• Input masks act like cookie cutters for your data, forcing all information to fit a specific mould. For example, an input mask can require a 10-digit phone number every time, eliminating dashes, spaces, or extra digits. This ensures consistent data entry and reduces errors. 

• Input masks can be customised to meet specific business needs. They can enforce date formats that align with accounting software, require uppercase letters for product codes, and more. Businesses have complete control over how data is entered, ensuring consistency across the board. 

• Setting up input masks is surprisingly simple, especially in user-friendly systems like Acumatica. It doesn’t require coding expertise; understanding the basic principles and configuring them to meet your needs is sufficient. The process is more akin to assembling LEGOs than writing complex code. 

Benefits of Using Input Masks 

• Input masks offer numerous benefits, including fewer errors, improved data quality, and a smoother flow of information. They act as a data bouncer, allowing only properly formatted information into the system. This results in more accurate inventory reports, smoother warehouse operations, and a reduction in order fulfilment errors. 

• Input masks are a targeted solution that can make a real difference without a complicated, expensive system overhaul. They can be used in various scenarios, from customer onboarding processes to financial reporting, streamlining operations across the business. 

• Using input masks fosters a culture of data quality. By understanding the purpose of input masks and how they benefit the organisation, users are more likely to embrace the changes. This leads to a shift in mindset, where data is seen as an asset rather than a liability. 

The podcast highlights a case study where a manufacturing company struggled with inconsistent product codes, causing chaos in their inventory management system. Implementing input masks that enforced uppercase letters for all product codes eliminated inconsistencies, resulting in accurate inventory reports, smoother warehouse operations, and fewer order fulfilment errors. This example demonstrates the significant impact a small change can have. 

The sources recommend starting small when implementing input masks, focusing on areas where errors are most common or consistency is critical. Clear communication and user training are essential to ensure a smooth transition and user buy-in. 

For businesses seeking to improve data quality and unlock the power of their data, the podcast recommends Tayana Solutions, an Acumatica Cloud ERP partner. With expertise in data validation rules, custom field creation, and input masks, Tayana Solutions helps businesses transform their data from a source of frustration into a driver of success. You can contact Tayana Solutions via their website or phone number provided in the podcast.