ERP Software

ERP Software for Free

ERP software, or software applications that can be run from the backbone of an integrated enterprise resource planning business solution, are now available in several forms. Some developers have even managed to make some modules of ERP software free, by creating open source solutions that can be downloaded over the internet by businesses with restrictive budgets.

With ERP software free or at least available at very little cost, smaller and smaller businesses and start-ups can increase the efficiency of their back office business functions through the use of product suites for accounting and payroll. More complex freeware and open source solutions are being launched every year, facilitating a wide range of business management tools related to human resources, customer relationship management and order processing, among others.

Traditionally, ERP business solutions have been implemented by large vendors and providers and have required the purchase and maintenance of an expensive server architecture. As a result, only large enterprise level organizations and fortune 500 companies had access to ERP software. Free solutions were not available during the peak of demand for ERP implementation, which occurred during the mid to late 1990s as large companies rushed to sign lucrative contacts with prominent providers and replace their outdated legacy systems before the end of the previous millennium. At that point, large providers had no need to customize their products in order to appeal to small business clients. But after the year 2000, most large companies had already implemented ERP systems if they wanted them, and expected their systems to last potentially for decades. At that time, vendor and provider attention turned downstream in order to focus on smaller clients and competition began to heat up for small business market share. This competitive pressure is still underway, and small businesses have not slowed their demand for ERP software. Free solutions, as well as industry specific modules created by smaller developers, have become available to smaller business clients in the meantime. Hosting, outsourcing, and application service providers have also stepped in to satisfy this demand by providing ERP advantages at a more accessible cost. 

The future of traditional ERP software, free integrated business management tools, and hosting solutions lies in the hands of small business owners and their desire to increase productivity and investment returns while controlling cost and risk. These are all viable options, and meanwhile, large vendors and providers are trying to gain a competitive advantage by partnering with hosting and outsourcing solutions. These providers are also scaling and customizing their product suites to court clients with restrictive budgets. Meanwhile, ERP software free solutions offer many advantages with a pricing structure immune to the pressures of competition. New alternatives are also appearing on the horizon every year.

Written by :

tracey boxer