The adoption of cloud technology in the manufacturing industry has accelerated dramatically over the last two years. A massive 80% of the manufacturers we surveyed in the 2021 Epicor Industry Insights Report said they plan to move all or most of their ERP technology to the cloud this year. Digital transformation is on the march.
With the pandemic driving business transformation, manufacturers realize that cloud capabilities are essential for them to remain competitive in a world that’s fast-tracking change. So, they’re getting connected, streamlining, and suiting up for a future they can optimize.
Nearly 9 in 10 decision makers surveyed believe their data is safer in the cloud.
Cloud solutions offer flexibility, mobility, and enabling technologies like Internet of Things, sophisticated data analytics, and artificial intelligence. Inherent in running on a cloud platform is the ability to innovate without limits and reimagine operations for a digital future, i.e., making products with onboard technology, sensors, and artificial intelligence. Survey respondents think these capabilities will significantly change the way they work within five years.
Of the 1,250 decision makers surveyed across manufacturing, distribution, and retail, nearly nine in 10 believe their data is safer in the cloud. While business owners have been apprehensive about moving their data off premises, many are recognizing that cloud technology offers state-of-the-art data security with firewalls and data encryption that are continuously updated to combat the newest cyberthreats. By contrast, on-premises solutions can be harder to protect, slower to respond to an attack, and more vulnerable to break-ins or natural disasters.
Migrating to cloud ERP solutions gives manufacturers more flexibility and unlocks capabilities that can boost innovation—and the bottom line. Despite global disruption, most manufacturers reported they felt optimistic about the future. Especially those running their operations on cloud systems.
