Scanco Partner Spotlight: The Answer Company

November 13th 2024 14:46:16 PM

Since 1994, The Answer Company has been a trusted partner for organizations seeking to maximize their investments in technology and information systems. As leading consultants for Sage and Acumatica ERP solutions, they are committed to empowering businesses to achieve greater success and confidently pursue profitable strategies within their industries. The Answer Company also specializes in Sage 100 Manufacturing Automation. Operating from strategically located offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Portland (US), The Answer Company delivers comprehensive ERP solutions that streamline accounting, operations, customer relationship management, human resources, time tracking, and merchant services. Their team of expert consultants is dedicated to understanding and addressing the unique challenges each industry faces, ensuring the software solutions they implement facilitate sustainable business growth.

How does the strategic partnership between The Answer Company and Scanco bolster client expansion and growth? 

“Partnering with Scanco enhances our ability to deliver tailored solutions that address the unique challenges of the warehouse and manufacturing sectors. Scanco’s technology integrates with Acumatica, helping us provide tools that boost productivity, reduce operational bottlenecks, and ensure accurate, real-time data insights. This partnership strengthens our clients’ ability to grow and future-proof their operations in an evolving market.”

Could you please provide us with some information about your company’s background and what you specialize in? 

“With over 30 years of experience, The Answer Company is Canada’s top Acumatica VAR partner. We specialize in implementing Acumatica ERP solutions that drive operational efficiency and profitability. Our clients rely on us for our technical expertise and our dedication to building lasting partnerships that support ongoing growth and innovation. With more than 300 successful manufacturing/warehouse digital transformation projects, we bring deep manufacturing, warehouse management, and distribution industry knowledge.”

As a consultant, what tips and tricks would you consider valuable to others in the manufacturing and warehouse industry?

With over 300 successful digital transformation projects in manufacturing and warehousing, The Answer Company brings unmatched expertise in delivering ERP solutions that drive meaningful change by streamlining their operations, boosting productivity and profitability.

Here are our top tips:

1. Harness Real-Time Data for Informed Decision-Making

Real-time data is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Integrating a robust ERP system like Acumatica with Scanco’s Warehouse Management System (WMS) brings visibility and control over every part of your operation, from inventory to order fulfillment. With real-time insights, you can make quicker, data-driven decisions, spot trends early, and respond to demand changes effectively. For example, access to live inventory levels can prevent stockouts, minimize overstock, and help you meet customer expectations more consistently.

2. Automate Core Processes to Boost Efficiency and Accuracy

Manual processes are often the root cause of bottlenecks, errors, and inefficiencies. By implementing Scanco’s automation tools, including barcoding and RFID systems, you can significantly reduce the reliance on manual data entry. Automating inventory tracking, order processing, and pick-and-pack workflows enhances accuracy and frees your team to focus on higher-value tasks. This automation, coupled with Acumatica’s comprehensive ERP capabilities, can transform your operations, reducing error rates, speeding up fulfillment times, and ultimately boosting productivity.

3. Invest in Scalable, Flexible Technology to Future-Proof Your Operations

In an industry that’s rapidly evolving, scalability is critical. A flexible ERP and WMS solution allows your business to grow without constant overhauls. With Acumatica’s scalable cloud-based platform and Scanco’s adaptable WMS, you can start small and add functionality as your needs expand—adding more automated workflows or integrating new production lines. This modular approach saves costs, ensures you’re prepared for future demands, and can quickly adapt to market changes, emerging technologies, or seasonal fluctuations.

4. Prioritize a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Digital transformation isn’t a one-time project; it’s a journey. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, you empower your team to seek out opportunities for efficiency, report workflow challenges, and contribute to the organization’s growth. Regularly assess your ERP and WMS tools, such as Acumatica and Scanco, and encourage feedback from your frontline teams. Small, incremental improvements can lead to substantial gains in productivity and profitability over time, keeping you competitive and responsive to industry shifts.

5. Enhance Visibility Across the Supply Chain for Greater Control

A robust ERP and WMS integration provides end-to-end visibility crucial in managing complex supply chains. With Acumatica’s ERP and Scanco’s WMS working together, you gain a unified view of your supply chain, from supplier status to shipping and customer delivery. This visibility enables better forecasting, improved supplier relationships, and proactive management of potential disruptions. Enhanced visibility ensures you can control costs, meet delivery times, and improve service quality, creating a more resilient and profitable operation.

6. Focus on Employee Empowerment through Technology

Introducing technology isn’t just about efficiency; it’s also about empowering your team. When employees have access to user-friendly tools that streamline their work—such as mobile WMS solutions from Scanco integrated into Acumatica’s ERP—they can work more effectively and with less frustration. Simplifying tasks like inventory checks, order processing, and shipping improves morale, reduces turnover, and effectively allows employees to contribute to operational goals. Engaged employees lead to a more productive and committed workforce.

7. Use Data Analytics to Drive Profitability

With ERP-driven data analytics, you can move beyond guesswork and leverage insights directly impacting your bottom line. Acumatica provides analytics and reporting capabilities that allow you to analyze everything from production costs to inventory turnover. By connecting these insights with Scanco’s data on warehouse efficiency, you can pinpoint cost-saving opportunities, optimize resource allocation, and make informed pricing or inventory decisions. Data analytics helps you understand which products or workflows are most profitable, allowing you to refine your strategy for maximum profitability.

8. Strengthen Customer Satisfaction with Improved Order Fulfillment

Efficient order fulfillment is essential in meeting customer expectations and maintaining a competitive edge. Combining Scanco’s WMS with Acumatica’s ERP enables accurate order tracking, faster picking, and smoother shipping processes. By improving your fulfillment accuracy and speed, you can reduce return rates, minimize backorders, and provide a reliable experience that enhances customer loyalty. A well-managed order fulfillment process can be a significant differentiator in today’s customer-centric market.