Since its inception in the modern IT era, enterprise resource planning (ERP) has brought valuable advantages to those ERP software companies which are seeking to expand in an increasingly competitive, global marketplace. But there are always new challenges to face in an ever-growing industry, especially in the Internet technology sector. The demands of the market and the progressive introduction of newer technologies (a development now accelerating at a logarithmic rate) coupled with what may be unexpected, fluctuating changes in customer expectations, have made it increasingly harder for those ERP software companies without the required organizational skills, to remain on top of the game and stand up to the competition.

Despite the gains derived from the use of ERP systems (which are used to standardize company operations and policies by consolidating the functions, data and communication of the various departments into one common, homogeneous database), the popularity and widespread use of ERP software by private individuals, organizations and small business are contributing factors to what appears to be a progressive saturation of the market with services, leading to heightened competition. There are too many sellers, and customers are becoming more demanding as newer software, products and services are introduced daily. The necessity to keep up with the law of supply and demand and time constraints is another problem faced by ERP software companies. Literally, time equals money, and in the business world this is regarded as the driving formula of industrial capitalism.

Another relevant issue is customer service satisfaction. In what is now considered a buyers’ market, companies providing ERP services must pay particular attention to the demands of their clients/buyers, and be capable to aptly respond - in real-time - to any changes in attitudes or preference. The professional level and reputation of ERP software companies are in fact gauged by their successful interaction with customers, their ability to provide buyers with viable business solutions for the services they require and with the necessary training to operate the software.

More importantly, reliable and efficient methods of communication to inform customers of any updates, on a constant basis, are an essential feature of the company-client relationship. It ensures the success of the company and its influence on the market. These are all requirements which safeguard customer loyalty, promote a larger market reach and access to a wider array of business opportunities. Within this context, special emphasis must also be placed on a correct analysis of specific demographics in order to target potential market audiences.

Sources:

http://www.erpwire.com/erp-articles/leading-erp-giants.htm

http://www.eresourceerp.com/ERP-Software-Companies.html