Why Manufacturers Need Epicor BigCommerce Integration Now

3 min read ● Silk Team

Reasons for Integration: Why Manufacturers Shouldn’t Rely on Manual Data Transfers

 

In today’s highly competitive manufacturing landscape, efficient and accurate data management has become essential. Many manufacturers, especially growing ones, still rely heavily on manual data transfers between systems, whether it’s inventory, customer orders, or production schedules. However, this outdated approach comes with risks and inefficiencies that can hamper productivity and profitability. This is where system integration, such as connecting an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software package like Epicor to e-commerce platforms like BigCommerce, is a game-changer.

 

Pitfalls of Manual Data Transfers in Manufacturing

 

Manual data transfer involves copying and pasting or manually entering data from one system to another, often from spreadsheets to ERP systems or from ERP to e-commerce platforms. For manufacturers managing multiple channels and complex supply chains, this process has several major drawbacks:

 

• Human Error: No matter how careful your team is, manual data entry is prone to errors. A simple typo in an order quantity or SKU can skew inventories, delay shipments, and frustrate customers.
• Time-consuming: Manual data entry takes up valuable man-hours that could be better used for real-value activities, such as process optimization or customer relationship management.
• Lack of real-time data: Manufacturers need accurate and up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Manual updates are often delayed, forcing managers to work with outdated data.
• Inconsistent data: When data is manually transferred between systems, for example, from a BigCommerce store to an Epicor ERP, inconsistencies can arise. This can lead to overstocking, understocking, or inaccurate financial reporting.

 

Why integration is the solution?

 

Integration refers to the seamless connection of different software systems to enable the automatic exchange of data. For manufacturers, integrating Epicor ERP with BigCommerce is a winning strategy to overcome the challenges described above. Automated data synchronization: The integration ensures seamless order, inventory levels, customer information, and product data flow between Epicor and BigCommerce without manual intervention. This real-time synchronization minimizes errors and helps maintain inventory accuracy across all sales channels.

 

Improved operational efficiency: By automating data transfers, your team can focus on strategic tasks rather than tedious administrative tasks. For example, when a customer places an order on BigCommerce, the details are automatically entered into Epicor for processing and fulfillment, speeding up the entire order lifecycle.

 

Improved customer experience: With accurate inventory visibility, customers won’t be frustrated by stockouts or late deliveries. The integration also enables faster order processing, contributing to better overall customer satisfaction—a critical factor in today’s e-commerce-driven market.

 

Scalability and growth: As manufacturers grow, the volume and complexity of data increases. The Epicor and BigCommerce integration provides a scalable foundation capable of supporting an increase in transactions without a commensurate increase in manual workload.

 

Making the Integration Work for You

 

• Choose the Right Integration Tool: Middleware solutions or API connectors designed specifically for Epicor and BigCommerce help efficiently connect the two systems.
• Map Your Data Accurately: Ensure product SKUs, prices, inventory levels, and order statuses match seamlessly between systems. Misaligned data mapping can negate the benefits of integration.
• Thorough Testing: Before going live, conduct comprehensive testing to identify any data gaps or synchronization delays.
• Train Your Team: Even with automation, staff must understand how the integration works to quickly resolve issues.

 

Conclusion

 

The manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, and relying on manual data transfers between ERP systems like Epicor and e-commerce platforms like BigCommerce is no longer viable for businesses that want to thrive. Integration not only eliminates the inefficiencies and errors associated with manual processes, but also promotes operational excellence, improved customer experience, and scalable growth.

 

For manufacturers looking to optimize their data flows and future-proof their operations, investing in a robust Epicor-BigCommerce integration is no longer just an option, but a strategic imperative. Don’t let manual data transfers hinder your business; embrace integration and unlock the full potential of your manufacturing and sales ecosystems.