In this episode of Made to Grow, host Rich Dale is joined by Marv Van Niekerk, COO of Flowlens, and Holly Steele-Nicholson, Customer Success Lead at Flowlens, to discuss the importance of data strategy and dashboard integration for small manufacturers. Together, they explore the transformative impact of MRP software and effective data management on SMEs’ operations, from improving decision-making to driving continuous improvement.
Guest Overview:
- Marv Van Nykerk
Marv Van Niekerk is the COO at Flowlens, with a background as an accountant and over ten years of experience in leading operational strategy for manufacturing SMEs, Marv’s expertise spans multiple sectors. His strong focus and years of experience in helping SMEs master their systems and processes have been transformational for Flowlens customers (and for us!) as he has helped hundreds of manufacturers, many of who operate in extremely niche markets, to successfully digitally transform.
- Holly Steele-Nicholson
With a background in analytics and customer success, Holly brings unique insights into helping SMEs harness data to enhance their operations. Her work includes guiding SMEs through the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub initiative, supporting new users with onboarding their data to Flowlens and working closely with
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Key Points:
- MRP Software and Data Quality: Rich and Marv dive into the role of MRP software in consolidating manufacturing data. With automated systems, SMEs can eliminate the reliance on error-prone spreadsheets and focus on data-driven decisions that align with their business goals.
- Driving Change with Consistent Data: Marv shares the challenges SMEs face when implementing new systems, emphasising the importance of a change-friendly culture to support new data strategies. He highlights how an organised, reliable data foundation is essential for accurate reporting and continuous improvement.
- Smart Manufacturing and Dashboard Integration: Holly discusses her work with the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub, helping SMEs develop customised dashboards for real-time insights. These dashboards enable SMEs to track supply chain performance, customer success metrics, and key operational data in a way that supports everyday decision-making.
- Creating a Data Strategy: Holly emphasises the significance of developing a clear data strategy, tailored to each SME’s unique objectives. The conversation includes how automation and integration can improve data accuracy and reduce human error, ensuring that the data captured is actionable and directly tied to business outcomes.
- The Role of MRP Implementation in SME Growth: Both guests highlight examples of SMEs using MRP software to streamline their processes and manage operations more effectively. From sales order tracking to supplier performance monitoring, the episode demonstrates how technology can free up resources for strategic growth.
Conclusion:
This episode underscores how manufacturing SMEs can leverage MRP software and data management tools to strengthen decision-making, boost efficiency, and remain agile in a competitive landscape. Marv and Holly’s insights offer practical steps for SMEs looking to improve data quality and operational performance.
Resources:
Read more about Flowlens and the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub project or connect with Marv and Holly on LinkedIn.
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