In the old days, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems were only available to the biggest organizations in the most lucrative industries. However over time ERP technology has evolved into a much more dynamic offering; available to small, mid-sized and large businesses alike. With affordable and scalable solutions that can be enhanced as a business changes and grows – many find that ERP software like Sage 100 ERP (formerly known as Sage ERP MAS 90 / Sage ERP MAS 200) is a crucial piece of the puzzle of success. With improved efficiencies, streamlined productivity, and access to better data and reporting – the right business software can greatly increase the odds of long-term stability, no matter how the economy fluctuates.
However, as we all know – the business landscape is continuously changing and becoming more competitive. As this happens, the technology platforms used to support modern-day companies must be able to not only keep pace with demand – but revolutionize and improve the business processes of old. Business dynamics are changing as operations models evolve. What was once based on long-term planning is now focused on globalization and product customization. Additionally, many companies are shifting from a ‘single-sale’ focus to a much more long term relationship with customers utilizing service based models. These changes in the business environment require companies (especially those in the Manufacturing and Distribution industries) to continuously stay ahead of the curve by making educated predictions as well as to react quickly to challenges they face.
The crucial first step in meeting these challenges is to utilize the capabilities and benefits of an integrated business system, where each of the individual modules are interconnected with one another. This is the very foundation of ERP. For those that may have fallen behind and are utilizing multiple IT environments and struggling with siloed software – you are missing out on a much higher level of productivity and efficiency and may want to consider making the move to a newer technology platform.
For the companies that have invested in ERP, it is important to be looking for enhancements and installing upgrades when appropriate. The future of your business relies upon meeting the objectives you have set, and they can more easily be accomplished when you have a strong ERP foundation in place. In speaking with many of our clients we noted several themes regarding the ways they expect their ERP/Accounting software to help them achieve their goals:
- An enhanced ability to quickly respond to the needs of the business and potential changes required to keep pace in the industry.
- Achieving operational excellence and reducing unnecessary costs. This varies by industry but may include one or more of the following:
- A reduction in overhead resulting from improved efficiencies;
- Maintaining 98% accuracy in inventory counts;
- Reducing manufacturing waste;
- Eliminating producing product lines that fail to produce desired profit margins;
- Improving employee productivity;
- And more…
- Better decision making capabilities provided by more detailed, accurate, and customized reporting options.
- Improved internal collaboration through the utilization of social networking-style communication features within the ERP system.
- More quickly getting products from concept, to production, to market.
Companies require business software solutions that enable them to reach their specific goals and requirements. Competitive organizations should seriously consider the positive impact and outcome provided by the right ERP solution. With numerous inter-connected modules including: Accounting and Finance, CRM, Time and Project Management, Human Resources and Payroll, Business Intelligence, Payroll, Manufacturing, Distribution, eBusiness and more; you will be sure find just what you need to take your company to the next level.
If you are interested in learning more about the first steps to take when researching and implementing a more comprehensive ERP software application, you may be benefit from reading our complimentary whitepaper: 37 New Ideas for Growing Businesses. Get it now…
Alternatively, for those looking for industry-specific ERP applications you may be interested in viewing our free whitepapers on Choosing a Manufacturing –or- Distribution application. Read them now by clicking below: