What an ERP system does for large manufacturing enterprises it should also do for SMMs. That is support growth by providing flexibility and control to meet evolving demands and secure a competitive edge in the global marketplace. While most large manufacturers are already leveraging ERP systems to gain a competitive advantage, many SMMs still rely on spread-sheet based systems. As manufacturing technologies continue to advance, and offshore manufacturing practices become more sophisticated, SMMs that have not tapped ERP's potential may be caught at a disadvantage.

Fortunately, many ERP vendors are now packaging systems to meet the specific needs of SMMs. The best of these solutions for SMMs are those built upon single-source technology that delivers both ample manufacturing-focused functionality for current needs and the ability to costeffectively scale for growth.

As many SMMs are realizing, ERP is essential. Although not just any ERP system will do, with the right ERP system in place, SMMs can get mighty and thrive in the face of bigger competition.