A conversation with Martijn Lieshout and Lissa Vroog of ECI Software Solutions
More and more manufacturing companies are realizing it: digitalization is inevitable. Yet the
word ERP still gives many entrepreneurs cold feet. Too complex, too expensive or too
time-consuming – that's how it often sounds. But is that image still accurate?
In the latest episode of De Industrie Podcast, we sit down with Martijn
Lieshout (Key Account Manager) and Lissa Vroog (Product Marketing Manager) of ECI
Software Solutions. Both are closely involved in the implementation and ongoing development
of Ridder iQ, the ERP system for the manufacturing industry. Together they put an end to
the biggest misconceptions about ERP.
“You don't just do ERP on the side”
According to Lieshout, the biggest misconception is that companies think they can do ERP “on the side.” “ERP touches everything: processes, departments, people. It requires not only good
preparation, but also commitment from the entire organization. Without buy-in, there's no
success.”
In his view, the manufacturing industry is simply too complex to be handled with off-the-shelf software. “A trading company has one product, one inventory and one invoice. In the
manufacturing industry we're talking about engineer-to-order, configure-to-order, inventory management,
work preparation, production planning and project planning. All those processes are
interconnected.”
Excel is not ERP
Many companies still run on Excel. Flexible, sure – but also vulnerable. “As soon as
multiple people work in the same file, chaos ensues. One wrong formula,
and your margin is off,” says Vroog. “ERP provides a single source of truth: fewer errors,
more control.”
Success begins on the shop floor
Notable is the emphasis both guests place on the human factor.
ERP implementations rarely fail because of the technology, but rather because of resistance. “Behavior on
the shop floor is decisive,” says Lieshout. “If employees aren't willing to come along, it won't
take off.”
That's why ECI always advises companies to involve employees from the start – through
key users, working groups and intensive communication. “Change only succeeds when people
understand why it's necessary, and when they benefit from it themselves.”
ERP as a colleague
When asked how they would describe ERP as a colleague, both guests answer without
hesitation: your backbone or even your personal assistant. “A well-configured ERP system makes
your life easier,” says Vroog. “It ensures that information comes to you, instead of you
having to search for it.”
AI and ERP: not a buzzword, but an opportunity
AI is also discussed extensively in the episode. Both speakers emphasize that
artificial intelligence should above all be deployed practically and safely. “Think of
automatic quote calculations, dashboards based on natural language, or a chatbot that
helps you with questions about your ERP system,” says Lieshout. “But always make sure your data stays safe
– there's a big responsibility there.”
The future of ERP
Finally, Martijn and Lissa take a look at the future. In their view, ERP will only
become more important. “With cloud applications, web functionalities and AI tools, ERP becomes the
engine behind all business processes,” says Vroog. “Those who invest now are building the
foundation for the next ten years.”
Curious about the full conversation?
Listen to the complete episode here:
deindustrie.online/podcast and discover why ERP is not an IT project – but a
strategic choice.
Questions or need advice?
Get in touch with Martijn Lieshout or Lissa Vroog via LinkedIn or visit ECI