Automation is the performance of tasks using technology, with little to no human input. Automating previously manual processes, such as replacing manual spreadsheet data entry with data capture solutions, can improve efficiency and avoid human errors while freeing team members to perform more high-value, meaningful work.

Through predictive maintenance, organizations can monitor the health of their assets, including infrastructure and machinery, in real-time. This enables them to address problems as they occur as well as forecast future problems, extending asset lifecycles and helping to prevent costly, unplanned equipment downtime and slowdowns.

Process mapping is a method for visually representing workflows. This helps organizations identify areas for improvement, such as time-consuming, inefficient processes, sub-optimal resource allocation, tasks prone to human error and production bottlenecks.

Inventory management entails tracking goods as they move from manufacturing facilities to warehouses to, ultimately, the location where they are sold to consumers. Optimizing inventory management can reduce the amount of time spent and lower costs for keeping goods in storage while ensuring enough goods are available to meet customer demand.

Through business process outsourcing, companies can contract with external providers that specialize in specific functions, such as invoicing and payment processing. Specialist providers often operate more efficiently and be more cost effective in comparison to in-house teams.

Energy management is the proactive and regular monitoring, control and optimization of energy use to limit consumption and decrease energy costs. A 10% decrease in energy consumption is associated with a 1.5% increase in net operating income, according to calculations by the US’s Energy Star program.²

Training and development programs that help employees hone their skills or build new ones can improve their productivity, leading to greater operational efficiency. In addition, increased employee satisfaction resulting from skills training can help bolster employee retention. Reducing employee turnover can also support operational efficiency since hiring and training new employees is typically more expensive than retaining existing ones.

An IWMS is a software platform that streamlines real estate and facilities management onto a single platform. IWMS solutions can offer visibility into real estate portfolios through built-in dashboards and mobile apps. Research shows that IWMS can improve facility usage efficiency by more than 39% and reduce maintenance costs by over 15%.³

An ERP is a business management software system designed to use automation and integration to manage and streamline a company’s workflows, processes and functions. Such functions include finance, HR, manufacturing, services, procurement, supply chain management, product lifecycle management and project management.

Energy management software uses IoT, connectivity and energy data analytics to provide insights to companies for better decision-making in regard to facility management and energy conservation.

Advanced process mapping tools offer centralized platforms that enable teams to collaborate and gain insights as they work to continuously refine business processes.

Smart order management tools empower businesses to perform real-time inventory and warehouse management, including tracking inventory levels and implementing omnichannel order fulfillment.