ERP vs. SCM vs. CRM

What is the difference between ERP vs. SCM vs. CRM

Enterprise resource planning, supply chain management, customer relationship management software

If you are looking to streamline your business operations, software can be a highly effective tool. With access to real-time data, you can improve everything from your ordering processes to your customer relationships. As today’s businesses start to look for the right products to meet their needs, many are left confused, wondering about the different types of software out there. Specifically, they may be wondering about the differences between enterprise resource planning, supply chain management, and customer relationship management software. Here is a closer look at these three tools and their role in your business’s growth and development.

What is enterprise resource planning software?

Enterprise resource planning, or ERP, is a type of software that focuses on streamlining the internal processes of the business. This means it takes processing, manufacturing, sales, income, human resources, and all other components of the business and puts them into one central system. The goal is to give the team access to real-time data that they can use to make business decisions and track overall effectiveness and profitability.

Some of the processes that can be handled by an ERP include:

• Product and purchase planning
• Supply chain management
• Accounting
• Customer relationship management
• Marketing and sales
• Inventory management
• And more

What is supply chain management software?

Supply chain management software, or SCM, helps companies monitor materials and data as they move their products from supplier to manufacturer to retailer and finally to the customer. There are many places along this process where data and even inventory can be lost, and the SCM system can help eliminate these losses by improving workflow and coordinating different branches of the business more effectively.

What is customer relationship management software?

Customer relationship management software, or CRM, focuses on keeping track of customers and their purchasing behavior. It gives businesses the tools to follow sales leads and find new business opportunities within them. It also helps streamline the sales process so the sales team is not repeating the same jobs over and over.

Many CRM programs focus on marketing. They add automated systems to manage marketing campaigns and social media accounts in one convenient location. But often times businesses have a difficult time determining what their CRM has the capabilities of, but also what they should do. Here at Kerridge Commercial Systems, we’ve got you covered. Read about what your CRM should be doing for your business for additional information.

What type of software is right for you?

The type of software you need will depend on the areas where you need the most growth. For many businesses, ERP systems can combine both CRM and SCM into one system to provide a comprehensive management system. If you are weak in customer service, CRM may be the only program you need. If your ultimate goal is to improve supply chain processes, then SCM software may fit the need.

At Kerridge Commercial Systems, we specialize in delivering fully integrated systems to our customers that cover all of their needs. Whether you are looking for a comprehensive ERP system, need to focus on customer relationship management, or are primarily looking to improve supply chain management, you can trust our industry experts and our 40 years of experience to guide you toward the right product. So, if you are looking for your industry, read our blog, Why Should I Choose an ERP Specific to My Industry, to learn more.

Contact Kerridge Commercial Systems today to learn more about our ERP systems and how they can streamline your business operations. You can also request a free demo of our products to see them for yourself.