To increase productivity and stand out from the competition, many companies integrate ERP software (Enterprise Resource Planning) into their processes. This software package allows you to automate your production and supply chain, freeing you from time-consuming tasks. In addition to facilitating the management of your internal resources, this tool helps you control your costs and develop your business with peace of mind, whatever your sector. Lemon Learning takes you through the benefits and how to use ERP solutions.
What is ERP software?
Also called ERP (Integrated Management Software), ERP software is a computerized tool whose functionalities make it possible to effectively manage the operational processes of a company. This computer program comes in the form of a platform integrating several applications or customizable modules according to your activity. You can configure your ERP software for inventory management, production, supply, finance, accounting, CRM (Customer relationship management), etc.
As a central tool of the company’s information system, the ERP software provides dashboards that facilitate the planning and distribution of resources available internally. An ERP also embeds advanced business intelligence and reporting features. These allow you to enter all the data related to your activity in the cloud: orders, sales, production, management control, etc.
There are many ERP solutions whose modules meet the specific needs of each company. Whether you operate in the field of health, food, biology, construction or trade, you will find an ERP that meets your expectations.
What are the benefits of ERP software?
Above all, the implementation of an ERP allows companies to save time and improve their productivity, in particular through the automation of their data. By centralizing your sensitive information via an integrated management software package, you optimize your operational processes, which allows you to remain competitive in your market.
Implementing ERP software also makes it possible to standardize your information system and streamline exchanges between your company’s departments and employees. Depending on their business, users have access to shared data as well as specific modules (CRM, accounting, stock, CAPM, etc.) that allow them to work independently.
In addition, fast-growing companies have an interest in implementing ERP software in order to:
- respect the deadlines for placing their products on the market and delivering them,
- reduce their production costs,
- ensure the traceability of their operations,
- manage their entire logistics and supply chain,
- improve customer satisfaction.
In addition, an ERP solution centralizes all the planning tools and dashboards that allow VSE and SME managers to make relevant decisions.
ERP software: is it easy to integrate?
The integration of an integrated management software package into your information system is easily carried out by computer experts who apply a set of protocols. These specialists primarily take over and save your data, whether it concerns your customers, your suppliers, your invoices, your orders, your accounts, your human resources, etc.
To transfer your sensitive information securely, the team of integrators studies the configuration of your computer system in advance, then determines the best backup solution. They also take into account the number of workstations to be equipped, then install the modules necessary for the development of your activity: CRM, payroll, invoicing, e-commerce, stocks, B to B or B to C commerce, etc.
Installation of ERP software: how much does it cost?
The implementation of an ERP project has a cost that includes both the installation of the ERP and the associated services: user training, after-sales service, maintenance, updates, etc. The price of this management tool also varies according to the existing infrastructure in the company, the number of workstations to be configured, the complexity of the modules or functions to be integrated.
There are free tools (open source) whose prices are relatively low compared to ERP solutions with a license. Setting up an open source tool for running your business costs between $150 and $500 per user. Although this option is economical, it does not provide you with any additional services.
We therefore advise you to install an ERP with an official license such as Oracle or Dynamics 365 in order to boost your systems and optimize your long-term productivity. The cost of these ERP solutions varies between 500 euros and 2,500 euros per user.
In addition to the costs of setting up the ERP solution, you must plan a budget for hosting the management software (Cloud, SaaS, on-premise, etc.) and related services. As an indication, an introduction to ERP training costs between 300 euros and 900 euros per person. As for the management of an ERP project, it is priced at 10,000 euros on average.
What are the best ERP software on the market?
There is a wide range of ERP solutions integrating innovative functionalities, suitable for all structures. This is particularly the case with Sage 300 published by SAGE, the world leader in ERP solutions. Aimed particularly at small and medium-sized businesses, this software facilitates the management of production, customer relations, invoicing, supply, quotes and all of your company’s processes. Offering cloud hosting, this software generates real-time reports and dashboards to monitor the progress of your business.
Oracle allows you to better manage your database. This ERP software also helps you to have an easy handling and increased efficiency thanks to its intuitive features.
As for Dynamics 365, it combines both the functionalities of a CRM and an ERP. This two-in-one tool will make your daily work easier.
Get started with an ERP with the help of Lemon Learning. Our digital adoption solution integrates with any web based software to guide your users through their business processes thanks to interactive guides and direct communication within their tools. Lemon Learning is compatible with all ERP software on the market. Want a demo? Sign up below.
