Not so silly season?

At first glance, that sounds alarming, particularly since the data comes from CIOs, IT directors, IT managers and network managers. Until you discover that the question was posed thus: 'Have you experienced some kind of performance issue with IT applications in the last 12 months?' Well, who hasn't? And in this context, even reading that 63% of respondents say the problem increasing isn't going to make headline news. Easynet blames the growth in video applications, "which can very quickly clog the network", so impacting the experience users have with other applications. It also suggests that cloud computing is "adding additional pressure to WANs". Possibly – although they're two entirely different things. But there is a serious side to this. Clearly, poorly performing applications are likely to damage productivity and cause frustration. And while it is verging on disingenuous to suggest that "manufacturers are struggling, with IT management, fighting to reduce instances of application slowness or non-responsiveness", if there really is such a problem with ERP systems, it needs to be addressed. Easynet makes the point that simply throwing additional network capacity at it won't fix the problem. Manufacturers, it says, need to understand what's happening and (the plug) acquire the ability to manage the performance of applications that really matter. But in ERP's case, there is another related, but more pressing, issue. Separate research, released by analyst IDC Manufacturing Insights, indicates that only 9% of even leading manufacturers fully understand the importance of customer-oriented process workflows, underpinned by ERP. Not just any ERP, but a modern, fully integrated and flexible system "that streamlines operational processes and connects back office and front office, with integrated CRM, warranty and aftermarket functionality". Sounds obvious? Well yes, but evidently it's not happening. As report sponsor Epicor puts it: "We have known for a long time that ERP can help organisations significantly reduce costs and improve profitability. But [this report] shows the clear link between successful manufacturers and their understanding and use of ERP as a strategic tool for delivering a superior customer experience."