The need for a company to compete globally is ever increasing, with this the demand for accurate accessible data is on the rise. Businesses are now relying on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems more than ever to enable them to have the ability to access their company’s data effortlessly; this is now a software application that has become priceless to many small, medium and global organizations around the world. ERP software allows users to manage large quantities of data on the internet, providing access to files around the globe, regardless of user’s destinations.
The need for ERP systems in different industries has grown over the past decade with more and more industries now defendant of the software, the software is now used as a single and multi-department tool in online sales, accounting, customer relations and manufacturing. The software is only as good as the user using it, but a good system is not just great for a business; it can be great for their customers also. Take a look at the benefits of using Enterprise Resource Planning software correctly:
1)Promotions
A great way to attract your audience to your product or website is to undertake some promotional activity. Not many business utilise the promotional aspects of ERP’s as they feel that it is more suited to important tasks such as inventory managements and payroll, however the use of an ERP system can be beneficial to many departments such sales/marketing department. The system holds all your customers data enabling you to manage loyal customers and potential customers promotions easily. The software provides you with a platform to guarantee you remind your customers that you exist and you have goods they desire/need. Whether you use direct mailing or email marketing, you can have the customer information readily available to let them know about any future promotions or press releases.
2) Data Organization
The failure to organize data can cause someone a major headache if you staff are reliant on that unorganized data, it can distract users from their current work as they have to spend time smoothing out that bumpy data. Unlike traditional methods of data management ERP allows users to have all of your businesses invoices or tax information in one place, making it easy for multiple users to check, manipulate and cross reference vital information and data. All businesses are reliant on their accountants or accountancy departments to keep all the books in order and have all your invoices stored correctly at your fingertips to make the hassles of invoicing disappear.
3) Payroll
An essential and vital role of a business, usually undertaken by the HR or in smaller businesses he accountants department. Having an effective Enterprise Resource Planning system in place enables your responsible department to streamline with the different documentation that they work with every day, making payroll and other HR related tasks easier and stress free. ERP systems can also help with any 401k options, benefits and diversity within your business.
4) Supply Chain
Keeping track of customer orders is vital, especially when you are operating online, nationally or internationally. The supply chains in many businesses are complicated and without daily organization they can become inefficient and unmanageable, leading to lost business and unsatisfied customers. Knowing when a special order needs to be sent or when goods need to re-ordered are just a few essential activities that need to be managed to keep your business running smoothly. If you don’t know when you’re receiving your deliveries, how much stock costs or you are failing to send out shipments you don’t have an affective system in place. Multidepartment ERP systems need to be effectively used and managed to ensure your supply chain is running efficiently, having someone who is competent with the system is highly advisable.
5) Inventory
You may find that not many employees like to do inventory, but it’s a necessary requirement for many business. If the process is not carried out correctly your business can suffer dramatically, knowing what you have in your store/warehouse and what you need will keep you and your employees happy. The ERP’s system can provide your business with reports if you require data of specific products or if you need to order new stock, this can cut down on the time it takes to gather inventory information by hand.
6) Accuracy
The need for accurate information in accounts management and inventory management is essential, without accurate data your business will be left to estimate inventory or invoices, potentially leaving your business to suffer. The ERP software gives businesses the potential to project sales and data aids when you are looking to expand your business or look into your products or services. If you have different departments dealing with money, an ERP system can combine all of the departments so everybody is on the same page.