Manufacturing ERP Systems: Streamlining Production

Manufacturing ERP Systems are the backbone of modern production, enabling businesses to manage every aspect of their operations with unparalleled efficiency. These powerful software solutions integrate various departments, from production planning and inventory control to quality management and financial reporting, creating a centralized hub for data and insights.

Imagine a world where every step in your manufacturing process is seamlessly connected, from raw materials procurement to finished goods delivery. This is the reality that Manufacturing ERP Systems bring to life, empowering manufacturers to optimize their processes, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Introduction to Manufacturing ERP Systems

A Manufacturing ERP system is a software solution designed to manage and integrate all aspects of a manufacturing business. It serves as a centralized platform for data, processes, and operations, enabling organizations to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall performance.

Manufacturing ERP systems are crucial for streamlining and automating core business processes, from product design and development to production, inventory management, and customer service.

Core Functionalities of a Manufacturing ERP System

A Manufacturing ERP system encompasses a wide range of functionalities that cater to the specific needs of manufacturing businesses. These functionalities can be categorized into core modules that address key areas of operations.

• Production Planning and Scheduling: This module helps manufacturers plan and schedule production runs, manage material requirements, and optimize resource allocation. It enables real-time monitoring of production progress, facilitates efficient resource utilization, and minimizes downtime.
• Inventory Management: This module provides comprehensive control over inventory levels, ensuring that the right materials are available at the right time. It tracks stock movements, manages warehouse operations, and optimizes inventory turnover rates. Features like automated purchase order generation and vendor management enhance supply chain efficiency.

  Manufacturing ERP systems are designed to streamline production processes, manage inventory, and track costs. However, for businesses with a retail component, integrating a robust RETAIL ERP system can further enhance efficiency by optimizing point-of-sale operations, managing customer relationships, and analyzing sales data.

  This integrated approach allows manufacturers to better understand consumer demand, adjust production accordingly, and ultimately, drive greater profitability.

• Quality Management: This module helps manufacturers maintain high product quality by tracking defects, implementing quality control measures, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. It enables organizations to identify and address quality issues promptly, reducing product recalls and customer dissatisfaction.
• Financial Management: This module integrates financial data from various departments, providing a comprehensive view of the company’s financial health. It facilitates budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis, enabling informed decision-making regarding resource allocation and profitability.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): This module helps manufacturers manage customer interactions, track sales opportunities, and enhance customer satisfaction. It provides a centralized platform for managing customer data, automating marketing campaigns, and delivering personalized customer service.
• Supply Chain Management: This module streamlines the flow of materials and information across the supply chain. It enables manufacturers to track supplier performance, manage logistics, and optimize transportation routes, ensuring timely delivery of products to customers.

Key Features of Manufacturing ERP Systems

Manufacturing ERP systems are designed to streamline and integrate various processes within a manufacturing organization. They offer a comprehensive suite of features that cater to diverse aspects of manufacturing operations, from planning and production to inventory management and quality control.

Production Planning

Production planning is a crucial aspect of manufacturing, ensuring that the right products are made in the right quantities at the right time. Manufacturing ERP systems provide a range of tools to facilitate efficient production planning:

• Master Production Scheduling (MPS):MPS establishes a high-level production plan, defining the quantities of each product to be produced over a specific time period. It takes into account factors like customer demand, available resources, and production capacity.
• Materials Requirements Planning (MRP):MRP calculates the precise quantities of raw materials, components, and sub-assemblies required to meet the production schedule. It ensures that the necessary materials are available when needed, minimizing delays and inventory costs.
• Capacity Planning:Capacity planning helps organizations determine whether their production resources, such as machinery, labor, and facilities, are sufficient to meet the planned production schedule. It allows for adjustments to production plans or resource allocation to ensure smooth operations.

Inventory Management

Effective inventory management is essential for maintaining a balance between meeting customer demand and minimizing inventory costs. Manufacturing ERP systems provide features that optimize inventory control:

• Inventory Tracking:ERP systems maintain a real-time record of inventory levels, including raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods. This visibility allows for accurate tracking of inventory movements, preventing stockouts and excess inventory.
• Inventory Forecasting:Based on historical data and demand patterns, ERP systems can generate forecasts for future inventory requirements. This helps organizations plan for upcoming demand and avoid potential stock shortages.
• Inventory Optimization:ERP systems offer tools to optimize inventory levels, such as ABC analysis, which categorizes inventory based on its value and importance. This helps prioritize inventory management efforts and allocate resources effectively.

Quality Control

Maintaining high-quality standards is crucial for customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Manufacturing ERP systems support quality control processes:

• Quality Management System (QMS):ERP systems can integrate with QMS software to manage quality standards, track non-conformities, and implement corrective actions. This ensures consistent quality across production processes.
• Quality Data Collection:ERP systems enable the collection and analysis of quality data, such as defect rates, inspection results, and customer feedback. This information helps identify areas for improvement and enhance overall product quality.
• Quality Audits:ERP systems can assist in scheduling and managing quality audits, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. This helps maintain product quality and minimize risks.

Financial Management

Manufacturing ERP systems play a significant role in financial management by providing tools for:

• Cost Accounting:ERP systems track and allocate manufacturing costs, including materials, labor, and overhead. This allows for accurate cost analysis and identification of cost-saving opportunities.
• Budgeting and Forecasting:ERP systems support financial planning by providing tools for budgeting and forecasting revenue, expenses, and cash flow. This helps organizations make informed financial decisions.
• Financial Reporting:ERP systems generate comprehensive financial reports, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. These reports provide valuable insights into the financial health of the manufacturing organization.

Supply Chain Management

Manufacturing ERP systems facilitate effective supply chain management by connecting with external partners:

• Supplier Management:ERP systems provide tools for managing supplier relationships, including supplier selection, performance evaluation, and contract management. This ensures reliable supply chain operations.
• Demand Planning:ERP systems can integrate with supply chain planning tools to forecast demand and optimize production and inventory levels across the supply chain. This helps ensure that the right products are available at the right time.
• Order Management:ERP systems handle order processing, tracking, and fulfillment across the supply chain. This streamlines order management processes and improves customer satisfaction.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Manufacturing ERP systems can integrate with CRM software to improve customer engagement:

• Customer Data Management:ERP systems store customer information, including contact details, order history, and preferences. This data helps organizations understand customer needs and tailor products and services accordingly.
• Customer Service:ERP systems can provide customer service tools, such as ticketing systems and knowledge bases, to resolve customer inquiries and issues efficiently. This enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Marketing Automation:ERP systems can integrate with marketing automation tools to personalize marketing campaigns and target specific customer segments. This helps increase sales and brand awareness.

Benefits of Implementing Manufacturing ERP Systems

Implementing a Manufacturing ERP system can significantly enhance a company’s operational efficiency and productivity. This comprehensive software solution integrates various departments, streamlining workflows and eliminating data silos. By automating processes, improving data visibility, and providing real-time insights, ERP systems empower businesses to make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and drive sustainable growth.

Increased Efficiency and Productivity

ERP systems automate repetitive tasks, freeing up valuable time for employees to focus on more strategic initiatives. By streamlining workflows and eliminating manual processes, manufacturers can significantly reduce errors, improve accuracy, and enhance overall efficiency. For example, an ERP system can automate purchase orders, track inventory levels, and manage production schedules, ensuring smooth operations and minimizing delays.

“A recent study by Aberdeen Group found that companies using ERP systems experience a 10% increase in productivity and a 5% reduction in operational costs.”

Department-Specific Benefits

• Production: ERP systems provide real-time visibility into production processes, enabling manufacturers to track production progress, identify bottlenecks, and optimize resource allocation. This data-driven approach allows for timely adjustments to production schedules, reducing lead times and improving delivery performance.
• Finance: ERP systems streamline financial processes, such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, and budgeting. By automating these tasks, manufacturers can improve accuracy, reduce errors, and gain greater control over their finances. Additionally, ERP systems provide real-time financial reporting, enabling better financial planning and decision-making.

• Sales: ERP systems provide sales teams with access to real-time inventory data, allowing them to accurately quote prices and ensure timely delivery. They also facilitate order management, customer relationship management (CRM), and sales forecasting, enabling sales teams to effectively manage customer relationships and optimize sales strategies.

  Manufacturing ERP systems are the backbone of many production processes, streamlining operations and providing valuable insights. However, ensuring the smooth functioning of these systems requires a robust internal IT infrastructure, which is where a robust RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) solution comes in.

  By proactively monitoring and managing IT assets, RMM helps maintain system stability and minimize downtime, ultimately contributing to the overall efficiency of manufacturing ERP systems.

Improved Decision-Making and Data-Driven Insights, MANUFACTURING ERP SYSTEMS

ERP systems provide a centralized platform for data storage and analysis, offering valuable insights into business operations. By consolidating data from various departments, manufacturers can gain a comprehensive view of their business, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on real-time data.

For instance, an ERP system can track sales performance, production costs, and customer feedback, providing insights into areas for improvement and growth.

Types of Manufacturing ERP Systems

Manufacturing ERP systems come in various forms, catering to the unique needs of different businesses. Understanding the different types of ERP systems and their key characteristics is crucial for selecting the right solution for your manufacturing organization.

Classification by Size and Target Audience

The size and target audience of a manufacturing company significantly influence the type of ERP system best suited for their needs. Here’s a breakdown of ERP systems based on their target audience:

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

• SMEs typically require ERP systems that are easy to implement, affordable, and offer essential functionalities for managing core business processes.
• These systems are often cloud-based, offering flexibility and scalability as the business grows.
• They focus on providing a user-friendly interface and intuitive workflows to streamline operations.

Enterprise-Level Manufacturing Companies

• Large enterprises require sophisticated ERP systems that can handle complex operations, manage large volumes of data, and integrate with multiple systems.
• These systems are typically on-premise, offering greater control over data security and customization options.
• They often include advanced features like supply chain management, business intelligence, and analytics.

Comparison of ERP Systems

ERP systems differ in their features, functionalities, and pricing models. Here’s a comparison of different types of ERP systems:

Cloud-Based ERP Systems

• Cloud-based ERP systems are hosted on a third-party server, allowing businesses to access the system from any location with an internet connection.
• They offer scalability, flexibility, and affordability, making them ideal for SMEs.
• Examples include NetSuite, Zoho One, and SAP Business ByDesign.

On-Premise ERP Systems

• On-premise ERP systems are installed and maintained on the company’s servers.
• They offer greater control over data security and customization options, making them suitable for large enterprises with complex needs.
• Examples include SAP ERP, Oracle Siebel, and Infor LN.

Industry-Specific ERP Systems

• Industry-specific ERP systems are designed to meet the unique requirements of specific industries, such as automotive, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals.
• They offer pre-configured functionalities and industry-specific best practices, reducing implementation time and costs.
• Examples include Deltek Costpoint for the construction industry, Epicor for manufacturing, and Infor CloudSuite for retail.

Pricing Models

ERP systems are typically offered through different pricing models:

Subscription-Based

• Subscription-based pricing models involve paying a recurring fee for access to the ERP system.
• This model offers flexibility and affordability, as businesses only pay for the features they need.

Per-User Licensing

• Per-user licensing involves paying a fixed fee for each user who accesses the ERP system.
• This model is suitable for businesses with a predictable number of users.

One-Time Purchase

• One-time purchase models involve a single upfront payment for the ERP system.
• This model offers greater control over costs, but businesses need to factor in ongoing maintenance and support fees.

Implementation Process of Manufacturing ERP Systems

Implementing a Manufacturing ERP System is a complex and multifaceted process that requires careful planning, execution, and management. It involves a series of steps, from initial assessment to post-implementation support, that aim to seamlessly integrate the new system into the existing business operations.

This section delves into the key steps, challenges, and best practices for successful ERP implementation.

Key Steps Involved in ERP Implementation

The implementation process typically involves several distinct phases, each with its own set of objectives and activities.

• Project Planning and Scoping:This initial phase defines the project’s scope, objectives, and resources. It involves identifying the business processes to be automated, defining the project timeline, and establishing clear roles and responsibilities for the implementation team.
• Requirements Gathering and Analysis:This step involves gathering detailed information about the existing business processes, data requirements, and user needs. This information is then analyzed to identify potential areas for improvement and to define the specific functionalities required from the ERP system.
• System Selection and Configuration:Once the requirements are defined, the next step is to select an appropriate ERP system that meets the specific needs of the manufacturing organization. This involves evaluating different ERP vendors and their offerings, followed by configuring the chosen system to align with the organization’s unique processes and data structures.

  Manufacturing ERP systems streamline operations by integrating various departments, from production to inventory management. But with interconnected systems, robust security is paramount. ADDIGY RMM provides a comprehensive remote monitoring and management solution, ensuring that your manufacturing ERP systems are protected from potential vulnerabilities and threats, safeguarding your critical data and operations.

• Data Migration:This step involves transferring data from the existing systems to the new ERP system. It requires careful planning and execution to ensure data integrity and accuracy. This often involves data cleansing, transformation, and validation processes.
• Testing and Training:Before going live, the implemented ERP system undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its functionality and performance. User training programs are also conducted to familiarize employees with the new system and its functionalities.
• Go-Live and Post-Implementation Support:The final step involves launching the ERP system in the production environment. This is followed by ongoing support and maintenance to ensure smooth operations and address any emerging issues. Regular system updates and enhancements are also crucial to keep the ERP system aligned with evolving business needs.

Challenges and Considerations during Implementation

The implementation of a Manufacturing ERP System can present several challenges, requiring careful consideration and proactive mitigation strategies.

• Resistance to Change:Introducing a new system can be disruptive to established workflows and processes, leading to resistance from employees. It is crucial to address this resistance through effective communication, training, and demonstrating the benefits of the new system.
• Data Integration and Migration:Integrating data from various existing systems into the new ERP can be complex and time-consuming. It requires careful planning, data cleansing, and validation to ensure data integrity and consistency.
• Customization and Configuration:Customizing the ERP system to meet the specific needs of the manufacturing organization can be a significant undertaking. It requires expertise in system configuration and development to ensure the system is tailored to the unique processes and workflows.
• Project Management and Communication:Effective project management and communication are critical for successful ERP implementation. Clear roles and responsibilities, regular progress updates, and open communication channels are essential to keep the project on track.
• Cost and Time Overruns:ERP implementation projects can be complex and resource-intensive, potentially leading to cost and time overruns. It is important to have a realistic budget and timeline, and to monitor project progress closely to identify and address potential risks.

Best Practices for Successful ERP Implementation

Several best practices can significantly enhance the chances of successful ERP implementation.

Manufacturing ERP systems streamline operations by managing inventory, production, and supply chains. However, these systems often lack the capabilities to effectively monitor and manage IT infrastructure, which is crucial for ensuring seamless production. This is where a remote monitoring and management (RMM) solution like LABTECH RMM can be a valuable addition.

LABTECH RMM provides comprehensive IT infrastructure monitoring, allowing manufacturers to proactively address potential issues before they disrupt production and impact overall efficiency.

• Involve Key Stakeholders:Engage key stakeholders from all departments and levels of the organization throughout the implementation process. This ensures buy-in and ownership, minimizing resistance and facilitating a smoother transition.
• Define Clear Objectives and Scope:Clearly define the project’s objectives and scope to ensure everyone is aligned on the goals and deliverables. This helps to avoid scope creep and ensure the project remains focused.
• Choose the Right ERP System:Select an ERP system that meets the specific needs of the manufacturing organization, considering factors like industry-specific functionalities, scalability, and integration capabilities.
• Plan for Data Migration:Thoroughly plan and execute the data migration process to ensure data integrity and accuracy. This involves data cleansing, transformation, and validation to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
• Provide Adequate Training:Invest in comprehensive user training programs to familiarize employees with the new system and its functionalities. This helps to reduce errors, improve adoption rates, and ensure efficient utilization of the system.
• Implement in Phases:Implement the ERP system in phases, starting with a pilot implementation to test and refine the process before rolling it out to the entire organization. This allows for gradual adoption and reduces the risk of major disruptions.
• Establish a Strong Support System:Provide ongoing support and maintenance to address any emerging issues and ensure smooth system operations. This can include helpdesk services, system updates, and regular maintenance activities.

Integration with Other Systems

Manufacturing ERP systems are not isolated islands of data. They are designed to interact seamlessly with other business applications, creating a comprehensive and integrated ecosystem that optimizes operations and improves decision-making. This integration allows for a smooth flow of information between different departments and processes, enhancing efficiency and visibility across the entire organization.

Benefits of Seamless Integration

Seamless integration between a manufacturing ERP system and other business applications offers significant advantages:

• Real-time Data Visibility:Integrated systems eliminate data silos, providing real-time access to critical information across various departments. This enables informed decision-making based on up-to-date insights.
• Improved Operational Efficiency:Automated data transfer between systems reduces manual data entry, minimizing errors and saving time. This streamlines processes, improves productivity, and allows for faster response times.
• Enhanced Collaboration:Integrated systems foster collaboration by providing a shared platform for communication and information exchange. This facilitates better coordination between departments and stakeholders.
• Reduced Costs:Integration eliminates redundant data entry and manual processes, reducing operational costs and improving overall efficiency.

Integration Scenarios

Here are some examples of how manufacturing ERP systems can be integrated with other business applications:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management):Integrating an ERP system with a CRM allows for seamless customer data sharing. This enables manufacturers to track customer orders, manage customer interactions, and provide personalized service.
• Supply Chain Management (SCM):Integration with SCM systems allows for real-time visibility into inventory levels, supplier performance, and order fulfillment. This enables manufacturers to optimize supply chain operations and minimize disruptions.
• E-commerce Platforms:Integrating an ERP system with an e-commerce platform allows for automated order processing, inventory updates, and real-time order tracking. This streamlines online sales and improves customer satisfaction.
• Financial Management Systems:Integration with financial management systems enables manufacturers to track financial performance, manage budgets, and generate financial reports. This provides a comprehensive view of the company’s financial health.

Integration Approaches

There are several approaches to integrating manufacturing ERP systems with other applications:

• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs):APIs allow different systems to communicate and exchange data in a standardized way. This approach provides flexibility and scalability for integration.
• Middleware:Middleware acts as a bridge between different systems, translating data formats and ensuring smooth communication. This approach simplifies integration and reduces development effort.
• Cloud-based Integration:Cloud-based ERP systems often offer pre-built integrations with other cloud applications. This approach provides a quick and cost-effective way to integrate systems.

Considerations for Successful Integration

To ensure successful integration, manufacturers should consider the following:

• Data Mapping:Defining clear data mapping rules is crucial to ensure accurate data transfer between systems.
• Security:Data security must be a top priority during integration, with appropriate measures to protect sensitive information.
• Testing:Thorough testing is essential to ensure that integrated systems function correctly and meet business requirements.
• Training:Providing adequate training to users on integrated systems is essential for successful adoption and utilization.

Future Trends in Manufacturing ERP Systems

Manufacturing ERP systems are constantly evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industrial landscape. The integration of emerging technologies and the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles are driving significant transformations in how manufacturing ERP systems operate and deliver value.

Manufacturing ERP systems are crucial for managing complex production processes, but they often lack the capabilities to effectively monitor and manage the IT infrastructure that underpins them. This is where solutions like NINJAONE RMM come in, offering remote monitoring and management capabilities that can help ensure seamless operation of critical IT systems, thus minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity within a manufacturing environment.

The Impact of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is revolutionizing the way businesses access and manage their IT infrastructure, and manufacturing is no exception. Cloud-based ERP systems offer several advantages, including:

• Scalability and Flexibility:Cloud ERP systems can easily scale up or down to meet changing business needs, eliminating the need for costly hardware upgrades. This flexibility allows manufacturers to adapt to fluctuating production demands and market conditions.
• Cost Savings:By eliminating the need for on-premises hardware and infrastructure, cloud ERP systems can significantly reduce IT costs. This includes expenses related to hardware maintenance, software licensing, and IT staff.
• Improved Accessibility:Cloud ERP systems can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing employees to collaborate and access critical data remotely. This improves communication and efficiency, particularly for distributed manufacturing operations.
• Enhanced Security:Cloud providers invest heavily in security infrastructure and expertise, offering manufacturers a higher level of protection against cyber threats compared to managing their own on-premises systems.

Cloud-based ERP systems are becoming increasingly popular in the manufacturing sector, offering a more agile, cost-effective, and secure way to manage operations.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

AI is transforming the manufacturing industry by automating tasks, optimizing processes, and providing valuable insights from data. AI-powered ERP systems are capable of:

• Predictive Maintenance:AI algorithms can analyze sensor data from machines and predict potential failures, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.
• Demand Forecasting:AI can analyze historical sales data and market trends to predict future demand, allowing manufacturers to optimize production schedules and inventory levels.
• Process Optimization:AI can identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in manufacturing processes, suggesting improvements to optimize production flow and reduce costs.
• Quality Control:AI-powered vision systems can inspect products for defects, improving quality control and reducing waste.

AI is enhancing the capabilities of manufacturing ERP systems, enabling manufacturers to make more informed decisions, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive advantage.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

Data analytics is essential for manufacturers to extract valuable insights from the vast amounts of data generated by their operations. Modern ERP systems integrate with advanced analytics tools, providing:

• Real-Time Visibility:Access to real-time data allows manufacturers to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify potential issues before they become major problems.
• Improved Decision Making:Data-driven insights support better decision-making across all aspects of the manufacturing process, from production planning to supply chain management.
• Enhanced Efficiency:Analytics can identify areas for improvement, such as optimizing production schedules, reducing waste, and improving resource allocation.
• Predictive Analytics:Advanced analytics techniques can predict future trends and events, allowing manufacturers to proactively adapt to changing market conditions.

Data analytics is transforming manufacturing ERP systems into powerful tools for decision-making, enabling manufacturers to optimize their operations and gain a competitive edge.

Manufacturing ERP Systems in Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is a paradigm shift in manufacturing, driven by the convergence of digital technologies, such as IoT, AI, and cloud computing. Manufacturing ERP systems are playing a crucial role in enabling Industry 4.0 by:

• Connecting Machines and Processes:Industry 4.0 relies on the seamless integration of machines, processes, and systems. Manufacturing ERP systems provide a central platform for connecting and managing these interconnected elements.
• Enabling Real-Time Data Sharing:ERP systems facilitate the real-time exchange of data between machines, sensors, and other systems, enabling greater visibility and control over manufacturing operations.
• Supporting Agile Manufacturing:Industry 4.0 emphasizes flexibility and agility in manufacturing. ERP systems can help manufacturers adapt to changing customer demands and market conditions by providing real-time data and insights.
• Facilitating Automation:ERP systems can automate many tasks, such as production planning, inventory management, and quality control, freeing up human resources to focus on more strategic initiatives.

Manufacturing ERP systems are evolving to become integral components of Industry 4.0, enabling manufacturers to leverage emerging technologies and create a more efficient, responsive, and competitive manufacturing environment.

Final Thoughts

As manufacturing evolves, so too do the capabilities of ERP systems. The integration of emerging technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics is ushering in a new era of intelligent automation and predictive insights. Manufacturing ERP Systems are no longer just tools for managing operations; they are becoming strategic partners in driving innovation, improving sustainability, and shaping the future of the industry.

Detailed FAQs

What are the key benefits of implementing a Manufacturing ERP System?

Implementing a Manufacturing ERP System offers numerous benefits, including improved efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced visibility, better decision-making, and increased customer satisfaction.

How much does it cost to implement a Manufacturing ERP System?

The cost of implementing a Manufacturing ERP System varies depending on the size of your business, the complexity of your requirements, and the specific software solution you choose. It’s essential to consult with vendors and consider the long-term ROI.

What are the common challenges associated with ERP implementation?

Common challenges during ERP implementation include data migration, user adoption, system integration, and change management. Proper planning, communication, and training are crucial for overcoming these obstacles.