Arist Blog

Arista Consulting was excited to attend the MWUG Fall 2024 Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from September 15-17. The Midwest User Group (MWUG) Conference is one of the largest gatherings of QAD users and a key event for networking and knowledge-sharing in the manufacturing and ERP sectors. This year’s conference delivered a wealth of valuable sessions, providing new insights into optimizing QAD systems and related technologies.

Key Sessions and Highlights from MWUG 2024

Supply Chain Excellence through ERP Solutions One of the standout sessions this year was led by Teijin Automotive and Strategic Information Group, which focused on supply chain visibility and how QAD’s solutions are helping companies improve both internal and external processes. This session provided critical insights into enhancing supply chain performance using real-time data, something that Arista has been closely involved in for many of our clients. By leveraging QAD tools, companies are now able to improve delivery performance, optimize operations, and reduce costs. This session was a valuable takeaway for many attendees looking to stay ahead of supply chain challenges.

Modernizing ERP with QAD ERP O3 Another key highlight was the session on future-proofing ERP systems through QAD’s latest cloud solution, QAD ERP O3. Hosted by Strategic Information Group, this session discussed how companies can modernize their ERP infrastructure while minimizing disruptions. The focus was on eliminating legacy customizations and making the transition to cloud systems smoother. This aligns with Arista’s mission of helping clients transition to modern ERP platforms, ensuring they can maintain agility while scaling their operations.

Procure-to-Pay Automation and Supplier Onboarding The procure-to-pay (P2P) session, presented by Detroit Chassis and ISS Group, tackled one of the most important aspects of operational efficiency: automating procurement and supplier management. Attendees learned how Detroit Chassis successfully implemented a P2P system that streamlined their processes, resulting in better risk management and faster payment cycles. Automation in this area is something that many businesses are now turning to, as it helps reduce manual workflows and improves accuracy—key takeaways for attendees looking to improve their financial operations.

Advanced Warehousing Solutions Warehouse management was a hot topic this year, with Steve Ludwig from Logan Consulting leading a session on QAD’s Advanced Warehousing Solution. This session explored the growing demands of modern warehousing and how companies can structure their data architecture to support future growth. The focus on scalability and efficiency through QAD’s advanced tools is crucial for businesses looking to expand their warehouse operations without compromising on accuracy or speed.

Seamless ERP Integration with AristaXpress While AristaXpress wasn’t the focus of our attendance, it remains an integral part of our offerings for businesses looking to optimize supply chain and ERP operations. One of the key advantages of AristaXpress is its ability to integrate seamlessly with any ERP system, allowing companies to automate key processes without the need for extensive customizations. This flexibility was evident in many of the breakout sessions at MWUG, where the importance of ERP scalability and customization-free solutions was frequently emphasized.

Networking and New Partnerships

The MWUG Fall 2024 Conference also provided plenty of opportunities for networking with other QAD users, vendors, and potential partners. Arista Consulting met with industry professionals from a range of sectors, discussing challenges and exchanging ideas on how to better leverage QAD systems to meet business objectives. As always, we left the event with new connections and fresh insights that will help us continue delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Moving Forward

As we reflect on our time at MWUG Fall 2024, Arista Consulting is more committed than ever to helping businesses succeed with their ERP and supply chain systems. Whether through process automation, cloud integration, or simply improving system visibility, we aim to bring the best possible solutions to the table for every client. If you missed us at MWUG, feel free to reach out to learn more about how Arista can assist with your QAD implementations and beyond.

FAQ

1. What is the MWUG Conference?
The MWUG Conference is a major event organized by the Midwest User Group for QAD users, featuring educational sessions, networking opportunities, and exhibits related to QAD software and ERP systems. The event focuses on helping companies improve their ERP operations and stay updated on the latest industry trends.

2. How does Arista Consulting support QAD users?
Arista Consulting offers tailored consulting services for QAD users, focusing on supply chain optimization, ERP implementation, and business process automation. We work closely with clients to streamline their operations and enhance the efficiency of their QAD systems.

3. Can AristaXpress integrate with non-QAD ERP systems?
Yes, AristaXpress is designed to integrate seamlessly with any ERP system, not just QAD. This flexibility allows businesses to enhance their operations without needing to overhaul their existing ERP infrastructure, making it a versatile solution for companies using different platforms.