Today’s businesses are operating in competitive markets. They need every advantage to stay ahead, which is where enterprise resource planning (ERP) software comes in. ERP software was designed to boost productivity, optimize workflows, and fuel growth even in competitive industries, but choosing the right solution can be tough. Read on to find out how to explore options effectively and efficiently.

What Is ERP Software?

Those who already have experience with business intelligence solutions and want to get right to the heart of the matter can see the top ERP software options listed for evaluation in one convenient place. For everyone else, let’s start at the beginning with a quick definition of what ERP software is and what businesses can expect from it.

ERP systems are integrated software solutions that help businesses of all sizes automate processes and manage workflows across departments. These software programs act as centralized platforms that provide a unified view of the organization’s resources and business operations. Each features a centralized database, plus various modules for different departments, automation tools, real-time reporting, security features, and more.

What to Look for in ERP Software

Every organization is different, so no one ERP software solution will work for all of them. That said, all good ERP systems have a few things in common. They include:

Ease of Implementation

ERP systems should be easy to implement and configure. The software should streamline the setup process and minimize the need for downtime during deployment so that the company can make a smooth transition over to the new, improved workflows.

Customization Options

Many of today’s best ERP solutions offer a high level of customization. Some flexibility is a must. Customizing modules or workflows to a company’s needs will ensure that the ERP software aligns with the business’s processes. This, in turn, allows the company to make the most of the investment.

A User-Friendly Interface

No matter how large or small a company is, the chances are good that not all of its employees will have dedicated IT experience. Choosing an ERP solution with a user-friendly interface that is intuitive and straightforward is the best way to accommodate employees with all levels of technological experience.

Cloud-Based Options

Most small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) prefer to utilize cloud-based ERP systems that don’t require on-site servers and other expensive infrastructure. The fact that cloud-based ERP software can be accessed from anywhere makes it an appealing option for larger companies, as well, although they may be more likely to choose hybrid options.

Choosing ERP Modules

Most good ERP software providers offer customizable modules, meaning that businesses only need to pay for the services they need. Choosing ERP modules is largely a matter of defining the company’s core processes and then finding modules that fit those needs. Common examples include:

• Finance
• Procurement
• Manufacturing
• Order management
• Inventory management
• Warehouse management

Customer relationship management

And others

When in doubt, reach out to the company or find a third-party tech consultant who can help clients understand the function of each module. This is the key to ensuring that the ERP system will be tailored to the buyer’s unique needs.

How to Get Started Choosing an ERP

As with many things in life, the hardest thing about choosing an ERP system is getting started. There are many software solutions out there, so begin by narrowing down the list to those that will meet the company’s needs and go from there. When in doubt, head-to-head comparisons are always the best way to go, and consultants are available to offer more specialized assistance.