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Exploring the Benefits of Resource Planning Software

Put down your spreadsheets. Read on to learn the benefits of electronic resource planning software (ERP) and how it can make your job easier.
From managing resources to overseeing employees, there's a lot you have to take care of as a business owner.
In an effort to streamline the process of managing your business, you may be considering using enterprise resource planning software (ERP)-and you'd be smart to do so. Before implementing an ERP system, though, it's important to have a thorough understanding of what it can do for you.

To help you with your decision, we've compiled this handy guide. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of resource planning software.

An ERP is an All-in-One Management Tool

ERP software can be extremely powerful, as long as you know how to use it. This is because it puts all of your management tools in one place. Instead of using many different types of software, you can make everything happen from a single location.
Do you use separate software for budgeting and reporting? How about inventory and sales? Then it's time to switch to an ERP.

One Size Fits All

ERP systems can be put to great use whether your company is large or small. There are no size restrictions in place.
These tools are extremely powerful, though, and offer many features, so they may not be needed by very small businesses. However, small, medium, and large business will all benefit from implementing an ERP system.
All businesses have the same basic needs. ERP systems are equipped to help whichever business chooses to use them. So no matter the size of your business, an ERP will have an impact.

ERPs Can be Specialized

If you do want an ERP system that's more tailored to your specific business, you can get one. The system you choose may be determined by the type of business you run.
Niche market ERP systems exist for retail stores, healthcare facilities, and more. But even if you don't find one that's designed specifically for your type of company, a general ERP system is still invaluable.

Anyone Can Benefit With an ERP

Whether you're a recent entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, you can put an ERP system to good use. The more experienced business owner may likely find more value in the system since they have a better understanding of their business needs. But even someone new to the game can learn and implement a successful ERP system.
Maybe you're considering starting a business but haven't done it yet. Researching ERP systems is worth your time. You'll be ahead of the game if you already know how to implement such a powerful tool.

Elimination of Programs is Possible

You may feel bogged down by the number of programs you use to run your business. This can easily be cleared through the use of ERP.
Since ERP handles many functions within a single program, you can remove all other, now unneeded programs. This not only frees up space on your computer, it also lessens the number of icons you have hanging around on your computer, as well.
Consider all the programs you use for quality management, purchasing, sales, human resources, customer relations, and financials. These can all be combined in one, thanks to ERP software. And that's not even a comprehensive list.

They Save You Money

Could one area of your business use some extra funds? Well, since you won't need to purchase and update multiple programs to run the many functions of your business, you can use that money elsewhere.
Instead of purchasing more and more software, you can focus on creating a better customer experience instead.

Long-Term Investment

Though an ERP will save you money, it's still an investment. And, it will last you for the long term. Even if you do replace your ERP system down the road, the changes implemented by your choice to run your business will be felt for many years to come.

Data Sharing Across Departments

One of the best ways to run a business smoothly is to have all your departments working in tandem. If everyone is using different information, things aren't going to line up.
With an ERP system in place, a single database is used by all departments. This means all employees will be working with the exact same data.
This makes it easier to organise your teams, and analytics and reports will be more accurate when everyone has the same information.

Cater to Your Business

There are many ERP systems to choose from. This means you can choose the one that's right for your business.
When comparing ERP software, consider the needs of your business. Here are some things you may want to keep in mind:

• Company goals
• Industry-specific details
• Budget
• Scalability
• How new the technology is
• Software from a trustworthy source
• Company size
• Development possibilities
• Ease of use and implementation
• Support for the software

This is only a sample list. Create your own list and determine what items are most important.
If this is your first time purchasing or using ERP software, the price may be your biggest factor in making a decision. If you've been around the block before, your needs may be different. You'll have experienced the ups and potential downs of your current software, so you may have other concerns that take more precedence.

Cutting Edge Technology

Your current business may be operating through the use of older software. While some older programs have many benefits, at some point they're just going to be out of date.
Updating to an ERP will bring your business to the forefront, technologically speaking. New ERPs use cutting edge technology, like the Internet of Things, to get the job done in the most efficient manner possible.
Many new technologies may have hit the scene since your current technology was created. If your current setup is sluggish or inefficient in any way, it's worth it to make the change.

Update in One Go

From time to time, you may need to update your ERP software. You know you will eventually since technology keeps advancing. Luckily, you probably won't have to do it often, though.
But when the time does come for an update, the change will be hassle-free. Instead of updating 10 different programs, you'll only have to update one. In one fell swoop, all your operations will be updated since they're all run by the same software.

A Tried and True Concept

The concept of ERP software isn't new. The idea was born in the 1960s, so it's been around for decades. By 1990, these all-encompassing programs had gained the name of ERP.
In other words, ERP software isn't new. It's tried, tested, and true. Many businesses have used it with much success.
What does this mean to you and your business? You can trust that ERP is a good business move, not a fad that will prove to have been a decision made just because it sounded good.

Better Collaboration

Do you need more collaboration among your employees and teams? Implementing an ERP is a great way to make that happen. When everyone is accessing the same information from the same place, they're bound to interact with each other.
And when that collaboration happens, it'll be easier to pull off. This is due to information being easier to access.
Employees and team leaders won't have to search multiple locations for the information they need. Instead, they'll know exactly where to go-the one place where all information is kept.

Error Reduction

ERP software eliminates the need for multiple data sets. When data is measured and stored in more than one place, it opens the door to errors.
The chance for errors is lessened when all teams use the same data. Confusion cannot reign if everyone is referencing the same information. When fewer errors occur, your business runs more efficiently and more smoothly.

Resource Planning Software: The More Efficient Way

There are more than 55 million people in South Africa. If you want their business, you've got to run your company well. This means you have to be efficient.
And the most efficient way to run your business is with resource planning software. This software not only saves you time and money, but it also centralizes all your efforts for the benefit of your business and your customers.
Our ERP software will help you create the business you've always wanted. Whether you have an existing company that needs a lift, or you're just getting on your feet, we want to help. Contact us today to get started!

Roslyn Argall

T: 031 266 8182
E: roslyn@omniaccounts.co.za