Effective communication system
For businesses to stay ahead, dynamic interactions between the customer and the organization are imperative as e-business occupies a dominant role in the way today’s customers buy a product. Therefore, businesses have to incorporate this feature into their workings, in addition to running their operations smoothly and efficiently – profits are not just based on getting the product or the advertisements right any more! The loyalty of the customer has to be secured by making the service or information available round the clock via an effective communication system – that is another important role the enterprise resource planning system has to fulfil, along with data management and daily working of the operations.
Uses Server and open source databases
The enterprise resource planning system usually uses a Linux based Server, and is MySQL-based, one of the strongest open source databases available. The systems are independent, and do not depend on vendors and takes minimal resources for smooth functioning. It makes business sense for any industry to invest in an efficient enterprise resource planning system that not only integrates all departments and functions within a company, and gives a comprehensive view of the business, but also provides a dynamic environment that helps the customers to avail information. Availing of all this is possible only in an efficient enterprise resource planning system that can place the business firmly on the global market map.
Used across all industries
A unified database to store data for various functions is usually used by the Enterprise resource planning systems to achieve integration with different hardware and software systems that are used for various functions in the company. Earlier, enterprise resource planning systems were used in industries and focused on manufacturing related jobs, but today every industry, large or small is using ERP solutions to collaborate the various functions. From basic packages that cover only two functions (QuickBooks, for example, covers Payroll & Accounting) to complete solutions that cover multi functions, enterprise resource planning has come a long way and is an integral part of every industry. Stand-alone systems such as Manufacturing, warehousing, customer relations etc now can be combined by enterprise resource planning, making different networks and applications redundant.
Easily customisable
Another wonderful feature of enterprise resource planning systems is the easy customization and adaptability, bringing technology benefits successfully to the user. New programs such as SharePoint from Microsoft, which are browser-based collaboration and document-management platform and are actually Web 2.0 server applications, can be incorporated effectively into the ERP system. Enterprise resource planning systems keep ahead of technology, and create a more user friendly and dynamic environment, which of course lead to a more effective organization in terms of productivity and cost. The systems usually have features that allow the owner to upgrade or expand at their convenience. This is imperative for businesses to maintain steady growth, in face of globalization of markets. This technology is web based and can be accessed from anywhere in the world through secure VPN.
When choosing an ERP solution provider, ask yourself the following:
- Does the ERP solution provider understand your business?
- Does the ERP solution provider have sound knowledge and ability to provide the ERP solution required for the particular needs of your business?
- Will the solution scale with your anticipated business plan?
- How accessible is the provider, in particular once the solution is installed?
Mid-market businesses should ensure these questions are addressed before selecting an ERP provider. | 
