Open source ERP provider Compiere this week made its first official foray into the manufacturing realm, rolling out version 3.1 of its software, with new functionality geared specifically to the needs of industrial companies.
Compiere 3.1 features an add-on Manufacturing module that allows users to manage multi-level bills of material and work orders, letting users create a work order, issue materials to it, and track it through work in process to finished goods. Then, in conjunction with Compiere’s inventory system, the software can release the customer order for shipment. The Manufacturing module also ties sales orders to work orders, allowing for customer changes to be reflected on both. The software is also integrated with the financial backbone of the Compiere ERP system and offers reporting functionality for WIP tracking and customer-service levels by delivery date.
John Cingari, Compiere’s chief marketing officer, told Managing Automation that the new application, which mixes ERP and CRM functions, targets mid-market manufacturers. He also acknowledged that few technology providers master all the functionality of a specific vertical on their first attempt, and said Compiere will next focus on building out the advanced scheduling and planning capabilities of the Manufacturing module.
Indeed, the majority of Compiere’s headcount is in R&D, he said, a structure that allows the company to be aggressive in developing and releasing new functionality. In that vein, the company will unveil a warehouse management product next month, a further step toward solidifying its manufacturing bona fides.