Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a system that integrates all the departments and functions of a company into one cohesive unit.
It allows for the flow of data between all business areas, which helps to improve efficiency and decision-making.
It is implemented in many ways, including on-premise, cloud-based, or hybrid systems.
This blog post will explore the definition of ERP, how to implement it, modules, advantages, disadvantages, best practices, the different types of systems available, and more!
ERP Definition
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is a comprehensive business management solution that enables companies to manage their core business processes in one system. ERP integrates all aspects of a company’s operations into a cohesive system, from accounting and financials to sales and marketing.
This can be a huge advantage for businesses that manage complex operations or multiple locations.
The best way to explain it in layman’s terms is to give you an example.
Imagine you are the owner of a small business. You have a shop and sell clothes. You also have a website where people can buy your clothes online. To run your business, you need to manage two different types of resources: physical resources (e.g., the stock of clothes in your shop) and digital resources (e.g., the website where people can buy your clothes).
Enterprise resource planning systems allow you to manage physical and digital resources using a single system. This is done by integrating different applications into a single system.
For example, it might include an application for managing your shop’s stock, an application for managing your website’s content, an application for managing your human resources (e.g., employees), etc.
A History of ERP
Gartner initially used the term ERP in 1990. However, the business management software and applications used in the manufacturing sector have evolved in recent decades as industry demand varies.
ERP had its roots in the early 1960s when large American corporations began using specialized software to manage their complex businesses. The first generation of enterprise resource planning software was designed for manufacturing companies and focused on streamlining manufacturing resource planning and improving inventory management.
The future
The pace of the digitization of businesses will accelerate. As a result, companies using digital technologies in all aspects of their business will fundamentally change their operation. As a result, companies also demand robust ERP systems.
Global ERP software will surpass the US$77.40bn mark and grow 10.2% between 2019 and 2024.
A Brief History of ERP – since 1960 and the future
Benefits of ERP Systems
Today ERP solutions provide rich features for a business. However, what each firm considers to be the best value of these systems can be varied according to the company’s needs.
Following are many benefits to implementing it in a business,
Streamlined Business Processes
It integrates all core business processes into a single system, which eliminates data silos and allows companies to make connections across different departments. This streamlined workflow results in faster and more efficient operations.
Improved Decision Making
The Enterprise resource planning system provides real-time data analytics so that business owners and managers can make informed decisions based on accurate information.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
It automates routine tasks, saving employees time and focusing on more challenging projects with more significant potential for growth.
Cost Savings
ERP systems are often more affordable than implementing and maintaining individual software applications for each department. In addition, it can help businesses reduce waste and optimize their inventory levels, which leads to increased profits.
Disadvantages of ERP Systems
Despite the great benefits of implementing ERP systems, many business problems exist in the marketplace. Unfortunately, companies could have avoided many by selecting a suitable supplier partner.
Enterprise resource planning systems can often be complex and challenging to implement, especially for large companies that rely on them across multiple departments.
Therefore, it is essential to consider its benefits and potential challenges before deciding whether it suits your business.
Here are some common challenges,
Cost
The cost of ERP software varies depending on the solution you choose (cloud or on-premise) and how many modules you need, and if any customization is required, it can be expensive.
Therefore, you should also consider factors in the implementation costs, which may include training employees or data migration services, etc., into your budget when deciding whether it suits your business.
Timeframe
The solution implementation process can often be lengthy, especially if you integrate it with existing systems or make significant changes to your business.
Therefore, it is essential to set realistic timeframes and goals for implementation and ensure everyone involved knows their expectations so that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Complexity
ERP systems are complex and challenging, especially for employees unfamiliar with them. Therefore, you should provide adequate training and support to help employees make the most of its features and functionality and ensure they understand how it can benefit their role within the organization.
Otherwise, employees may struggle to use it, resulting in employees doing their work manually or using a separate system, etc., defeating the purpose.
Customization
It can be customized to meet your unique requirements, but that generally comes at an additional cost.
Therefore, you should think carefully about what software would need to do to benefit your business and whether or not the company can customize the software accordingly before deciding whether it is right for you.
Scalability
It can be scalable, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be a good fit for your business if it expects to grow soon. Therefore, you should consider its scalability before deciding and ensure it can accommodate your future growth plans.
Features of ERP Systems
Some essential characteristics distinguish an ERP solution from any other software type. This includes,
- The advantage results if an ERP system combines multiple data sets from different databases and is centralized with other applications. A single source of instantaneous data removes manual merging between separate data sources based on their business operations. In addition, a shared database provides a consistent, cross-functional perspective on companies.
- Across department roles, all people use the same User Interface (UI) and have similar user experiences when working with it.
ERP Modules
Integrated ERP includes several different components based upon specific features adapted to the various aspects of the organization, including front-office tasks. This quick overview shows the most common modules.
- Accounting and Finance.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
- Supply chain inventory management.
- Manufacturing.
- Human resources.
- Business intelligence.
- Purchase management
- Sales management
What is New with Enterprise Systems?
With exponential progress in systems’ data storage and computing capacity per Moore’s law, we witness advancements in enterprise software systems.
The following are a few high-impact innovations.
- Artificial intelligence and big data analytics
- Integration with the Internet of Things (IoT)
- Applications over smartphones
- Blockchain integration
- Cloud enterprise resource planning
- SAAS model
Find details of high-impact innovations below.
Artificial intelligence and big data analytics
Artificial intelligence (AI) with machine learning can help make better business choices. It will allow businesses to optimize their all operations, including,
- Business operational processes.
- Software systems.
- Management structures.
- Hardware and technology infrastructure.
Enterprise software systems gather many enterprise data from day-to-day business processes and generate big data.
Extensive data analysis can predict demand and help make future business decisions more efficiently.
Integration with the Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a connected physical object accessible. Automated, machine-to-machine, meaningful communication is established with it.
The following are the advantages of integrating IoT with enterprise software systems,
- It has enhanced data accuracy and availability.
- Accurate and efficient communication.
- Greater business intelligence.
Applications over smartphones
Mobile applications help in accessing the information on the go. They also help in collecting job site information accurately.
The most popular mobile operating systems on which client applications are built are,
- Android.
- iOS.
Blockchain integration
Enterprise systems are adopting blockchain technology. It helps businesses in achieving,
- Enhanced transparency.
- Greater security.
- Increased traceability.
- Improved efficiency.
It helps in achieving greater control over supply chain management.
Cloud ERP
Vendors host their software on the cloud computing system instead of customers’ data centers. It helps in faster upgrading and reduces maintenance efforts.
SAAS model
Software-as-a-service models allow small and medium-scale businesses to use software systems without substantial initial investments. This model does not demand higher installation costs or IT people. Instead, it is pay-as-you-go based on how much you use.
How to Select an ERP System?
ERP software installation can be a daunting process with numerous software options. The best software must meet the requirements and the business needs while providing the necessary support for successful implementation.
The following are key factors to consider when selecting an ERP system:
- The size of the company and its industry
- Company’s business processes and needs
- Implementation timeline and resources available
- Cost of software and implementation services
- Maintenance and upgrade requirements
Once you have identified your needs, you can use the information to decide by comparing systems with similar features and functions.
The following are some of the critical factors that will help you select ERP software for your business:
- Product Functionality
- Customization and Integration Capabilities
- Vendor Support Services (implementation, training, maintenance)
- Cost of the System and Implementation Services.
It can be expensive and requires careful selection to ensure that it will meet your business needs now and in the future. When selecting software, consider all costs, such as software licenses, implementation services, hardware and software, upgrades, training, and support.
Enterprise Resource Planning Software Deployment Options
Enterprise Resource Plan systems vary in scope depending on the size and functions of a company.
Three main types of application deployment models are,
- Deploying on company premises is the traditional on-premises installation, where software and hardware are installed at a customer’s site. The company controls these resources and manages updates, security, and other maintenance.
- Hosting – this model involves the provider hosting the application in their data center(s) and delivering it to users via a web browser. Customers have no hardware to procure or software to install but depend on their internet connection for access.
- Deploying in the cloud is a SaaS model where applications are installed at the vendor’s data center and delivered via a web browser or other thin client. Customers have minimal control over infrastructure, upgrades, and security issues; they use the software.
- Hybrid (some on the cloud or others offline) – companies increasingly use a hybrid approach to deploying software. Some system modules may be deployed in the cloud while others remain on-premises.
Depending on the solution, the system may support different parts of a business, meet business needs, or have other deployment methods.
ERP Integration
The current ERP system provides many business functions. It needs connectivity and integration with other applications and data sources, including CRM/CRO and HCM software, e-commerce platforms, industry-specific products, and ERP software.
The modern ERP System provides openness and flexibility and can easily integrate with various product suites using connectors or custom adaptors like the application programming interface or API.
Ten Things to Look for in an ERP System
A sound ERP software system may have several functions mainly determined by the industry and module they offer.
Ten basic and essential characteristics are the following:
1. Comprehensive Functionality – The best packages have a comprehensive range of essential functions. These include inventory management, warehousing, distribution, and accounting (purchasing, sales, and financial) modules. Make sure the solution you choose has all of these functions.
2. Scalability – A sound system must grow with your business. Therefore, it should be able to accommodate increasing numbers of users and transactions as your business grows.
3. Customizability – The system must be customizable to meet the specific needs of your business. The best systems offer a high degree of flexibility to configure them to work how you want them.
4. User-Friendliness – The solution must be easy to learn, use and maintain. A single database should contain all the information you need to run your business. In addition, the system should offer a single-user interface for viewing inventory levels or processing sales transactions.
5. Robust Reporting and Analytics – Reporting and analytics capabilities should be a standard feature of any product. The system must provide the ability to track and analyze your business’s vital information, including financial reporting.
6. Seamless Integration with Other Applications and Systems – They must integrate seamlessly with other important applications and systems of your business. This includes both back-office and front-office systems.
7. Support for Multiple Operating Systems and Databases – They must run on multiple operating systems and support multiple databases. This allows you to choose the best operating system and database for your business.
8. Cost-Effectiveness – They can be costly, especially if you purchase a customized package. You should choose a system that offers your needed features at a cost within your budget.
9. World-Class Customer Service and Technical Support – They are complex and challenging. Therefore, you must rely on the vendor for world-class customer service and technical support.
10. Timely Updates and Upgrades – They are complex and ever-changing. The vendor must provide timely updates and upgrades to ensure that your ERP system continues to meet your needs.
ERP Buyer Types
ERP vendor selection and deployment type depend on the needs of a buyer. Here are the common types of buyers.
- Small businesses – Small businesses are an important market for enterprise software systems. They must manage their finances, operations, and human resources effectively to grow.
- Medium-sized businesses – Medium-sized businesses need software to manage their more extensive and complex operations. In addition, they need a system that can scale and integrate with other business systems.
- Large enterprises – Large enterprises have the most complex operations and need software to manage their resources effectively. They also require a system that can be customized to meet their specific needs.
- Government organizations – Government organizations need enterprise software to support their specific needs. In addition, they require a system that is secure, scalable, and compliant with regulations.
- Non-profit organizations – Non-profit organizations need software to manage their donations, volunteers, and finances. They also require a system that is easy to use and can be accessed by all employees.
- Educational institutions need software to manage students, faculty, and finances.
- Healthcare institutions need software to manage patients, staff, and finances.
- Retail businesses need software to manage inventory, sales, and employees.
- Manufacturing companies need software to manage production, inventory, and finances.
- Technology companies need software to manage employees, projects, and finances.
ERP Best Practices
Enterprise resource planning systems usually follow established best practices. The software vendor has designed processes based on the experiences that have worked for hundreds of thousands of clients. The approach is often flexible for the software provider to adapt strategies. Following industry standards has significant economic benefits as a result.
Companies find it easier to modernize and improve processes and thus increase productivity. Therefore, firms must follow best practices to meet financial standards.
Following are the 11 best practices:
- Identify your requirements
- Design the project management team with a clear vision and strong leadership.
- Define key business processes that need to be delivered.
- Involve customers in the decision-making process. It is crucial to get end-user feedback to know what is happening and be more willing to use the software in the future.
- Understand the change management process because ERP implementation is a significant change for your company, and you will be forced to change your organization and use new technology.
- Ensure all costs are part of the total cost of ownership (TCO) – hardware, software, implementation, training, and support.
- Select the right partner with a strong track record in your industry
- Leverage the Partner’s Implementation Methodology (PIM) to shorten your project timeline
- Use pre-configured modules whenever possible to speed up deployment and get up and running quickly
- Train end users thoroughly and ensure that support is available when needed
- Perform a post-implementation review to identify areas for improvement.
When you implement it, you will go through a specific life cycle. This life cycle will help ensure that your implementation is successful. Here is a look at the different phases of the ERP Implementation Life Cycle.
ERP Vendors
List of ERP – 31 Best ERP Vendors of 2023 (Unbiased Ranking)
Cost of ERP
The cost of the system can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the business.
The cost of implementation and customization can also be high, so it’s essential to factor these expenses into the overall cost of the system.
Cost of ERP (How Much Does it Cost and What Influence it)
Conclusion
Enterprise Resource Planning solutions track and integrate all aspects of a company’s business, from accounting and inventory management to human resources and customer relations.
As a result, these systems are critical tools for businesses of all sizes, and companies can use them to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and boost profits.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive overview of Enterprise Resource Planning systems or want to learn about their benefits to businesses, keep reading.
We have discussed everything you need to know about it in this post.
[ ERP filetype PPT presentation file ]
