Not just a buzzword, but a comprehensive solution – the ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning). This defines how companies can manage their resources and optimize operations efficiently.
What is ERP?
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is the resource planning of a company. ERP encompasses all the core business processes essential to running a business, including finance, human resources, manufacturing, logistics, services, procurement, and more.
ERP systems are designed to support the business processes of as many companies from a wide range of industries as possible with adaptations. Inevitably, many business processes are held more general. Complementary systems integrated into general ERP systems such as Innosoft FSM or CLASSIC reflect the requirements of specialized processes such as service much more precisely and thus enable more customized processes with an advantage in the competition.
The main types of ERP systems at a glance
There are three main types of ERP systems, each offering different advantages and disadvantages to meet the diverse needs of companies:
This variant, also known as Software as a Service (SaaS), allows companies to acquire the functionality of the software through licenses in the cloud without having to perform a fixed installation.
Most companies implement their ERP systems on their own servers and data centers. The company that acquires the software is responsible for its maintenance and security.
These models combine elements from the previous two approaches. Some modules run in the cloud, while others are installed locally.
What are the key functions of an ERP system?
An ERP suite consists of integrated modules or business applications that communicate with each other and use a common database. Each ERP module is typically geared toward a specific business area, but they mesh seamlessly with each other and share the same data to meet the needs of the company. Companies can select the modules they need, add more, and scale them as needed.
In addition, ERP systems can meet industry-specific requirements, either as an integral part of core functionality or through seamless application extensions.
Some important features and functions of an ERP system are:
- Integration: An ERP system integrates different business processes and departments, making it possible to exchange data seamlessly between the different departments of the company and access a central database.
- Automation: ERP systems automate many repetitive tasks and processes, such as invoicing, order processing, inventory management and data entry, saving time and reducing errors.
- Data Consistency: By using a central database, an ERP system ensures the consistency and accuracy of data because information only needs to be stored and updated in one place.
- Reporting and analytics: ERP systems provide reporting, dashboards and analytics capabilities that enable companies to monitor key metrics, identify trends and make informed business decisions.
- Compliance: ERP systems help organizations comply with regulatory and industry standards by standardizing processes, creating transparency, and providing audit trails.
- Scalability: An ERP system is usually scalable and can grow with the company as it can add additional features and modules as requirements change or the company expands.
These business areas are covered by ERP
An ERP system integrates various modules such as material management, CRM, financial accounting and sales, which are based on a common database and communicate with each other.
A complete ERP system should cover all areas of the company as much as possible, supporting both specific departments and cross-cutting areas that provide resources for all departments.
In general, the modules of an ERP system include:
- Sales and marketing
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
- Master data management
- Production
- Material management and demand assessment
- Research and development
- Human resources
- Controlling
- Finance and accounting, including accounting and payroll.
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What are common ERP modules?
ERP systems offer a variety of modules that cover different business areas. Common ERP modules include:
- Financial management
- Human resources
- Inventories
- Shopping
- Sales
- Customer relationship management (CRM)
- Production/engineering
- Project management
- Supply chain management
- Business Intelligence (BI)
These modules enable companies to coordinate and optimize their various business processes by centralizing data and providing comprehensive insight into their operations. Companies can select the modules they need and integrate them into their ERP system, depending on their specific requirements.
What should I look for in an ERP system?
These points will help you choose an ERP system that meets your needs:
- Central Database: A single database for consistent information and a comprehensive business view.
- Integrated analytics: Analytics tools that provide insights for different business segments.
- Data visualization: Visualization of key information for faster decision making.
- Automation: Automation of routine tasks and advanced RPA capabilities for increased efficiency.
- Uniform user interface: Consistent appearance and user-friendly customization options.
- Integration: Seamless integration with other systems and data sources.
- New technologies: Support for AI, IoT, security and mobile solutions.
- Technology Platform: Stable technology stacks for long-term investment security.
- Multinational support: Support for different languages, currencies and local business practices.
- Deployment model: Flexibility to choose between cloud, on-premise or hybrid solutions.
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How to implement an ERP system?
The implementation of an ERP system takes place in several consecutive steps to ensure that the system meets the needs of the company and that the entire workforce management works smoothly.
First, there is a thorough planning and preparation, during which the company’s requirements are analyzed and an implementation plan is created. The specific requirements of the company are then defined and the ERP system configured accordingly. An important phase is training of employees to use the system and conducting tests to ensure its functionality. The migration of data from existing systems to the new ERP system is also crucial, followed by the actual introduction of the system in productive operation. Continuous support and maintenance are required throughout the process to ensure smooth operation and address emerging challenges.
ERP system – frequently asked questions
ERP systems offer numerous benefits, including optimizing business processes, improving data integrity, increasing efficiency, reducing costs and promoting better decision-making through real-time data.
ERP systems are offered for different companies in different industries. Inevitably, individual important business processes such as in service are not designed as distinctly. Specialized systems such as Innosoft FSM and CLASSIC, which can be integrated into an ERP environment, thus offer decisive competitive advantages.
Yes, an existing ERP software can be integrated into an entire system with the Innosoft system. For widely used ERP systems from SAP or Microsoft, certified integration solutions are available that guarantee customers security for the continuity of the entire solution.
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