As the new year rolls in, many label converters begin strategizing ways to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. One of the most effective ways to...
As the new year rolls in, many label converters begin strategizing ways to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.
One of the most effective ways to achieve these goals is by implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system at the start of the year.
ERP software is no longer a luxury for label converters; it’s a necessity for growth, operational efficiency, and scalability. With the shift toward cloud-based ERP solutions like Paxis, label businesses now have the opportunity to implement an ERP system quickly and at a fraction of the cost of traditional on-premise solutions.
While any time of the year could technically be used for ERP implementation, starting in Q1 provides distinct advantages. From better planning opportunities to financial and operational benefits, here's why label converters should make ERP implementation a priority at the start of a new year.
Contents
- 1. Clear planning window
- 2. Avoiding holiday distractions
- 3. Flexibility and adaptability
- 4. Competitive advantage
- 5. Long-term cost savings
- 6. Drive digital transformation early in the year
- Take advantage of the benefits and get the edge on your competitors… Fast!
1. Clear planning window
The start of the year offers a unique planning advantage for label converters. With a clean slate and a fresh fiscal calendar, businesses have several months ahead to prepare, plan, and execute the ERP implementation without the time pressures associated with year-end deadlines.
A structured planning window allows businesses to create a detailed roadmap for system setup, testing, training, and go-live execution. This methodical approach reduces the likelihood of rushed decisions, avoids unexpected issues, and ensures the entire team is aligned and ready for the change.
Paxis ERP, unlike traditional ERP systems that take months (or years) to deploy, can be implemented in weeks. Its pre-configured design and intuitive user experience reduce the planning burden, and companies can start operating on the new system within days. This fast-track deployment fits perfectly with the structured planning approach Q1 provides.
2. Avoiding holiday distractions
The holiday season often disrupts operations with employee vacations, staffing shortages, and fluctuating production schedules. Attempting to implement new ERP software during the last quarter of the year can be chaotic and counterproductive.
Starting an ERP implementation in Q1 allows businesses to avoid these seasonal distractions. Key stakeholders, decision-makers, and operational leaders are more likely to be available to participate in critical decisions and testing phases. When the whole team is present and focused, businesses can ensure a smooth transition with fewer disruptions to daily production.
Paxis ERP enables businesses to reduce IT dependence, which is especially valuable during this period. By allowing non-technical teams to manage onboarding and training through self-guided modules, businesses are less likely to be delayed by scheduling conflicts with IT or technical consultants.
3. Flexibility and adaptability
Starting an ERP implementation at the beginning of the year provides a runway for gradual change and adjustment. Q1 is typically a period of transition, where operational volumes may not be at their peak, allowing label converters to introduce new systems slowly without interrupting their busiest production cycles.
Unlike Q4, which is often consumed with financial audits, tax preparations, and holiday orders, Q1 provides breathing room for teams to familiarize themselves with the system. This period of controlled adaptation minimizes the stress that often comes with ERP transitions, enabling label converters to go live with confidence and precision.
With its cloud-native structure, Paxis can be deployed rapidly, and its intuitive user interface means employees can learn it quickly. Teams don’t need to feel rushed, as training can be conducted at their own pace, especially with self-guided learning options available within the platform. This flexibility in training and onboarding makes Q1 an ideal time for implementation.
4. Competitive advantage
Implementing new technology before your competitors is a surefire way to gain a competitive edge. By the time other label converters begin planning for an ERP update in the middle or end of the year, your company will already be reaping the benefits of improved efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
ERP systems like Paxis provide tools for better estimating, smarter inventory control, and real-time operational insights -all of which position your business ahead of competitors. Early adopters can use these advanced capabilities to win more business, handle complex customer demands, and deliver faster turnaround times.
Paxis allows label converters to process customer quotes faster, manage inventory more efficiently, and deliver quicker production timelines. As customer demand increases for shorter runs, customized labels, and rapid fulfillment, businesses with advanced operational tools can meet these needs head-on, giving them a leg up over their competition.
5. Long-term cost savings
While some label converters may hesitate to invest in ERP software at the start of the year, the financial benefits are undeniable. Implementing ERP software in Q1 provides cost savings in several ways:
- Avoid short-term fixes: Without a proper ERP system, businesses often resort to manual workarounds and band-aid solutions to fix operational inefficiencies. Over time, the cost of these temporary fixes can add up.
- Lower labor costs: Automating tasks like order processing, inventory management, and production scheduling eliminates the need for additional headcount, helping businesses save on labor costs.
- Reduce waste: Advanced inventory tracking features within Paxis help label converters reduce material waste and manage optimal stock levels, leading to cost savings.
By implementing a cloud-based ERP system like Paxis, label converters can significantly reduce IT expenses. Paxis eliminates the need for expensive on-site servers, IT support, and hardware upgrades. The system's pay-as-you-go subscription model allows businesses to spread costs evenly across the year rather than requiring a large upfront capital investment.
6. Drive digital transformation early in the year
Digital transformation is no longer a buzzword - it’s a necessity. With market trends like sustainable labeling, e-commerce growth, and demand for short-run labels on the rise, label converters need to leverage technology that enables them to stay ahead.
Cloud-based ERP systems like Paxis support digital transformation by giving businesses access to production data, inventory tracking, and business intelligence in real-time. By implementing an ERP system early in the year, companies can prioritize digital transformation initiatives throughout the year, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
Take advantage of the benefits and get the edge on your competitors… Fast!
The start of a new year is a pivotal time for label converters to adopt new technology, especially ERP software. By taking advantage of a clear planning window, avoiding holiday disruptions, and securing a competitive edge, businesses can set themselves up for a year of growth and operational excellence.
Paxis ERP is designed to meet the specific needs of label converters, offering intuitive tools for inventory management, real-time insights, and production scheduling. Its rapid deployment and affordable pricing make it the perfect ERP solution for independent and growing label converters. By starting in Q1, companies have time to plan, train, and deploy the system while maximizing ROI and driving long-term cost savings.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level and get the edge on your competition, fast, consider starting your ERP implementation journey with Paxis at the start of the New Year. With faster quoting, better inventory control, and cloud-based scalability, you’ll be ready to face the challenges of 2025 and beyond.
Request your FREE demo today to see Paxis in use and learn exactly how it can help you reach your label business goals.
