Brewing Process Management software can be a godsend for breweries of all sizes, helping track nearly every part of the process and keeping operations on track. Like anything else with a brewery or small business, picking the right software is critical to getting business done and to ensure it will be able to grow with a brewer that chooses to do so.
There are several things to consider when trying out different software before deciding on one that meshes with your comfort level and brewery needs.
“First off, the owners/head brews need to ask themselves why they need software management help. Are you getting it because you want it or do you really need it?,” asks brewery consultant Erik Coleman. “I’ve seen breweries that have purchased the program but are not using it or using it improperly.”
Coleman encourages all breweries to do their homework.
“Look to those that seem to best address your needs (do you need help with Inventory, production, sales/payment, accounting, sensory, and yeast). Then reach out to them to see who is using their software so you can connect with them to see what they think. I’d also reach out to some other breweries that are similar to your facility setup and brewing capacity. Things such as do you have a taproom (if so how large), do you distribute, how large of a set up you have, etc.”
Here are some areas to consider:
Ingredient Inventory
Can the software keep track of all your brewery inventory and be set up for alerts for re-ordering or monitoring needs for future brew days. From grain to hops, yeast, and adjuncts, can the software meet your needs to ensure that beers are made on time without last minute scrambles.
Beer inventory
Similarly, can the software track your package supplies from cans to toppers, case boxes and holders and then monitor how much finished beer is on hand and available for sale.
Orders and delivery
Can the software keep track of outside orders and make sure the beer is successfully delivered. For draught accounts, having a module that can keep track of kegs and make sure they are accounted for and returned in timely fashion and in good working order.
There are some software modules that can also keep track of or help with delivery routes. These can include ways to avoid traffic, safe gas, and keep drivers and pedestrians safer.
Payments
If this software can be linked to your existing accounting software, all the better. Having the ability to collect payment from accounts in the field, or to spend as necessary outside of the brewery is also important to consider.
Having the ability to keep track of all the company’s numbers from inside sales to outside accounts.
Take some time to review payment options and contracts as well. There are often deals that can come with long-term commitments but if the software does not deliver to your needs or a company is unwilling to modify to meet your needs, especially in periods of growth, change, or uncertainty, having a month-to-month option can be a smart route.
“Of the products out there, I feel that Ekos, OrchestratedBEER, and The 5th Ingredient/Beer 30 are some of the better and/or more tenured companies,” says Coleman. “There is also a company that will work on helping dial in your packaging efficiencies on your packing end to help really save money and improve time. Their name is OFS and is best suited for breweries that are putting out at least 6,000 bbls a year. They are located in Australia but do have clients around the world, including the US. While this is a stand-alone software system, The 5th Ingredient has started working with them to create a variation of its software that is integrated with the Beer 30 Software to make it all streamlined.”