart before a horse. And that’s...
Aug 14, 2023•42 min•Ep. 513
Send us a text The problem with software applications and concepts is that what TMS means to you may be very different from what TMS means to me. Each TMS solution is designed from the perspective of a very specific business model, transactions, and micro-industries. Even among the same TMS vendor, there might be several TMS applications that they might carry targeted for very specific use cases. Also, a TMS designed for international operations is very different from local truckload-centric ope...
Aug 07, 2023•55 min•Ep. 512
Send us a text The tech stack of eCommerce has grown so much that you require several middlewares, with the middle being different for each of them. Also, the middle keep shifting as time advances, and as a result, the architecture changes accordingly. Guided selling has been one area in which it is hard to pinpoint where it would fit in the architecture, although it plays a crucial role in providing tailored experiences for users who might not know what they are looking for. Also, let’s admit t...
Jul 31, 2023•43 min•Ep. 511
