If your company is in growth mode, formalizing business processes is a necessity. To support your business case evaluation for a quality management system (QMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, start by identifying the long-term value these solutions bring to the weak areas of your organization.
ISO is Good for Growth
We cannot overstate the benefits of an ISO program. Through ISO compliance, companies both large and small have achieved cost savings, improved efficiency, and reduced business disruption.
Here are some of the major benefits of implementing a QMS supported by the right ERP:
Process Improvement
A QMS requires a review of all your processes so you can identify those in need of improvement. Developing better processes will cause fewer errors and less rework, which yields cost savings and eliminates waste due to inefficient process handoffs. (Consider an ERP with workflow capability.)
Improved Customer Satisfaction
One of ISO’s foundational tenets is customer satisfaction, which you achieve by using processes that meet and measure customer requirements. Improving customer satisfaction increases repeat business, as consistent short-term satisfaction leads to long-term loyalty, bringing in ongoing revenue and referral business. (Consider an ERP that provides accurate metrics through dashboards.)
Continuous Improvement of Processes
A culture of continuous improvement creates efficiency and increases cost savings; more importantly, it empowers your employees to be more independent and take ownership of learning and using new and improved processes. (Consider automating alerts and notifications through proactive ERP tools.)
Improved Decision Making
Gathering and using data – versus relying on intuition – will lead to better decisions, and tracking the progress of attempted process improvements offers a clear before-and-after picture. (Consider an ERP with user-friendly and timely reporting capabilities.)
With the right ERP system and ISO standards in place, manufacturers can drive better, more efficient ways of doing business. If you're considering an ERP solution for the better management of your current processes and ISO initiatives, the experts at Acuity would love to help! Contact us for more information.
