For decades, on-premise enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems have been the go-to program for many businesses. Like any other piece of technology, however, ERP also evolves. Today, the introduction of cloud technology is changing the game.
Cloud-based ERP is a subscription-based system that companies can access online. This means that business operations such as managing inventory, settling accounts, and conducting customer service are mostly accomplished online.
While the right ERP software can vary greatly from one industry to another, ERP on cloud has many significant advantages which could prove crucial in the highly competitive market. Read on to learn what these advantages are and determine whether a cloud-based system is the most suitable for your company’s needs.
In this digital age, data is king. Information is created, collected, and shared all the time, and companies need the latest data to make the right call when making business decisions.
Through the internet, cloud-based ERP allows you and other authorized personnel to access real-time information and analytics gathered from multiple sources. They can include website clicks, social media interaction, and purchases, among other things. In this manner, company management can make data-driven decisions rather than rely on inklings alone and take the course that would be most profitable for the business.
An ERP system is a considerably large investment. On-site ERP systems often require a large upfront payment for the software, but expenses are not limited to those. The company also needs to invest in hardware and IT personnel to ensure that the system works properly.
Cloud ERP, on the other hand, is accessible with the devices the company currently has. As long as the devices can connect to the internet, company personnel should have no trouble getting into the system. Moreover, the responsibility of maintaining the system falls to the vendor, which relieves you of the need to hire a full IT team.
Like ERP systems, business models have also expanded. Today, it is not uncommon to outsource certain jobs or have employees work from home for a more flexible working environment. Having ERP on the cloud makes this set-up easier to maintain since personnel will be able to access the system and accomplish their tasks wherever and whenever, as long as they have an online connection.
Additionally, this model is advantageous in case of emergencies or accidents. For example, in case of a typhoon, employees can opt to work from home instead of braving the heavy rains and floods to go to the office.
As mentioned earlier, installing an on-site ERP system requires a large amount of capital. Because of this, ERP implementation has been mostly limited to big companies who can afford the software and hardware, as well as a team to manage the system. Cloud-based ERP lifts this limitation.
ERP vendors often offer cloud-based systems in tiers, which allows you to choose which features to get depending on your budget. As such, even small and medium-sized businesses have the opportunity to afford these high-performing programs and streamline company operations.
Moreover, as the business grows, companies have the option to upscale their system plan and acquire more features, which will address growing pains.
Security is one of the most pressing concerns for business owners considering cloud systems. Since the server is in the vendor’s care and located outside office premises, many business owners feel worried and uneasy.
There’s nothing to worry though because system developers take security seriously as well. Many cloud ERP systems have high-level protection measures in place that will ensure your company data remains safe. Additionally, having the server in another place will benefit the company significantly in case a fire or any other natural calamity hits the office.
All things considered, bear in mind that these advantages only apply when you deal with legitimate systems providers. A proper ERP vendor will also guide you through the implementation process and assist you in determining which system fits your company’s needs best.
Look no further because ANSI has your back. If you are on the fence on which system or ERP features to get, ANSI can help you make the right call. After all, implementing an ERP system is a highly significant and complex project. Having a knowledgeable, guiding hand will make the process go more smoothly.
For more information, contact ANSI today.