On the Driven by DCKAP Podcast, Hunt shares practical lessons on scaling profitably, using third-party applications, and balancing technology with customer relationships.
Austin, TX — On a new episode of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Carolyn Hunt, an independent consultant specializing in Epicor Prophet 21, draws from more than 25 years of ERP experience to share actionable lessons for distributors. Hunt joins host Karthik Chidambaram, CEO of DCKAP, to discuss strategies for leveraging ERP systems, why integrations matter, and how to balance automation with the human side of business.
Key Highlights
- Scale Profitably: Use ERP and process improvements to grow without adding unnecessary headcount.
- Make Integrations Work for You: Third-party applications often deliver better value than over-customizing ERP.
- Keep Technology Human: AI and automation have potential, but relationships remain central to distribution.
Scale Profitably Without Adding Headcount
For Hunt, the real power of ERP is in helping companies grow smarter, not just bigger. She encourages leaders to use system improvements to avoid the trap of over-hiring.
“My goal is always to help distributors grow their business without adding staff, until the business has grown so much that you just have to add another person,” Hunt said. “If you can solve problems with processes and systems first, you protect your profitability.”
Make Integrations Work for You
Hunt cautions distributors against trying to make their ERP do everything through heavy customization. Instead, she recommends using third-party applications and integrations strategically to fill gaps and add value.
“I don’t think there’s any computer system out there that’s going to do every single thing every customer wants,” Hunt said. “The cost of adding on a third-party package is a whole lot less than trying to find that perfect answer.”
Her advice: don’t over-customize your ERP. Use integrations where they make sense, so you can scale more flexibly and cost-effectively.
Keep Technology Human
While Hunt is optimistic about AI’s potential, she believes distributors must stay grounded in customer relationships.
“There’s a phenomenal opportunity with AI, so hopefully we’ll use it for all the right things,” Hunt said. “I just hope we don’t lose the humanity. The companies that prosper will be the ones that leverage AI but also keep the human touch.”
Practical Lessons for Today’s Distribution Leaders
Hunt’s lessons highlight how distribution leaders can get more from their ERP investments: scale profitably, integrate wisely, and never lose sight of the customer. Her guidance offers a practical roadmap for leaders navigating technology change while staying true to the service values that define the industry.
More Information
- For more details, visit the Driven Podcast portal or tune in on YouTube or Spotify.
- For information about ERP integration, check out the DCKAP Distributor Blog.
- Subscribe to the Driven by DCKAP Podcast.
About the Driven Podcast
The Driven by DCKAP Podcast is an audio and video show that explores leaders’ stories, digital journeys, and insights on trends in B2B and distribution. The podcast is hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, Founder & CEO of DCKAP, who grew the company from a startup to a global team of more than 200 employees. DCKAP earns several trust badges by G2.com, including category “Leader”, “High Performer Americas” and “Users Most Likely to Recommend.”
About DCKAP
DCKAP is a leader in digital solutions that help distributors’ systems talk to each other. Its technology simplifies software integrations, e-commerce, and product information management for B2B companies. DCKAP’s flagship product, DCKAP Integrator, helps distributors and manufacturers automate data between ERP, e-commerce, and CRM systems. Founded in 2005, DCKAP is a global and distributed team headquartered in Austin, TX. Visit dckap.com or follow on LinkedIn.
