Why Infor CPQ is the Key to Unlocking Seamless Sales Configurations
Complex sales configurations in industries like manufacturing, distribution, and high-tech often lead to inefficiencies, errors, and prolonged sales cycles. Manual processes, disparate systems, and intricate product dependencies create bottlenecks that frustrate customers and erode margins. Infor CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote), a cloud-native solution within Infor’s CloudSuite ecosystem, addresses these challenges by delivering advanced configuration logic, real-time pricing, and automated workflows. With its robust architecture and seamless integrations, Infor CPQ empowers businesses to streamline sales processes, reduce errors, and enhance customer experiences. Sama Consulting Inc., with over a decade of expertise in Infor CPQ deployments, ensures businesses maximize this platform’s potential through tailored implementations and ongoing support.
This article dives deep into Infor CPQ’s technical capabilities, quantifiable benefits, industry-specific applications, and implementation best practices. By leveraging industry data and real-world use cases, we’ll demonstrate how Infor CPQ transforms sales operations and why partnering with Sama Consulting delivers measurable value to IT professionals, sales leaders, and decision-makers.
What is Infor CPQ?
Infor CPQ is a cloud-based Configure, Price, Quote solution designed to automate and optimize the sales configuration process for industries with complex product offerings. CPQ software addresses three core functions:
- Configuration: Enables rule-based product customization, ensuring valid configurations through logical constraints.
- Pricing: Dynamically calculates prices based on product options, discounts, and market variables, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Quoting: Automates the generation of professional quotes, including bills of materials (BOMs) and visual representations.
Built on Infor OS, a cloud-native platform hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Infor CPQ leverages a microservices architecture for scalability, high availability, and robust security. It integrates natively with Infor CloudSuite products (e.g., Infor LN, Infor CRM) and supports third-party systems via Infor ION’s RESTful APIs. According to a 2023 Gartner report, 70% of manufacturing firms using CPQ solutions achieved a 20% reduction in sales cycle times, with Infor CPQ standing out for its deep integration capabilities and industry-specific configurators.
For example, a heavy machinery manufacturer can use Infor CPQ to manage thousands of SKUs, ensuring that configurations align with engineering rules and customer specifications. The platform’s API-driven extensibility and cloud-based deployment make it ideal for global enterprises requiring real-time data synchronization across regions. By automating manual processes, Infor CPQ minimizes errors and accelerates quote-to-cash cycles, delivering immediate value to sales and IT teams.
Looking to unlock seamless sales configurations with Infor CPQ?
At Sama Consulting, we help businesses like yours harness the full power of Infor CPQ — from rule-based configuration and real-time pricing to guided selling and visual configurators — to streamline quotes, reduce errors, and drive efficiency.
Key Features of Infor CPQ
Infor CPQ’s feature set combines technical sophistication with user-centric design, enabling businesses to handle complex configurations efficiently. Below, we explore its core capabilities and their technical underpinnings.
Composable Configuration Engine
Infor CPQ’s rule-based configuration engine, built on Infor OS, supports complex product hierarchies with thousands of SKUs and dependencies. The engine uses a declarative modeling approach, allowing administrators to define configuration rules via a low-code interface. For instance, a medical device manufacturer can configure rules to ensure that only FDA-compliant components are selected, with the system automatically generating BOMs and routing instructions for production. The engine’s in-memory processing ensures sub-second response times, even for configurations with over 10,000 variables.
Guided Selling and AI-Driven Recommendations
The guided selling module leverages AI to streamline the configuration process. Using machine learning models trained on historical sales data, Infor CPQ suggests optimal product options based on customer preferences or market trends. For example, a sales rep configuring a custom HVAC system can rely on real-time recommendations to upsell compatible accessories, increasing deal sizes by up to 15%. The interface supports dynamic validation, preventing invalid configurations and reducing errors by 40%, as seen in a case study of a packaging equipment manufacturer.
3D Visualization and AR Integration
Infor CPQ’s visual configuration tools include 2D/3D rendering and augmented reality (AR) capabilities, powered by Infor’s Visual Configurator. Customers can interact with real-time product models, visualizing customizations like material finishes or component layouts. For instance, a furniture manufacturer can display a 3D model of a custom table, allowing clients to adjust dimensions and view changes instantly. A 2025 Infor whitepaper reported that 83% of B2B buyers consider visual tools critical to purchase decisions, with AR-enabled configurations boosting conversion rates by 25%.
Infor ION for Seamless Integrations
Infor CPQ integrates with Infor CloudSuite and third-party systems via Infor ION, a middleware layer supporting REST APIs and event-driven messaging. ION’s lightweight architecture ensures low-latency data exchange, with a typical latency of under 100ms for ERP integrations. For example, integration with Infor LN enables real-time inventory checks, ensuring accurate pricing and availability during quoting. Pre-built connectors for Salesforce, SAP, and Oracle NetSuite reduce integration time by 30%, as demonstrated in a global distributor’s deployment.
Scalability and Security
Hosted on AWS, Infor CPQ leverages auto-scaling infrastructure to handle peak loads, supporting thousands of concurrent users without performance degradation. Its multi-tenant architecture ensures cost efficiency, while role-based access controls (RBAC) and AES-256 encryption safeguard sensitive data. SOC 2 compliance and GDPR adherence make it suitable for regulated industries like aerospace.
Use Case: Streamlining Complex Configurations
A global pump manufacturer implemented Infor CPQ to manage 50,000+ SKUs across 20 product lines. By automating configuration rules and integrating with Infor LN, the company reduced configuration errors by 45% and cut quoting time from 3 days to 15 minutes, resulting in a 20% increase in sales throughput.
These features position Infor CPQ as a technically robust solution for businesses seeking precision, scalability, and seamless integrations in their sales processes.
Benefits of Infor CPQ for Seamless Sales Configurations
Infor CPQ delivers quantifiable benefits that address critical pain points in sales operations, providing value to both technical and business stakeholders. Below are its key advantages, supported by data and real-world outcomes.
Error Reduction Through Automation
Manual configuration processes often lead to errors, especially for products with complex dependencies. Infor CPQ’s rule-based engine enforces constraints, ensuring 100% valid configurations. A 2024 Forrester study found that CPQ solutions improved quote accuracy by 30%, with Infor CPQ deployments achieving error reductions of up to 50% in industries like manufacturing.
Accelerated Quote-to-Cash Cycles
By automating configuration, pricing, and quoting, Infor CPQ reduces sales cycle times significantly. For example, Riverhead Building Supply, an Infor CPQ user, cut its quoting process from 2 weeks to 10 minutes, boosting sales by 25%. Real-time pricing updates and automated approval workflows further streamline the quote-to-cash process, enabling faster deal closures.
Enhanced Customer Experience
Infor CPQ’s visual configurator and guided selling create a transparent, interactive buying experience. Customers can explore product options and receive accurate quotes instantly, increasing trust and engagement. A high-tech firm reported a 15% increase in customer retention after adopting Infor CPQ’s 3D visualization tools, as clients valued the ability to preview custom configurations.
Increased Sales Efficiency
Infor CPQ eliminates manual tasks like pricing lookups and BOM creation, allowing sales teams to focus on strategic activities. Integration with CRM and ERP systems provides a single source of truth, reducing administrative overhead by up to 50%. This efficiency translates to 20% more time for selling, as reported by industry estimates.
Data-Driven Insights
Integration with Infor Birst enables predictive analytics for pricing optimization and demand forecasting. For example, a distributor used Birst to identify cross-sell opportunities, increasing average deal sizes by 18%. These insights empower sales leaders to make informed decisions, driving profitability and growth.
These benefits collectively transform sales operations, delivering measurable ROI and positioning businesses for long-term success.
Looking to unlock seamless sales configurations with Infor CPQ?
At Sama Consulting, we help businesses like yours harness the full power of Infor CPQ — from rule-based configuration and real-time pricing to guided selling and visual configurators — to streamline quotes, reduce errors, and drive efficiency.
Industry Applications
Infor CPQ addresses industry-specific challenges, delivering tailored solutions for complex sales environments. Below, we explore its applications across key sectors.
Manufacturing
Manufacturers face challenges like complex BOMs and custom orders. Infor CPQ automates BOM generation and integrates with Infor LN to sync production data, reducing lead times by up to 60%. A specialty vehicle manufacturer used Infor CPQ to streamline configurations, cutting quoting errors by 40% and improving on-time delivery rates.
Distribution
Distributors managing high SKU volumes benefit from Infor CPQ’s dynamic pricing and omnichannel support. The system ensures consistent pricing across direct sales, partner portals, and e-commerce platforms. A 2025 IDC report noted that 80% of distributors adopting CPQ solutions saw a 15% increase in order accuracy.
Aerospace and Defense
In aerospace, compliance with standards like AS9100 is critical. Infor CPQ’s rule-based engine enforces regulatory constraints, while its visual configurator simplifies complex assemblies. For example, an aerospace supplier used Infor CPQ to reduce compliance-related errors by 35%, accelerating quote approvals.
High-Tech
High-tech firms with subscription-based or bundled offerings leverage Infor CPQ’s flexible pricing models and analytics. Integration with Infor Birst enables predictive upselling, while API extensibility supports rapid scaling. A software provider reported a 20% increase in subscription revenue after implementing Infor CPQ.
For industry-specific solutions, Sama’s Infor CPQ Consultants provide customized implementations that maximize value and align with business goals.
Integration and Customization Capabilities
Infor CPQ’s integration and customization capabilities ensure it adapts to diverse business ecosystems and requirements. Below, we detail its technical strengths.
Seamless Integrations via Infor ION
Infor ION’s REST APIs and event-driven architecture enable real-time data synchronization with Infor CloudSuite (e.g., Infor LN, Infor CRM) and third-party systems like Salesforce, SAP S/4HANA, and Oracle NetSuite. For example, a manufacturer integrated Infor CPQ with SAP to sync pricing data, reducing discrepancies by 30%. ION’s message queues handle high-volume transactions, supporting up to 10,000 quotes daily with 99.9% uptime.
Customization for Unique Workflows
Infor CPQ’s low-code platform allows businesses to tailor configuration rules, pricing logic, and UI elements. For instance, a high-tech firm customized Infor CPQ to support multi-tiered pricing for SaaS products, aligning with regional tax requirements. The system’s extensibility supports custom scripts in JavaScript or Python for advanced logic, reducing development time by 40%.
AI and Automation
Integration with Infor Birst provides AI-driven analytics for dynamic pricing and forecasting. Machine learning models analyze historical data to optimize pricing strategies, increasing margins by up to 10%. Automated workflows, such as quote approvals and document generation, reduce processing times by 95%, as seen in a distributor’s deployment.
Sama Consulting Inc. leverages its expertise in Infor ION and custom development to deliver integrations that streamline operations and drive efficiency.
Looking to unlock seamless sales configurations with Infor CPQ?
At Sama Consulting, we help businesses like yours harness the full power of Infor CPQ — from rule-based configuration and real-time pricing to guided selling and visual configurators — to streamline quotes, reduce errors, and drive efficiency.
Implementation and Optimization Best Practices
Successful Infor CPQ deployment requires a structured approach to ensure alignment with business objectives. Below are best practices, informed by Sama’s expertise.
Discovery and Requirements Gathering
Conduct a comprehensive discovery phase to map product catalogs, pricing models, and integration needs. Use tools like Infor’s Process Intelligence to identify bottlenecks. For example, a manufacturer prioritized BOM automation, reducing production delays by 25%.
Configuration and Data Migration
Leverage Infor CPQ’s low-code tools to configure rules and workflows. Ensure data quality by cleansing legacy data before migration, using ETL tools like Infor Data Lake. Rigorous testing of integrations with ERP and CRM systems prevents downstream issues.
Training and Change Management
Provide role-based training for sales, IT, and finance teams, focusing on Infor CPQ’s visual configurator and analytics. Digital adoption platforms reduce training time by 30%. Sama’s change management strategies ensure user adoption rates exceed 90%.
Continuous Optimization
Use Infor Birst to monitor KPIs like quote turnaround time and error rates. Regular updates, supported by Sama’s Infor CPQ Consultants, ensure the system evolves with business needs, delivering sustained value.
Conclusion
Infor CPQ is a powerful solution for businesses seeking seamless sales configurations, offering advanced configuration logic, real-time pricing, and robust integrations. Its cloud-native architecture, AI-driven analytics, and visual tools reduce errors, accelerate sales cycles, and enhance customer experiences. Partnering with Sama Consulting Inc. ensures a successful deployment, leveraging our expertise to deliver measurable ROI. Contact Sama today to unlock the full potential of Infor CPQ and drive operational excellence.
Looking to unlock seamless sales configurations with Infor CPQ?
At Sama Consulting, we help businesses like yours harness the full power of Infor CPQ — from rule-based configuration and real-time pricing to guided selling and visual configurators — to streamline quotes, reduce errors, and drive efficiency.
