How to Select ERP Software for Small Business?
Enterprise Resource Planning software is an automated business management system that enables enterprises to manage daily operations, inventory, production, and sales. The built-in analytics of the system help enterprises in staying up to date about the latest developments in the business.
Certainly, ERP software can be integrated with various business system solutions to create a comprehensive business system for enterprises. Supply chain management, customer relationship management, communications and business intelligence systems, etc. are integrated with this software. This eliminates duplication of data, multiple files in various locations, and individual databases.
While large scale enterprises install and use complex ERP software systems, small scale enterprises tend to worry about the initial cost of investment which is quite high. But ERP Software for Small Business is equally beneficial for small, medium and large scale enterprises.
Types of ERP software for business:
- Web-based ERP Software: This software is hosted by the vendor on the cloud platform. The web-based ERP software is comparatively less complex and employees can easily use it.
- Open Source ERP Small Business: The source code for ERP software is available for enterprises to develop as well as create software to meet their specifications.
- Free Proprietary ERP Small Business: This software is a limited version of the fully functional proprietary ERP Software for Small Business. Small businesses can try this limited, free version and then purchase the full version depending on how the trail worked out.
- Proprietary ERP Small Business: The full, paid version is available on the cloud or as an independent software solution. Enterprises can invest in the paid version after trying out the free versions.
- Small Business: Exclusively tailored ERP Software for Small Business, this software helps with human resources management and order management. While it can also include manufacturing-related functions, they are quite in a limit.
Choose the best ERP Software:
From standardizing manufacturing processes to human resources procedures, ERP software helps an enterprise in many ways. With so many different types of ERP software systems available in the market, enterprises may find it difficult to choose the one that best suits their requirements.
While large scale enterprises can invest in customizing the software, small businesses cannot take such liberties. It is essential for them to buy ERP software that can provide them the maximum advantages without any additional investment.
When selecting ERP Software for Small Business, enterprises should keep in mind the following points:
- Reduced Cycle Time
- Operational Efficiency
- Transparency
- Reporting and Analytics
- Sales Management
- Improved Customer Service
- Industry Best Practice Recommendations
- Order Management
- Improved Quality Control and Quality Assurance
- Follow Current Trends and Predict Future Trends
The free versions do not have all the features of the paid version. But ERP software for small business can start with the free version and upgrade gradually at ERP CRM Provider.