Is AI just another buzzword in the ERP world, or is there real value for manufacturers and distributors? In this episode, Brad Feakes, President and Partner at Estes Group, shares 20 years of hard-earned insights about what AI really means for ERP systems—and why most companies are thinking about it wrong.

Estes Group is a leading provider of ERP consulting, IT, and cloud managed services based in Loveland, Colorado and, with two decades in the industry, Brad brings his practical, no-nonsense advice for businesses navigating digital transformation. Tune in to discover why AI needs a body, not just a brain, and how to build a smart integration strategy that actually delivers results!

Our guest on this episode is Carolyn Hunt, an independent consultant specializing in Epicor Prophet 21 implementation with over 50 years of experience in industrial distribution. She sits down with Karthik to share her unique perspective on how the distribution industry evolved from manual processes to embracing modern ERP systems, third-party integrations, and AI technology. Learn how Prophet 21 transformed from proprietary hardware systems to today's web-based solutions, and discover why successful distributors focus on growing their business through technology without losing the human touch that builds lasting customer relationships.

Carolyn reveals practical insights from her decades of consulting experience, including how she's helped countless businesses transition from paper-based accounting to fully integrated ERP systems. She discusses the critical role of system integrations, why no single ERP can do everything, and how platforms like DCKAP Integrator enable distributors to connect best-of-breed solutions. This conversation also explores the balance between AI automation and maintaining personal relationships in an industry built on trust and service.

New employees often have high expectations for office technology, but many companies struggle to meet those expectations. It's crucial to maintain those expectations in the workplace, not lower them just because it's "business tech".

In this not-to-miss episode, Stephan Fulop, Chief Product & Technology Officer at DSG, highlights the challenges of information technology in creating a smart office environment, and ensuring that the office runs smoothly and efficiently using high quality business technology, and much more!