While large corporations often lead the charge in automation due to ample resources, small manufacturing businesses can also harness the power of automation without breaking the bank. In this article, we explore three budget-friendly approaches to automation that can benefit small manufacturers.
Embrace Cloud-Based MRP Software
Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) or Manufacturing ERP systems, such as MRPeasy, are invaluable tools for small and medium-sized manufacturers seeking to automate and streamline their operations. The key advantage of these systems is their cloud-based nature, eliminating the need for significant upfront investments in hardware and infrastructure.
One of the primary ways in which MRP software automates processes is through production planning. By utilizing data such as inventory levels, available capacity, current orders, and other relevant factors, it facilitates the creation of master production schedules and automatically generates optimized production plans. This ensures efficient resource utilization, minimizes idle time, and reduces production bottlenecks. Additionally, MRP software provides quick and accurate estimates of production times and costs for incoming orders, enabling swift responses to customer requests and timely order deliveries.
MRP software also automates inventory tracking and planning. Users can easily access stock information, forecast material requirements, receive low stock alerts, and generate pre-filled purchase orders when materials need replenishing. This prevents stockouts and overstock situations, reduces downtime, and frees up capital tied up in unused inventory. Furthermore, MRP systems often support barcode scanning, significantly reducing data entry time in stock management.
Order tracking is another area where MRP systems excel. These systems continuously update order statuses throughout the production process, recording order receipt, material allocation, and production commencement and completion. Real-time updates and alerts provide instant visibility into order progress, enhancing order tracking, management, and ensuring on-time customer deliveries.
MRP software also offers automated reporting and analytics, delivering real-time insights into manufacturing performance. With a range of automated reports at their disposal, management gains the ability to make informed decisions, identify areas for improvement, and drive operational excellence.
These are just a few of the facets of manufacturing planning and operations management that can be automated through cloud-based MRP software. With these systems, small manufacturers can take significant steps toward automation without straining their budgets.