Engineer-to-Order (ETO) businesses are under constant pressure to meet intricate customer demands and increasingly rigorous standards. To stay competitive, many ETO manufacturers are embracing digital transformation. One of the most powerful tools supporting this shift is Epicor Kinetic, a modern enterprise resource planning (ERP) system designed to streamline complex operations.
For ETO manufacturers considering or planning an Epicor Kinetic implementation, understanding what to prepare in advance can make all the difference. Here’s expert advice on how to approach your Epicor deployment strategically and successfully.
What is ETO (Engineer-to-Order)?
Engineer-to-Order (ETO) is a manufacturing approach where production begins only after a customer’s specifications have been received. Each order is unique, requiring custom design, engineering, and manufacturing to meet exacting requirements.
Key Advantages of ETO:
- Custom-tailored products for specific customer needs
- Greater flexibility in design and engineering
- Opportunities to differentiate from competitors
Challenges in ETO:
- High complexity in project management
- Difficulties in estimating time and cost due to constant customization
- Heavy dependency on accurate communication and coordination
Why Epicor Kinetic is Ideal for ETO Manufacturers
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP system tailored for modern manufacturing environments. It offers unmatched flexibility, scalability, and user-friendly features, making it a top choice for ETO operations.
Benefits for ETO Businesses:
- Enables real-time collaboration between engineering and manufacturing
- Offers deep customization without compromising performance
- Facilitates streamlined workflows for managing complex orders
However, even with all these capabilities, a successful implementation depends on more than just software.
Key Preparations Before Implementing Epicor Kinetic
1. Choose the Right Deployment Partner
Partnering with a reputable third-party ERP consultant can accelerate your implementation timeline and improve project outcomes. Experienced providers bring:
- Proven deployment methodologies
- Industry-specific insights
- Expert guidance on feature selection and module prioritization
They’ll help identify what your teams really need—and what can be postponed or simplified for initial go-live phases.
2. Build an Internal Core Team
A successful implementation requires buy-in from every level of the business:
- Include representatives from both management and the shop floor
- Select team members who are open to change and ready to learn
- Encourage early hands-on experience with Epicor (e.g., customizing forms, reports, workflows)
This core team will play a critical role in translating your company’s needs into functional ERP processes.
3. Plan for Training and Change Management
Epicor Kinetic isn’t just a software upgrade—it’s an operational transformation. Invest time in:
- Comprehensive staff training
- Clear internal communication about the benefits of digital transformation
- Ongoing support and patience throughout the learning curve
4. Clean and Standardize Your Data
ERP implementation is the perfect time to review and clean your data:
- Eliminate duplicate entries (e.g., customers, vendors)
- Update outdated standards
- Define clear data governance moving forward
Good data in equals good results out. Start fresh with clean, organized information to get the most from your Epicor system.
5. Resist Over-Customization
While Epicor Kinetic allows unlimited customization, ETO businesses should be cautious:
- Excessive customization can prolong the project
- It increases both complexity and costs
- Focus on what you truly need at go-live, then phase in enhancements later
Work closely with your deployment team to strike the right balance between configuration and customization.
The path to a successful Epicor Kinetic implementation for ETO manufacturers lies in preparation. By focusing on the essentials—a capable deployment partner, a committed internal team, data readiness, and realistic expectations—you’ll be better equipped to modernize your operations and achieve long-term efficiency.
Ready to Transform Your ETO Business?
At Data V Tech, we specialize in helping manufacturers implement and optimize Epicor Kinetic. Whether you’re starting fresh or upgrading from another system, our team can guide your journey with proven expertise and industry-specific insight.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your ETO transformation.
