Introduction: Complexity is Inevitable — But Confusion Isn’t
In today’s ERP landscape, complexity is a given. From automated workflows to custom dashboards and multi-layered business logic, systems like Epicor® are designed to deliver power and precision. But while backend capabilities grow more advanced, end users often struggle to keep up.
The gap between feature depth and user understanding can hurt adoption, productivity, and ROI.
That’s why we believe complexity doesn’t have to mean confusion.
At Epicforce Tech, our mission is to simplify the experience of using Epicor® — not by removing power, but by translating it into workflows, dashboards, and interfaces that make sense to real users, not just system admins.
In this post, we’ll share our approach to simplifying complex ERP features for end users — across implementation, training, design, and post-go-live support — so your teams are empowered, not overwhelmed.
Section 1: Understanding the End User Experience
1.1 The Real Barrier: Not Features, But Friction
Most users aren’t frustrated by features — they’re frustrated by friction.
This includes:
- Confusing UI navigation
- Irrelevant screens and reports
- Overwhelming options they’ll never use
- Poorly explained workflows
- Inconsistent behavior across modules
When end users encounter too many options and unclear instructions, they revert to spreadsheets, emails, and workarounds — sabotaging the system’s potential.
1.2 Recognizing the Spectrum of Users
Epicor® is used by a wide range of roles:
- Finance staff reviewing reports
- Shop floor workers entering job completions
- Sales reps updating leads
- Managers approving purchase orders
Each group needs a tailored experience. One-size-fits-all training and interfaces simply don’t work.
Section 2: Simplifying ERP at Every Stage of the Lifecycle
2.1 During Implementation: Build for Behavior
At Epicforce Tech, we start simplification from day one.
Our Discovery Process Includes:
- Role-based interviews
- Observing how tasks are performed today
- Identifying which fields/features are actually used
- Mapping the flow of information between departments
We ask:
- What do users expect to see on their screen?
- Where do mistakes happen today?
- What would make a task take 30 seconds instead of 3 minutes?
This feeds directly into how we configure modules, design menus, and build rules.
2.2 Smart Configuration Over Heavy Customization
We avoid unnecessary custom code that adds technical debt.
Instead, we use:
- BPMs to guide user behavior (e.g., alerts, required fields, auto-routing)
- BAQs to surface exactly the data users need
- Dashboards that combine multiple screens into one visual
- Menu Security to hide unused options and simplify navigation
Result: The interface looks less like a cockpit and more like a clean, focused workspace.
2.3 Testing From the User’s Point of View
We don’t just test if the system works — we test if it makes sense to the people using it.
- Can they complete their daily tasks in fewer clicks?
- Is the terminology intuitive to them?
- Are required fields highlighted clearly?
- Are error messages understandable and actionable?
This phase includes live scenario testing, using the end user's own language, processes, and data.
Section 3: Making Training Truly User-Friendly
3.1 Role-Based Training That Focuses on “How” — Not Just “What”
We tailor every training session by user role. Instead of demoing features, we walk users through:
- “How do you do this task today?”
- “Here’s how you’ll do it in Epicor® — step by step”
- “Here’s what to do when something goes wrong”
3.2 Visual Learning Aids
We provide:
- Screenshot-based guides (with YOUR data)
- Video tutorials by role
- Printable cheat sheets
- Embedded help buttons in dashboards
3.3 Training Based on Repetition, Not Lectures
We’ve seen that users retain more through doing, not listening. That’s why our sessions are:
- Hands-on
- Based on real tasks
- Designed for small groups
- Repeatable as needed (we record everything!)
Section 4: Tools and Features That Simplify Complexity
4.1 Dashboards: One View to Rule Them All
Users shouldn't have to jump between multiple modules or menus.
We build custom dashboards that:
- Combine reporting and action-taking in one place
- Auto-refresh and color-code key data
- Allow inline editing (where applicable)
- Filter based on user role, status, or department
Example: A production manager can view open jobs, inventory status, and job delays — and take action — without opening multiple windows.
4.2 BPM Rules: Guiding Behavior Behind the Scenes
BPMs are like having an assistant working in the background. We use them to:
- Auto-fill fields based on logic
- Send reminders for overdue actions
- Prevent errors before they happen (e.g., stop PO approval if budget exceeded)
- Trigger workflows when a status changes
This makes the system feel smarter and helps users avoid mistakes without even thinking about them.
4.3 Contextual Menus & Field-Level Security
We simplify menus by:
- Hiding options users don’t need
- Using clear, role-specific naming
- Rearranging layouts based on frequency of use
Less clutter = less confusion.
Section 5: Post-Go-Live Support That Focuses on People, Not Just Fixes
5.1 Embedded Feedback Loops
After Go Live, we:
- Schedule 1:1 feedback calls with key users
- Monitor dashboard usage stats
- Track tickets to find recurring issues
- Conduct “voice of user” surveys
We use this input to adjust dashboards, rules, and training materials — turning problems into improvements.
5.2 Mini-Optimizations = Big Wins
Even small updates can make a big difference:
- Rearranging dashboard columns
- Adding auto-populate logic to frequent forms
- Simplifying approval paths
- Building daily summary reports
These changes don’t require full reconfiguration — but they massively boost user satisfaction.
Section 6: Real Results from Real Users
Case Study: Mid-Size Manufacturing Company
Challenge: Complex production processes required multiple modules. Users were overwhelmed.
Our Solution:
- Built dashboard to combine 4 workflows into 1
- Added color-coded alerts and inline approvals
- Reduced 9-screen process to 2 screens
Result:
- 46% faster task completion
- Zero user drop-off post-Go Live
- Increased adoption from 68% to 97% in 3 months
Section 7: Signs You Need Simplification
- Users still rely on Excel or email to track key actions
- You get frequent “how do I do this?” questions post-Go Live
- Reports are ignored or misunderstood
- Errors happen because the process isn’t intuitive
- Training doesn’t stick past the first week
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to revisit your configuration — not to add more features, but to simplify the ones you already have.
Section 8: How You Can Start Making Things Easier
Even without a full re-implementation, you can simplify today by:
- Interviewing key users about their biggest daily friction points
- Reviewing dashboards for clarity and relevance
- Using security groups to declutter menus
- Setting up simple BPMs to reduce errors or missed steps
- Scheduling “refresher” training by role
Need help with any of these? That’s what we do best.
CTA: Ready to Make Epicor® Easier for Your Team?
If your team feels overwhelmed by features, disconnected from workflows, or under-trained — we can help.
✅ We simplify Epicor® features
✅ We align dashboards to real user behavior
✅ We create training that sticks
✅ We reduce friction and improve adoption
📞 Talk to a real Epicor® expert: (888) 280-5585
📩 Email us: info@epicforcetech.com
🌐 Learn more: www.epicforcetech.com
Conclusion: Epicforce Tech Turns Complexity Into Clarity
ERP systems like Epicor® are powerful — but that power only delivers value when your team knows how to use it.
At
Epicforce Tech, we bridge the gap between complex ERP features and real-world user needs. From discovery to dashboards, from BPM logic to role-based training, we ensure that your system makes sense to the people who rely on it every day.
Because technology should work for people — not the other way around.
Great walkthrough on running custom reports through Oracle Cloud! Clear steps and practical insights — very helpful for those integrating reporting into daily operations. At Epicforce Tech, we also emphasize the importance of customizing reports to match real business workflows. Thanks for sharing this!
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