Leveraging various types of data, connecting distributed datasets, and integrating business systems are the foundations of transformation projects. This approach accelerates and automates processes while opening up new business opportunities. Epicor has long been known for its open architecture, which allows for nearly unlimited integration with both internal and external systems.
This unlimited freedom to integrate Kinetic ERP with other systems is deeply rooted in its technology. Epicor develops its solution using a Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA). This means that everything happening within the system is triggered by services—business methods executed in a specific sequence. Of course, all of this takes place “behind the scenes” of the user-friendly, intuitive, and easy-to-use graphical interface.
These services—or methods—can be invoked not only by internal system events or user actions but also in various ways from the outside. It is worth noting that this integration can be bidirectional: you can trigger services within Kinetic ERP, and these services can simultaneously initiate actions outside the system, such as sending or retrieving data. Epicor services are available externally as web services, REST APIs, or .NET methods, making them very easy to utilize.
How do these technical capabilities translate into business solutions? One of the most common integrations is establishing communication with an organization’s banking system, which allows, for example, for the export of payment orders from the system and the subsequent import of bank statements back into it.
Another popular integration, especially recently, is creating connections with logistics operators. This allows users to order goods transport without leaving the system, precisely specifying both the time and the destination. This is exactly how Mindbox integrated the Epicor system implemented at Technogaia with the Venipak logistics system. Such a solution, however, requires some time and effort, primarily due to the need to reach agreements between the two companies.
Employees do not need to use an external system or download and print shipping labels when ordering transport. The implemented integration allows users to click a single button within Kinetic ERP and print the necessary documents on a printer without changing screens. From the user’s perspective, this functionality appears as part of Epicor.
Another example based on Mindbox’s experience is importing currency exchange rates. An automated robot can download current exchange rate information in XML format every day, making it available for all system users. Due to the high interest in such a mechanism and its relative simplicity, we have created a ready-made solution that can be installed, configured, and launched within a few hours. Another simple integration is the VAT payer white list, a solution prepared by Epicor itself.
Finally, let’s take the example of automation where a client reports production data in an external system. This information is also needed in Kinetic ERP. Therefore, a file is automatically generated and sent to the Epicor general ledger as a specific entry. Errors are handled along the way, and users are notified of everything via email.
Lastly, here is one more example of an integration implemented for a Mindbox client. The company makes intensive use of the Wucato online store. When employees order goods on the website, the Wucato system sends a data file to be imported into Epicor, which ultimately results in a purchase order appearing in the system.
As you can see, the possibilities are vast, practically unlimited. If there is a system worth integrating with Kinetic ERP, we can say with a very high probability that we can make it happen. If you have an idea for such an integration, please feel free to contact us.
