
WBSRocks: Business Growth with Enterprise Software and Digital Transformation
WBSRocks podcast features in-depth conversations on customer experience, digital transformation, supply chain, eCommerce, industry 4.0, and enterprise software categories such as CRM, ERP, or analytics suites. The purpose of the show is to help CFOs, COOs, CEOs, and business owners with their daily commercial, operational, or financial challenges by taking a deep dive into business cases and processes, technology strategy and architecture, transformation initiatives, and business models. The show also offers an independent analysis of technology trends, various enterprise software vendors and solutions, and their mergers and acquisitions. Subscribe today to stay on top of digital transformation trends!
Latest episodes

Dec 12, 2023 • 1h
WBSP545: Grow Your Business by Understanding 3Gtms' Capabilities, an Objective Panel Discussion
Send us a textMost companies started the ware of acquiring parcel companies during COVID. They had to combine all modes, including TL, LTL, and parcel. Also, while not all TMS may have the same technical capabilities for cloud-native, loading and dispatch capabilities designed from the perspective of trucking companies are rare to find. So, where does 3GTMS stand in its capabilities among different supply chain solutions out there? And how does it compare with other solutions?In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of 3Gtms TMS/Pacejet capabilities. We covered many grounds, including their unique strengths with execution components for the trucking industry. Finally, we covered their technology and where eCommerce-centric multi-carrier solutions might fit in their portfolio.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Dec 11, 2023 • 26min
WBSP544: Grow Your Business by Learning the Top 10 Most Common ERP Modules in 2023 w/ Sam Gupta
Send us a textGaining insight into the ten most prevalent ERP modules assists in determining which modules should be incorporated within the ERP system and which can be implemented using best-of-breed solutions. These modules are typically closely integrated and work in concert with financial processes, each tailored to tackle specific facets of an organization's operations. Encompassing functions like financial management, inventory management, and service management, these modules collectively span a wide range of capabilities essential for the smooth operation of businesses that demand intricate process collaboration.In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the Top 10 Most Common ERP Modules of 2023. He also discusses why some of these modules are more critical than clothes and how that might vary based on the industries. Finally, he discusses different architectural issues and why companies need to define their architecture to make a determination about the modules that would be critical for them.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe to your favorite podcasting platform.

Dec 5, 2023 • 57min
WBSP543: Grow Your Business by Understanding Project44's Capabilities, an Objective Panel Discussion
Send us a textAmong a million supply chain visibility platforms out there, how do you decide who does what? One critical difference is whether the data provider is tracking the entire supply chain or just the carrier data. The one that tracks carrier data is really the transportation visibility platform tracking just the transportation supply chain. So where does Project44 stand among supply chain solutions?In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Project44's capabilities. We covered many grounds, including their unique strengths with transportation visibility. Finally, we covered the sources and the strength of their datasets, including their partnerships with ELD providers as well as ERP and TMS systems.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Dec 4, 2023 • 23min
WBSP542: Grow Your Business by Learning the Top 10 Real-time Transportation Visibility Platforms in 2023 w/ Sam Gupta
Send us a textIn 2023, the transportation industry is witnessing a transformative shift towards real-time visibility, and it's no surprise that the top 10 platforms leading this charge are making waves across the sector. These platforms are revolutionizing the way businesses manage their supply chain logistics, providing crucial insights and data-driven decision-making capabilities. Topping the list is a platform that combines advanced AI and IoT technologies to offer end-to-end visibility, enabling businesses to track shipments in real time and optimize routes, ultimately reducing costs and improving delivery times.In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 real-time transportation visibility platforms of 2023. He also discusses how they differ from supply chain visibility platforms and why supply chain visibility platforms might rely on this platform to be effective with their decision-grade data. Finally, he discusses the importance of carrier onboarding and why that’s critical for the success of these platforms.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 28, 2023 • 43min
WBSP541: Grow Your Business by Learning the Opportunities and Limitations of the Salesforce Platform w/ Hunter Austin
Send us a textSalesforce started as a CRM but then grew in many different areas. It has grown to the extent that it has become almost like a platform. But even though Salesforce might come across as you can build pretty much anything on the platform, there are limitations. Most people don’t understand how bad these limitations might fire back, especially if you plan to overcustomize the system. Planning to customize would require you to understand how each object links to each other and how deep you can go while creating these objects.In today's episode, our guest, Hunter Austin, discusses the opportunities and limitations of the Salesforce platform. He also discusses why companies struggle with the Salesforce platform and what they need to know to be successful with it. Finally, he discusses the vertical and horizontal relationships of the Salesforce platform and why you need to understand them to be able to get the analytics you would need to be successful with the platform.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 27, 2023 • 21min
WBSP540: Grow Your Business by Learning the Top 10 Supply Chain Suites in 2023 w/ Sam Gupta
Send us a textIn 2023, when you delve into the realm of supply chain suites, you'll discover a landscape filled with highly specialized solutions tailored to specific industries. These suites are not one-size-fits-all; instead, they are meticulously designed to cater to the unique challenges and requirements of particular sectors. The top 10 supply chain suites in 2023 exemplify this trend, offering industry-specific solutions that empower businesses to streamline their operations, enhance visibility, and optimize their supply chains. Among the leading supply chain suites of 2023, you'll find giants like Oracle, SAP, and Infor, which continue to dominate the field with their comprehensive offerings. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 supply chain suites of 2023. He also discusses how each of them differs and why they need to work together to really capitalize on the AI opportunities. Finally, he discussed how supply chain suites differ from ERP suites and why supply chain suites matter in certain industries more than ERP.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 21, 2023 • 1h
WBSP539: Grow Your Business by Understanding E2 Open's Capabilities, an Objective Panel Discussion
Send us a textWhile several companies claim to have supply chain tower capabilities and visibility platforms, very few of them own a network. Also, companies that might own a network might not be open, requiring vendors to opt in each time with every customer. So, even if a software vendor claims to have millions of businesses in their network, they might not be meaningful unless you have access to them and their data. One such network that is completely open and perhaps the largest is E2 Open, which is also the strongest AI platform because of the amount of data they have. So where does E2 Open stand in its capabilities? Where do they fit among other supply chain technologies available?In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of E2 Open capabilities. We covered many grounds, including their unique strengths with the combination of network, analytics, and execution. Finally, we covered other unique layers with them, such as MDF planning and channel incentives, and why they might be penetrating the market of other traditional players, such as QAD and IQMS.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 20, 2023 • 23min
WBSP538: Grow Your Business by Learning the Top 10 Supply Chain Business Network Platforms in 2023 w/ Sam Gupta
Send us a textSupply chain planning and management have witnessed a significant transformation in recent times, largely attributed to the emergence of industry-wide networks. The intricate web of connections among supply chain stakeholders has proven to be a powerful force in shaping the industry's dynamics. COVID-19's disruptive impact accelerated this shift, forcing businesses to reevaluate their strategies and adapt to new challenges. In 2023, these business networks hold even greater importance, serving as the glue that brings the supply chain ecosystem closer together. These networks have become the lifeblood of the modern supply chain, fostering collaboration and information exchange. They have transcended traditional boundaries, connecting suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers on a global scale. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 supply chain business network platforms. He also discusses how each of these platforms differs and their importance when it comes to AI-driven and decision-grade data. Finally, he compares and contrasts several business networks and how they each differ in their focus.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 14, 2023 • 39min
WBSP537: Grow Your Business by Learning Restructuring and Turnaround Strategies for Retail Businesses w/ Michael Appel
Send us a textWhile everyone would talk about the importance of understanding your customers, it’s even more critical when working with stressed and distressed businesses. Most CEOs, when they are given an assignment for fixing a distressed business, all start with evaluating their team, but then what really moves the needle is the deep understanding of the customer and crafting strategies around that. But even that is not enough, as you would need enough liquidity to ensure that you have enough time before the transformation efforts can pay off.In today's episode, our guest, Michael Appel, discusses the restructuring and turnaround strategies for retail businesses. He also discusses several stories where he was personally involved in turning around large retail businesses. Finally, he discusses the importance of building the right team and a deep understanding of customers for the successful turnaround of the business.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Nov 13, 2023 • 23min
WBSP536: Grow Your Business by Learning the Top 10 S&OP Systems in 2023 w/ Sam Gupta
Send us a textSupply chain management is a complex field that relies heavily on the seamless integration of various software components. One of the common challenges faced by supply chain professionals is the distinction between the planning and execution aspects of enterprise software. This struggle to differentiate between planning and execution can hinder organizations from optimizing their supply chain operations effectively. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses a critical aspect of supply chain management: S&OP software. For supply chain-heavy organizations, choosing the right S&OP software is paramount, as it can significantly impact their operational efficiency. So, in this discussion, we will explore the top 10 S&OP systems in 2023 to help you make informed decisions.For more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.