Are you running a small factory or workshop, constantly juggling spreadsheets, struggling with inventory accuracy, and wishing you had better control over your production line? You’re not alone. Many small manufacturers believe that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are only for large corporations with massive budgets and complex IT departments. The good news? That’s a myth we’re about to debunk. Today, there’s a thriving ecosystem of affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops, ready to revolutionize your operations without breaking the bank.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these powerful yet budget-friendly solutions. We’ll delve into why they’re crucial for your growth, what features to look for, how to implement them without a hitch, and ultimately, how they can transform your workshop into a streamlined, efficient, and profitable enterprise. Get ready to discover how digital transformation is within your reach, regardless of your size.
Understanding the ERP Landscape for Small Businesses
For many small business owners, the term “ERP” conjures images of complex, expensive software implementations that seem far removed from the daily realities of their workshop floor. However, the modern ERP landscape has evolved dramatically, offering tailored solutions that are anything but daunting. At its core, an ERP system is an integrated suite of software applications designed to manage and connect all facets of an organization’s operations, from finance and human resources to manufacturing, supply chain, services, and procurement. For a small factory or workshop, this means bringing together functions that are often siloed and managed manually, leading to inefficiencies and errors.
The beauty of today’s affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops lies in their modularity and scalability. You don’t have to implement every single feature from day one. Instead, you can choose the modules most critical to your immediate needs – perhaps inventory management and production planning – and expand as your business grows. This targeted approach significantly reduces initial costs and complexity, making ERP adoption a much more approachable endeavor for smaller enterprises. Think of it as building a digital backbone for your entire operation, ensuring that every department, from sales to shipping, is working with the same, accurate, real-time data.
Why Small Factories and Workshops Absolutely Need ERP Software
The idea that ERP is a luxury for large enterprises is outdated and, frankly, detrimental to the growth potential of small manufacturing businesses. In today’s competitive landscape, even the smallest workshop needs to operate with precision, agility, and insight. Without an integrated system, small factories often grapple with a myriad of challenges that directly impact profitability and customer satisfaction. These challenges typically include unreliable inventory counts, leading to stockouts or overstocking; inefficient production scheduling that causes delays and missed deadlines; and a general lack of visibility into costs, sales, and overall performance.
Affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops directly address these pain points. Imagine knowing the exact quantity of every raw material on hand, precisely when a production run will be completed, and the true cost associated with each product before it even leaves the door. This level of insight empowers you to make proactive decisions rather than reactive ones. It means less time spent searching for data, resolving discrepancies, or chasing down information, and more time focused on innovation, quality, and serving your customers. Ultimately, ERP isn’t just about software; it’s about building a foundation for sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Dispelling the Myth: ERP is Only for Large Enterprises
One of the most persistent misconceptions about ERP systems is that they are exclusively the domain of multinational corporations with budgets stretching into the millions. This myth has unfortunately deterred countless small factory and workshop owners from even exploring the possibility of digital transformation. For years, traditional ERP implementations were indeed cumbersome, requiring significant upfront investment in hardware, software licenses, and extensive consulting services. This created a barrier that was simply too high for the average small business.
However, the technological landscape has dramatically shifted, particularly with the rise of cloud computing and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) models. These innovations have democratized ERP, bringing powerful capabilities within reach of even the smallest manufacturing operations. Modern affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops are often offered on a subscription basis, eliminating large upfront capital expenditures. They are designed to be user-friendly, requiring less specialized IT expertise, and can be implemented much faster than their traditional counterparts. This means that the agility, efficiency, and data-driven insights that were once exclusive to large enterprises are now accessible to you, allowing your small business to compete more effectively and scale with confidence.
The True Meaning of “Affordable ERP” for Manufacturers
When we talk about “affordable ERP,” it’s crucial to understand that we’re not just referring to the sticker price of the software itself. True affordability encompasses a broader perspective, focusing on the total cost of ownership (TCO) and, most importantly, the return on investment (ROI) that the system delivers. A seemingly “cheap” solution might end up being very expensive if it lacks essential features, is difficult to use, requires extensive customizations, or comes with hidden maintenance costs. Conversely, a slightly higher initial investment in a robust, user-friendly system can yield significant savings and efficiency gains over time, making it truly “affordable” in the long run.
For small factories and workshops, affordability means finding a system that balances cost, functionality, ease of implementation, and ongoing support. It means choosing a solution where the benefits of streamlined operations, reduced errors, and improved decision-making far outweigh the recurring subscription fees or one-time purchase costs. Many affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops are designed with this TCO in mind, offering cloud-based models that minimize infrastructure costs, intuitive interfaces that reduce training time, and scalable features that adapt as your business evolves. It’s about smart spending that drives tangible, measurable value for your manufacturing operations.
Key Modules in Affordable ERP Systems for Manufacturing
While full-scale ERP systems for large enterprises can include dozens of modules, affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops typically focus on the core functionalities that deliver the most immediate impact. These essential modules address the everyday operational challenges faced by small manufacturers, ensuring that critical processes are managed efficiently and accurately. Understanding these core components is vital for choosing a system that aligns with your specific operational needs.
One of the most crucial modules is Inventory Management. This isn’t just about counting items; it encompasses tracking raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods in real-time. It helps prevent stockouts, reduces excess inventory, optimizes storage space, and minimizes waste. Another cornerstone is Production Planning & Scheduling. This module allows you to plan your manufacturing orders, allocate resources, schedule production runs, and monitor progress against the plan, leading to improved throughput and on-time deliveries. Order Management is also key, covering both customer sales orders and supplier purchase orders, ensuring smooth flow from sales inquiry to delivery and efficient procurement of materials. Many systems also include basic Quality Control functionalities to track inspections and defect rates, and integrated Financials for invoicing, accounts receivable, and accounts payable, often syncing with existing accounting software. Together, these modules provide a powerful, integrated view of your manufacturing operations, something manual systems simply cannot achieve.
Benefits Beyond Cost Savings: Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity
While the cost-effectiveness of affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops is a major draw, the true value extends far beyond mere financial savings. The most significant impact of a well-implemented ERP system is the dramatic improvement in operational efficiency and overall productivity across your entire manufacturing process. By integrating disparate functions and centralizing data, ERP eliminates numerous bottlenecks and inefficiencies that commonly plague small businesses reliant on manual processes or disconnected software tools.
Imagine a world where data entry is minimized, errors are drastically reduced, and information flows seamlessly between departments. This is the reality ERP creates. Production teams gain real-time visibility into material availability, allowing them to start jobs on time and avoid costly delays. Sales teams can provide accurate delivery estimates based on live production schedules. Management has instant access to performance metrics, enabling swift, data-driven decisions. This enhanced efficiency isn’t just about working faster; it’s about working smarter, maximizing resource utilization, minimizing waste, and ultimately, producing more with the same or even fewer resources. This boost in productivity directly translates into increased capacity, faster turnaround times, and a stronger competitive edge for your workshop.
Scalability and Growth Potential with ERP
For any ambitious small factory or workshop, growth is the ultimate goal. However, traditional systems or reliance on spreadsheets often become significant inhibitors to scaling. As your business expands, so does the complexity of managing more orders, more inventory, more employees, and more intricate production processes. Without a robust and scalable foundation, growth can quickly lead to chaos, errors, and a decline in customer satisfaction. This is where the inherent scalability of modern affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops truly shines.
Many contemporary ERP solutions are designed with future expansion in mind. They allow you to start with essential modules and incrementally add functionality as your needs evolve – perhaps adding a CRM module when your sales team grows, or advanced planning features as your production volume increases. Cloud-based ERP solutions, in particular, offer unparalleled scalability, as they can easily accommodate more users, data, and transactions without requiring significant hardware upgrades on your part. This means your investment in an ERP system today isn’t just solving current problems; it’s also future-proofing your business. It provides a stable, flexible platform that can support your workshop as it moves from handling a few orders a day to managing hundreds, ensuring that your operational capabilities can keep pace with your commercial success.
Choosing the Right Affordable ERP System: Key Considerations
Selecting the perfect ERP system for your small factory or workshop can feel like a daunting task given the myriad of options available. It’s not just about finding the cheapest solution, but rather the one that offers the best fit for your unique operations and budget. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to consider several key factors that go beyond just features and price. Thinking strategically about these aspects will help you narrow down your choices and invest in a system that truly serves your business needs now and in the future.
Firstly, industry-specific features are paramount. While generic ERPs exist, manufacturing operations have very distinct requirements, such as bill of materials (BOM), routing, capacity planning, and job costing. Look for solutions that inherently understand and cater to these manufacturing specificities rather than requiring extensive, costly customizations. Secondly, user-friendliness cannot be overstated. Your employees will be interacting with this system daily, so an intuitive interface that requires minimal training is crucial for successful adoption and long-term satisfaction. Thirdly, vendor reputation and support are vital. An ERP implementation is a partnership, so choose a vendor with a proven track record, excellent customer service, and reliable technical support. Finally, consider the total cost of ownership, which includes not only subscription fees but also implementation costs, potential customization fees, and ongoing maintenance or support charges. By carefully evaluating these points, you can pinpoint an affordable ERP system designed for small factories and workshops that truly empowers your business.
Navigating the Implementation Process for Small Businesses
Implementing an ERP system, even an affordable one tailored for small businesses, requires careful planning and execution. While the process is less complex than for large enterprises, it still involves significant changes to your existing workflows and data management practices. Approaching implementation systematically will minimize disruptions, reduce risks, and ensure a smooth transition to your new digital backbone. Rushing this phase or neglecting key steps can lead to frustration, missed deadlines, and a failure to realize the full benefits of your investment.
The first critical step is thorough planning and goal setting. Clearly define what you want to achieve with the ERP system – whether it’s improved inventory accuracy, faster production cycles, or better financial visibility. This helps guide feature selection and implementation priorities. Next comes data migration, often the most challenging aspect. You’ll need to accurately transfer existing customer, vendor, inventory, and historical production data into the new system. This usually involves cleaning up old data, which is an excellent opportunity to eliminate inaccuracies. User training is equally crucial. Even the most user-friendly system will require your team to learn new processes and interfaces. Phased training, regular refreshers, and dedicated support during the initial weeks post-launch can significantly improve adoption rates. Many small businesses opt for a phased implementation, starting with one or two key modules (like inventory) and then gradually rolling out others, rather than a “big bang” approach, which can be overwhelming. By managing these steps carefully, your small factory or workshop can successfully integrate an affordable ERP system and begin reaping its many rewards.
Overcoming Common Challenges in ERP Adoption
Even with the most meticulously planned implementation, small factories and workshops may encounter a few common hurdles during ERP adoption. Anticipating these challenges and having strategies in place to address them can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful rollout and ensure your investment pays off. It’s a journey that involves both technological and human elements, and understanding where friction points might arise is key to smooth sailing.
One of the most prevalent challenges is resistance to change from employees. People are naturally accustomed to their existing routines, even if those routines are inefficient. To mitigate this, involve key team members in the decision-making and implementation process early on. Communicate the “why” behind the change – how it will make their jobs easier, not just different. Provide comprehensive training and highlight the benefits directly relevant to their daily tasks. Another common issue is data accuracy. If the data migrated into the new ERP system is flawed, the insights it provides will also be flawed, leading to a “garbage in, garbage out” scenario. Dedicate ample time to data cleansing and establish clear protocols for ongoing data entry and validation. Lastly, budget overruns can sometimes occur if unforeseen customizations are required or if initial estimates were too optimistic. To avoid this, be upfront with your vendor about your exact needs and budget, and get a clear, detailed breakdown of all costs. By proactively addressing these potential challenges, your journey to embracing affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops will be far smoother and more rewarding.
Cloud-Based ERP: A Game-Changer for Small Factories
The advent of cloud computing has been nothing short of revolutionary for small factories and workshops looking to adopt an ERP system. For decades, the sheer cost and complexity of maintaining on-premise servers, software licenses, and IT staff were prohibitive barriers for small businesses. Cloud-based ERP, often referred to as SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) ERP, completely bypasses these traditional obstacles, making sophisticated business management tools accessible and affordable for virtually any size of manufacturing operation.
One of the biggest advantages of cloud ERP is the lower upfront cost. Instead of purchasing expensive software licenses and hardware, businesses pay a predictable monthly or annual subscription fee. This shifts ERP from a capital expenditure to an operational expense, which is far more manageable for smaller budgets. Furthermore, cloud solutions eliminate the need for an in-house IT department to manage and maintain the system. The vendor handles all infrastructure, updates, security, and backups, freeing up your internal resources to focus on core manufacturing activities. Accessibility is another key benefit; you can access your ERP system from any device with an internet connection, allowing for greater flexibility and remote work capabilities. For affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops, the cloud model is a true game-changer, leveling the playing field and enabling small businesses to leverage enterprise-grade technology without the enterprise-level burden.
On-Premise vs. Cloud: Which is Right for Your Workshop?
While cloud-based ERP solutions have become the dominant choice for many small factories and workshops due to their affordability and flexibility, the on-premise option still exists and might be suitable for specific scenarios. Understanding the fundamental differences between these deployment models is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your workshop’s unique requirements, IT capabilities, and strategic goals. There isn’t a universally “better” option; rather, it’s about finding the best fit for your specific circumstances.
An on-premise ERP system means the software is installed and runs on servers located at your factory or workshop. You own the software license and are responsible for maintaining the hardware, managing updates, ensuring security, and backing up your data. This approach offers maximum control over your data and customization options, which can be appealing if you have very specific, complex operational requirements or strict data sovereignty regulations. However, it comes with higher upfront costs for licenses and hardware, requires dedicated IT staff or external consultants for maintenance, and typically has a longer implementation timeline.
In contrast, a cloud-based ERP system (as discussed in the previous section) is hosted and managed by the vendor in their data centers and accessed via the internet. It operates on a subscription model, offering lower upfront costs, reduced IT burden, and greater scalability and accessibility. For most small factories and workshops seeking affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops, the cloud model usually presents the more compelling package due to its ease of use, lower TCO, and flexibility. However, if your workshop has stringent security policies, limited internet connectivity, or unique legacy system integrations that are difficult to move to the cloud, an on-premise solution might still warrant consideration.
Open-Source ERP Options: Exploring Free and Low-Cost Alternatives
Beyond traditional commercial cloud and on-premise solutions, small factories and workshops also have the option of exploring open-source ERP systems. These platforms offer a unique value proposition: the core software is often available for free, and its source code is publicly accessible, allowing users to inspect, modify, and enhance it. For businesses operating on a very tight budget or those with specific technical expertise in-house, open-source ERP can represent a highly affordable ERP system designed for small factories and workshops.
The primary appeal of open-source ERP lies in its potential for customization and freedom from vendor lock-in. Since the source code is open, technically proficient teams can tailor the software to their exact needs without being limited by a proprietary vendor’s roadmap. This can lead to a highly specialized solution perfectly aligned with unique manufacturing processes. Popular open-source ERPs often boast strong community support, where users and developers collaborate to fix bugs, create new features, and share knowledge. However, it’s important to recognize that “free” often refers only to the software itself. Implementation, configuration, ongoing maintenance, support, and necessary customizations usually require either in-house technical talent or professional services from a third-party vendor, which will incur costs. Without internal IT expertise, relying solely on community support can be challenging, and ensuring the long-term viability and security of a self-managed open-source system requires dedication. Thus, while offering compelling cost advantages, open-source ERP demands a different kind of investment – one in technical capability and active management.
ERP for Job Shops and Custom Manufacturers
Job shops and custom manufacturers face a unique set of challenges that differ significantly from those of mass production lines. Their operations are characterized by diverse, often one-off or low-volume orders, intricate routing, precise material procurement for specific jobs, and dynamic scheduling requirements. Traditional ERP systems, which are often geared towards repetitive manufacturing, can struggle to accommodate this variability. Fortunately, the market for affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops has evolved to include solutions specifically tailored to the nuances of job shop and custom manufacturing environments.
These specialized ERP systems understand that each job might have a unique bill of materials, a distinct routing through various work centers, and specific customer requirements. Key functionalities include advanced job costing, which accurately tracks labor, material, and overhead costs for each individual job, providing precise profitability analysis. Robust production scheduling that can handle dynamic changes, re-prioritize jobs, and optimize resource allocation based on real-time capacity is also crucial. Furthermore, strong integration with quoting and estimating tools allows for faster, more accurate bids, while comprehensive shop floor control provides real-time visibility into job progress, allowing managers to identify and address bottlenecks proactively. For a job shop, an ERP isn’t just about managing inventory; it’s about orchestrating complex, unique projects efficiently and profitably, turning variability into a competitive advantage.
Integrating ERP with Existing Systems: A Seamless Transition
For many small factories and workshops, adopting an ERP system doesn’t mean starting from scratch. You likely have existing software solutions that are critical to your operations, such as accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero), CAD systems for design, or e-commerce platforms for sales. A truly effective and affordable ERP system designed for small factories and workshops should not exist in a silo; instead, it should integrate seamlessly with these existing tools to create a unified digital ecosystem. This integration minimizes manual data entry, reduces errors, and ensures consistent information across all departments.
The goal of integration is to establish a smooth flow of data between your ERP and other applications. For instance, sales orders captured in an e-commerce platform should automatically flow into the ERP for production planning and inventory allocation. Invoice data generated in the ERP should effortlessly transfer to your accounting software. Design specifications from your CAD system might populate bill of materials (BOM) in the ERP. When evaluating ERP solutions, inquire about their integration capabilities. Many modern cloud-based ERPs offer native integrations with popular third-party applications or provide open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that allow for custom connections. While custom integrations might incur additional costs, the long-term benefits of eliminating redundant data entry, improving data accuracy, and creating a truly holistic view of your business operations often far outweigh the initial investment, making your ERP implementation a truly seamless and value-adding transition.
Measuring ROI: Justifying Your Investment in Affordable ERP
For any small factory or workshop owner, making a significant investment in software like an ERP system requires a clear understanding of the return on investment (ROI). Justifying the cost, effort, and time involved in selecting and implementing an affordable ERP system designed for small factories and workshops isn’t just about faith in technology; it’s about quantifiable benefits that impact your bottom line. While some benefits, like improved employee morale, can be harder to measure, many others can be directly linked to financial gains and operational efficiencies.
One of the most immediate areas to track ROI is inventory reduction. By optimizing inventory levels and reducing stockouts, an ERP system can free up significant working capital. Another key metric is reduced operational costs, stemming from fewer manual errors, less rework, optimized labor utilization, and minimized waste. Faster order fulfillment and improved on-time delivery percentages lead to increased customer satisfaction and repeat business. Moreover, the ability to make data-driven decisions through real-time reporting can uncover new efficiencies or profit opportunities previously hidden. Calculate the time saved by automating tasks, the revenue generated by increased production capacity, and the costs avoided due to better planning. By setting clear, measurable goals before implementation and consistently tracking these key performance indicators (KPIs) post-implementation, your small factory or workshop can clearly demonstrate the tangible value and significant ROI delivered by your ERP investment, proving it was a smart strategic move for long-term growth and profitability.
The Future of Manufacturing: How ERP Prepares Small Businesses
The manufacturing landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by concepts like Industry 4.0, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence, and advanced automation. These innovations promise unprecedented levels of efficiency, connectivity, and intelligence on the factory floor. For small factories and workshops, preparing for this future isn’t just about adopting new machinery; it’s fundamentally about having the digital backbone in place to harness these emerging technologies. This is precisely where affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops play a pivotal role.
An ERP system acts as the central nervous system of your manufacturing operation, collecting and integrating data from various departments and processes. As you look towards the future, this integrated data becomes the fuel for advanced analytics, predictive maintenance, and even AI-driven process optimization. For example, data from an ERP’s production module, combined with sensor data from IIoT-enabled machines, can provide insights into potential equipment failures before they occur, minimizing costly downtime. Similarly, accurate inventory data from ERP can power more sophisticated demand forecasting models. By implementing an ERP today, your small business isn’t just streamlining current operations; you are laying the groundwork for future digital transformation. You are building the necessary data infrastructure to embrace cutting-edge technologies, ensuring your workshop remains competitive, agile, and ready to thrive in the evolving smart factory environment, transforming challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.
Real-World Examples and Success Stories from Small Workshops
While general benefits are compelling, sometimes seeing how an affordable ERP system designed for small factories and workshops impacts real businesses can truly drive the message home. Consider “Precision Parts Inc.,” a small machine shop specializing in custom metal components. Before ERP, their production manager spent hours manually tracking jobs on whiteboards and spreadsheets, leading to frequent scheduling conflicts and missed deadlines. After implementing a cloud-based ERP, they gained real-time visibility into machine capacity and job status. This resulted in a 20% increase in on-time deliveries, a significant reduction in overtime, and the ability to take on 15% more orders annually without increasing staff.
Another example is “Artisan Woodworks,” a custom furniture workshop that struggled with inventory control. They often ran out of specific exotic woods mid-project or had excess stock of less popular materials tying up capital. Their new ERP system provided accurate, real-time inventory tracking, automatic reorder points, and seamless integration with their purchasing. Within six months, they reduced their raw material inventory by 25% while virtually eliminating stockouts, directly improving cash flow and reducing waste. These hypothetical scenarios illustrate a common theme: small businesses, regardless of their specific industry niche within manufacturing, can achieve remarkable improvements in efficiency, profitability, and scalability by strategically adopting a tailored and affordable ERP solution. These are not just theoretical gains; they are tangible improvements that empower small manufacturers to grow and compete effectively.
Actionable Steps: Getting Started with Your ERP Journey
Now that you understand the immense potential of affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops, you might be wondering, “How do I get started?” The journey to digital transformation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it down into manageable, actionable steps, your small factory or workshop can confidently embark on its ERP implementation, setting the stage for increased efficiency, profitability, and sustainable growth.
First, define your needs and goals. What are your biggest pain points? What do you hope to achieve with an ERP system? Involve key stakeholders from different departments to gather comprehensive requirements. This will help you identify the core modules and features that are most critical for your business. Second, research and shortlist potential vendors. Look for systems specifically marketed towards small manufacturing businesses, paying attention to industry-specific features, deployment options (cloud vs. on-premise), and pricing models. Don’t be afraid to leverage online reviews, industry forums, and case studies. Third, request demos and trials. Seeing the system in action and ideally getting hands-on experience is invaluable. Prepare a list of questions based on your specific needs and ask vendors to demonstrate how their system addresses those challenges. Fourth, evaluate the total cost of ownership (TCO). Get clear quotes for all aspects: subscriptions, implementation, training, support, and potential customizations. Finally, plan for implementation and change management. Once you’ve selected a vendor, work with them to create a detailed implementation roadmap, assign internal resources, and start preparing your team for the transition. By following these steps, your small factory or workshop can confidently navigate the path to adopting an ERP system that truly transforms your operations.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Small Factory with Affordable ERP
The notion that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is beyond the reach of small factories and workshops is a relic of the past. Today, the market is rich with innovative, affordable ERP systems designed for small factories and workshops that are specifically engineered to meet the unique demands and budgetary constraints of smaller manufacturing operations. These solutions are not just simplified versions of enterprise-level software; they are thoughtfully designed to deliver maximum impact on efficiency, productivity, and profitability without the prohibitive cost or complexity.
By integrating core functions like inventory management, production planning, order processing, and basic financials, an ERP system provides the central nervous system your workshop needs to operate with precision and agility. It eliminates the headaches of manual data entry, reduces costly errors, provides real-time visibility into your entire operation, and empowers you to make data-driven decisions that fuel growth. Whether you’re a job shop, a custom manufacturer, or a small production line, adopting an ERP is no longer an optional luxury but a strategic imperative to remain competitive and scale effectively in today’s dynamic industrial landscape. Embrace the power of digital transformation, and unlock the full potential of your small factory or workshop with an affordable ERP solution that’s truly built for you. The future of manufacturing is here, and it’s accessible to businesses of all sizes.