ERP was introduced somewhere in the 1960s under the name MRP. Since then it has undergone a complete digital transformation and has emerged as an advanced system capable of managing a vast business efficiently. It is now considered a global business management software. ERP is implemented by multiple businesses such as pharmaceutical, food and beverage, automobile, chemical industry etc. The main intention of deploying this flexible solution is to achieve business efficiency and growth.
What is ERP Software?
Enterprise resource planning software is a robust business management solution implemented by the business to manage the daily activity of the business. For any business to stay competitive, automation is the key. ERP provides advanced functionalities to manage various operations such as inventory, accounting, finance and production.
ERP integration into the business processes will automate all repetitive tasks, reduce human errors and save time. In addition, it can gather useful insights from multiple departments to help with the decision-making process.
How Does an ERP System Work?
ERP is deployed to business operations with the intention to reduce the wastage of resources. It automates all tasks, so it will be easy to identify where the resources are wasted. Further, it helps to rightly allocate resources and helps to increase the profitability of the business. Another aspect of this advanced software is that it collects data from all the departments and stores it in centralized data where all the authorized users can access data.
Collaboration and effective communication are significant for the smooth functioning of the business. ERP streamlines all business operations, so the communication between the departments is clear and transparent. Plus, the system collects data and stores it in a single database that users of any department can access.
Benefits of ERP for Business Operations
As we know about ERP and its purpose for the business. Let’s learn in detail about its multiple benefits for the business operations.
- Robust Data Security
In today’s scenario, data is power and businesses know about its great value. Data is crucial for the business to make significant decisions. And ERP has the capability to safeguard this valuable asset. In the ERP, all data is stored in a centralized space with multiple levels of security. This increases the level of security.
In a cloud system, data is distributed across multiple remote servers to establish redundancies and it has the capability to protect against a single point of failure, thus adding another layer of security.
In another instance, an ERP can determine who can view and edit the data. And the system also provides permits and easy-to-control features where the employer can limit access.
- Minimizes Costs
ERP implementation is very expensive. However, in the long run, this advanced system can yield maximum productivity and profits. So, the right usage will help in saving a lot of money. Redundant tasks like report drafting, invoice allocation, employee payroll etc are all automated and streamlined so that the employees can focus on other high-priority tasks.
ERP automates all the business processes, so it will be easy to allocate the correct amount of resources which will be helpful in reducing costs.
- Single and Centralized Database
Earlier, all the information was spread in different doc files and spreadsheets. So, it was difficult to track down the data that was necessary. With ERP, this issue can be easily solved. All the data of various departments are stored in a single system. And only authorized users from any department can access the data anytime and from any device.
All the data stored is standardized by the ERP. Data tied to this single system will be in the same format and hence will not cause any issues when running it for reports and analytics. Standardizing information helps decision-making based on insightful data and it will save a lot of time and money for the business.
- Real-Time Visibility of Data
Businesses need the two most important things to achieve efficiency – transparency and reliable data. With ERP any data from any department can be traced in real-time by any user or the senior management.
For example, the business can easily monitor inventory levels and can get real-time updates regarding the status of stocks, future consignments that are yet to be received and the inventory that is in transit. So with accurate inventory data, working capital can be controlled more precisely.
As learned earlier, all the critical information is available in the centralized system which helps in the collaboration of departments. So this visibility helps in streamlined workflow and allows inter-departmental operations to track with more efficiency.
- Boosts Reporting and Planning
Another significant advantage of the ERP is providing better insights. Implementing this software helps your organization to stay unified and it means that you have a single centralized reporting system for every business operation. It has the capability to generate valuable reports and analytics anytime.
In a business, one of the most common and valuable reports are related to finance. For example, standard financial reports give details on income and cash flow statements. These kinds of reports are normally built-in and don’t need the intervention of the IT team.
With the modern ERP, many vendors provide BI functionalities too. So, together it can help in providing deeper analytical insight into the operations. Hence, all these reports aid in strategic planning and help in improving areas that need to be rectified.
- Better Customer Service
Customer data is easily available in the ERP’s centralized database. The sales team can access it anytime to improve customer interaction as customer acquisition and retention is crucial for the business. It will be simpler to provide them with a personalized experience based on historical data.
ERP can also integrate with e-commerce platforms which will help in handling web-based order processing and client interactions.
Conclusion
ERP solution is a revolutionizing technology for the business to stay relevant, recent and to gain a competitive advantage. It is the future for the business to achieve efficiency and growth. It has multiple benefits that can help the business to grow at a faster pace. Businesses have to smartly use this technology if they want to succeed in this crowded and competitive landscape.
● Author Bio:- Sneha Rakte is a specialist in communication who excels at recognizing client requirements. She produces persuasive sales copy and high-converting content. She currently works with Sage Software Solutions, an industry leader in supplying small and medium-sized enterprises in India with high-quality ERP software and CRM solutions.