ERP systems have evolved quite a bit over the years. There is no longer a question about whether an ERP system would be beneficial or even necessary for modern-day business. It has become an absolute necessity.
The question now is more based on what would best suit your business or industry and whether you are ready for a cloud-hosted system or perhaps still opting for an on-premise server.
The COVID-19 pandemic has most certainly sped up the move towards digital transformation, and that includes the adoption of cloud technology. This is especially relevant for those enterprises now moving toward the remote or hybrid working models or looking to increase productivity, lower operational costs, or even digitally transform, to name a few.
Here’s how a cloud ERP system can make a difference:
1. Staying connected
Cloud technology allows 24/7 access and insight into daily business operations from anywhere. The cloud-based ERP system offers an advantage over on-premise systems as businesses can manage core processes remotely, overseeing efficient operations, financial analysis, and everyday performance from anywhere.
2. Automation and access to data
One of the key advantages of a cloud ERP solution is the automation of certain tasks, critical updates, and accurate real-time data, which is necessary for making informed decisions, even when the decision-maker is remote. A cloud ERP solution can track revenue and profitability in real time, generate on-demand reports, and produce financial insights with just a few clicks.
3. Efficient teamwork and collaboration
Thanks to the cloud environment, automatic updates, and access at any time, businesses can rest assured that their team members will all have visibility across the various business functions instead of a silo approach that can be disjointed.
4. Scalable business management
One of the many factors to consider in the hybrid or remote-working model is access. This includes flexibility, multi-device workload security, and scalability as teams increase in size. A cloud-based solution will provide that level of access and scalability in order to adapt to a changing environment.
5. Future-proof your business
Cloud ERP solutions are typically very user-friendly, support greater task automation, ensure more connected operational processes, and provide an improved level of scalability and integration. This also allows users to add on-demand services and tools or extend system functionality via additional apps or solutions. A scalable industry-related solution is key to ensure you future-proof your business.
6. Business continuity and adaptability
Perhaps the most critical factor in implementing cloud ERP is anticipating changes and ensuring business continuity in any kind of situation: activity expansion, business contraction, or full-blown crisis mode. The current COVID-19 pandemic offers an excellent example of the cloud ERP advantage, as enterprises had to factor in dramatic changes to accounting, inventory management, and reporting, for example. Organizations benefit from the adaptable cloud model to redesign, create, track, and report new projects, ensuring uninterrupted workflows and business continuity.
Kerridge Commercial Solutions helps clients review and refine their business practices, become more productive during the pandemic, and decrease business costs. We provide a wide range of specialist software and cloud services to trade, wholesale, and distribution customers via K-cloud, our hosted software platform.