ERP Software

Comparison ERP Software

Many small to mid-sized business owners and small business technology managers are discovering that even as the economic climate has slowed, business technology options, even at small budget levels, have continued to expand. By comparison, ERP software options about 20 years ago were limited to large server architectures owned and maintained by businesses in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturers turned to software developers in the early 1990s to find solutions to problems unique to their industry. For example, scheduling the delivery of raw materials to shop floors and then coordinating the workflow processes involved in assembly, warehousing and distribution were difficult to manage when multiple departments each conducted their business functions using separate software systems. By comparison, ERP software platforms, once installed, allowed multiple departments to share and update the same databases. ERP systems also allowed every employee in a company to use the same applications using an interface that had the same look and feel.

Some manufacturing firms experienced problems with these early ERP models, but every failed implementation generated new lessons that allowed software developers and consultants to make a rapid series of system improvements. In the early 1990s, almost every business conducted its back office functions on non-integrated software platforms. By comparison, ERP software solutions were installed in so many large enterprise level firms and government offices by the beginning of the next decade that market saturation occurred and ERP demand began to slow.

Now that established developers like Microsoft, SAP and Oracle are turning their attention downstream to compete for market share at small business levels, the options for small business technology managers have become more diverse than ever. As you move forward with your technology upgrade or product comparison, ERP software should play an important role in your decisions. Your business solution choices can have a strong impact on your company’s direction and growth. 

If a traditional ERP solution lies beyond the reach of your company’s budget, consider alternatives that allow the advantages of ERP systems with a greater degree of cost flexibility. Some integrated programs controlling back office functions like accounting, human resources and payroll can now be downloaded for low or no cost over the internet. If these options are not comprehensive enough to meet your business needs, consider the use of an application service provider or hosting solution. Conduct a comparison of ERP software alternatives, taking into account the needs of your departments and the potential returns you may stand to gain on your ERP system or service provider investment. You may also want to investigate program suites marketed by small independent providers that offer accounting and other back office functions with industry specific features. A complete comparison of ERP software will take all of these options into account.

Written by :

tracey boxer