Abstract: Whether you’re familiar with the world of accounting or not, understanding the basic concepts and principles of accounting functions can give you an essential edge in the competitive manufacturing sector. This in-depth guide, complete with glossary, takes you through the step-by-step process of cost accounting for manufacturers—from prototype manufacturing, shipping, and full production, through to financial reports.

Abstract: Replacing an aging enterprise resource planning/manufacturing resource planning (ERP/MRP) system to stay competitive brings with it a host of questions.

Abstract: Today’s consumers expect that the products they order will be delivered in a timely fashion—so timely, in fact, that the demands are often far greater than a manufacturer’s capabilities. Being unable to meet order request deadlines can be costly for producers. Learn about a solution that can help: material requirements planning (MRP) software can ensure materials and products are available for production and delivery.

Abstract: Small businesses often become trapped by their outdated accounting systems, limiting their profits and arresting their growth. How can your business avoid this software trap? Planning and anticipating your business growth will help you minimize this costly mistake. Find the right accounting or enterprise resource planning solution to help your small business continue to expand and remain successful.

Abstract: Recent changes in accounting standards and compliance, along with greater emphasis on managing risk and value, have introduced new key measures of bank performance and made it more important to coordinate the internal and external reporting of financials and risk. To meet these challenges, banks must do their utmost to more fully integrate their accounting data and processes.

Abstract: Making a list and checking it twice is a particularly good practice when picking a finance and accounting software solution. If you don’t find the right product for your company, you’ll just pay for the mistakes on the back end. But first you need to know which features your small to midsize business must have and which you don’t want. Get some tips that will help you create your finance and accounting checklist.

Abstract: As a result of this push towards full eBusiness integration, businesses face challenges that force them to push the envelope of business information systems. ERP grew from its predecessors of MRP and MRP II, constantly expanding its solution footprint to address more and more of the needs of the enterprise. As you approach eBusiness, whether you do so eagerly or are dragged there kicking and screaming, you will find your business much more exposed.

Abstract: For years, Sage MAS 90 ERP served Metrolina Greenhouses well as its accounting and distribution solution. But continued growth and expansion led it to seek a comprehensive warehouse management solution (WMS), to incorporate materials requirement planning (MRP) procedures and radio frequency identification (RFID) for better planning and control. Metrolina discovered Sage MAS 500 had the MRP software it needed. Learn more.

Abstract: CAMACO, a leading seating systems solutions provider, needed to replace its outdated, unmanageable batch-process manufacturing resource planning (MRP) system with a completely integrated MRP/enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution. Learn how the company’s new solution addressed its network issues while reducing its existing burden of high maintenance costs and expensive hardware and software upgrades.

Abstract: While lean/flow leverages practices to stay ahead of actual demand, traditional approaches better coordinate secondary, back-office systems like accounting and HR. Moreover, flow should be a company-wide strategy that impacts more than manufacturing.

Abstract: The benefits of implementing a manufacturing system are well known and well documented, but there are many factors to consider when selecting a system. Companies seeking to automate their manufacturing systems, wanting to upgrade entry-level software, or seeking new technology need to ask themselves serious questions to determine if and what type of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to get. Learn how to assess if you need a new ERP system for your process manufacturing environment.

Abstract: Have you come to the conclusion that your company needs a supply chain planning system? Do you need to provide management and other key decision makers with reasons why you need a supply chain planning system? One way that a supply chain planning system can help you is by enforcing best practices and processes. Get more details on this and 10 other reasons why you should implement a supply chain system that works for you.

Abstract: As time passes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems drift further and further into misalignment with enterprise goals, strategies, and tactics. Eventually your legacy ERP system begins to interfere with your company’s ability to operate efficiently. Examine ERP evaluation criteria and techniques, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to measure your current ERP system’s effectiveness.

Abstract: Old-world quality is great for a chocolate manufacturer, but old-style business systems are not. Hauser Chocolatier learned this the hard way, struggling for years with DOS-based accounting software. Needing a seamless flow of information from a system that would accommodate Hauser’s unique pricing structure, the company chose Sage MAS 90. Find out how Hauser uses this accounting solution for more than just accounting.

Abstract: Not all integrated accounting and point of sale (POS) systems are created equal. If sales prices aren’t updated, or if on-hand stock isn’t managed properly, you will be at a major competitive disadvantage. Fully integrated accounting systems move information smoothly from one module to another—but what does integration as it applies to accounting and POS software really mean?

Abstract: For most companies, changing accounting software is a daunting challenge. Not only is transitioning the accounting function to a new software package tricky in itself, but it is usually catalyzed by one or more business challenges that are (hopefully) solved by the new system. Knowing that, how can you minimize the risks involved in selecting a new accounting application?

Abstract: The Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act of 2002 (also known as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 0f 2002) was passed by US lawmakers to reinforce honest and transparent corporate practices in the wake of the various public accounting scandals and corporate failures of the 1990s. The Act, named after US Senator Paul S. Sarbanes and US Congressman Michael G. Oxley, has changed the way public companies do business. Although not specifically covered under the Act, non-public entities are also finding that bankers, investors, and acquisition candidates are now conditioned to expect increased transparency and real-time disclosures, in effect placing a greater accounting and reporting burden on companies that are not legally obligated to comply with this act. As with any far-reaching legislation of this magnitude, there is plenty of hype that has emerged in connection with this law. This document is designed to help companies large and small navigate some of the 'hype' that sometimes blurs the line between fact and fiction.

Abstract: Organizations today realize that although strategies focusing on outsourcing transportation, e-business and new distribution models are important, these are all secondary in relation to what lies at the heart of any supply chain: INVENTORY. Although firms have invested significantly in ERP and MRP systems in the last decade, overall inventory levels within the extended supply chain remain relatively unchanged.