What are the basic features of ERP?

ERP solutions are used by some of the world’s most recognisable and best-performing companies. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions power organisations across a variety of industries.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the basic features which are at the heart of powerful ERP solutions, such as SAP Business One and SAP Business ByDesign.

Process automation

The first and most important feature of ERP is process automation. ERP takes away the hard work of running and managing a business. This is what makes ERP so popular with instant boosts to productivity and efficiency levels. Technology automates the majority of time-consuming tasks. This allows you to free up your teams by empowering them with tools that make their lives easier at work.

Integration

Another key ERP feature that cannot be overlooked is integration. ERP solutions gather information about the processes of different departments and store data within a centralised application. Rather than working on separate, disparate solutions that create silos of data, ERP brings everybody and everything together. Companies can create a single source of the truth and can operate with a connected flow of information that paints a 360⁰ picture of performance.

Data management

Have you ever calculated how long it takes to key in data into one system and then export it into another just to generate a report? With ERP, data duplication is thankfully a thing of the past. With information on everything from finance, suppliers, business partners, and even production and inventory, stored within a single database, different teams can simplify data management from a single point of entry.

Real-time operations

Stop working in the past and begin to work in the present. ERP allows companies to work faster and smarter by working in real-time. ERP solutions, such as SAP Business One, process information instantly giving key stakeholders and users access to immediate updates. This is crucial to help companies avoid bottlenecks that may slow down activities and react faster to new opportunities.

Flexibility

The way that ERP solutions have been designed and developed helps them grow and scale alongside your business. Solutions such as SAP Business One will be the only ERP solution you’ll ever need. For example, if you’re looking for specific industry tools. SAP Business One has an eco-system of more than 500 add-ons which can provide specific functionality for different users. The solution can also be easily developed without expensive costs for any individual requirements.

Intelligent Enterprise

ERP solutions play a key driver in helping growing organisations complete digital transformation strategies. They are also proven to help companies work smarter and more effectively by utilising cutting-edge innovation. Blockchain, the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence are components that are already within ERP solutions. This innovation will assist ambitious companies to address modern business challenges, make sense of a growing value of data, and innovate with relentless speed. ERP solutions are seriously powerful tools for SMEs to adopt. But this doesn’t mean they are complicated solutions. These intuitive systems are user-friendly and easily managed with the correct training and vendor support.

ERP Demo

Want to find out more about the basics of ERP? Speak to one of our ERP solution architects today and see for yourself how these powerful, integrated systems can drive change across your business. Arrange a SAP Business One ERP demo today by contacting 01932 212 777.