Epicor Software Corporation, a developer of enterprise software for small and mid-sized manufacturing operations (as well as distribution, retail and services organizations) is introducing a System Backup & Recovery module that offers its ERP users a comprehensive approach to ensure their Epicor systems are available in case of major system issues or disaster. The new offering is available to Epicor ERP, Epicor Vantage, or Epicor Vista customers running Microsoft SQL Server.
The developer stated the new functionality provides midsized customers with an alternative to standard backup and recovery solutions that can be too complex, and priced beyond their budgets. Subscribers to Epicor System Backup & Recovery solution will pay a “minimal” set-up fee and a monthly fee based on the number of Epicor users. Additional fees are assessed in the event that a customer needs the failover system brought on-line.
Despite ERP systems’ expanding presence in manufacturing, and general recognition as a core information technology for business operations, they may be vulnerable to failure, exposing the organization to loss of information, productivity losses, and missed opportunities due to system downtime. Projections of financial losses vary according to the size and nature of the business, but Epicor cited estimates that ERP downtime may cost millions of dollars in some instances. “Also organizations can face penalties and sanctions for non-compliance with regulatory and shareholder requirements for business continuity,” it noted.
Data backup and restoration can help organizations to address compliance requirements as well as to reduce operational risk. Epicor cited a joint Forrester Research and Disaster Recovery Journal survey that noted 82% of “business continuity” decision-makers and influencers feel that their organization’s risk level is increasing, because of reliance on technology; business complexity; and, frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
“These perceptions map to business reality,” Epicor noted, “as in the past five years, more than 60% of companies invoked Business Continuity plans at least once, and more than one-quarter invoked these plans three or more times.
The Epicor System Backup & Recovery program uses established technology, and all software and data are stored in a secure, off-site Tier III data center. The turnkey solution encompasses installation, configuration, monitoring and emergency response.
Epicor System Backup & Recovery solution is provided by the Epicor Managed Services team (more than 60 system architects, application and technical support experts) and is supported at all times from three global operation centers.
A copy of the customer’s Epicor ERP version is stored on-line and a software agent is installed on its Epicor ERP server. Next, a secure connection is made between the customer’s server and the Epicor enterprise-class data center to support data backup and failover. On a continuous basis, data from the customer’s on-premises Epicor ERP database is backed up in real-time to the Epicor data center and monitored around the clock.
In the event that a customer needs to have the failover system brought on-line, Epicor provides access to the system and critical data within two to four hours, depending on number of users and other various factors.
“Any amount of downtime can be severely damaging to a business’ bottom line and its reputation,” stated Epicor’s Malcolm Fox, vice president, product marketing. “When a businesses’ ERP system goes down, or in the event of a disaster, data and productivity must be restored as quickly as possible. Where every second counts, the Epicor System Backup and Recovery solution provides a turnkey solution to support business continuity.”
