The digital landscape has spiked the demand for digital tools. Modern-day firms seek to leverage technology for increased productivity in the long run. Surveys show that businesses adapting to digital tools outperform their competitors and capture a more significant market share. Either way, ERP is one of the most in-demand tools by companies globally, irrespective of the operational sector. ERP is an acronym for ”Enterprise Resource Planning.” This software predominantly manages domains like accounting, marketing, and supply chain by automating monotonous tasks. Our topic for discussion is the ”many” advantages associated with ERP, the types, strategy-building, and challenges.
Benefits of ERP Integration
ERP Integration is connecting ERP with other systems for a persistent data flow. This data is converted into meaningful information and drives business growth. The crucial benefits of ERP Integration are listed below:
- Access to Data
- Cost-Effective
- Automation
Access to Data
Data is the new oil. Setting the paradigm and constructing a strategic road map is relied upon data. Catching on real-time data might take a lot of work for employees. This is where the ERP Integration portrays its value; the connectivity with other systems allows for a seamless data flow, creating a win-win situation.
Cost Effective
Even though there exists a one-time heft investment cost, ERP can be proven a cost-effective way of managing data in the long run. ERP eliminates the need for many data storage sources and integrates them into a single platform. For instance, a logistics firm could extract invoice payments, delivery status, number of trips, and the user’s personal information from a single ERP dashboard. Instead of hard work, innovative work always puts an individual a step forward, and ERP is a mere demonstration of this.
Automation
Automation is inevitable for the self-management of business operations by software. Time is precious, and managers could focus more on idea generation and strategic goals. The software could handle monotonous tasks, be it data entry or the issuance of invoices. Data back automation, and the outcome is in the shape of accurate results. Fear no more since automation has got you covered.
Types of ERP Integration
The two main types of ERP Integration are as follows.
- E-commerce – ERP Integration
- Project Management – ERP Integration
E-commerce – ERP Integration
This type of integration fulfills better management of databases; e-commerce stores are linked with ERP to leverage for business growth. Be it the preservation of confidential data, smooth communication with sellers, or end-to-end inventory management. The ERP Integration’s comprehensive analytics and report feature add a cherry on top, resulting in intelligent, data-backed decisions. Global e-commerce giants are actively investing in ERP licensing and squeezing the maximum benefit.
Project Management – ERP Integration
Project Management comes after this. If done right, Project Management can drive business growth and help achieve economies of scale. Managing complex projects in less time is an art, and the task becomes much easier with the inculcation of ERP. ERP is integrated into project-management software to ensure consistent flow and preservation of essential data. Intermittent feedback on the progress help managers streamline and construct a well-structured roadmap, creating a win-win situation.
How to Achieve ERP Integration?
Some strategies exist that assist in achieving the desired goal, I.e., ERP Integration.
- Point-to-Point Integrations
- Integration Platform as a Service (IPaaS)
Point-to-Point Integrations
The first type of integration enables seamless data-sharing between networks. However, the process may become futile for large-scale firms since such firms actively invest in other domains. To cater to the growing applications, Point-to-Point Integration is unfavorable. Such integration must catch up with the latest updates, keeping firms at a back step.
Integration Platform as a Service (IPaaS)
IPAAS is yet another attractive source for integrating ERP. This cloud-based software supports the Application Programming Interface (API) and works well with B2B modes of business conduct. The centralized platform, backed by API, ensures a consistent data flow between networks, connection with vendors, inventory management, and workflow design. What’s more, the analytics assist eCommerce owners in understanding the current scenario better and taking steps accordingly.
Challenges
- Skilled Personnel
- Migrating Data
Skilled Personnel
For the implementation of the integration, skilled personnel is required. Giving on-the-job training to existing employees concerning the ERP might come at a cost and time.
Migrating Data
In the case of old systems, migrating data from the source to a new database in the ERP can take multiple months; this creates a barrier between the organization and effective decision-making.
Conclusion
Here, we come to an end. ERP is here to stay, and we need to capitalize upon it. Surveys show that companies actively investing in ERP Integration get a competitive edge to the betterment of the stakeholder’s ecosystem.
