Cloud ERP software for manufacturers is being suggested as something that savvy manufacturers should be embracing and investing in now. Websites and trade magazines have been more than generous with praise for the idea of moving to a cloud-based software and data system.
Rather than simply jumping on the bandwagon, it makes sense to answer some FAQs about cloud ERP first. The following are the questions manufacturers ask most when they are considering making a move to cloud ERP software.
- Who Has Access to my Data?
Manufacturers who handle proprietary or sensitive data often object to the idea of storing their data on shared cloud servers. They may ask, “What happens to my data?” or “Who gets to view the data?” The idea that someone outside their organization may be able to tap into valuable data sends them running back to their site-based software securely contained in the data center at their facility.
Another objection is that if ERP software moves to the cloud, anyone in the organization may have access to company data. There may be concerns that access to companywide data can lead to confidential information about sales to be leaked outside of the company, or other confidential data shared inappropriately.
The reality is that cloud data is stored securely and cannot be shared beyond the approved users. And, for the most part, cloud ERP software offers the ability to control user access so sensitive data can be kept from all but a handful of authorized users.
- Do I Have Payment Options Other than a Monthly Plan?
Another objection to cloud ERP software is the payment structure that many companies use: monthly billing.
However, most offer annual billing at considerable savings to the user.
If you add up the cost of site-based software, including data center management, hardware investment, personnel to run and manage the system, and more, it isn’t exactly a bargain compared to cloud computing. While it may seem like monthly payments are expensive, when you add up the ease with which you can access, store, and use cloud computing, and the money saved compared to investing in the hardware and personnel needed to run and maintain site-based software, it may appear in quite a different light.
- Will My Legacy Software Work with Cloud ERP?
Although we can’t say for sure that your favorite legacy product works with cloud ERP, we can say that there’s nothing stopping you from using both cloud ERP software and your favorite legacy programs. Just know that the two may not integrate easily, or you may need some custom programming to move data from a legacy app into a reporting system that can work with both the ERP and legacy data.
Manufacturers Switch to Cloud ERP
As more companies continue to migrate to cloud ERP software, they’re seeing the benefits. Such benefits to manufacturers include:
- Improved security
- Enhanced backups and data storage
- Easier data access and use
- Cost savings
- Flexibility to add additional components
If you’re still hesitant to make the switch to cloud ERP, speak with some of your colleagues who have already transitioned from site-based to cloud software. As South Carolina’s leading source for accounting and ERP software solutions for businesses of all sizes, ASI is happy to share our observations of how cloud computing has helped many manufacturers remain competitive, save time, and improve efficiency. Our team of experts can meet with you personally or over the phone to discuss your options in detail. Contact us today for your free consultation.