Eric Kimberling

Eric Kimberling

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CEO, Third Stage Consulting; ERP transformation and OCM

AI Agents Are Arriving, But Proven Scale Remains Uncertain
SocialApr 6, 2026

AI Agents Are Arriving, But Proven Scale Remains Uncertain

Big software vendors like SAP, Salesforce, and Oracle are deploying AI agents. But is it too soon? Practitioners need to distinguish hype from reality, as many AI capabilities aren't proven at scale yet. #AI #TechStrategy https://t.co/2pnihMFzk8

By Eric Kimberling
Cloud Migration Hype Mirrors Y2K Panic, Warns Against Rush
SocialApr 6, 2026

Cloud Migration Hype Mirrors Y2K Panic, Warns Against Rush

Remember Y2K panic? Tech hyped fear, not reality. Now, cloud migration feels similar: irrational investments and rushed decisions fueled by a manufactured sense of urgency. Is history repeating itself? #TechTrends #CloudMigration #Y2K https://t.co/BOabVGkukb

By Eric Kimberling
Tech Can't Replace Human Vigilance in Inventory Accuracy
SocialApr 5, 2026

Tech Can't Replace Human Vigilance in Inventory Accuracy

Even with advanced tech, human error causes inventory discrepancies. Forgetting to scan items or even theft can lead to systems showing inaccurate stock levels. Real-time accuracy requires vigilance. #InventoryManagement #SupplyChain https://t.co/JSwAjiR4Sk

By Eric Kimberling
Proactive Supply Chain Data Drives Future‑Ready Decisions
SocialApr 5, 2026

Proactive Supply Chain Data Drives Future‑Ready Decisions

In today's rapidly changing world, leveraging supply chain data is crucial for better decision-making and anticipating future disruptions. Organizations that thrive are those integrating systems to track information proactively. #SupplyChain #DataAnalytics #BusinessStrategy https://t.co/s0OtWwNIp8

By Eric Kimberling
Outsourcing and “Tech Debt” Erode Competitive Edge
SocialApr 5, 2026

Outsourcing and “Tech Debt” Erode Competitive Edge

Companies risk losing control by relying on external operations. Moreover, the software industry labels unique customization as 'technical debt,' eliminating competitive advantages. #BusinessStrategy #TechDebt https://t.co/7eAuLnm2FZ

By Eric Kimberling
Know Your Second and Third-Tier Suppliers for Better Planning
SocialApr 5, 2026

Know Your Second and Third-Tier Suppliers for Better Planning

Enhance supply chain visibility beyond immediate partners. Understanding second and third-tier suppliers' reliability, quality, availability, and lead times is crucial for effective planning and anticipating end-customer demand. #SupplyChain #Visibility https://t.co/hy28NvPSQv

By Eric Kimberling
NVIDIA's “Open” AI Standard May Mask Vendor Lock‑In
SocialApr 5, 2026

NVIDIA's “Open” AI Standard May Mask Vendor Lock‑In

Is NVIDIA creating an open standard for enterprise AI agents, or are they following AWS's old playbook, locking vendors into their infrastructure under the guise of open source? It seems vendors might be getting a taste of their own medicine....

By Eric Kimberling
Only 10% of CEO-Led Transformations Achieve Success
SocialApr 5, 2026

Only 10% of CEO-Led Transformations Achieve Success

60% of CEO-led business transformations fail. Our research shows only 10% of companies achieve digital transformation success. Counterintuitive, as new tech should improve processes, but many still fall short. #DigitalTransformation #BusinessStrategy https://t.co/qjO3jfdZ3d

By Eric Kimberling
Master Storage Locations to Slash Fulfillment Time
SocialApr 4, 2026

Master Storage Locations to Slash Fulfillment Time

Unlock peak inventory efficiency by mastering storage locations. Knowing exact spots for raw materials and finished goods slashes order fulfillment time. Your WMS guides your crew, ensuring fast retrieval. #InventoryManagement #Warehouse https://t.co/r4FzMpMEv3

By Eric Kimberling
Accurate Demand Forecasting Drives Seamless Supply Chain
SocialApr 4, 2026

Accurate Demand Forecasting Drives Seamless Supply Chain

An accurate demand forecast is the backbone of the supply chain. It dictates production needs, raw material sourcing, and even subassembly procurement, ensuring everything aligns to meet customer demand. #SupplyChain #DemandForecasting https://t.co/X1ZHkA2Fdg

By Eric Kimberling
Effective Inventory Control Drives Timely Service and Cost Savings
SocialApr 4, 2026

Effective Inventory Control Drives Timely Service and Cost Savings

Warehouse management hinges on effective inventory control. Knowing what you have, where it is, and when to move it ensures timely customer service and manages critical costs. It's about having the right materials at the right time. #WarehouseManagement #InventoryControl https://t.co/jm8inDJpVr

By Eric Kimberling
People‑First Strategy Drives Successful Supply‑Chain Transformation
SocialApr 4, 2026

People‑First Strategy Drives Successful Supply‑Chain Transformation

Transforming supply chains isn't just about new tech; it's about people. A clear adoption strategy ensures your team understands new processes, technologies, and their evolving roles. Without it, benefits are lost, and panic sets in. #ChangeManagement #SupplyChain https://t.co/JpWGtc3Ove

By Eric Kimberling
Watch Out for Integrators Hiding Risks Behind Green Reports
SocialApr 3, 2026

Watch Out for Integrators Hiding Risks Behind Green Reports

Beware of systems integrators who master accountability avoidance. They control the narrative with green status reports until risks surface unexpectedly, missed milestones go unescalated, and pressure mounts. #ProjectManagement #VendorManagement https://t.co/PsZOEkogVW

By Eric Kimberling
Manual Counts Cause Shutdowns; Automate Inventory Management
SocialApr 3, 2026

Manual Counts Cause Shutdowns; Automate Inventory Management

Warehouses battle inaccuracies with manual cycle counts and annual physical inventories. These time-consuming shutdowns require all hands on deck, highlighting the need for efficient inventory management. #WarehouseManagement #Inventory https://t.co/0mOkHp34Rc

By Eric Kimberling
Hidden Costs Turn $100 iPhone Into $130
SocialApr 3, 2026

Hidden Costs Turn $100 iPhone Into $130

Understanding total landed costs is crucial for your supply chain and product pricing. For example, an iPhone costing $100 from China might actually be $130 after adding freight, customs, and international trade costs. #SupplyChain #Logistics https://t.co/2QyEIxMBmx

By Eric Kimberling
Optimized Warehouse Layout Boosts Inventory Flow Efficiency
SocialApr 3, 2026

Optimized Warehouse Layout Boosts Inventory Flow Efficiency

Warehouse design is a key part of inventory management. How you stage raw materials near unloading or manufacturing, and group finished goods for easy shipping, impacts the entire flow of goods. Optimize your warehouse layout for efficiency. #WarehouseManagement #Inventory https://t.co/IpPHv1KuGb

By Eric Kimberling
Supply Chains Thrive on External Economic and Geopolitical Data
SocialApr 3, 2026

Supply Chains Thrive on External Economic and Geopolitical Data

Beyond internal data, a robust supply chain needs external insights. Monitor economic shifts, geopolitical events, supplier insolvency, and logistics issues. #SupplyChain #DataAnalytics https://t.co/8bazaMHoRU

By Eric Kimberling
Polished Vendor Buzz Masks Unprepared Teams
SocialApr 2, 2026

Polished Vendor Buzz Masks Unprepared Teams

The technology might be sound, but people weren't set up to succeed. Vendors often present polished narratives to the board, using buzzwords without doing the actual work. This makes it sound professional, but the underlying reality is neglected. #TechFailure #ProjectManagement...

By Eric Kimberling
Tailor Inventory: Stock More High‑Volume, Trim Slow‑Movers
SocialApr 2, 2026

Tailor Inventory: Stock More High‑Volume, Trim Slow‑Movers

Managing inventory isn't one-size-fits-all. Tailor your strategy: keep more of high-volume or critical items, less of slow-moving ones. Optimize with warehouse management software to hit your goals. #InventoryManagement #SupplyChain https://t.co/w83bAQ8Ayd

By Eric Kimberling
Tech Upgrades Fail without Effective Human Execution
SocialApr 2, 2026

Tech Upgrades Fail without Effective Human Execution

After optimizing business processes and tech in your digital supply chain, the human element is crucial. Without people executing effectively, operational and technological improvements mean nothing. #SupplyChain #DigitalTransformation #Leadership https://t.co/axUSHIj3uJ

By Eric Kimberling
Speed‑First Vendors Prioritize Revenue Over Project Readiness
SocialApr 2, 2026

Speed‑First Vendors Prioritize Revenue Over Project Readiness

Vendors and integrators push for fast go-lives to get paid, regardless of readiness. They don't face the operational chaos or customer anger that follows. Their incentive is speed and revenue. #ProjectManagement #BusinessStrategy https://t.co/8hm2yvVJin

By Eric Kimberling
Clear Expectations and Roles Drive Project Success
SocialApr 2, 2026

Clear Expectations and Roles Drive Project Success

For project success, set realistic expectations. Understand your assumptions, roles, and responsibilities. Success requires more than just the software vendor; it needs clarity beyond the realm of technology. #ProjectManagement #Expectations https://t.co/RUCCK0U5UH

By Eric Kimberling
Efficient Pick, Pack, Ship Drives Warehouse Success
SocialApr 2, 2026

Efficient Pick, Pack, Ship Drives Warehouse Success

The pick, pack, and ship process in warehouse management involves retrieving items from storage, packing them appropriately for the end customer or shop floor, and then shipping. #WarehouseManagement #Logistics https://t.co/U5rmtMCJ9X

By Eric Kimberling
Tech-Driven Resilience Essential for Modern Supply Chains
SocialApr 2, 2026

Tech-Driven Resilience Essential for Modern Supply Chains

Global supply chains are more vulnerable than ever. Pandemics, port closures, and geopolitical shifts can cause major disruptions. Building a resilient supply chain with technology and process improvements is key for future success. #SupplyChain #Business #Technology https://t.co/poYgE9cjmy

By Eric Kimberling
Pick the Right System: WMS, SCM, or ERP
SocialApr 1, 2026

Pick the Right System: WMS, SCM, or ERP

Automate warehouse processes with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). Choose between best-of-breed WMS, broader supply chain management solutions, or comprehensive ERP systems that cover financials, inventory, CRM, and HR. #WMS #SupplyChain https://t.co/9wuuojXMdF

By Eric Kimberling
Assess Supplier Climate Impact to Meet Sustainability Goals
SocialApr 1, 2026

Assess Supplier Climate Impact to Meet Sustainability Goals

Sustainability is key for many organizations. Evaluating your supply chain's climate impact and emissions is crucial. When selecting suppliers, assess their alignment with your sustainability goals alongside financial and quality indicators. #Sustainability #SupplyChain https://t.co/KUbWiqwhOk

By Eric Kimberling
Resistance to Change Often Masks Inadequate Preparation
SocialApr 1, 2026

Resistance to Change Often Masks Inadequate Preparation

Is 'resistance to change' just an excuse for poor preparation? When training is irrelevant and communication is generic, people struggle. Blaming them isn't the solution. #ChangeManagement #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture https://t.co/NNPCnBf93n

By Eric Kimberling
From Just‑In‑Time to Stockpiling: Supply Chains Adapt
SocialApr 1, 2026

From Just‑In‑Time to Stockpiling: Supply Chains Adapt

Inventory management used to prioritize 'just-in-time' to minimize costs. But recent supply chain disruptions have shifted focus, leading organizations to stockpile inventory like never before. #SupplyChain #InventoryManagement https://t.co/eiJ6ScQUXQ

By Eric Kimberling
Post‑pandemic Supply Chains Must Prioritize Timing and Precision
SocialApr 1, 2026

Post‑pandemic Supply Chains Must Prioritize Timing and Precision

Supply chains face a critical challenge: getting the right products to the right customers at the right time. Post-pandemic, this objective is paramount, demanding a strategic overhaul of management approaches. #SupplyChain #Logistics https://t.co/VPX4Pqi436

By Eric Kimberling
No Change Management = Project Failure and Employee Resistance
SocialMar 31, 2026

No Change Management = Project Failure and Employee Resistance

A complete lack of change management doomed this project. Generic emails and training aren't enough. Without stakeholder engagement and tailored support, employees were unprepared and confused, leading to resistance. #ChangeManagement #ProjectFailure https://t.co/1iL9DIm3O5

By Eric Kimberling
Tech Works, but Delivering Real Business Value Matters
SocialMar 31, 2026

Tech Works, but Delivering Real Business Value Matters

Software vendors often focus only on making the technology work—the easy part. The real challenge? Ensuring it benefits your business, operations, and people to deliver actual value. #BusinessValue #TechImplementation #ProjectSuccess https://t.co/Ie8CUJSLnX

By Eric Kimberling
Robots Streamline Warehouse Pick‑Pack‑Ship Operations
SocialMar 31, 2026

Robots Streamline Warehouse Pick‑Pack‑Ship Operations

Robots are transforming warehouses by automating the retrieval of products. Whether moving items to a conveyor or delivering them directly, this tech streamlines the pick, pack, and ship process. #Robotics #Automation #Warehousing https://t.co/C8rw6DEz9O

By Eric Kimberling
Leverage Supplier Health Data to Preempt Supply Chain Risks
SocialMar 31, 2026

Leverage Supplier Health Data to Preempt Supply Chain Risks

Don't wait for supply chain disruptions. Use non-traditional data like supplier financial health and employee satisfaction as leading indicators. Anticipate risks before they impact you. #SupplyChain #RiskManagement https://t.co/bChJFcu9Ha

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Failures Stem From Ignored People, Not Technology
SocialMar 31, 2026

ERP Failures Stem From Ignored People, Not Technology

Most ERP failures aren't about the tech—they're about the people. Resistance to change often stems from poor explanations, irrelevant training, and ignored concerns, not a refusal to adapt. The real issue? Neglecting the human side of implementation. #ERP #ChangeManagement https://t.co/9wfDQaDpr8

By Eric Kimberling
Tech Obsolescence Accelerates; ERP Futures Remain Uncertain
SocialMar 31, 2026

Tech Obsolescence Accelerates; ERP Futures Remain Uncertain

Technology implemented today is obsolete faster than ever due to AI and rapid development speeds. Predicting the future of ERP and digital transformation in 5-10 years is nearly impossible, even for those working in the field. #TechTrends #FutureOfWork https://t.co/giQSZDdYia

By Eric Kimberling
Simple Change Leadership: Vision, Feedback, Small Wins
SocialMar 30, 2026

Simple Change Leadership: Vision, Feedback, Small Wins

Leading change isn't complex. It requires a clear vision, bidirectional communication for feedback, and celebrating small wins. These steps break down people problems, interrupt FOMO, and allow for intentional problem-solving. #Leadership #ChangeManagement https://t.co/Pjj2Kep9VU

By Eric Kimberling
Plan AI Purposefully Now Before Costs Escalate
SocialMar 30, 2026

Plan AI Purposefully Now Before Costs Escalate

AI adoption is in its early stages with low prices, but expect costs to rise as vendors recoup investments. Focus on a clear, deliberate purpose for AI, just like any other tech initiative, to manage ROI effectively. #AIStrategy #TechInvestment https://t.co/5UTqRAYZoV

By Eric Kimberling
AI‑first Hype Risks Alienating Customers and Gaslighting Users
SocialMar 29, 2026

AI‑first Hype Risks Alienating Customers and Gaslighting Users

Investors are rewarding companies claiming AI-first, pushing execs to adopt it even without full understanding. This can lead to pushing use cases that alienate customers, with AI agents even 'gaslighting' users by mimicking humans. #AI #BusinessStrategy #TechTrends https://t.co/UCBqyXkoFh

By Eric Kimberling
Business‑IT Tension: Misunderstood Yet Vital Internal Dynamic
SocialMar 29, 2026

Business‑IT Tension: Misunderstood Yet Vital Internal Dynamic

Business vs. IT: an internal conflict often misunderstood. While external risks are clear, the tension within organizations between business and tech leaders is a constant, often healthy, dynamic. #TechDebate #BusinessIT https://t.co/gNZJ5RbhKD

By Eric Kimberling
AI Innovation Often Serves Vendor Interests Over Customers
SocialMar 29, 2026

AI Innovation Often Serves Vendor Interests Over Customers

Is AI innovation truly customer-focused, or is it vendor-driven pressure? Vendors aggressively push AI, not always for business value, but to lock customers into ecosystems and gain pricing leverage. #AI #SaaS #VendorPressure https://t.co/3zlZDocRpn

By Eric Kimberling
Anonymous Threat Follows Hertz IT Failure Exposé
SocialMar 29, 2026

Anonymous Threat Follows Hertz IT Failure Exposé

Posted an article about Hertz's IT failure and received a cryptic, anonymous voicemail warning: "Eric, I saw your article about Hertz. I would be careful if I were you." #TechFailures #Cybersecurity https://t.co/H9ugvwOIjq

By Eric Kimberling
New Tech Challenges Monolithic Cloud ERP, Offers ARR Alternatives
SocialMar 29, 2026

New Tech Challenges Monolithic Cloud ERP, Offers ARR Alternatives

Investors love predictable revenue like ARR, seeing it as a cash cow for future profits. But this tech is a big deal for the industry, chipping away at the commercial cloud ERP market. These examples offer alternatives beyond monolithic ERP...

By Eric Kimberling
Build Custom Solutions with Platforms, Not Off‑Shelf Software
SocialMar 28, 2026

Build Custom Solutions with Platforms, Not Off‑Shelf Software

Stop forcing off-the-shelf software into your business. Instead, use a platform to create custom solutions. This lowers barriers to entry and reduces reliance on expensive vendors and integrators. #CustomSoftware #TechSolutions https://t.co/yAHVAqMSwn

By Eric Kimberling
Green Status Doesn’t Guarantee Business Value or Adoption
SocialMar 28, 2026

Green Status Doesn’t Guarantee Business Value or Adoption

Software vendors can mislead you with 'green' project statuses. They focus on technical function, not business value or user adoption. A technically working system might be a failure if people can't use it or it doesn't meet business needs. #ProjectManagement...

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Giants' Dominance Fades as Industry Shifts
SocialMar 28, 2026

ERP Giants' Dominance Fades as Industry Shifts

The glory days are ending for major ERP vendors like SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics. Early warning signs suggest a major industry shift is coming, and their dominance is fading. #ERP #TechIndustry #Business https://t.co/K3EfIfvFAn

By Eric Kimberling
Buy a System, Not Just Software: Clarify Data Foundations
SocialMar 28, 2026

Buy a System, Not Just Software: Clarify Data Foundations

Don't just buy software, buy a system. Clarifying accounts, data, and goals—and deciding on history—is key. Many fail because they aren't prepped for this foundational step. #BusinessSystems #DataStrategy https://t.co/LCGuz4cf31

By Eric Kimberling
Software Selection Rebounds: DIY and Incremental Solutions Rise
SocialMar 27, 2026

Software Selection Rebounds: DIY and Incremental Solutions Rise

Software selection is evolving unexpectedly. Once predicted to disappear, it's now seeing a resurgence. Companies might build their own solutions or opt for incremental approaches over massive ERPs. The future direction remains uncertain. #SoftwareSelection #TechTrends https://t.co/5I0fICrvd1

By Eric Kimberling
People First: Teams Turn Vision Into Magic
SocialMar 27, 2026

People First: Teams Turn Vision Into Magic

The most exciting part? The team. People, product, and processes—in that order. A motivated team, aligned for the right reasons, can achieve wonders. Focus on your people; they'll make the magic happen. #Teamwork #Motivation https://t.co/ylRmqGNHT0

By Eric Kimberling
Don't Force Standard Software; Tailor to Your Unique Business
SocialMar 27, 2026

Don't Force Standard Software; Tailor to Your Unique Business

Stop trying to be 'fit to standard' with software. Embrace what makes your business unique. While accounts payable might be standard, your core operations that delight customers are likely not. Customize wisely. #BusinessStrategy #Software https://t.co/1xKnyhw4qE

By Eric Kimberling