The Integrate Intelligently Podcast

by CADTALK Software

Season 5

Beyond the Software: Business Central Done Right - Stephanie Clark of Elliott Clark Consulting, Part 1

Beyond the Software: Business Central Done Right If your ERP implementation didn't deliver the results you expected, the problem probably wasn't the software. Host Jeff Brickler sits down with CADTALK founder & CEO Scott Brickler and Stephanie Clark, founder of Elliott Clark Consulting and Microsoft Business Central expert, to talk about why process comes before technology — every single time. Stephanie brings decades of hands-on ERP experience, from end user to consultant to firm owner, and she doesn't hold back on what actually goes wrong in manufacturing ERP projects. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Process, technology, automation — in that order. Automating a broken process doesn't fix it. It just makes bad outcomes happen faster. Getting the business process right before touching the software is non-negotiable. • "Lift and shift" implementations fail. Moving your old paper-based or legacy process directly into a new ERP without reimagining the workflow is one of the most common and costly mistakes manufacturers make. • Software doesn't fail — misalignment does. When clients say "the software doesn't work," it's almost always a process or data issue underneath, not a software defect. • Data quality is the foundation of everything. Costing, planning, production orders — none of it works right without clean, accurate data. Start with the 20% of items that drive 80% of your business. • User adoption is just as important as configuration. Low-cost, fast implementations can miss the hand-holding that drives real adoption. Setting users up for success takes intentional effort. 💬 Best Quote "If you try to automate a really bad process, you're just gonna have bad data and a bad process that's faster." — Stephanie Clark, Elliott Clark Consulting ⏱ Timestamps • 0:00 – Welcome & guest introduction • 1:00 – Stephanie's origin story: from manufacturing manager to ERP consultant • 2:19 – Starting Elliott Clark Consulting and doing things differently • 3:45 – Process, technology, automation — in that order • 6:17 – The lift-and-shift trap: why copying old processes into new software doesn't work • 7:48 – The "second opinion" service: what's really wrong when ERP feels broken • 9:07 – User adoption, low-cost implementations, and the risks of moving too fast • 11:57 – Data quality: why you have to get your data right before you go live 📎 Connect With Us 💼 LinkedIn: CADTALK: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadtalk Stephanie Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephclark/ 🌐 Website: CADTALK: www.cadtalk.com Elliott Clark Consulting: https://www.clarkelliottconsulting.com/

S5 · E1

Jul 15, 2026

14:41

Season 4

PLM Decoded: What Manufacturers Need to Know – Mike Halladay of Arena PLM, Part 1

If you've ever confused PLM with PDM — or wondered whether your company even needs a PLM system — this episode is for you. Host Jeff Brickler sits down with CADTALK founder & CEO Scott Brickler and Mike Halladay, Solution Consultant at Arena PLM (a PTC product), to cut through the acronyms and get practical about what Product Lifecycle Management actually does, who needs it, and how AI is starting to change the game. ________________________________________ 🔑 Key Takeaways • PLM ≠ PDM. PDM manages CAD files. PLM is your single source of truth for the entire product record — mechanical, electrical, software, packaging, documentation, and more. • PLM and ERP serve different purposes. ERP is a transaction system built around what you're producing today. PLM manages all work-in-process as your product evolves from one producible revision to the next. • Change control is where PLM earns its keep. A formal revision control process ensures that only approved, complete product definitions make it into production — protecting manufacturers from costly errors. • Regulated and complex-product industries benefit most. Medical device, defense, high-tech, and any company managing multi-department product records will find the highest ROI in PLM. • Even ETO companies can benefit. If you're reusing subsystems across engineered-to-order projects, PLM keeps those subsystems well-managed and revision-controlled. ________________________________________ 💬 Best Quote "PLM is the system you use for all of your work in process — as you go from the last producible revision of your product to the next." — Mike Halladay, Arena PLM ________________________________________ ⏱ Timestamps • 0:00 – Welcome & guest introductions • 1:27 – PDM vs. PLM: What's the actual difference? • 3:01 – Where PLM fits vs. ERP (and why ERP isn't enough) • 4:46 – Revision control: PLM's core superpower • 6:31 – PLM for configure-to-order & engineer-to-order manufacturers • 9:53 – The engineering change process: when does it cross from PLM to ERP? • 15:38 – Which industries and company profiles benefit most from PLM?

S4 · E7

Mar 24, 2026

19:33

The Path Forward: How to Make Your ERP Investment Actually Pay Off - CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler, Part 3

You understand the problem. You know what it costs. Now what? In Part 3, CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler lays out the path forward — including why the integration conversation needs to happen earlier than almost everyone thinks, and why the decision is a business one, not a technical one. In this episode, Scott and host John Thomas discuss: What a good ERP implementer actually tells you — and the questions to ask before you commit Why bringing integration into the conversation early changes the entire ERP design process The crawl-walk-run approach to ERP and integration: how to stack improvements without the big bang risk Key takeaway: "Integration isn't a technical project. It's the thing that determines whether your ERP investment delivers what it was bought to deliver." Connect with CADTALK: https://cadtalk.com

S4 · E6

Mar 16, 2026

14:00

What Disconnected Data Is Actually Costing You - CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler, Part 2

Most manufacturers know they have a gap between engineering and their ERP. They've known for years. But when you've been working around something long enough, it stops feeling like a problem and starts feeling like just how things are. In Part 2 of our conversation with CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler, we get into what that gap is actually costing — not just in keystrokes, but in lead time, talent, decisions, and risk. 🎙️ Guest: Scott Brickler, CEO at CADTALK Software 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottbrickler/ ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 — Recap and transition: from "what's broken" to "what does it cost" 0:51 — Labor shortages, tariffs, and why manual processes hurt more now 1:49 — Why engineers sign up for creative work — and what happens when they don't get it 2:07 — Agentic AI can only remix what exists — the human creative edge 3:07 — The "managing by exception" misconception — it's actually lack of clarity 4:00 — Jim in building B: when tribal knowledge becomes operational risk 4:16 — "Don't go into the illusion that everything's an exception" 5:51 — The talent retention argument: tools that remove friction attract the best people 6:27 — What happens when the only person who understands the spreadsheet leaves 6:55 — Transition: from the cost of the problem to the path forward 📌 Key Takeaways: • The cost of disconnected data isn't just in re-keying — it shows up in lead time, quoting errors, purchasing mistakes, and compliance risk • In a labor-scarce environment, engineers who spend time on data entry are engineers you can't recruit or retain • "Managing by exception" sounds like loss of control — it's actually the result of gaining clarity • The single-person dependency ("Jim in building B who just makes it work") is one of the most underestimated operational risks in manufacturing • What looks like "too much variability to automate" is usually just a lack of clarity about what the process actually needs to be 🔗 Resources Mentioned: • Schedule a discovery session: cadtalk.com 👉 Learn more about CADTALK: https://cadtalk.com

S4 · E5

Mar 9, 2026

9:23

Why Your ERP Isn't Delivering What It Promised - CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler, Part 1

Manufacturers spend six or seven figures on ERP systems — and most aren't getting the ROI they were promised. CADTALK CEO Scott Brickler explains why the ERP isn't the problem, and what is. In this episode, Scott and host John Thomas discuss: Why the bill of material is the engine everything in manufacturing ERP runs on — and why getting it right is harder than anyone admits The "ERP demo problem" — why it always works in demos, and what happens when real data hits the system Why "consistently wrong" beats "sporadically right" — and what that means for your engineering data Key takeaway: "Your ERP is only as good as the data you feed it." Connect with CADTALK: https://cadtalk.com

S4 · E4

Mar 3, 2026

14:24

Your Factory Already Runs on AI — You Just Don't Call It That - Rob Jolliffe of Sabre Limited, Part 3

Here's a take that might surprise you: manufacturing has had AI longer than almost any other industry. In this episode — "Your Factory Already Runs on AI — You Just Don't Call It That" — Rob Jolliffe, CEO of Sabre Limited, wraps up his conversation with hosts Jeff and Scott Brickler by tackling the AI hype head-on. Rob makes the case that MRP is an expert system, manufacturing has been running on AI for decades — so why does the current conversation feel so disconnected? The discussion covers why AI pitches keep missing the mark with manufacturers, where the real opportunity lies (it's not replacing what already works), and practical use cases like automated vendor follow-up, real-time material substitution, and intelligent PO review. Rob and Scott explore why the most valuable AI applications are the tasks that are too onerous for humans at scale but too costly to skip. Key Takeaways: MRP and finite capacity planning are expert systems — manufacturing has had AI for decades Current AI pitches often try to solve problems existing systems already handle The real opportunity is in tasks too onerous for humans: vendor follow-up, PO review, material substitutions AI should enable the thousands of small decisions humans currently skip Business Central's extension model allows add-ons to coexist without conflict Goldratt's insight: the obvious use case for new technology is rarely the most valuable one Connect with our guest: Rob Jolliffe | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjolliffe/ Sabre Limited: https://www.sabrelimited.com Follow CADTALK: CADTALK's Website: https://cadtalk.com Follow CADTALK on YouTube (video episodes found here): https://www.youtube.com/@cadtalk6667 Follow CADTALK on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadtalk

S4 · E3

Feb 23, 2026

14:39

Build-A-Bear ERP: Why Configurable Beats Custom for ETO Manufacturers - Rob Jolliffe of Sabre Limited, Part 2

Why do standard ERP production modules keep failing engineer-to-order manufacturers? In this episode — “Build-A-Bear ERP: Why Configurable Beats Custom for ETO Manufacturers” — Rob Jolliffe, CEO of Sabre Limited, continues his conversation with hosts Jeff and Scott Brickler, diving deep into the unique challenges of ETO manufacturing in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Rob shares the story of a die builder whose million-dollar product was held up by a $10 guide pin, and explains why the Projects module — not production orders — is the right approach for ETO companies in BC. The conversation covers why traditional production modules make a fatal assumption for ETO, how Business Central’s AppSource ecosystem creates a “Build-A-Bear ERP” that can be configured without customization, and what ETO manufacturers should look for in a BC partner. Key Takeaways: - Standard ERP production modules assume R&D is complete — a fatal mismatch for ETO - Business Central’s Projects module handles phased BOMs, progressive invoicing, and engineering-to-purchasing coordination - The AppSource ecosystem (9,000+ apps) creates competitive pressure that keeps add-ons innovating - The “Build-A-Bear ERP” model gives BC long-term staying power vs. monolithic competitors - Not every BC partner understands ETO — ask about their Projects methodology before signing - CAD integration readiness is a critical success factor for ETO implementations Connect with our guest: Rob Jolliffe | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjolliffe/ Sabre Limited: https://www.sabrelimited.com Follow CADTALK: CADTALK’s Website: https://cadtalk.com Follow CADTALK on YouTube (video episodes found here): https://www.youtube.com/@cadtalk6667 Follow CADTALK on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadtalk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to ETO Manufacturing Challenges 01:45 The Million-Dollar Die Story 04:00 Why Production Modules Fail ETO 06:15 The Valve Assembly Example 08:00 Why Projects Beat Production Orders in Business Central 10:15 Phased BOMs, Progressive Invoicing, and Onsite Work Tracking 12:00 Business Central vs. Infor: Scoring Manufacturing and Accounting 13:45 The AppSource Ecosystem and the “Build-A-Bear ERP” 15:30 What to Look for in a BC Partner for ETO 17:00 CAD Integration Readiness and the Role of CADTALK

S4 · E2

Feb 16, 2026

17:56

Why Fixed-Fee ERP Implementations Win for Manufacturers - Rob Jolliffe of Sabre Limited, Part 1

Why do most ERP projects still bill by the hour — when no manufacturer would ever charge their own customers that way? In this episode, Rob Jolliffe, CEO of Sabre Limited, joins hosts Jeff and Scott Brickler to challenge one of the ERP industry’s most deeply embedded practices: time-and-material billing. Rob shares how a blunt question from a production manager forced him to rethink how he runs projects — and how the fixed-fee model he built at Sabre has changed outcomes for his customers. Rob breaks down how he applies Eli Goldratt’s Theory of Constraints and lean manufacturing principles to ERP projects, why tiered packaging nearly eliminates scope creep, and why a mandatory post-go-live support contract was the single best decision he’s made for customer retention. Whether you’re evaluating ERP partners, planning a Business Central implementation, or just tired of surprise invoices — this one’s for you. Key Takeaways: - Time-and-material billing creates perverse incentives - Fixed-fee pricing forces process discipline and consistency - Tiered packaging nearly eliminates scope creep - Lean manufacturing principles apply directly to ERP project management - A mandatory post-go-live support contract removes the fear of calling for help - Operations managers (not traditional PMs) drive consistency across all projects Connect with our guest: Rob Jolliffe | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjolliffe/ Sabre Limited: https://www.sabrelimited.com Follow CADTALK: CADTALK’s Website: https://cadtalk.com Follow CADTALK on YouTube (video episodes found here): https://www.youtube.com/@cadtalk6667 Follow CADTALK on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadtalk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:30 Rob Jolliffe’s Background in Manufacturing and ERP 05:15 The Question That Changed Everything 08:00 Why Time-and-Material Billing Creates Perverse Incentives 11:00 How Fixed-Fee Implementation Actually Works 14:30 Tiered Packaging: Managing Scope Without Arguments 17:15 Shifting the Right Work to Customers 19:30 Applying Lean Thinking and Theory of Constraints to ERP Projects 21:45 Operations Managers vs. Traditional Project Managers 23:00 The Mandatory One-Year Support Contract

S4 · E1

Feb 9, 2026

24:53

Season 3

Biggest DFM Mistakes - What is DFM? (3 of 3)

Download the free guide, "DFM for Design Engineers:" https://cadtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/DFM-for-Design-Engineers.pdf In this episode of the Integrate Intelligently podcast, Jeff Brickler and Scott Brickler delve into the intricacies of Design for Manufacturing (DFM). They discuss common mistakes made during the design phase, the importance of considering real-world assembly challenges, and how gravity and material choices can affect manufacturability. The conversation also highlights the growing significance of supply chain considerations in DFM and the potential for AI to revolutionize design processes in the future. Overall, the episode emphasizes the need for engineers to maintain a practical perspective during design and to engage in thorough design reviews to ensure manufacturability. Takeaways - Designing for manufacturing requires a practical approach. - Common DFM mistakes include creating unmanufacturable designs. - Assembly challenges often arise from poor design considerations. - Utilizing gravity can simplify assembly processes. - Material selection impacts both cost and manufacturability. - Supply chain constraints must be integrated into design decisions. - AI is poised to assist in future design and manufacturing processes. - Engineers should conduct design reviews to ensure manufacturability. - Real-world assembly scenarios should inform design choices. - Collaboration between design and manufacturing teams is crucial Sound Bites "You CAN design things that are impossible to make." "Design reviews are essential for manufacturability." "AI-assisted design is definitely the future."

S3 · E3

Sep 1, 2025

19:57

The Essential Role of the Design Engineer - What is DFM? (2 of 3)

Download the free guide, "DFM for Design Engineers:" https://cadtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/DFM-for-Design-Engineers.pdf In this episode, Jeff and Scott Brickler explore the concept of Design for Manufacturing (DFM), discussing its importance, implementation, and the role of engineers in the process. They emphasize the need for early involvement in design, collaboration between teams, and the use of data and tools to streamline manufacturing processes. The conversation also highlights the significance of templates and principles that guide DFM practices across different companies. Takeaways -Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is essential for successful manufacturing. -Early involvement in the design process leads to better outcomes. -Engineers must consider manufacturability alongside functionality. -Collaboration between design and manufacturing teams is crucial. -Utilizing data effectively can enhance decision-making in DFM. -Templates can simplify the design process and ensure consistency. -DFM principles may vary based on company capabilities and resources. -Feedback from customers is important for refining DFM practices. -Making the right choice the easiest option encourages adherence to DFM principles. -Iterative approaches can be beneficial in high-volume manufacturing. Sound Bite "Make the right thing the easiest thing." Chapters 00:00 - The Importance of Early DFM Integration 01:32 - Iterative vs. Principles-Based DFM 04:42 - Collaboration Between Engineers and Manufacturing 09:32 - Leveraging Data for DFM 13:03 - Simplifying DFM Processes 14:05 - Design for Manufacturing Principles 15:57 - Best Practices in DFM 19:22 - Common DFM Mistakes

S3 · E2

Aug 25, 2025

21:33

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