IFS launches IFS Applications 8 for modern manufacturing

IFS, the global enterprise applications company, presents its new core version, IFS Applications™ 8, featuring new and enhanced functionality for manufacturing industries. Among the innovative features are comprehensive support for aftermarket service and repair, prototype manufacturing, as well as enhanced sales configurator and shop floor reporting capabilities.

As business processes within global manufacturing industries are increasing in complexity, there is a growing demand for user-friendly and efficient enterprise applications. In response to this general trend, IFS Applications 8 offers best-practice solutions based on many years of first-hand industry experience, always coupled with leading-edge innovations in user experience as manifested in the IFS Enterprise Explorer interface.

Today, many manufacturers are facing shrinking profit margins on the goods they produce. Alternative revenue streams such as product repair and other aftermarket services are consequently becoming increasingly important. In response to the demands of manufacturers servicing their own products, or service providers specializing in repairing others’ products, IFS Applications 8 includes the brand new feature, Component MRO. The solution covers the complete aftermarket repair process, from agreement, receipt and repair to shipping and invoicing.

While constantly seeking new revenue streams, manufacturers must stay on top of the rapid changes in product demand. Prototype production continues to be important in order to meet customer expectations, ensure quality and minimize time to market. The new Prototype Manufacturing component will support companies producing small prototype series in a way that is easy to set up and execute without affecting normal production. The feature also supports companies that wish to redesign existing products or test new production technologies.

An important trend within manufacturing is the growing demand for uniquely configured products. To support manufacturers in delivering on this trend, IFS Applications 8 is equipped with an improved Sales Configurator feature. Easy to understand and use, the configurator eliminates the need for engineers to handle orders or quotations. The component leverages the system’s configure-to-order (CTO) capabilities and offers full integration with the Media Library.

Besides comprehensive support for the actual production line, an efficient manufacturing operation also needs a user-friendly and efficient reporting component. The greatly enhanced Shop Floor Reporting feature is easy to learn and use, promoting efficiency and quality. The tool is configurable to suit all employees and situations. A positive user experience is secured via the new Shop Floor Worker Cockpit which enables electronic shop orders without the need for hard copies.

A growing number of manufacturers are turning toward a project-based product development and production strategy, driving the need for business solutions that can offer project management capabilities as an integrated part of the entire value chain. IFS Applications 8 offers a unique project-based solution that supports the entire lifecycle of the project while remaining an integrated part of the overall ERP system.

“The global manufacturing field is currently undergoing many changes, with new innovations and challenges arising almost daily. We are therefore excited to be able to present IFS Applications 8, a full ERP suite that represents the cutting edge of modern manufacturing and usability. We are convinced that the new version will have a considerable impact on how companies plan and execute their manufacturing operations,” said Thomas Säld, VP Research & Development, IFS.