Australian manufacturers are under pressure. Global disruptions, rising costs, and a shrinking skilled workforce are creating tough conditions for the industry. Many companies still rely on outdated and scattered systems, making it hard to see what’s really going on inside their operations. Experts say switching to modern, connected systems like ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) can help manufacturers stay strong and competitive—now and in the future.
Modern Problems Need Modern Tools
Many manufacturers still use disconnected systems. This creates data silos that block a clear view of inventory, production, and resource use. Without that view, decision-making becomes a guessing game.
Andrew Mamonitis, APAC Vice President of Manufacturing at ECI Solutions, explains:
“Visibility is a recurring challenge for manufacturers, especially those with vast amounts of valuable data trapped in separate, outdated systems. The inability to access or integrate this data means they’re making critical business decisions without a complete picture, risking costly errors and inefficiencies.”
Scheduling Woes and Delays
One major issue is production scheduling. If one small part is delayed, the whole line might stop. This can lead to missed deadlines and unhappy customers.
“Production scheduling exemplifies this complexity,” Mamonitis continues. “Delays in a single small part can halt entire manufacturing lines, severely impacting productivity and customer delivery timelines.”
ERP Systems Offer a Clearer View
The solution? Integrating operations through ERP systems. These tools connect all parts of a business, including inventory, procurement, finance, and production. With real-time insights, manufacturers can respond quickly to issues.
Mamonitis emphasizes the broader goal:
“Implementing an ERP solution isn’t about replacing people or just upgrading software; it’s about improving the agility and resilience of the entire business.”
Breaking Down Resistance to Change
Despite the benefits, many manufacturers hesitate to update old systems. They worry about cost, complexity, and staff training. But staying with outdated tools can be more costly in the long run.
“One common misconception is that efficiency means fewer jobs,” Mamonitis says. “The reality is the opposite. Enhancing capabilities helps businesses grow, creating more opportunities for staff development and career progression.”
He stresses the importance of communication:
“The challenge is changing the mindset and clearly showing the value to everyone involved.”
Upskilling Staff for Long-Term Gains
Rather than replacing workers, ERP systems can free them to focus on higher-value tasks. That’s why training and reskilling are key.
“Businesses should focus on reskilling and upskilling staff,” Mamonitis notes. “New tools can make their work easier and help them grow in their careers.”
Change Management Matters
Rolling out new systems isn’t just about the tech—it’s also about people. Without employee support, even the best systems can fail.
“Manufacturers often assume change management is purely about training,” Mamonitis says. “But it’s about changing behaviours and attitudes.”
Employees are more likely to accept change when they understand how it makes their jobs better.
Ongoing Improvement is Essential
ERP systems aren’t a one-time fix. Businesses need to review and adjust them often to match their goals and keep up with market changes.
“Manufacturers often underestimate how quickly their systems can drift from their original business strategy,” Mamonitis warns. “Leaders need clear processes to know when and how to make changes.”
Cloud-Based ERP for Flexibility
More companies are moving to cloud-based ERP systems. These offer better scalability, stronger security, and easier updates. They also support remote access—important in today’s flexible work environments.
Australian Manufacturing Faces Extra Challenges
Beyond tech, Australian manufacturers deal with:
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Skilled worker shortages
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Difficulty attracting young talent
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High local production costs
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Strong overseas competition
While the government does offer grants, slow approval times and complex processes often reduce their value.
As a result, many businesses are forming direct partnerships with ERP providers. These collaborations help them get the tools they need faster and in ways that fit their business goals.
