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Exploring Innovation: How ERP, E-Commerce, and AI Shape Distribution
Austin, Texas—On the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Frank Heenan, Global VP of Distribution and LBM for Epicor, shares insights from his extensive career in technology for distribution. The conversation with host Karthik Chidambaram, CEO of DCKAP, spans strategy for ERP and e-commerce, retaining today’s employees, and the impact of AI on distributors.
“A committed strategy, strong execution plan, and company-wide commitment are crucial for successful technology adoption in distribution,” explains Heenan. “What is it that you’re looking to automate? What’s the message that you want to share with your employees? What’s going to be the impact to customers, and what’s the revenue opportunity it’s going to generate for your business?”
Key Takeaways
Strategy and Execution
Frank emphasized the critical nature of strategic planning in e-commerce, debunking the myth that “if you build it, they will come.” He highlighted the importance of integrating customer service into e-commerce platforms, allowing for automation of mundane tasks to free up resources for more revenue-generating activities.
Practical Uses of AI in Distribution
The conversation also covered the realistic applications of AI in distribution, stressing that AI is not a job eliminator, but a tool that automates mundane tasks, freeing up employees for revenue generating activity.
ERP Evolution and Impact
With over 25 years at Epicor, Frank discussed how ERP systems have transitioned from record-keeping frameworks to comprehensive, action-oriented tools that facilitate business growth and efficiency.
“ERP has evolved from being a system of record to a partnership that supports active business management. It’s about making the ERP easy to consume so that it doesn’t consume you,” says Heenan.
In this episode of the Driven by DCKAP Podcast, Frank Heenan explores technology, innovation, and leadership lessons. By leveraging technology and strategy, Heenan illustrates how modern distribution leaders can inspire their teams and drive innovation.
More Information
- For more details, visit the Driven Podcast portal or tune in on YouTube or Spotify.
- For information about ERP integration and getting systems to talk to each other, check out the DCKAP Distributor Blog.
- Subscribe to the Driven by DCKAP Podcast
About the Driven Podcast
The Driven by DCKAP Podcast is an audio and video show that explores leaders’ stories, digital journeys, and insights on trends in B2B and distribution. The podcast is hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, founder and CEO of DCKAP, who grew the company from a start up to a global team of more than 200 employees. DCKAP earns several trust badges by G2.com, the world’s largest tech software marketplace, including “High Performer Americas” and “Users Most Likely to Recommend.”
About DCKAP
DCKAP is a leader in digital solutions that help distributors systems’ talk to each other. Its technology solutions simplify software integrations, e-commerce, and product information management for B2B companies. DCKAP’s flagship product, DCKAP Integrator, helps distributors and manufacturers to automate data between ERP, e-commerce, and CRM systems. Founded in 2005, DCKAP is a global and distributed team headquartered in Austin, TX. Visit DCKAP at dckap.com or follow on LinkedIn.
About Epicor
Epicor equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to flexibly respond to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective. Visit www.epicor.com for more information.
