Epicor Kinetic brings a number of important updates for manufacturers. Explore its key features and why upgrading is a strategic move.
For manufacturers that have been running older versions of Epicor, the question of when to upgrade to Epicor Kinetic comes up often. Changing systems is no small decision, especially when production runs every day without pause. Still, understanding what Epicor Kinetic offers can help a company judge whether the upgrade is worth the investment.
What is Epicor Kinetic?
Epicor Kinetic is the modern version of the Epicor ERP platform, designed specifically for the manufacturing industry. Unlike earlier versions that relied mostly on on-premise installation, Kinetic is built on a cloud-native architecture while remaining flexible enough for on-premise or hybrid deployment, depending on the company's needs.
Kinetic's main focus is delivering a more modern user experience, deeper analytics capabilities, and technology integration such as the Internet of Things (IoT) directly into production processes.
Key features that set Kinetic apart
- A more modern, mobile-friendly interface. Kinetic offers a more intuitive interface that can be accessed from mobile devices, so shop floor teams can monitor and update data directly from handheld devices.
- IoT integration for real-time machine monitoring. Through Epicor IoT, data from production machines connects directly to the ERP system, allowing companies to monitor machine performance and detect potential failures earlier.
- Stronger analytics and business intelligence. Kinetic lets management view production trends, line efficiency, and supply chain performance in customizable dashboards.
- Low-code customization. Companies can adjust workflows or add specific functions without relying entirely on a development team.
- Deployment flexibility. Kinetic can run in the cloud, on-premise, or hybrid, giving flexibility to companies with specific infrastructure or data regulation considerations.
Why manufacturers should consider upgrading
Legacy systems limit operational visibility
Older versions of Epicor generally have limitations when it comes to integrating real-time data from the shop floor. Without adequate visibility, operational decisions are often made based on data that no longer reflects actual conditions.
The need to integrate with modern production technology
More and more manufacturers are adopting IoT-enabled machines and sensors. Without an ERP system that supports this integration, data from production machines stays siloed and can't be used to make faster decisions.
Long-term support from Epicor
Over time, support and new feature development will increasingly focus on Kinetic rather than earlier versions. Companies that stay on older versions risk losing access to important updates in the future.
More measurable operational efficiency
With real-time analytics and monitoring, companies can identify production bottlenecks faster, so corrective action can be taken before it significantly affects output or production costs.
Preparing for the upgrade the right way
Upgrading to Epicor Kinetic isn't just a version update. It's a process that requires careful planning, from evaluating existing customizations in the legacy system and migrating data to training the team so they can make the most of the new features.
The Apergu team has experience helping manufacturers assess upgrade readiness, design migration strategies that minimize disruption to production, and provide post-upgrade support.
