THINK ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solutions are only for large enterprises? Think again. Many ERP customers are small and midsize companies using solutions that have been designed specifically with their needs in mind. That includes the initial project cost as well as maintenance fees, which are lower than those of solutions aimed at the enterprise market.
“Although priced for SMEs, this does not mean that these solutions are lightweight in terms of functions and capabilities,” says Elaine Havenga, Head of Marketing, Seidor Africa. “They come with rich functionality and are able to support a business’s accounting and financials; sales and customer relationship management; purchasing and operations; inventory and distribution and reporting requirements. Importantly, they enable a business to gain efficiency and cut costs simultaneously.”
Havenga adds that remote project implementation is also a cost-saving factor. “Off-site consultancy for ERP project implementations and remote delivery are often the preferred approach when dealing with multi-site implementations. They can also be completed in just a few weeks, saving time as well as money.”
She says it is a myth that ERP solutions for the SME market are not customisable or scalable. They can grow with the business, and contain multiple modules, covering the needs of all departments in one solution. Many also have the ability to integrate to third-party applications and data.
“Many of our clients have reported that SAP Business One enables them to run their business 20% more efficiently, which ultimately leads to greater profitability,” says Havenga. “Imagine having all the tools needed to manage any area of business. This extends business capabilities beyond the core management function, enabling managers to streamline business processes and deliver value to all.”
