Aktion Associates

For many distribution companies, growth doesn’t just reveal operational cracks, it widens them. You may recognize the signs: departments relying on their own spreadsheets, customer orders taking too long to process, and team members constantly re-entering the same data into multiple systems. These aren’t just minor inefficiencies but early warnings that your systems aren’t keeping up.

Disconnected systems create delays, duplicate work, and inconsistent data. Your team spends more time chasing information than acting on it. As demands increase, so do the risks.

The impact of fragmented systems goes beyond inconvenience. When your ERP, CRM, and warehouse management tools aren’t integrated, your team is forced into reactive mode.

Manual data entry becomes standard. Sales reps can’t access up-to-date inventory. Customer service is slowed by a lack of visibility into order status. And executives are often making critical decisions with outdated or incomplete data.

These issues slow you down. They affect your bottom line. And worst of all, they limit your ability to deliver the fast, responsive service that today’s customers expect.

With an integrated system, the experience is completely different. Information flows seamlessly across departments. When a sales order is placed, it automatically updates inventory, triggers fulfillment, and syncs with finance. Everyone — from the warehouse floor to the leadership team — works from the same accurate, real-time data.

Integrated platforms eliminate redundant tasks, reduce the risk of errors, and free your team to focus on higher-value work. You gain operational clarity, faster processes, and the agility to scale.

This is more than a technology upgrade — it’s a shift in how your business operates.

At Aktion, we work with distribution companies every day who are ready to move past disconnected systems. Our team helps unify operations with tools built specifically for your industry, including Acumatica, a modern cloud ERP designed to bring your finance, inventory, purchasing, and customer data into a single platform.

With a solution like Acumatica in place, you’re no longer patching together reports or second-guessing data. You’re running a smarter, more connected operation built for growth.

The construction industry has long been considered one of the last frontiers of digital transformation. Known for its complexity, tight margins, and project-based workflows, the sector faces persistent challenges—cost overruns, labor shortages, and safety concerns, to name a few. But artificial intelligence (AI) is starting to change that.

Across the industry, forward-thinking construction firms are beginning to adopt AI technologies not just as a tech novelty, but as a practical solution to real-world problems. From predictive analytics to machine learning, AI is redefining how jobsites operate, how projects are planned, and how companies make decisions.

One of the most powerful uses of AI in construction is in project planning. Traditional scheduling methods often rely on human intuition and historical data, but AI introduces predictive models that can anticipate delays, recommend more efficient timelines, and even account for external variables like weather or labor availability. This enables project managers to optimize resources before the ground is even broken.

Jobsite safety is a constant concern in construction. AI-powered systems can analyze video footage from surveillance cameras to detect unsafe behavior—such as workers not wearing PPE or entering restricted zones—and alert supervisors in real time. Some firms are even using wearable devices that feed biometric and environmental data into AI systems to monitor worker fatigue and heat exposure.

AI tools can assist with quality control by identifying defects early in the build process. For instance, drone imagery combined with computer vision can compare on-site progress against 3D models or blueprints, flagging discrepancies before they turn into costly rework. These solutions help ensure projects stay on budget and on schedule.

Back-office operations are also benefiting from this. AI can automate routine administrative tasks like invoice matching, document classification, and timesheet processing—freeing teams to focus on higher-value activities. In a business where efficiency is key, even small-time savings can have a big impact.

While AI tools are powerful, their value multiplies when integrated into a construction firm’s core systems. Modern ERP platforms are evolving to support this shift, embedding AI into everyday workflows to enhance decision-making and productivity.

Acumatica Construction Edition, for example, has begun integrating AI into its cloud ERP platform to support tasks like automated document recognition, intelligent expense matching, and real-time data analysis. These features aren’t just futuristic add-ons—they’re practical tools designed to help construction firms operate more efficiently today.

As the industry continues to adopt digital solutions, AI is quickly shifting from an emerging trend to a competitive market. Firms that invest early in AI-powered systems and platforms will be better positioned to navigate uncertainty, scale operations, and deliver more predictable project outcomes.

In the distribution industry, uptime isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. From warehouse automation to connected inventory systems, every second counts. But as technology advances, so do the risks, and many distributors are learning the hard way that cyber insurance doesn’t always cover what they think it does.

In our upcoming Cyber Insurance Readiness Webinar, we explore how your answers on cyber insurance applications can directly impact claim approvals, policy premiums, and even your operational continuity. Here’s what every distribution business needs to know.

The Stakes Are High for Distributors

Cyberattacks can cripple warehouse operations, delay shipments, and compromise vendor or customer data. And yet, many distributors unknowingly jeopardize their cyber insurance coverage by misrepresenting their network security posture.

For example, saying “yes” to having backup and recovery procedures in place means more than backing up data once a month. In the Distribution Industry, this should include automated and encrypted backups of key operational systems, such as order processing, inventory management, and ERP platforms, with tested restoration protocols to minimize downtime during ransomware or system failure.

Common Weak Spots in the Distribution Industry

Here are the five most common areas where distributors fall short, yet still check “yes” on insurance forms:

Real-World Impact: One Misstep, Big Consequences

During the webinar, we will share how a distributor reported full MFA coverage but had only deployed it for the finance team. A phishing attack targeting their warehouse management system led to data theft and significant delivery delays. Their claim was denied due to misrepresentation.

How Aktion Helps Distribution Companies

Get Ahead of What You Need to be Prepared:
Join our webinar “Understanding the Questions On Cyber Insurance Forms” – June 18 @ 12:00 pm ET – Register Today

Schedule a security consultation with Aktion to strengthen your defenses and protect your coverage. Schedule My Review

Manufacturers are no strangers to tight margins, but in 2025, those margins are under more pressure than ever. Raw material prices remain volatile, energy costs are climbing, and transportation expenses show little sign of stabilizing. Combine these with increased wage expectations and growing customer demand for competitive pricing, and it’s clear: maintaining profitability in this environment requires smarter operations, not just harder work.

Let’s take a closer look at the root causes of this margin squeeze—and more importantly, how manufacturers can respond.

Rising costs are coming from every direction. Material prices have become increasingly unpredictable, especially for items like metal, plastic, and electronic components. Labor is another growing expense. With skilled workers in short supply, wages are rising as companies compete for talent. On top of that, energy and logistics costs continue to climb, particularly for manufacturers who rely on international suppliers or complex distribution networks.

All of this puts pressure on margins—and for many manufacturers, it’s forcing tough decisions about pricing, production, and profitability.

One of the biggest challenges manufacturers face is a lack of real-time visibility into their operations. Without current data on costs, performance, or profitability, decision-makers are often left relying on outdated reports or gut instinct.

That’s where modern ERP systems come in. These platforms centralize data from purchasing, production, and finance, giving leaders a real-time view of where money is being made—or lost. With better visibility, manufacturers can act faster, whether it’s adjusting pricing, shifting production, or finding cost-saving opportunities across the business.

Reducing costs doesn’t always mean cutting corners. In many cases, it means reducing inefficiencies that are hiding in plain sight. Tasks like manual order entry, disjointed inventory tracking, and paper-based invoicing add unnecessary labor and delay.

Modern systems automate these processes, streamlining operations and freeing up time for more strategic work. When production planning is tied directly to demand forecasts and real-time inventory levels, manufacturers can operate with more precision and less waste.

This kind of automation also minimizes costly errors, like over-ordering materials or underestimating production timelines—common culprits when margins start to slip.

Profitability isn’t just about increasing revenue. It’s about understanding where you’re losing money and adjusting before it’s too late. With tools that offer job-level or product-level cost tracking, manufacturers can see which products are profitable, where costs are creeping up, and how each customer relationship impacts the bottom line.

This level of insight empowers better pricing strategies, more effective negotiations with suppliers, and tighter control over margins.

The manufacturers who will succeed in 2025 are the ones who can adapt quickly and operate efficiently. While the cost pressures are real, they’re not insurmountable. With the right technology in place, it’s possible to increase visibility, reduce inefficiencies, and protect your margins without sacrificing quality or service.

Acumatica Manufacturing Edition, implemented by a partner who understands the industry, gives manufacturers the tools they need to make smarter, faster, and more cost-effective decisions.

Want to learn how your manufacturing business can weather today’s cost pressures?
Let’s talk about building a more resilient, tech-enabled operation – feel free to contact Aktion today.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, your ERP system should help you scale—not slow you down. For many organizations using Microsoft Dynamics GP/SL, they have reached their limits. While it may have worked well in the past, its aging architecture and lack of true cloud capabilities are prompting companies to look for a more modern solution.

Built for the cloud from the ground up, Acumatica offers the flexibility, scalability, and long-term value that Dynamics GP/SL simply can’t match.

Unlike GP/SL, Acumatica is a true cloud ERP. That means you can access the system from any browser, on any device, without the need for remote desktop tools or third-party hosting. There’s no complex infrastructure to manage—just fast, secure access wherever your team works.

Acumatica uses a resource-based pricing model, which means you’re not charged by the number of users. Whether you have 5 or 500 employees, the cost remains based on usage—not headcount. This makes it a future-ready option for companies planning for growth.

With Acumatica, you’re working with widely used technologies. That makes it easier—and more affordable—to customize your ERP or integrate it with other platforms. Dynamics GP/SL, by contrast, relies on proprietary tools that often require specialized developers and increase costs over time.

Acumatica comes with a wide range of features out of the box, including modules for payroll, document management, field service, and warehouse management. Many of these capabilities require third-party add-ons in GP/SL, adding cost and complexity. With Acumatica, everything is integrated, streamlined, and accessible from day one.

If your organization is still running on Dynamics GP/SL, it’s time to evaluate whether it’s still supporting your goals—or holding you back. Acumatica offers a modern, scalable, and cost-effective ERP platform that meets the needs of growing businesses across industries.

At Aktion, we help companies make the move from GP/SL to Acumatica with minimal disruption and maximum return. Our experienced team can guide you through the full process—from evaluation to implementation. If you have questions or want to discuss this transition further, feel free to contact Aktion .

Many B2B distributors recognize the need for digital transformation but struggle to see tangible benefits. Despite investing in eCommerce platforms and ERP systems, they often face challenges such as:

If these roadblocks sound familiar, you’re not alone. Fortunately, the partnership between Aktion Associates and Unilog offers a powerful solution to help distributors unlock the true potential of digital commerce and drive revenue growth.

One of the biggest hurdles in B2B digital transformation is the lack of integration between eCommerce platforms and ERP systems. Aktion Associates, a leading provider of IT solutions for distributors, partners with Unilog to bridge this gap.

One of the biggest myths in B2B eCommerce is that a digital platform will replace sales reps. In reality, digital commerce empowers sales teams and improves customer relationships.

A major reason why many B2B eCommerce platforms fail is a poor user experience. Unilog solves this by delivering a B2C-like shopping experience tailored for B2B needs:

With Aktion Associates’ expertise and Unilog’s cutting-edge technology, distributors can harness AI and automation to improve efficiency and customer experience.

To ensure digital transformation success, it’s critical to track the right metrics. The Aktion-Unilog partnership helps distributors define and measure key KPIs, including:

Distributors across industries have transformed their businesses with the Aktion Associates and Unilog partnership. Here are a few examples of real-world impact:

✅ A national industrial supplier increased online sales by 300% within six months after launching a fully integrated eCommerce platform with Unilog and Aktion’s ERP expertise.

✅ A wholesale electrical distributor reduced order processing times by 40% by automating workflows and leveraging AI-powered recommendations.

✅ A building materials distributor improved customer retention by 25% by offering a seamless self-service ordering experience and personalized product suggestions.

Digital transformation is no longer optional—it’s a competitive necessity. With the right technology, strategy, and support, B2B distributors can successfully transition to a digital-first model without losing the personal touch that sets them apart.

Don’t let outdated systems and fragmented digital strategies hold you back. Contact us today and take the first step toward a smarter, more profitable B2B commerce future!

The distribution industry is evolving rapidly, making eCommerce a necessity for B2B success. Distributors must embrace digital transformation to meet customer expectations and stay competitive. Here are the top trends shaping B2B eCommerce in 2025—and how Aktion Associates and Unilog can help you stay ahead.

Distributors are leveraging platforms like Amazon Business and Alibaba but need to maintain control over pricing and customer data.

Flexible payment solutions like BNPL, digital wallets, and ACH improve cash flow.

ECommerce is essential for distributors aiming to scale and stay competitive. With Unilog’s advanced B2B eCommerce platform and Aktion’s ERP expertise, you can optimize efficiency, improve customer experience, and drive revenue growth.

Boost your eCommerce strategy today. Contact Aktion Associates to learn how Unilog and Infor CloudSuite Distribution can future-proof your business.

October 14, 2025, Is Closer Than You Think
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marking a major shift for businesses relying on this operating system. While your PC won’t stop working, the absence of updates, technical assistance, and security patches means your systems—and your business—will become increasingly vulnerable.

For construction businesses, where efficiency, collaboration, and security are the foundation of success, staying on outdated software isn’t just risky—it’s dangerous. Let’s explore what this end-of-support means and why upgrading to Windows 11 is essential for protecting your business.

The Security Risks of Unsupported Operating Systems
Operating systems without support are like open doors to cybercriminals. Hackers specifically target outdated software because they know vulnerabilities won’t be patched. For the construction industry, this can lead to:

Cyberattacks: Malware, viruses, and phishing schemes that steal sensitive data like project plans, financial records, and client details.
Ransomware Threats: A single ransomware attack can halt your operations and cost you thousands—or even millions—in lost productivity and ransom payments.
Compliance Issues: Falling short of regulatory requirements for data security could result in fines and loss of trust with clients.

Why Upgrading to Windows 11 Is the Solution
Windows 11 isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a comprehensive shield for your business. Designed with advanced security at its core, it offers:

Built-In Threat Protection: Windows 11 includes a robust antivirus, firewall, and ransomware defenses to block attacks before they happen.
Advanced Encryption: Your sensitive project data stays safe with end-to-end encryption, ensuring only authorized users have access.
Ongoing Updates: Regular software patches mean your systems are always secure against the latest threats.

By upgrading to Windows 11, you’re not just maintaining operations—you’re actively strengthening your business against today’s evolving cybersecurity risks.

How Aktion Associates Can Help
Upgrading your systems can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling multiple projects and tight deadlines. That’s where Aktion Associates comes in. We specialize in helping construction businesses navigate technology transitions with ease.

Here’s how we can help you prepare for Windows 10’s end-of-support:

Device Assessment: We’ll check if your current hardware is eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade and recommend upgrades where necessary.
Upgrade Roadmap: Our experts will create a tailored plan to minimize downtime and disruptions to your workflows.
Deployment Support: From sourcing hardware to installing software and training your team, we handle it all.

What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade?
Failing to upgrade isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to major consequences:

Increased Cybersecurity Risks: Unsupported systems are the weakest link in your IT infrastructure.
Reduced Productivity: Outdated systems may not work with newer software and tools, creating inefficiencies and delays.
Higher Costs: Reacting to a cybersecurity breach or replacing hardware in a rush can cost significantly more than planning ahead.

Take Action Today
The end of Windows 10 support is a critical reminder that your business’s technology must evolve to stay secure and competitive. By upgrading to Windows 11, you’re not just closing a security loophole—you’re investing in the future of your construction business.

At Aktion Associates, we’re here to help you make this transition as smooth as possible. From assessing your current devices to ensuring a seamless deployment, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on what matters most—delivering exceptional results for your clients.

Ready to Upgrade?
Contact Aktion Associates today to schedule your free consultation and start building a secure, future-ready IT infrastructure.

Contact Us ➔

In the construction industry, adaptability and access to real-time data are critical to staying competitive. With construction projects constantly on the move and teams working from various locations—from job sites to offices and even remote settings—the need for flexible, accessible technology is essential. At Aktion Associates, we recognize that cloud computing has become a powerful solution to meet these needs, offering remote access, scalability, and security tailored specifically for the construction sector.

Cloud computing isn’t just a trend; it’s a vital tool for construction companies striving to streamline operations, reduce costs, and stay agile in an increasingly competitive industry. The cloud enables secure, mobile access to important data, allowing teams to share and update project information seamlessly from any location. This has particularly profound benefits for construction teams who require instant access to drawings, blueprints, financials, and schedules to make informed, timely decisions.

In the 1990s, the concept of cloud-like portals in construction first emerged as a response to the industry’s challenges with costly, repetitive printing and outdated, static paper-based workflows. Today, cloud computing has transformed these early collaboration tools into robust, secure platforms that can handle the complex data needs of modern construction projects.

Cloud computing significantly reduces capital expenditure by eliminating the need for in-house servers and hardware infrastructure. For construction companies, this means a more efficient allocation of resources without the ongoing costs of server maintenance, updates, and management. Aktion’s cloud solutions provide companies with a scalable, pay-as-you-go model, minimizing upfront investment and offering predictable monthly costs.

By moving to the cloud, companies not only save on infrastructure but also reduce costs associated with physical documentation, reproduction, and storage, allowing funds to be directed towards other essential aspects of their business.

Construction teams need tools that work wherever they are. With Aktion’s cloud solutions, your team has the freedom to work from the job site, in-office, or remotely. This flexibility keeps your team connected and improves project collaboration across locations, whether sharing updates with on-site workers or reviewing plans from a remote office. In an industry where projects are geographically dispersed, the ability to access critical information on-demand keeps you agile and responsive.

The demands of a construction project can fluctuate widely based on size, scope, and budget. Cloud computing offers an unparalleled level of scalability, allowing construction firms to expand or reduce resources as project demands change. Aktion Associates provides cloud solutions that can be tailored specifically for your business, ensuring you have the right amount of storage, processing power, and functionality at every project phase. This customization helps construction firms avoid over-provisioning or underutilizing resources, making the cloud a sustainable, growth-friendly option.

Data security is paramount, especially for industries handling sensitive project information and client data. At Aktion, we provide industry-leading security features to protect your information. Our cloud solutions include regular nightly backups and 7-day rolling snapshots, so your data is always recoverable and secure. Our cloud infrastructure is housed in a certified Tier III, SSAE 18 SOC Type II data center, adhering to high standards of security and compliance.

In addition, cloud-based disaster recovery solutions ensure that, in case of unforeseen disruptions, your data is safe and recoverable. With data backed up and secured in the cloud, construction companies can focus on their core business without the worry of data loss.

What was once a privilege of large corporations is now accessible to construction companies of all sizes. Cloud solutions give small and medium-sized firms access to enterprise-grade tools without prohibitive costs, enabling them to stay competitive with larger firms. Hosting project management, accounting, estimating, and scheduling software on the cloud allows companies to reduce overhead, enhance mobility, and streamline their operations.

In an industry where efficiency and cost control are everything, the benefits of cloud computing for construction are clear. At Aktion Associates, we’re committed to providing construction companies with tailored, reliable cloud solutions that help teams stay connected, efficient, and secure.

Discover how Aktion Associates can elevate your construction operations through innovative cloud technology. Contact us today to learn more about our customized solutions for the construction industry.

In the fast-paced world of distribution and supply chain management, the ability to access data, applications, and resources from anywhere is a critical advantage. Cloud hosting provides flexible, scalable, and secure infrastructure tailored to the unique needs of companies in these industries. By reducing costs, improving collaboration, and streamlining operations, cloud hosting has become an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to remain competitive and efficient in a rapidly evolving market.

Though distribution and supply chain industries have distinct operations, both rely heavily on data-driven processes, inventory management, and real-time collaboration among multiple stakeholders. Cloud hosting meets these demands by providing centralized, secure environments for data storage and application hosting, accessible from anywhere.

Here’s how cloud hosting drives efficiency and innovation in distribution and supply chain management:

Managing vast amounts of data—from inventory levels to logistics schedules—is a key challenge in distribution and supply chain management. Cloud hosting centralizes this data, making it easily accessible from any device or location.

This ensures that all stakeholders, whether in a distribution center or an office, can work with real-time, accurate data. The result? Improved decision-making, reduced errors, and a better ability to respond to market changes or customer demands.

Distribution and supply chain industries thrive on collaboration among manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and customers. With cloud hosting, stakeholders can share data, files, and updates instantly, improving communication and reducing delays.

For example, logistics teams can share real-time updates with distributors, while sales teams can access current inventory data to inform customer discussions. This seamless flow of information enhances productivity and ensures smooth operations across the entire supply chain.

Fluctuating demand is a constant in distribution and supply chain industries. Whether it’s scaling up resources during peak seasons or scaling down during slower periods, cloud hosting provides the flexibility to adapt infrastructure in real-time.

This ensures businesses only pay for the resources they use, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution that aligns with operational needs.

Maintaining on-premises servers comes with significant upfront investments and ongoing maintenance costs. Cloud hosting eliminates these expenses, providing a predictable, subscription-based model that reduces capital expenditure.

Distribution and supply chain businesses can redirect these savings into critical growth areas, such as expanding operations or enhancing customer experiences.

Additionally, cloud hosting reduces the reliance on physical documentation and manual workflows, further cutting costs and improving operational efficiency.

Data security is a top priority for distribution and supply chain companies, which often manage sensitive customer information, supplier contracts, and proprietary logistics data. Cloud hosting providers offer enterprise-grade security measures, including encryption, firewalls, and regular data backups.

In the event of a system outage or cyberattack, businesses can quickly recover critical data, minimizing downtime and maintaining customer trust. This built-in security ensures compliance with industry regulations and mitigates risk.

Cloud hosting enables the integration of advanced technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) and predictive analytics, unlocking new possibilities for distribution and supply chain management.

For instance, IoT sensors can monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and provide real-time updates on transportation routes. Predictive analytics, powered by cloud-hosted data, allows businesses to forecast demand, optimize inventory, and reduce waste.

These capabilities drive smarter operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.

As the distribution and supply chain industries grow more complex, technology must keep pace. Cloud hosting offers the agility and innovation needed to adapt to changing market demands, ensuring businesses stay competitive.

By centralizing data, enhancing collaboration, and providing robust security, cloud hosting empowers companies to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and meet customer expectations more effectively.

At Aktion Associates, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the distribution and supply chain industries. Our cloud hosting solutions are designed to help your business achieve greater efficiency, scalability, and security, positioning you for long-term success.

Contact us today to learn more about how cloud hosting can transform your operations. Let’s distribute and deliver success together.