The term ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) refers to a software meant for managing and integrating different business processes into one system. There are several advantages of opting for ERP system such as boost in business productivity and improved business operations. But there are also some disadvantages of ERP systems that you must consider before opting for this system.
ERP systems are a must for both small and large scale businesses. The complexed global economy and ever-changing consumer demands have made it essential to streamline business processes.
Here, we bring you a list of advantages and disadvantages of an ERP system.
Advantages of ERP Systems
ERP systems offer numerous benefits to businesses like smooth business operations and easy to use functions. Today, almost all size of companies are making use of ERP systems to improve their business. Here, we bring you a list of advantages of ERP systems for your organization.
Economical
One of the biggest advantage of an ERP system is its cost-effectiveness. It can be of great help in automating the basic tasks and minimizing small errors. With cross-company visibility, it becomes easier to spot inefficacy that could increase the cost. Not only that, it also helps in better distribution of resources be it inventory or equipment.
Reporting
A data becomes useful for your organization only when it can be analyzed and understood. An ERP system can be useful in analysing and understanding your business data. It has the capability to understand the problems or changes in one department that could affect the other parts of your business.
Business Insights
ERPs are capable enough to access real-time data across the country. These systems detect impactful trends and offer great business solutions. It naturally leads to better decision-making by organizational leads. They are provided with all the necessary data of the company to make better decisions.
Data Security
ERP provider know the amount of important information your system posses, so they ensure to secure it. The importance of security has increased a lot after frequent cases of cyberattacks. The most robust security is provided by the vendor-managed cloud ERP software. It makes use of the latest security protocols to secure your organization’s data.
Risk management
You can reduce the amount of risk with the use of ERP technology in your organization. With the help of granular access control and approved workflows, you can build up strong financial control and lower the chances of fraud. It also enables you to check the status of the entire operation that can be helpful in handling risks surrounded by business disturbance.
Scalability
An apt ERP system will be scalable and flexible to meet all your organization’s needs for today and the upcoming years. Cloud ERP systems are capable enough to make small or big operational changes.
Flexibility
An ERP software offers you with the best possible flexibility to support your business and its objectives. With this system, the administrators can create a company-specific workflow and automatic reports for different departments and their heads. ERP can be of great help in improving your organization’s creativity and innovation level.
Disadvantages of ERP Systems
ERP systems are loaded with several advanced features that could be advantageous for your business. But, it also possesses different challenges for companies in terms of building an ecosystem for the ERP system and implementing it.
It is extremely important to have an idea about the possible roadblocks that you might have to face while implementing the ERP system. It will help you to be prepared to modulate the doubts from stakeholders.
Well, you can get over these disadvantages, if you follow a detailed plan and pick the right ERP partner for your organization.
Cost of System
In early times, ERP systems were quite expensive and used by only large companies. But, the scenario has flipped today as it has become affordable for both small and large scale companies. With the changing times, technology has become much more affordable.
Training
ERP is an opportunity to learn more about new systems. Whenever a new system is introduced, employees are required to attend training for the same. Most of the time, employees are hesitant to learn new technologies. But once they get a hang of it, there comes the moment of realization that technology can be of great help. New ERP systems are power – packed with recent upgrades that are more user-friendly.
Data conversion costs
Whenever you are moving to a new ERP system, you might have to convert your data that will be compatible with the new system. Such situations lead to unexpected increase in costs and delays altogether. It is always a good idea to review your database with your ER integration partner to point out potential data compatibility issues at the earliest.
Complex System
An ERP system is power-packed with several features that can intimidate your employees. But, today the software is much easier to use when compared to the legacy systems. Here, the employees will require access only for using the modules and dashboards. If you provide proper training to your employees, you might overcome the issues related to complexity.
Maintenance
Earlier, maintenance used to be a huge expense that refrained small businesses from picking ERP systems. Here, the organization also needed an IT staff to handle patches, security, and system upgrades. Not only that, it also had to pay the third-party service provider for its expertise.
Conclusion
ERP systems are widely used and loved by people all around the world. There are numerous reasons which make ERP systems one of the most preferred software for your organization. But, there are also various disadvantages of ERP that could make it difficult for your organization to use it.
It is on you to decide whether to choose an ERP system for your organization or not. You must always go through your organization’s needs and then pick the one that suits your needs. We hope this blog on the advantages and disadvantages of ERP system will help you make the right decision for your organization.