In the world of batch and process manufacturing, precision, traceability, and regulatory compliance are critical factors that help ensure a business is successful. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software plays a pivotal role in streamlining and optimizing complex manufacturing processes but providers need to uplevel how they enhance the productivity and security of the system. Many have prioritized the implementation of Single sign-on (SSO) for their ERP software.
What is single sign-on?
Single sign-on is a convenient and secure way for people to access more than one software system by imputing login credentials (username and password) one time. This removes the need for people to remember and enter unique credentials for each system every time.
Why should manufacturers use Single Sign-On with their ERP?
This blog post explores the importance of SSO for manufacturers and how it benefits companies in the batch and process industry.
1. Simple and quick access control
Batch and process manufacturing often involve many interconnected systems and applications in order to complete tasks like production planning, recipe management, quality control, and regulatory compliance. Managing separate usernames and passwords for each system can be time-consuming and prone to errors. SSO simplifies access control by allowing users to authenticate once and gain access to multiple systems seamlessly. With a single set of login credentials, employees can navigate between different ERP modules and associated applications, reducing the need for repetitive logins and enhancing workflow efficiency.
2. Improved security and compliance
Maintaining sensitive information, such as proprietary formulas, manufacturing recipes, and regulatory compliance data comes hand-in-hand with batch and process manufacturing. Protecting this valuable data from unauthorized access or data breaches is critical. SSO enhances security by bringing together authentication and access control into a single sign-on process, reducing the risk of weak or reused passwords. It enables organizations to enforce robust security measures, such as multi-factor authentication and stringent password policies, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data. Furthermore, SSO helps maintain compliance with industry regulations, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA requirements, by providing centralized control and audit trails for user access.
3. Efficient user experience
Employees often must work across multiple systems simultaneously. Managing separate login credentials for each application can be cumbersome and impede productivity. With a single login, employees can access the necessary systems without interruption, streamlining their workflow and saving valuable time. This enhanced user experience not only boosts productivity but also reduces frustration among employees, leading to a more efficient and engaged workforce.
4. Control over user permissions
Organizations often have complex hierarchies and diverse roles within their workforce. Manually managing user accounts and permissions across multiple ERP systems can be challenging and prone to errors. SSO enables centralized user management, allowing administrators to provision and de-provision access from a central console. Centralized control ensures that employees have the appropriate level of access to the systems they need, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches. Moreover, when employees join or leave the organization, their access privileges can be easily managed, ensuring timely updates and maintaining data security.
5. Cost and time savings
Implementing SSO for batch and process manufacturing ERP software can lead to significant cost and time savings. With SSO, organizations can minimize password-related support requests, reducing the burden on IT support teams and freeing them up to focus on more strategic initiatives. Additionally, SSO simplifies the onboarding process for new employees, allowing them immediate access to the necessary systems and applications, accelerating their productivity. This streamlined user management process translates into tangible cost savings and increased operational efficiency.
SSO should be a critical feature for batch and process manufacturing ERPs as it improves productivity, reduces administrative overhead, and helps organizations adhere to industry regulations. If your organization is not already utilizing SSO, it may be time to adopt it.
Deacom, our batch and process manufacturing ERP, provides a centralized business management platform with a suite of capabilities specific to your industry, including SSO capabilities.
Interested in learning more about how a manufacturing ERP can help your business, read the article below:
- Boosting Efficiency and Growth: Why SMB Batch and Process Manufacturers Should Embrace ERP
- High Standards for WMS Amidst Tumultuous Times
- The Negative Impacts That Manual Processes Have on Your Business
