The manufacturing world is an ever-evolving landscape, a testament to human ingenuity and relentless progress. For decades, the rhythm of factories, large and small, has been the heartbeat of economies worldwide. However, the last few years have presented unprecedented challenges, from volatile supply chains and escalating material costs to the urgent need for sustainable practices and rapid technological adoption. Small manufacturers, the backbone of many regional economies, often find themselves at a crucial crossroads: adapt or risk being left behind. The answer to this looming question, the key to building resilience and ensuring long-term success, lies firmly in the strategic embrace of advanced technological solutions. This isn’t just about incremental improvements; it’s about fundamentally transforming operations.
For too long, sophisticated enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems were considered the exclusive domain of colossal corporations, with their vast IT budgets and complex global operations. Small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) often grappled with disparate spreadsheets, legacy systems, and manual processes, hoping to stitch together a coherent operational picture. This approach, while perhaps sufficient in a more predictable past, is a recipe for stagnation in today’s dynamic environment. The good news is that the digital revolution has democratized access to powerful tools, chief among them advanced cloud ERP features. These aren’t scaled-down versions; they are robust, intelligent platforms designed to empower SMMs, providing them with the agility, insights, and connectivity needed for future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
This comprehensive guide delves into how leveraging these advanced capabilities can transform a small manufacturing operation from merely surviving to truly thriving. We’ll explore the specific features that offer the most significant impact, from real-time data analytics and AI-driven insights to seamless supply chain integration and robust cybersecurity protocols. Our journey will illuminate not just the “what,” but also the “why” and “how,” equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and strategically position your business for sustained growth and undeniable competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
The Shifting Sands of Modern Manufacturing: Why Agility is Paramount
The global manufacturing sector is undergoing a profound metamorphosis, driven by a confluence of technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and evolving consumer demands. Small manufacturers, often operating with tighter margins and fewer resources than their larger counterparts, feel the impact of these changes acutely. The days of predictable supply chains, stable material costs, and long product cycles are increasingly a distant memory, replaced by an environment characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity—often referred to as VUCA.
Consider the recent past: a global pandemic snarled supply routes, exposing the fragility of lean, just-in-time inventory systems. Geopolitical tensions have led to reshoring initiatives and a re-evaluation of international sourcing strategies. Meanwhile, consumers are demanding not just quality products, but also ethical sourcing, personalized options, and rapid delivery. This perfect storm of pressures means that manufacturers, especially small ones, can no longer afford to rely on static business models or outdated, siloed information systems. The ability to pivot quickly, to anticipate disruptions, and to respond proactively is no longer a luxury; it is a fundamental requirement for survival and growth. Without a robust and adaptable technological backbone, navigating these turbulent waters becomes an almost impossible task.
What is Cloud ERP, and Why Small Manufacturers Need It Now
At its core, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is a business management solution that integrates all facets of an operation—including product planning, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and human resources—into a single, comprehensive system. For decades, ERP was primarily deployed “on-premise,” meaning the software and its associated hardware were installed and maintained directly on a company’s own servers. This approach often entailed significant upfront costs, substantial IT infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance responsibilities, making it a prohibitive investment for many small manufacturers.
Enter Cloud ERP. This paradigm shift means the ERP software and its data are hosted on a vendor’s remote servers and accessed by users over the internet, typically through a web browser or mobile app. Instead of a large capital expenditure, companies pay a subscription fee, often monthly or annually. This fundamental shift offers numerous advantages, particularly for small manufacturers. It drastically reduces the need for in-house IT expertise and infrastructure, lowering both initial investment and ongoing operational costs. More importantly, Cloud ERP for manufacturing democratizes access to advanced functionalities that were once out of reach, providing small businesses with the tools to compete on a more level playing field. It’s about agility, accessibility, and the ability to focus on what you do best: manufacturing exceptional products, rather than managing complex IT systems.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cloud ERP Features Defined
While even foundational Cloud ERP offers significant advantages over manual processes or disparate systems, the true power for future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features lies in going “beyond the basics.” This isn’t just about having modules for accounting, inventory, and sales; it’s about the depth, integration, and intelligence embedded within these systems. Advanced Cloud ERP features encompass a suite of sophisticated capabilities that harness the power of modern technology to provide deeper insights, greater automation, and enhanced connectivity across the entire value chain.
These advanced features move beyond simple record-keeping to offer predictive analytics, AI-driven recommendations, seamless integration with external systems (like IoT devices or e-commerce platforms), and highly configurable workflows that mirror complex manufacturing processes. They provide a unified, real-time view of the business, allowing for proactive decision-making rather than reactive problem-solving. It’s the difference between merely tracking numbers and truly understanding the story those numbers tell, empowering small manufacturers to optimize operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and strategically plan for future growth and challenges.
Real-Time Data: The Lifeblood of Agile Production
In the fast-paced world of modern manufacturing, waiting for end-of-day reports or weekly summaries is a luxury no small business can afford. Decisions made on outdated information can lead to costly errors, missed opportunities, and production bottlenecks. This is where the power of real-time data, seamlessly flowing through an advanced Cloud ERP system, becomes indispensable. Imagine knowing the exact status of every order, every machine, and every raw material at any given moment. This immediate visibility transforms reactive management into proactive leadership, allowing for swift adjustments and optimal resource allocation.
Real-time data for production means that as soon as a part is completed on the shop floor, or an order is fulfilled, or a new shipment of raw materials arrives, that information is instantly updated across the entire ERP system. Production managers can immediately identify slowdowns or bottlenecks, adjust schedules on the fly, and ensure that deadlines are met. Inventory levels are continuously updated, preventing stockouts or overstock, and procurement teams can trigger reorders precisely when needed. Quality control can spot deviations immediately, minimizing waste and rework. This constant flow of accurate information not only enhances efficiency but also provides the foundational insights necessary for all other advanced ERP functions, truly empowering future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Unlocking Efficiency through Automated Workflows
One of the most transformative aspects of an advanced Cloud ERP system for small manufacturers is its capacity for extensive workflow automation. Many small businesses are still bogged down by manual, repetitive tasks that consume valuable time, are prone to human error, and divert skilled employees from more strategic activities. From processing sales orders and managing procurement requests to scheduling production runs and generating invoices, these routine operations can become significant drains on efficiency and accuracy.
An advanced Cloud ERP system automates these processes, streamlining operations and significantly reducing manual intervention. For example, when a sales order is entered, the system can automatically check inventory levels, reserve necessary materials, generate a production order if required, and even send a confirmation to the customer. Procurement workflows can be automated to trigger purchase orders based on reorder points, send approval requests, and track delivery. On the shop floor, data collected from machines can automatically update production progress, calculate yield, and identify maintenance needs. By automating manufacturing processes, small businesses not only save countless hours and minimize errors but also free up their workforce to focus on innovation, problem-solving, and customer engagement, all vital components for future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Supply Chain Resiliency and Optimization with Integrated ERP
The vulnerability of global supply chains has been starkly revealed in recent years, impacting small manufacturers with delays, price spikes, and an overall lack of predictability. Building a resilient and optimized supply chain is no longer a strategic goal; it’s an operational imperative. Traditional, fragmented systems often leave businesses with blind spots, making it difficult to track goods, anticipate disruptions, or identify alternative suppliers. This is where an advanced, integrated Cloud ERP system proves its worth, offering end-to-end visibility and control.
An ERP system acts as the central nervous system for your supply chain, connecting procurement, inventory, production, and logistics. It provides real-time insights into supplier performance, material availability, and shipping statuses, allowing manufacturers to make informed decisions and mitigate risks proactively. For example, if a key supplier experiences a delay, the ERP can alert the production team, suggest alternative materials or suppliers, and even re-optimize production schedules. Furthermore, advanced features often include demand forecasting capabilities, helping small manufacturers better predict future needs and adjust their purchasing and production accordingly. This comprehensive approach to supply chain optimization with ERP ensures greater transparency, reduces lead times, minimizes waste, and ultimately fortifies the small manufacturer against the inevitable disruptions of the modern global economy, a critical step in future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Scalability: Growing Without Growing Pains
One of the most significant dilemmas for any small business with ambitions of growth is the inherent challenge of scaling operations efficiently. Traditional on-premise IT infrastructure often requires substantial upfront investment in hardware, software licenses, and IT personnel, all of which need to be upgraded or expanded as the business grows. This can lead to significant capital expenditure at critical growth junctures, diverting funds that could otherwise be invested in product development, marketing, or talent acquisition. For a small manufacturer, this hurdle can feel insurmountable, stifling potential expansion.
This is precisely where cloud-based solutions, particularly advanced Cloud ERP, offer a distinct advantage. The inherent architecture of cloud computing means that resources can be scaled up or down almost instantaneously, based on demand. If a small manufacturer experiences a sudden surge in orders, or decides to expand into new product lines or markets, the ERP system can accommodate this growth without requiring new hardware purchases, complex installations, or lengthy downtime. The vendor handles the underlying infrastructure, allowing the small manufacturer to pay only for the resources they consume. This eliminates the burden of managing IT infrastructure and provides unparalleled flexibility, making scalable ERP solutions a cornerstone for any small manufacturing business looking to expand without incurring prohibitive costs or operational headaches. It’s a fundamental aspect of future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence: Turning Data into Strategy
Small manufacturers often possess a wealth of operational data, but without the right tools, this data remains largely untapped, a treasure chest locked away. Traditional reporting might provide a snapshot of past performance, but it rarely offers the forward-looking insights needed for strategic decision-making. Advanced Cloud ERP features bridge this gap by incorporating sophisticated data analytics and business intelligence (BI) capabilities, transforming raw numbers into actionable intelligence. This goes far beyond basic dashboards; it involves deep dives into patterns, trends, and predictive modeling.
With integrated analytics, small manufacturers can gain profound insights into every aspect of their operation. They can analyze sales trends to identify popular products or emerging markets, assess production efficiency to pinpoint bottlenecks, evaluate inventory turnover to optimize stock levels, and even drill down into customer demographics to refine marketing strategies. Predictive analytics can forecast future demand, potential equipment failures, or upcoming supply chain disruptions, allowing for proactive intervention. This capability for data analytics for small manufacturers empowers them to make data-driven decisions that reduce costs, improve efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and uncover new opportunities for growth. It moves them from simply reacting to market forces to actively shaping their own future, a clear demonstration of future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
The Mobile Revolution: Accessing ERP Anywhere, Anytime
In today’s interconnected world, business operations are no longer confined to the four walls of an office or factory. Managers, sales teams, and even shop floor personnel often need to access critical information and perform tasks while on the go, whether they are visiting a client, inspecting a remote facility, or simply working from home. Traditional ERP systems, tied to desktop installations, struggled to provide this level of flexibility. However, advanced Cloud ERP systems have embraced the mobile revolution, offering robust and intuitive mobile access.
Mobile ERP applications and responsive web interfaces allow authorized users to securely access the full range of ERP functionalities from smartphones, tablets, or laptops, regardless of their physical location. A production manager can check the status of a production run from home, approve a purchase order while traveling, or quickly pull up a customer’s order history during a meeting. Sales teams can enter orders, check inventory, and update customer relationship management (CRM) data directly from a client’s site. This constant connectivity significantly enhances responsiveness, streamlines workflows, and ensures that critical decisions can be made without delay. Providing mobile ERP access means that a small manufacturer’s operations are no longer tethered to a physical location, offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency, crucial for future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features in an increasingly remote-friendly and agile business landscape.
Cybersecurity and Compliance: Protecting Your Manufacturing Future
For any business, but especially for manufacturers dealing with intellectual property, sensitive customer data, and intricate supply chain information, cybersecurity is not just an IT concern—it’s a fundamental business risk. The threat landscape is constantly evolving, with cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated and frequent. Simultaneously, adherence to various industry regulations and compliance standards (such as ISO certifications, specific safety protocols, or regional data privacy laws like GDPR) is non-negotiable, requiring meticulous record-keeping and auditable processes. Many small manufacturers, lacking dedicated cybersecurity teams, find these challenges daunting.
One of the significant advantages of advanced Cloud ERP is that it shifts much of the burden of cybersecurity in manufacturing ERP onto the cloud vendor. Reputable ERP providers invest heavily in state-of-the-art security infrastructure, encryption protocols, disaster recovery plans, and continuous threat monitoring—resources that are typically beyond the reach of most small businesses. They adhere to stringent security standards, undergoing regular audits to ensure data protection. Furthermore, advanced ERP features often include built-in capabilities for compliance management for manufacturers. This can involve maintaining detailed audit trails for every transaction, automating reporting for regulatory bodies, and providing configurable frameworks to ensure adherence to specific industry standards. By leveraging the robust security and compliance features of a cloud ERP, small manufacturers can significantly reduce their risk exposure and ensure their operations remain both secure and legally compliant, forming a critical part of future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Integrating with the Future: IoT, AI, and Machine Learning in Cloud ERP
The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) is creating unprecedented opportunities for efficiency and innovation in manufacturing. The Internet of Things (IoT) is populating factory floors with smart sensors and connected devices, generating vast amounts of data. Simultaneously, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are providing the computational power to make sense of this data, driving automation and predictive capabilities. For small manufacturers, integrating these cutting-edge technologies might seem complex, but advanced Cloud ERP systems are designed to bridge this gap.
Modern Cloud ERPs are increasingly built with native or easily configurable integration points for IoT devices. This means that data from machines—such as temperature, pressure, vibration, or production count—can flow directly into the ERP system in real-time. This enables capabilities like predictive maintenance, where the ERP can analyze machine data to anticipate equipment failures before they occur, scheduling maintenance proactively and minimizing costly downtime. Beyond IoT, AI and Machine Learning in ERP can optimize production schedules, refine demand forecasting with greater accuracy, identify quality control anomalies, and even automate complex decision-making processes. For example, AI can analyze historical sales data, market trends, and even weather patterns to provide highly accurate demand forecasts, informing procurement and production plans. By embracing IoT integration in manufacturing and leveraging AI/ML, small manufacturers can unlock new levels of efficiency, intelligence, and competitive advantage, undeniably contributing to future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Empowering Your Workforce: Training and User Adoption
Implementing an advanced Cloud ERP system is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a significant organizational change that impacts every employee, from the shop floor to the executive suite. While the technical capabilities of the ERP are crucial, the true success and ROI depend heavily on user adoption. Even the most powerful system will fail to deliver its full potential if employees are unwilling or unable to use it effectively. Therefore, empowering your workforce through comprehensive training and a thoughtful adoption strategy is paramount.
Advanced Cloud ERP systems are generally designed with user-friendliness in mind, often featuring intuitive interfaces and streamlined workflows. However, transitioning from old habits or manual processes still requires a dedicated effort. Small manufacturers must invest in tailored training programs that address the specific roles and responsibilities of different user groups. This isn’t a one-time event but an ongoing process that includes initial training, continuous support, and opportunities for advanced learning. Furthermore, involving key employees in the selection and implementation process can foster a sense of ownership and advocacy, driving broader acceptance. By focusing on workforce management with ERP not just as a tool for tracking but as a platform for empowerment, small manufacturers can ensure their teams are proficient and enthusiastic users, maximizing the benefits of their investment and truly future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features through human capital.
Sustainable Manufacturing: ERP as an Enabler
In an era of increasing environmental awareness and stringent regulatory pressures, sustainable manufacturing is no longer just a desirable goal; it’s becoming a business imperative. Customers, investors, and even employees are increasingly demanding that businesses operate responsibly, minimizing their environmental footprint and contributing positively to society. Small manufacturers, while perhaps not facing the same level of public scrutiny as large corporations, are still expected to demonstrate commitment to sustainability. An advanced Cloud ERP system can be a powerful enabler in achieving these goals.
ERP provides the granular data and analytical capabilities necessary to track, measure, and manage environmental impact across the entire production process. It can monitor energy consumption by machine or production line, track waste generation at various stages, and even manage the lifecycle of materials from procurement to disposal. With this data, small manufacturers can identify areas for improvement, such as optimizing energy usage, reducing scrap rates, or implementing more efficient waste management practices. Furthermore, ERP can assist with compliance reporting for environmental regulations and certifications. By embedding sustainability metrics and processes within the core operational system, ERP helps small manufacturers not only meet their environmental obligations but also potentially uncover cost savings through resource efficiency. This makes it a crucial tool for promoting sustainable manufacturing practices and a core pillar in future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features for a responsible and enduring presence in the market.
The Path to Implementation: Overcoming Challenges and Maximizing ROI
Embarking on an ERP implementation journey, especially for an advanced cloud system, can seem like a monumental task for a small manufacturer. It’s a significant investment of time, resources, and often, a fundamental shift in how the business operates. While the benefits are clear, the path to achieving them is not without its challenges. However, with careful planning, a strategic approach, and realistic expectations, these hurdles can be successfully overcome, leading to a substantial return on investment (ROI).
The first step in any successful ERP project is thorough planning, which includes defining clear objectives, mapping out current processes, and identifying critical pain points the new system aims to address. Vendor selection is equally vital, ensuring the chosen partner understands the unique needs of small manufacturing and offers robust support. A phased implementation, rather than an all-at-once “big bang” approach, often works best for smaller companies, allowing for gradual adoption and less disruption. Crucially, a strong change management strategy, coupled with the aforementioned training, is essential to mitigate resistance and ensure user buy-in. Measuring the ROI of cloud ERP involves not just financial metrics like cost savings and increased revenue, but also improvements in efficiency, data accuracy, customer satisfaction, and the intangible benefits of agility and future readiness. By meticulously navigating these aspects of implementation strategies for ERP, small manufacturers can transform what might seem like a daunting project into a cornerstone of their long-term success, effectively future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Choosing the Right Partner: Selecting Your Cloud ERP Vendor
The success of any Cloud ERP implementation for a small manufacturer hinges significantly on the choice of the right vendor. This is not merely a software purchase; it’s the establishment of a long-term partnership that will underpin your business operations for years to come. With a multitude of ERP solutions available on the market, each with its own strengths and specializations, the selection process can be overwhelming. A methodical approach, focusing on specific criteria relevant to your business, is essential to make an informed decision.
Key considerations when choosing a cloud ERP vendor include their proven industry expertise, particularly within manufacturing. Do they understand the unique challenges of your sector, such as bill of materials (BOM) management, production scheduling, or quality control? Evaluate the vendor’s commitment to ongoing support and service, as this will be critical during implementation and beyond. Look for flexibility in their solution, ensuring it can be configured to your specific processes without extensive, costly customizations that complicate upgrades. Assess the vendor’s security protocols and compliance certifications to ensure your data is protected. Finally, scrutinize their pricing model—understand not just the subscription fees, but also potential costs for additional users, modules, integrations, and support. A transparent and predictable pricing structure is vital for small manufacturers managing tight budgets. Engaging with a vendor who acts as a true strategic partner, rather than just a software provider, is a critical step in future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
Beyond Software: The Digital Transformation Mindset
While the implementation of an advanced Cloud ERP system is a monumental step, it’s crucial to understand that it’s just one component of a broader journey: digital transformation. This isn’t merely about installing new software; it’s about fostering a fundamental shift in how a small manufacturing business perceives and utilizes technology to enhance every aspect of its operations, culture, and strategy. An ERP system acts as the central nervous system, but the true transformation happens when the entire organization adopts a “digital mindset.”
This mindset involves embracing continuous improvement, encouraging innovation, and cultivating a data-driven culture. It means viewing technology not as a cost center, but as an investment that enables greater efficiency, better decision-making, and new business opportunities. For digital transformation in small factories, it implies breaking down traditional silos, encouraging cross-departmental collaboration facilitated by the integrated ERP system, and empowering employees with the tools and data they need to perform at their best. It’s about being open to change, questioning existing processes, and constantly seeking ways to leverage technology to adapt to market shifts and customer demands. Without this overarching mindset, even the most sophisticated ERP system might only yield incremental improvements, rather than the transformative leap required for true future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features.
The Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is Advanced Cloud ERP Worth It for Small Manufacturers?
For small manufacturers, every investment decision undergoes intense scrutiny, and the perceived cost of an advanced Cloud ERP system can sometimes be a deterrent. While the subscription fees, implementation costs, and potential training expenses are real and need to be budgeted for, it’s imperative to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis that considers the total cost of ownership (TCO) and, more importantly, the myriad tangible and intangible benefits that extend far beyond simple ledger entries. The question isn’t just “how much does it cost?” but “what is the cost of not doing it?”
The “cost of not doing it” includes continuing inefficiencies, errors from manual processes, missed opportunities due to lack of real-time data, compromised security of disparate systems, and the inability to scale or adapt to market changes. When weighed against these risks, the investment in an advanced Cloud ERP often reveals itself to be not just justifiable, but essential. Benefits like increased operational efficiency, reduced inventory costs, improved production scheduling, enhanced customer satisfaction, better regulatory compliance, and the ability to make data-driven decisions all contribute to a significant ROI. Furthermore, the subscription model of cloud ERP often converts a large capital expenditure into a more manageable operational expense, making it more accessible for small businesses. Ultimately, the long-term competitive advantage and the ability to effectively achieve future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features far outweigh the initial investment, proving it to be a strategic decision that pays dividends.
Simulating Success: The Power of Case Studies
While this article provides a detailed exploration of advanced Cloud ERP features, the real-world impact is best illustrated through success stories. Imagine a small metal fabrication shop that struggled with complex project tracking, manual inventory counts, and inconsistent quoting. After implementing a cloud ERP, they gain real-time visibility into every job’s progress, automate material procurement, and generate accurate, consistent quotes in minutes instead of hours. This leads to reduced lead times, fewer errors, increased customer satisfaction, and a 15% increase in annual revenue within two years. Their ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and scale operations without adding administrative overhead is a direct result of their investment.
Another example might be a specialty food producer facing intense regulatory pressure and intricate batch tracing requirements. Their previous system relied on paper records and spreadsheets, making audits a nightmare. With an advanced Cloud ERP, they achieve end-to-end traceability from raw ingredient to finished product, automate compliance reporting, and significantly reduce the time spent on quality checks. This not only ensures regulatory adherence but also enhances brand trust and allows them to confidently expand into new, more demanding markets. These simulated scenarios underscore a universal truth: when small manufacturers strategically leverage advanced Cloud ERP features, they unlock significant operational improvements, drive growth, and build the resilience needed to excel in a dynamic market. We encourage you to research real-world examples from reputable ERP vendors and industry publications to see how companies similar to yours have successfully embraced this transformation.
Conclusion: Charting a Course for Enduring Success
The modern manufacturing landscape demands more than just efficiency; it requires foresight, adaptability, and a proactive approach to technology. For small manufacturers, the choice is clear: embrace the tools that enable resilience and growth, or risk obsolescence in an increasingly competitive global arena. The journey of future-proofing small manufacturing with advanced cloud ERP features is not merely an upgrade of software; it’s a strategic imperative that lays the groundwork for sustained success, innovation, and expansion.
By adopting an advanced Cloud ERP system, small manufacturers gain access to capabilities that were once the sole domain of industry giants: real-time data insights, extensive automation, robust supply chain optimization, unparalleled scalability, sophisticated analytics, and enhanced cybersecurity. These features empower businesses to make faster, smarter decisions, streamline operations, mitigate risks, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The investment in such a system is an investment in your company’s future, ensuring that you can navigate economic fluctuations, technological shifts, and evolving customer demands with confidence and agility. Don’t just prepare for the future—actively shape it. Embrace the power of advanced Cloud ERP and position your small manufacturing business for enduring prosperity.