ECI Software Solutions, a global provider of cloud-based software, has launched the integration of its machine monitoring solution, Alora, with the M1 enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. This offering is now available to users across the Asia-Pacific region (APAC).

The M1 cloud ERP solution is ECI's flagship product. It aids small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in streamlining their manufacturing processes, including make-to-stock, discrete, repetitive, and make-to-order variants. It offers consolidated, digital management of manufacturing processes, eradicating the need for error-prone manual systems such as whiteboards and paper.

This integration signifies a progression towards digitisation by offering real-time data access from any location on the production floor. This assists with enhanced scheduling, estimation and targeted resource planning.

Alora, part of ECI's product range, is equipped to maximise the utility of existing machinery and resources. It performs this function by connecting and analysing machine performance and ERP data in real-time.

Duane Clement, ECI's Alora business unit leader, commented on the Alora and M1 ERP integration: " The solution provides a clear view of real-time operations, delivering up to 20% higher machine utilisation and significant cost savings equating to an average of $20,000 annually per machine. It's a practical approach to improving productivity and reducing waste through smarter, data-driven decision-making."

Alora extends M1's usefulness by offering critical insights into machine performance. This allows manufacturers to carry out operational improvements quickly based on informed business decisions. Alora's optimization of machine use and employee efficiency helps ensure maximum return on investment (ROI), thus helping to offset the necessity for new machine purchases or additional staff hires.

Mr Clement added, "Alora's detailed monitoring tools also offer insights into machine downtime, and its capacity to align employee labour hours with actual machine use plays a vital role in minimising unplanned stoppages and instituting fair, performance-based compensation strategies. By integrating M1's comprehensive operational oversight with Alora's precise machine performance analytics, manufacturers gain a powerful addition to their toolkit that enhances efficiency, reduces operational costs, and optimises productivity."