ERP System

Discover all you need to know about an ERP System, from the different modules to its role in a business and the frequently asked questions. We've combined the most important information in a quick & easy overview for you.
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What is an ERP system?

In today’s rapidly evolving market, organizations face a growing need to digitize their operations and maintain competitiveness. Traditional methods of collecting and organizing business information often fall short in achieving their goals and increasingly hinder performance. This is where ERP systems come into play.
ERP, short for Enterprise Resource Planning, is a category of business software systems designed to automate, integrate, and manage key operational processes within the organization. At its essence, an ERP system combines data from various outlets and organizes it into one centralized database, allowing for seamless information flows and process automations across different departments.
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How do I find my best ERP system?

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Complete the selection tool

Answer a few questions about the company and its business processes. Our comparison software does the rest.

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You immediately get an online overview with your personal advice. You can start viewing and comparing right away.

03

Receive software advice

Via our platform you can directly schedule a no-obligation introductory meeting with the ERP or CRM provider(s) of your choice.

  • 01

    Insight into your business

    Answer a few simple questions which our software experts will use to develop your software advice.

  • 02

    Tell us about your needs

    We'll further discuss your goals and priorities to fully understand your software needs.

  • 03

    Get software recomendations

    Via our platform you can directly schedule a no-obligation introductory meeting with the ERP or CRM provider(s) of your choice.
Finding the right ERP system has never been easy due to the vast options and the complexity of aligning them with specific business needs. We simplify this process. Now, you can find the best system for your business in just 3 simple steps. 
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How does an ERP system work?

Green moduels image representing ERP system modules. The image has dark green squares placed in a manner to create a random pattern.

ERP System Modules

An ERP system consists of various modules tailored to specific business needs, such as accounting, e-commerce, and project reporting. Each module feeds information into a centralized database. This database provides a comprehensive view across all departments and automates processes, thus reducing resource requirements and enhancing efficiency. In total, there are 12 modules within an ERP system, each with its unique purpose.
Discover all ERP modules
Icon of the ERP system accounting module. Image includes a graph with an ascending arrow.

Finance / Accounting

⦁ Automated financial statements
⦁ Cost allocation
⦁ Payment management
Icon of the ERP system warehouse management module. Image includes storage vehicle lifting carrying boxes.

Warehouse Management

⦁ Support for warehouse employees
⦁ Labor planning
⦁ Efficient picking strategy
ERP voorbeelden: voorraad beheer

Inventory Management

⦁ Item tracking
⦁ Manage inventory costs
⦁ Prevent stockouts and delays
Icon of the ERP system workforce management module. Image includes an illustration of a person with cogwheels.

Workforce Management

⦁ Monitor work hours
⦁ Measure employee stats
⦁ Distribute paychecks
Icon of the ERP system human resource management module. Image includes an illustration of a hand with three people atop of it.

Human Resource Management

⦁ Information sharing and collaboration
⦁ Overview of employee resources
⦁ Automated reporting
Icon of the ERP system supply chain management module. Image includes a representation of the supply chain, with icons of a factory and truck.

Supply Chain Management

⦁ Supply chain tracking
⦁ Manage refunds
⦁ Streamlined coordination
Icon of the ERP system ecommerce module. Image includes an internet icon with a mouse arrow.

E-commerce

⦁ Quickk launch of a website
⦁ User-friendly tools
⦁ Update product content
Icon of the ERP system Business Intelligence module. Image includes an illustration of a data dashboard.

Business Intelligence

⦁ Analyze KPIs
⦁ Advanced reporting
⦁ Dashboards
Icon of the ERP system procurement module. Image includes a discount tag.

Procurement

⦁ Supplier relationship management
⦁ Automate quotes
⦁ Automate the purchasing process
Icon of the ERP system manufacturing module. Image includes a factory.

Manufacturing

⦁ Production planning
⦁ Track real vs. forecasted production
⦁ Real-time reporting
Icon of the ERP system order management module. Image includes a maps pin with a box in the middle.

Order Management

⦁ Order tracking
⦁ Optimize order fulfillment
⦁ Maximize on-time delivery rates
Icon of the ERP system project management module. Image includes a planner with a clock.

Project Management

⦁ Plan and manage projects
⦁ Track project status
⦁ Information sharing and collaboration

Pros

Say bye to heaps of paperwork

No more standalone paperwork and spreadsheets scattered across departments. All data is now digitized and stored in the cloud, replacing traditional methods of collecting and organizing business information. This allows users to access essential information swiftly and effortlessly.

Streamline workflows

An ERP system removes the need for manual data entry within all kinds of business processes. Tasks such as invoicing and order processing become fully automated, reducing the potential for human errors.

Real-time reports

All data is automatically collected, captured, and updated in a centralized database. Reports can be generated using built-in analytics and reporting tools. This capability is further enhanced when integrated with Business Intelligence tools, offering advanced reporting features.

Big picture view

All information is stored in a single database. This enables the swift creation of in-depth executive dashboards, enhancing decision-making across the organization and promoting business growth and profitability.

Improved data security and accessibility

Several mechanisms are in place to protect and encrypt stored data, coupled with role-based access controls. This ensures only authorized users can access the information. Additionally, regularly scheduled backups safeguard against data loss in the event of disasters.

Better financial planning

An ERP system provides users with essential tools for budgeting, financial analysis, and forecasting. It offers real-time data on vital financial metrics, complemented by robust reporting and analytical tools. This empowers organizations to effectively manage cash flows, expenses, budgets, and more.

Significant ROI

Benefits like enhanced process efficiency, automation, and data centralization make an ERP system a valuable investment for organizations aiming to automate their operations. Moreover, these systems are scalable, ensuring the system grows with your business.

Cons

Upfront implementation and ongoing costs

The expenses of implementing an ERP system differs based on factors such as the size of the organization. Most common expenses include implementation services, software licenses, employee training, and more.

Data migration process

When implementing an ERP system, organizations frequently need to transfer data from their existing systems. This data must be cleaned, transformed, and structured to ensure accurate migration.

Change management adoption

As business processes become automated, employee roles may change. Therefore, as new systems are introduced, organizations should also invest in change management initiatives. These efforts, such as training, help reduce resistance and encourage employees to adapt to the new system.

Complex systems

ERP systems, known for their advanced functionalities, significantly impact organizations. These systems often require personalized customizations, which can extend the implementation timeline.

Pros

Eliminate heaps of papers

No more standalone paperwork and spreadsheets across different departments. Now, all data is digitized and stored in the cloud, replacing traditional paper-based records and spreadsheets. This enables users to access all necessary information quickly and easily.

Streamline workflows

No more standalone paperwork and spreadsheets across different departments. Now, all data is digitized and stored in the cloud, replacing traditional paper-based records and spreadsheets. This enables users to access all necessary information quickly and easily.

Real-time reports

All data is automatically collected, captured and updated within a centralized data repository. Reports can then be generated through built-in analytics and reporting tools. This can be taken even further with Business Intelligence tools integrations, which provide advanced reporting capabalities.

Big picture view

The centralized database integrates and consolidates data across different departments into a single repository. As a result, in-depth executive dashboards can quickly be created to enhance organization-wide decision-making that drive business growth and profitability.

Improved data security and accessibility

Various mechanisms are designed to protect and encrypt any stored data, as well as offering role-based access controls. As a result, only the authorized users can access the stored information. Furthermore, regularly scheduled backups ensure data is never lost in case of disasters.

Better financial planning

An ERP system provides crucial tools that support budgeting, financial analysis, and forecasting. Users have access to real-time data into key financial metrics, as well as robust reporting and analysis tools. With this, organizations can manage their cash flows, expenses, budgeting, and more.

Significant ROI

Factors such as improved process efficiency, automation and data centralization make an ERP system a worthwhile investment for any organization looking to automate their business. These systems are scalable to ensure future growth and long-term financial benefits after implementation.

Cons

Upfront implementation and ongoing costs

The implementation of an ERP system and any costs associated depend on various factors, such as the size of the organization. These costs include implementation services, software licenses, employee trainings, to name a few.

Data migration process

When implementing an ERP system, organizations oftentimes need to migrate data from their previous systems into the new system. This data needs to be cleaned, transformed and organized to ensure all data is correctly migrated.

Change management initiatives

Due to the automation of business processes, employee responsibilities may change. Together with the introduction of new systems, organizations need to invest in change management initiatives. These initiatives, such as trainings, address resistance and facilitate employee acceptance of the new system.

Complex systems

ERP systems are complex systems with elaborate functionalities and a large organizational impact. These systems need to be customized to every individual business, which can make the implementation process time-consuming.

Which ERP systems exist?

Hundreds of ERP solutions exist in the market. Though popular choices vary by industry, the following systems are frequently used in businesses across the globe:
Logo of SAP
Logo of Microsoft Dynamics
Logo of Exact
Logo of Afas Software
Logo of Unit4
Logo of IFS
Logo of Oracle Netsuite
Logo of Visma
And more...

ERP systems for SMEs

An SME typically doesn't require the extensive functionalities of ERP systems designed for larger organizations. Accordingly, there are solutions tailored to the needs and budgets of SMEs. These systems present scaled-down versions of enterprise-level counterparts, making them both more affordable and simpler to implement for smaller businesses.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. It refers to a category of business software systems designed to automate, integrate, and manage key operational processes within an organization.

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system offers a plethora of benefits across various organizational processes. Depending on the modules and industry, these benefits can include centralized decision-making, process automation, real-time reporting, increased efficiency, and enhanced customer service.

Cloud

ERP systems deployed from the cloud are hosted within the cloud and accessible via a subscription service. This is the most popular choice for all-sized business due to the reduced initial investment, simpler integration, and room for growth. This is also a great option for those wanting little to no involvement regarding upgrades and maintenance.

On-Premise

On-premise deployment for ERP systemsis as it sounds, on site at your headquarters or other designated location. Many companies had or currently have this type of ERP systemand must manage all maintenance themselves or contract it out.

Hybrid

This method combines both on-premise and cloud capabilities so that a portion of data and applications are stored in both places. This gives you the advantage of control, as well as scalability.

Yes! Due to the ongoing upkeep, majority of businesses with on-premise systems are choosing to migrate their ERP to Cloud. We can help you find the right Cloud or Hybrid solution that fits your needs and that offers a smooth transition.

ERP systems are used by employees across an entire organization. Managers, for instance, use these systems to access and analyze data, generate reports, and make decisions. Conversely, other employees use the ERP system for tasks like data entry and information retrieval.
It's difficult o choose the "best" ERP system, as the ideal choice for an organization depends on its specific needs and goals. When selecting an ERP system, organizations should assess their requirements and carefully align them with a fitting ERP system.
Some of the most popular ERP software systems include SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Visma.net. Organizations of all sizes and across various industries widely use these systems. However, the most common ERP systems can vary by industry.
While a lot of ERP modules are available, you don't need to start with all of them to reap the benefits. Consider your workflows and the automations an ERP system could provide that would be most beneficial. We can collaborate with you to identify your needs and find the ERP solution that best fits them.
Yes, ERP systems can be categorized as information systems. Both types of systems manage and organize data within an organization, improving information flow and improving decision-making processes.

ERP systems typically aren't free. While some open-source solutions are free to download and use, they often need technical expertise and additional resources for effective implementation and maintenance.

ERP system costs depend on their specific features and capabilities, as well as the size and requirements of the organization using them. Generally, these systems tend to be expensive due to the necessary customization, ongoing support, and maintenance.

Like any large investment, the value of an ERP system depends on an organization's specific needs and goals. These systems can offer a plethora of advantages, such as increased efficiency and productivity, better data management, improved reporting, and enhanced decision-making. However, implementing an ERP system demands a large investment of time and resources. Thus, it's crucial for organizations to carefully assess their needs and weigh if the benefits justify the expense. In some scenarios, the system's advantages might be worth the costs, but in others, an alternative solution could be more fitting.

No, ERP and CRM systems are not the same. ERP systems are software solutions that help organizations in managing and integrating their business processes. On the other hand, CRM systems help organizations manage interactions with their customers. Although both ERP and CRM can have overlapping functionalities, they cater to distinct business needs.

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