Every January I publish our technology priorities for the year. It creates accountability, aligns the team, and gives stakeholders visibility into where IT focus will be. Here's what 2024 looks like for Julius Silvert.
Priority 1: ERP Modernization
Our S2K ERP has served us well for 20 years, but it's holding us back. 2024 is the year we seriously evaluate replacements. Goals: complete vendor evaluation by Q2, make a selection by Q3, begin implementation planning by Q4.
Leading candidates: Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O, NetSuite. Both have food distribution capabilities; both integrate with our Microsoft-heavy environment.
Priority 2: Security Maturity
Good security isn't a project - it's continuous improvement. 2024 focus areas: implement SIEM/SOC capabilities, mature our vulnerability management program, achieve SOC 2 Type II readiness (even if we don't certify), and upgrade our security awareness training.
Priority 3: Automation Expansion
Power Platform has proven its value. 2024 goals: double our active flows, deploy Power Apps for at least two new business processes, establish citizen developer training program, and implement proper governance before we scale.
Priority 4: Infrastructure Refresh
Server hardware is aging. Network equipment is due for refresh. 2024 includes: server refresh at both sites (Dell PowerEdge), network upgrade (Meraki), and beginning cloud migration planning for appropriate workloads.
Priority 5: Team Development
Technology is only as good as the people running it. 2024 team goals: certifications for every team member, cross-training for key systems, promote from within where possible, and maintain our 96% retention rate.
What We're Not Doing
Equally important: AI investments beyond Copilot pilot (too early), major cloud migration (focus on ERP first), and new e-commerce platform (Adobe Commerce is working well). Saying no protects focus.
Planning an ERP modernization?
6 SAP-to-Dynamics conversions with zero business disruption. Let's discuss your project.
ERP Services Book a Call