Most process manufacturers keep their eyes open for ways to optimize procedures and streamline processes. However, food, beverage, and chemical manufacturers also oversee complex issues such as increasing quality and compliance pressures, demands for transparency, shrinking profit margins, and a changing workforce. Overseeing these demands while optimizing their processes simultaneously can leave data security vulnerable to cyberhackers and other security threats. Make sure your manufacturing process is secure by reviewing the following:
Automation
For food processing manufacturers, the industry is challenging and always changing. Following paper trails and keeping client information in separate departments is antiquated. An ERP solution can help food processors to address these challenges with streamlined functions, improved productivity, and efficiency. An ERP system provides real-time analytics that give you the information to make quick decisions about supply chain management and worker overtime.
An ERP system can provide complete traceability via product lifecycle management (PLM) and continue through procurement, production, quality management, and distribution. Having all this data in one ERP system and retrieving it quickly provides complete traceability for both regulators and customers.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the physical devices that are now connected to the internet, all collecting and sharing data and enabling them to communicate real-time data without involving a human being. IoT also allows equipment and facilities to communicate in real-time with corporate departments and headquarters and with customers and suppliers.
Cloud-based ERP solutions and the IoT applications of smart devices in plants and processes improve IT systems and data security. They are becoming cheaper and more accessible, making advanced digital solutions an easier choice for all manufacturers. It allows manufacturers to leverage technology to solve their business challenges creatively while also building smart factories.
When implementing IoT within your company infrastructure, inspect each new device’s security capabilities before linking it to the company system. Each accepted device should be checked and equipped with updatable software. Implementation of IoT should not be left out of routine maintenance and security audits.
Credentials
An ERP solution offers the ability to set or define role-based access to sensitive information. Be sure that team members have the credentials to access only the information they need to do their job. Keeping track of staff members’ access to pertinent information is an easy way to keep sensitive data from being obtained. Just as it’s important to restrict access to specific data, it’s also important for members to know where sensitive data is kept so that they can report any suspicious activity.
Upgrade Aging Systems
Don’t let a piecemeal or aging system make you vulnerable. Aging systems can leave a business vulnerable to viruses, hackers, and malware. Flaws in software are discovered on a regular basis, and while some may be able to be patched, it takes time for a patch to be sent out and more time for it to be administered. Many IoT devices cannot be patched, which means they are permanently at risk. Cyberhackers actively target IoT devices because they often are left out of a security plan, making them an easy target.
With an ERP solution, updates are easily accessible and implemented immediately and without downtime. Security is monitored by your ERP vendor and includes 24-hour security for off-site servers, updates for software, and automated monitoring of both internal and external activities.
At Decision Resources, Inc., we have been helping food and beverage manufacturers, chemical manufacturers, and manufacturers across industries get the most from their business systems and technology for more than 40 years. If you have questions about how DRI can help your business implement an ERP data solution or guide you through ERP data security, call us at 412-562-9660 or email info@decision.com. We can help you customize your platform to meet your needs.
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