For many warehouse-based operations, the planning and management is powered by several different solutions that cater to the various organisational needs, often separate platforms for warehouse software and transport software, for example. That’s all well and good, but it is time to consider if your software is working as hard as you are and is the output of your existing systems keeping you competitive, or on the backfoot?
Data driven insights are powerful and can take your business to the next level, however, to effectively access and truly maximise on your data, you need to invest in a solution that incorporates all your logistics operations and data on one platform.
In this article we are looking at Enterprise Resource Planning, otherwise referred to as ERP, and how ERP cloud services can help you to cut costs, speed up delivery times and ultimately optimise your enterprise.
- What is an ERP?
- What is a Cloud ERP System?
- What are Benefits of ERP Cloud Services?
- How to Choose the Right Cloud ERP System
What is an ERP?
Standing for ‘Enterprise Resource Planning’, ERP software is a one stop shop package that combines all the different processes required to keep your operation organised, from HR and finance through to supply chain logistics and transport management (and everything in between) and presents it on one integrated software platform.
What is a Cloud ERP System?
Instead of installing a software package onto your onsite central server or individual computers across your organisation, cloud-based ERP software is accessed via the cloud, remotely from the provider’s off-site servers. The most common set up is a monthly or annual subscription that you pay to access the software online. This approach is known as Software as a Service, or SaaS.
How to Choose the Right cloud ERP System
There are literally thousands of ERP software options on the market for small businesses and large-scale corporations, but it is important to note that they are not all necessarily tailor made to your industry requirements and many may not be customisable to suit the specific needs of your operation.
If you are in the market for a cloud-based ERP system, it is worth asking:
- Does the provider specialise in my industry?
- Can the software be customised to my business needs?
- Do I have support in creating the customisations?
- Will the software adapt to industry requirements?
- Is there strong customer service after initial sign-up?
What are Benefits of ERP Cloud Services?
There are several positive and powerful benefits to using cloud-based ERP software solutions. Here are a few of the top contenders.
Reduction in Costs
By subscribing to a software service, you have access to ongoing IT support from the software provider as part of your offering, which removes the need to have someone onsite managing it. The subscription cost is also cheaper than paying upfront for a package and installation across a number of computers in your company.
Boosted Security
Cloud-based ERP software offers users a high rate of data protection. This is primarily because the technology is constantly evolving, and the latest data protection methods are being applied. Your operation will be guarded from hacking attempts, in house fraud and your garden variety viruses to ensure that business as usual is maintained. This not only offers protection for your company, but the data you hold on behalf of customers and suppliers. This isn’t available with traditional buy and install packages, making ERP cloud services much more secure.
Accessible & Flexible
If you and your team have a stable and reliable internet connection, you can access your cloud-based ERP software. This means you can be on the road between locations, off site meeting with clients, working remotely from home, or in house and still have the same access to everything you need. Gone are the days of having to wait until you’re back in the office to get your hands on that important document.
Quality ERP cloud systems are forever evolving to keep the technology at the forefront of the industry, which means as a customer you are getting the latest developments. This removes the need to upgrade your software as it is continually adapting to trends and industry requirements and will be able to grow with your business.
Research conducted by Panorama Consulting Group in 2021 demonstrated that organisations are achieving their goals through ERP solutions, such as:
- Operational efficiency (96.6%)
- Reporting and visibility (85.7%)
- Updating their technology stacks (80%)
- Increasing competitiveness and growth (68.4%)
Infocomm – Industry Specific ERP Cloud Services
Streamline the way you operate your enterprise and experience guaranteed dramatic cost savings by engaging the services of a technology provider that knows your business.
At Infocomm, we have over 30 years of transport industry and ERP software knowledge. We develop industry leading cloud software solutions, purpose built for the Australian and New Zealand transport and warehousing industry. We pride ourselves on first class customer service and offering the latest transport and warehouse software solutions and technology, so our clients only receive the best.
Find out how you can transform your business by contacting us today.