ERP Software

Open Source ERP Software

Open source ERP software is a relatively recent innovation that allows open source developers to create and provide ERP solutions to small business managers who can download these business solutions over the internet for free.

Before open source ERP software became available, business owners and managers had fewer options if they wanted to integrate their diverse back office business functions onto a single streamlined software platform. In the earliest days of ERP business solutions, CIOs and business owners often ran each of their departments on separate software platforms. This meant that departments remained isolated from one another and could not share database access, and it also meant slower communication and poor efficiency control. Back office business functions like accounting, payroll and human resource management were separated and employees had to learn how to use entirely new software interfaces when they moved between one department and another.

Then came the development and implementation of ERP server infrastructures, which could allow each of these back office functions to run via applications processed by a shared server architecture. This architecture also stored shared databases, which meant that any authorized user could make use of this data at any time and also make real time updates. 

But even though these fully integrated ERP business solutions provided clients with an opportunity to increase efficiency and asset management and experience a resulting increase in revenues, the systems were very expensive. Large clients could afford them, but smaller businesses were either closed out of this market or needed to accept slow returns on a high initial investment. 

Open source ERP software was created to alleviate this obstacle and satisfy a desire for ERP solutions at the smallest budget levels. Even startups with no technology budget to speak of can use open source ERP software solutions to facilitate business management tools. Accounting, human resources, payroll functions and even customer relationship management tools are available, and since anyone can access some of these programs, then anyone can make improvements to their functionality. Open source ERP software is one of several technological innovations at work that serves to level the playing field and help people from all economic starting points to create and sustain small businesses.

Open source ERP software is not the only option available to small business managers and CIOs who are trying to find ways to facilitate business functions. Hosting and outsourcing solutions are increasingly available, and small developers are making constant improvements to software suites that are already designed with industry specific tools for small business managers in construction, food production, garment manufacturing and other industries in the small business landscape. ERP solutions are coming increasingly within reach, which is a promising aspect of otherwise difficult times.

Written by :

tracey boxer