UNIT IV

Analysis: Selection of ERP, SWOT analysis of various ERP products supply chain enabled ERP. ERP and
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) integration, ERP in manufacturing and non-manufacturing industries

ERP Selection Process

ERP Software
Before we dive into the ERP selection process, what is enterprise resource planning software? ERP is
business management software (accounting and operations oriented) that enables organizations to use one
system to manage business processes. ERP software has become the leading solution of choice for
growing businesses that want to maintain and improve their competitive edge.
Top 10 ERP Selection Criteria
1. The Functional Fit for Your Organization
2. Industry Experience
3. Price
4. ERP Vendor Viability
5. ERP Implementation Project Considerations
6. The Technology
7. Risk (and how to avoid it)
8. Scalability
9. References
10. Post Go Live

1. The Functional Fit for Your Organization

This might seem straight forward, but evaluating how the functionality of ERP software products and
services fit with your business is the most important (and time consuming) aspect in the ERP selection
process. Finding the best functional fit includes evaluating ERP software, watching ERP demos, and
meeting with solution consultants. It also includes internal work. One of the most helpful things you can
do during a selection project is facilitate internal discussions to determine your business requirements for
ERP and outline the functional areas to address. Key questions that can help shape these discussions are:
• What is outdated about your current system? Why are you considering a new ERP?
• What works well with your current business systems?
• What manual processes could you potentially automate?
• In what areas of the business are you lacking visibility – or have a hard time with reliable business
reporting?
• What other systems need to be integrated with the ERP?

The end result should be a detailed list of requirements for new ERP software solution. The list should be
prioritized, and agreed upon by key leaders within the organization – with buy-in from IT as well as the
overall executive team.
2. Industry Experience
Another good question to ask during an ERP selection is: what ERP software is used in your industry?
While not necessarily industry-specific, some ERP solutions are optimized to perform best in industries
such as manufacturing and distribution. This is an important question that can help narrow the list of the
ERP software you evaluate. Industry is a factor to consider not only with your software vendor (Oracle,
Microsoft, Infor, NetSuite etc.) but also with your implementation partner. Whether or not the vendor and
the implementation partner has had success in your industry is essential.
3. Price
There are a few areas to consider when it comes to the price of your ERP software and implementation.
Return on Investment
The ROI of a new ERP can be measured in a few ways.
• Are there are specific areas of the business where cost savings can be achieved through new
technology? For example better inventory management, faster financial close, automating manual or
time-consuming tasks.
• Are there technology costs that can be reduced through the new ERP? Cost savings can result from
a reduction in hardware or support, new software licensing agreements, or a reduced software footprint.
• What is the long-term ROI? There is no question that the initial software and implementation cost
will be a financial investment for your organization. What does the ROI need to be after year one, year
five, and beyond, to make the new technology worth it for your business?
• What capabilities will new ERP software enable? Faster ship times, better customer service,
streamlined business processes, operational efficiency, modern e-commerce, warehouse and inventory
management, real-time business reporting. These are a few of the potential new benefits that should be
considered during an ERP selection process.

What are other areas to consider when it comes to the price of ERP?
TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP (TCO)
There are direct and indirect costs to be factored in during your ERP selection process. Below are some of
the key costs to evaluate:
• Software licensing (how many users)
• Software modules and overall footprint (examples of modules includes: manufacturing, financials,
distribution, project management, order management, CRM etc.)
• Hardware (if needed)
• Cloud hosting
• Implementation
• Supporting software (for example warehouse barcoding, or other integrations with the ERP)
• Maintenance, training, and on-going support
PRICING MODEL – SOFTWARE LICENSING
Most ERP software today is offered as a monthly subscription, Software as a Service (SaaS) licensing
model.
IMPLEMENTATION COST
Your ERP implementation partner will provide you with a detailed statement of work that outlines cost,
scope of the project, key deliverables, important milestones, and the client’s business requirements.
Implementation consulting is usually billed by the hour, at a rate agreed upon before the project begins.

4. ERP Vendor Viability

The viability of an ERP software vendor is crucial to consider as far as ERP selection criteria, including:
• Product viability: how long has the product been on the market, what is the future software
roadmap, what is the research and development investment in the product
• Size of customer base: how many active customers use the software?
• Financial status: how solid is the software company?

5. ERP Implementation Project Considerations

Finding the right ERP consulting partner for your business is step one for any successful implementation
project and is a necessary aspect of ERP selection criteria. As you select your ERP software, and
implementation partner, below are some aspects of the implementation project to consider:
 • Timing for the business. Is it the right time to take on this project? If not, when? This is often a
difficult question. In most cases, there’s never the perfect time – however there might be better times
than others. For example, after a merger or acquisition might be the right time, or when deciding
between a major (expensive) upgrade of your current system versus new software. Otherwise, the right
time depends heavily on your team.
• People and executive support. An ERP implementation needs both executive support and
involvement, as well as upper management and other key internal leaders on the project.
• Methodology and a project plan. To be successful, an ERP implementation methodology is
fundamental. Thorough project planning and project communication tools are also keys to success.
6. The Technology
In addition to software functionality, there are other technology considerations that are important to the
ERP selection process. Best-in-class ERP software includes, at a minimum, these technology features:
• End user reporting tools – easier access to information, no development skills necessary
• Simplicity in UI and UX
• Business intelligence
• Data security
• Reliable system performance and response time – very limited downtime
• Ability to integrate with other systems
• Ability to make necessary customizations

7. Risk
Technology and ERP projects at the enterprise level inherently come with some risk. Selecting an ERP
software with functionality that fits your business, along with many of the other criteria on this list
(vendor viability, selecting the right partner, project planning, cost, executive support), goes a long way in
mitigating risk during an ERP implementation.
Taking the time to create a thorough map of the key business processes that are essential for the operations
of your organization, and using that throughout the ERP selection and implementation, will also negate
risk. Essential elements to map out include integrations with other systems as well as necessary ERP
customizations for your organization.
Change management and end-user training are also key areas to plan for in order to avoid risk.

8. Scalability
Managing the initial scope of an ERP software implementation is necessary to avoid risk and ensure
success. You will likely have a vision of future enhancements after the initial implementation. When
evaluating various ERP vendors, consider how the technology fits with your business strategy both today
and down the road. How will the software help facilitate and support future plans for your organization?
Whether future plans include growth, new markets, merging with another entity, the new technology you
select should mesh with the strategic direction of your organization.

9. References
Both ERP software vendors and implementation partners should have references (i.e. happy clients) they
can provide to you. Ask for references within your industry, and with similar business requirements.

10. Post Go Live

What is the on-going support and training plan? How will you handle any issues that arise? Whether it’s
building an internal support team, or finding an external partner (often your ERP implementation partner
will also offer managed support services) planning beyond go live will set you up for maximum return on
your ERP investment.
SWOT ANALYSIS(Oracle Application, Baan IV, SAP R/3, Ramco
Marshal)

Oracle Applications: Oracle Applications is the ERP package which has been developed
by Oracle Corporation The company has been present in the software market for quite a
long time with its proven and time tested Oracle products The company has a global
client base who use the range of Oracle products Some of the key features of the package
are described below:

Architecture
• Late entrant (1985+)
• Genuine client server but more of 2 Tier

• Grown from financials and manufacturing

• Less tight integration compared to others
• DBMS driven rather than application driven
• Loosely coupled systems

Strengths
• Industry leader in the enterprise market
• Everyone needs Oracle “engine” Great Gill
• Internal “beta site”
• Outstanding “courseware”
• Focused applications in specific areas

Weakness
• Dual Product (DBMS and ERP)
• Lacks tighter integration
Wedded to Oracle DBMS
Belated support to Windows NT
Non model-based development
• Not strong in India (though very strong in DBMS in India)

Opportunities
• Established clients easily move to Oracle Apps
• Financial services industry
• Manufacturing industry
• Special solution for Oil and Gas industry
• Special solution for media industry

Threats
• Dominance of SAP

• ERP is reference based industry

• Consultants’ indifference
 • Technology dominated approach versus Business dominated approach

BAAN IV: The Baan Company is a worldwide leader in enterprise wide business software
applications and consulting services for companies in the hybrid manufacturing,
automotive, electronics, process and heavy equipment and project services industries Its
corporate mission is to provide companies with innovative business software solutions
which are aligned with a company’s organizational structure, business practices and
operational procedures.

The Baan Company is a leading provider of enterprise and inter-enterprise business

software solutions. The company’s family of products is designed to help corporations
maintain a competitive advantage in the management of critical business processes by
means- of a product architecture that lends itself to -fast implementations and ease of
change.

Baan IV is an integrated family of manufacturing, distribution, finance and transportation,

service, project and Orgware modules. The solutions offer a new concept in business
management software-that incorporates and goes beyond ERP Using the principle of
Dynamic Enterprise Modelling (DEM) implemented via its Orgware capabilities, Baan IV
enables a company to match its specific business processes and organizational model with
the extensive functionality of the Baan applications Baan IV is specially designed to meet
the needs of key vertical markets Furthermore, Baan also extends supply chain support
beyond the boundaries of an organization to support tradingpartner management as well
Some of the key features of Baan IV are described below:
Architecture
• Unix and Client Server (1978+)
• Uses object technology more than anyone else

• Quick to adapt to new technology - DCOM

• DEM Model based application development
• Well documented three phase development
• Conference room pilot (rapid prototyping)

Strengths
• Manufacturing industry needs well met
• Reasonably complex models
• Model based development
• Blessings from “Big Six”
• Suits 5MB sector well
• Baan Series addresses version problems
• Truly open with provision for “mix” and “match” Wider support for hardware and
software
• True support for n tier architecture
• Multi location development
Weaknesses
• Small compared to SAP
• DEM not fully integrated with product No industry specific solutions
• Late entrant into Fortune 100 companies Not very large site
• Limited client base
• Yet to break into major accounts Courseware availability Training infrastructure

Opportunities
• Growing faster due to technology leadership
• SME Sector
• New “packaged” option reduces time/cost implementation
• Conducive organizational style for innovation
Threats
• No new major accounts to capture (they are all gone)
• SAP’s ability to do cost cutting
• Less aggressive marketing
• CIO’s backing SAP RJ3 .

SAP R/3: SAP was founded in 1972 and has grown to become the world’s leading software
company’ SAP is a German company but operates all over the world, with 28 subsidiaries
and affiliates and six partner companies maintaining offices in 40 countries.

SAP is both the name of the company and the ERP package The SAP system comprises a
number of fully integrated modules which cover every aspect of business management The
system has been developed to meet the increasing needs of commercial and other
organizations that are striving for greater efficiency and effectiveness While many software
companies have looked at areas of business and developed systems to support those areas,
SAP has looked toward the whole business They offer a unique system that supports nearly
all areas of business on a global scale SAP provides the opportunity to replace large
numbers of independent systems that have been developed
and implemented in established organizations with one single mod1,llar system Each
module performs a different function but is designed to work with other modules It is fully
integrated, offering true compatibility across business functions: One of the key features
of SAP RJ3 are described below:

Architecture
• Both mainframe, (RJ2) (1975+)
• Client Server (RJ3) (1988+)
• Internet (SAP Java, RJ3 Ver4) (1996+)
• Truly scalable through n tier architecture
 • Large software with very large number of features (mostly unused)
Robust,industry class

Strengths
• World leader with impressive accounts
• Largest business processes embedded
• Great reference model
• Tools for all round support
• Most generic model (not truly object based)
• Support built in data warehouse
• Big Six “near total” support

Weakness
• Monolith, large software - very resource hungry
• Difficult to master and use
• Very expensive from every count
• Overkill for many organizations
• Too simplistic models
• Overly centrist, rigid

Opportunities
• Early lead advantage
• Ability to “price out” for SME
• Brand Image to hold on to the market
• Large consultant base
• Great business model

Threats
• Victim of early success

• Market perception as “old” “overweight”

New players like People Soft edging out with better practices Difficult to
adapt to new technologies.

RAMCO MARSHAL: This Software is developed by the Indian Company

which has a good global base in the field of ERP. This is the only Indian
company except for a few other small players in the field of ERP. The
company has excellent Research and Development facilities to help it in
developing world class ERP solutions. The focus of the product is on the
domestic market as well as the global market. This product is suitable for
small and medium enterprises without any industry specific solutions. Some
of the key features of the product are described below under the following
heads:
Architecture
• Client server Architecture (1989+) Wedded to Microsoft
• Win NT (Unix), Great Gill, SQL Server DCOM Based
• Well integrated suite from grounds-up Designed for distribution

Strengths
• Engineered using 80s technology
• Focus using Microsoft Technology
• GUI including multimedia support
• Early learning through internal use
• Global client base
• 1000+ Engineers in Chennai
• Better support for Indian clients

Weakness
• Not available on many platforms
• Does not support n tier architecture

• Non robust software engineering

• Lacks access to ‘‘world class practices”
• Implementation Methodology not well developed
• Blessing of Big Six consultants, Rating Agencies

Opportunities
• World class software product from India
• Access to high quality, large pool of manpower
• Partnership with Microsoft - with the winning combination (Wintelco)
• Single product
• “Swadeshi” spirit
• Better support due to limited platform

Threats
• Suffer from “Image” - No rating
• Too small in size (70M Vs 1-5)
• “Shake out” in the market
• No industry specific solutions
• ERP too “mission critical” to be left to “babies”
 EDI vs. ERP

ERP and EDI are different in some ways. First, they differ in their meanings. As earlier hinted,
ERP is a software suite with several integrated applications. It enables a business to gather,
store, organize and analyze data from different business areas. A typical ERP application will
offer modules to help a business track Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, inventory, sales
orders, purchase orders, payroll, etc.
EDI is a method through which businesses exchange documents with each other. It supports
communication by enabling entities to send documents electronically. EDI came to replace
faxing and post-mailing as means of sharing business correspondence. EDI allows users to
exchange purchase orders, sales orders, shipping notices, invoices, payment documents,
acknowledgments, shipping status statements, etc.

EDI does not need ERP to perform its roles. However, ERP uses EDI technology to facilitate
the real-time transmission of data. That is another way in which EDI and ERP systems differ.
The two systems are similar in that they reduce the risk of human error.
EDI carries out document exchange via computers rather than humans. ERP automates every
business process and activity to reduce data entry errors. Thus EDI ERP systems minimize
paperwork and human interventions. Also, they lower administrative costs and boost
productivity.

What is EDI in ERP?

The modern EDI solutions are easy to merge with ERP. EDI and ERP integration seem like the
future as even the entry-level ERP vendors provide embedded EDI. A combination system can
offer the benefits of EDI in ERP.
The integrated system is ideal for most industries, including manufacturing, wholesale
distribution, transportation, etc. If your business exchanges large volumes of documents
daily, Edi in ERP might work for you. Even small businesses that aim to expand fast should
consider EDI when implementing their ERPs.

EDI and ERP

Need for EDI in ERP

What are the advantages of having components of EDI in ERP? These include the following:
• More effortless synchronization of data – Both EDI and ERP allow the electronic transmission
of files. Thus, they eliminate paperwork and save a lot of time. And to view synchronized files,
users can log into their ERP systems and view them. They do not have to rely on fax anymore.
• Improved visibility – A supply chain can be long and complicated. Luckily, EDI integration
with ERP increases the visibility of even the most complex supply chains. Due to better
visibility, a company can process orders faster, shorten its order to cash cycle, and welcome
partners already using EDI.
• Efficient communication – EDI supports seamless file exchanges between departments and
organizations. It essentially reduces paper-based communication. As a result, EDI integration
ERP software reduces procurement costs and streamlines the purchasing process.
• Promotes customer care – How your customer care department responds to customers’
questions matters. If customers have to deal with paperwork, the retrieval and exchange process
will be long and tiring. EDI in ERP simplifies customer data retrieval and promotes a quick
resolution process. Prompt resolution translates to a happy customer who comes back over and
over.
• Quicker order processing – Customers everywhere love a business that serves them quickly
and effectively. A combined EDI and ERP system can quickly help your business process
orders and respond to issues faster. They will also reduce manual work and alleviate fatigue.
Besides, if you process orders quickly, you can make more sales.
• Expand your business faster – A company that wishes to form new partnerships must be willing
to pay the price. Progressive organizations can easily accept allying with a business that uses
an EDI ERP system. Thus, incorporate EDI into your communication systems to obtain more
valuable tenders and opportunities.

EDI ERP Integration & its benefits

Are you a wholesale distributor with a local or global supply chain? If yes, you should explore
the benefits of having EDI in your ERP. Having EDI services in ERP will promote
communication between your organization and its trading partners. EDI boosts front-end
communication while ERP controls and records back-end communication.
Connected data streams between EDI and ERP platforms can give you the best of both worlds.
Despite these advantages, you must do a correct and thorough EDI integration. More than
seventy percent of integrations fail, leading to wastage of time and money. So, we insist on
carrying out the process more meticulously via professional help.
EDI to ERP integration can help make your supply chain more visible and cost-efficient if you
do it right. A thorough integration process allows data to flow between your front-end and
back-end. The automation procedure removes manual data entry and human error.
The seamless process starts at the front end, where you have EDI. It enables the easier and
quicker exchange of a business document like a sales order. Once the document arrives, it will
automatically tally and convert into an acceptable internal document format like XML or Idoc.
Next, the sales order will enter your ERP systems like Ximple Solution, SAP, or Netsuite.
Finally, users will view the sales order in a language they can comprehend via the help of an
API application.
An automated ERP and EDI software solution works better than a traditional one. The
traditional one could not merge as each option had its boundaries. Organizations would try to
make the two software tools work together by entering EDI data into ERP. Creating a data flow
manually was still a solution, but it was strenuous. Today, EDI systems provide a way to
integrate with any ERP software.
Because of ERP EDI integration, companies have improved data accuracy. It also increases
business cycle speed and enhances supply chain visibility. Your organization can make more
sales, reach its profit targets, and expand with increased business cycles. We cannot forget that
the two software systems automate only accurate data.
Without human hands coming into contact with business data, it is less likely to have errors. A
lack of misplaced values in data can eliminate headaches for everyone.

ERP vs EDI Key Difference

ERP EDI

It comes with a name, Enterprise Resource It comes with a name, Electronic Document
Planning. Exchange.

ERP is systemized with operational tools EDI is an exact technology for working in
such as WMS or job costing solutions. B2B process.

EDI provides traceability and integration of IT

EDI brings productivity and efficiency. EDI
systems. EDI eliminates paper documents and
runs with the process itself.
introduces automation.

It exchanges documents for large as well as

It is undoubtedly a heavy tool that needs
small businesses. EDI is essential and saves
creative planning and perfect implementation.
time & money with more accuracy.

ERP comes to train employees and help

employees just to enhance efficiency and ERP is a non-constraint-based tool.
productivity.

It eliminates and automates manual processes ERP is a non-constraint-based tool in

and synchronizes data. comparison of EDI ERP.

It exchanges documents for large as well as

It is an effective tool that can be re-formed
small businesses. EDI is essential saves time
according to using benefits.
& money with more accuracy.
ERP Software in the Manufacturing Industry

ERP software is used to manage daily activities such as procurement, risk management,
accounting, supply chain operations, and project management. It is a platform that provides a
wide range of business functions such as financial management, human capital management,
supply chain management, customer management, inventory and work order management, and
so on. ERP software implementation in organizations can reduce inventory costs by 25% –
30% and raw material costs by around 15%. The software facilitates the flow of cross-
functional information, improving productivity and decision-making.
The global ERP software market was worth $50.44 billion in 2021 and is expected to be
worth $117.68 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 9.87% from 2021 to 2030.
An ERP system offers a standalone solution for manufacturing businesses, enabling
information access about the company at any time and from a location without burdening
internal resources. It has improved managerial abilities to manage product data from various
angles.

Importance of ERP in a manufacturing industry

Real-time Information
Manufacturing ERP software automates all business operations and provides accurate, real-
time data. ERP boosts efficiency and productivity by guiding users through complex processes,
preventing data re-entry, and improving production, order completion, and delivery functions.
Flexibility
ERP software programs are dependable, adaptable, and customizable. They can be customized
to meet the particular needs of a business and are not a one-size-fits-all solution. ERP systems
can also change to meet the evolving requirements of a developing company.
Reduce cost
ERP software reduces administrative and operational costs by providing a single source of
accurate, real-time data. It enables manufacturers to manage operations proactively, preventing
disruptions and delays, breaking down information bottlenecks, and assisting users in making
faster decisions.

Key features of manufacturing ERP system

Manufacturing ERP systems provide a wide range of features to improve business functions.
• Inventory Management
Effective inventory management is critical for manufacturing companies. Inventory
management includes tracking inventory, product status, raw material management, purchase
order tracking, finished goods, and overall control. Modern manufacturing ERP systems
include methods for inventory management, just-in-time delivery, and material requirement
planning (MRP), which aid in the efficient management of inventories.
• Compliance and risk management
To keep track of different compliance and regulations of business, ERP systems include
software to manage risk and compliance. Today’s ERP systems are designed with compliance
and regulation features to assist in the management of human resource regulations at every
stage and information security.
• Quality Control
Quality control is a set of standards that ensures that a manufactured product meets the
organization’s quality goals. Quality is a critical success factor. The product had to be
thoroughly examined and tested as part of quality assurance. ERP software aids in the tracking
and monitoring of various quality management processes through alert mechanisms and
monitoring at all levels.
• Process automation
Technology makes it easier to automate everyday tasks, saving man-hours and virtually
eliminating the possibility of human error. Complete process automation is provided by
manufacturing ERP, which integrates a number of processes, including sales, purchase records,
stock, human resources, and others. Automation saves time and allows organizations to access
real-time data and exercise greater control.
• Distribution and supply chain management
Distribution and supply chain management oversees various elements such as packaging,
warehousing, logistics, point of sale, vendors, and suppliers for multi-store brands and retail
chain businesses. An effective distribution and supply chain management process is crucial for
a company to last and grow.
• Asset management
Good manufacturing ERP software includes an asset management module that controls
physical assets and equipment of the factory. It helps businesses in lowering risk and expenses
while boosting uptime and productivity.
• Finance and Accounting
ERP systems for manufacturing provide complete management of the entire business. The
finance and accounting module tracks all financial activity, documentation by integrating
various reports and business intelligence tools. It makes it possible for a business to precisely
track the procedure and formulate plans.
Future trends in ERP for manufacturing industries
Cloud Migration
Cloud migration is extremely beneficial to mid-sized businesses. Legacy systems and other
ERP applications have high infrastructure and maintenance costs. Cloud ERP, on the other
hand, can be used with any computer or laptop that has an internet connection. Many employees
can use cloud software for a low and reasonable cost because it is subscription-based. This
provides small businesses with additional benefits.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is one of the upcoming future ERP trends. Artificial intelligence
algorithms are made to think and act like people, analyzing problems and making decisions. In
the manufacturing industry, AI-enabled tools integrated with ERP applications help companies
save time when analyzing large amounts of data. All of these tasks are handled by AI, which
sends notifications via software resulting in a business process that is more streamlined and
optimized.
Two Tier Systems
This kind of ERP is primarily utilized by mid-sized businesses as well as businesses with
multiple locations. The first tier consists of the legacy system used by management to manage
master data. All other subsidiaries use the second tier. The software in the second tier can be
altered to meet the needs of various departments. The maintenance of master data is so
important that there should be no duplication in the system. Due to a centralized database that
completely ensures the correct data is on track, this type of ERP is growing in popularity.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things tracks real-time data about tools and vehicles when integrated via cloud-
based ERP systems. To ensure efficiency, the tools and machines should be regularly
maintained; by enabling sensor devices on tools that can immediately detect a defect and send
a replacement request via ERP applications. ERP’s real-time data assists businesses in
improving asset management, forecasting, real-time business insights, and so on.
Enterprise Resource Planning Software can help automate workflows, improve supply chain
visibility, and facilitate broad communication. Manufacturing is a rapidly changing industry,
and Companies that grasp top ERP systems for manufacturing can hold a significant position
in the market.

The Non-Manufacturing Industries Embracing Cloud ERP

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) softwarehas historic roots in the manufacturing industry.
For decades, manufacturers and distributors have been using this technology to help organize
all the intricate and moving pieces involved in producing, storing, and transporting goods
around the world.

While manufacturing is still the industry that uses ERP systems most frequently, the advent of
cloud technology has introduced more ease and affordability to cloud-based ERP solutions than
ever before. As a result, more and more industries are embracing ERP technology to streamline
operations and organize complex business systems all in one universal software.

ERP providers are constantly improving cloud ERP product suites and usability to cater to the
growing number of industries investing in ERP tools. As part of this growth in the industry,
we’re seeing high levels of customization and specialization come into the ERP market.

For example, solutions offered by software giants Oracle ERP and Sage ERP are serving a
multitude of companies across varying industries by developing systems and tools that can be
highly tailored to the needs of various, specific industries and businesses. Other ERP vendors,
like Jonas Construction ERP, are focusing on extremely specialized ERPs that fulfill all the
unique needs of a particular industry.

While ERP is an undeniable necessity for the manufacturing industry, cloud-based ERP
systems have a broad appeal and a host of benefits for many other kinds of companies. There
are key industries that are adopting ERP at a higher rate than others, and experiencing benefits
much faster thanks to cloud technology.

Construction ERP

Construction companies must juggle a variety of important business components to ensure

building and remodeling projects are completed correctly and on-time. Furthermore, to remain
profitable in a bustling and highly competitive industry, they must also have strong
organization for financials, costs, and other project details that are pertinent to their ultimate
bottom line.

ERP solutions are being used more frequently in the construction industry, and give contractors
and construction business owners the tools they need to manage complex projects and track
financials in one streamlined system. ERP systems tailored for the construction industry
contain modules that are specific to their needs, providing tools and features that are designed
to support successful construction business operations and profitability.
Healthcare ERP

The healthcare industry is both driven by and regulated through the proper collection, storage,
and use of patient data. Additionally, tracking financial health and ascertaining profits is an
arduous process in this industry due to the complexity of medical insurance, patient billing,
supply and operating costs, and more.

Many hospitals and large healthcare organizations are implementing ERP systems to streamline
operations and accurately track complex financials. ERP systems designed with healthcare
modules are particularly helpful for increasing data security and accuracy, boosting
productivity, lowering costs, and simplifying administration and back office tasks in healthcare
organizations.

Food and Beverage ERP

The food and beverage industry can be very lucrative, but it’s also a demanding and complex
industry that contains many of the same operational needs as companies who sell non-food
products, such as inventory management, vendor relations, warehousing and storage, product
shipments and delivery, etc. However, the food and beverage industry is also governed by strict
federal regulations that control food quality and safety for customers.

ERP solutions can be very beneficial to companies in the food and beverage industry because
they offer all the features and tools needed to track and analyze business operations, but they
also provide compliance features to help companies manage regulations, maintain food quality
and safety, and avoid hefty fines or brand-damaging illnesses caused by improperly stored or
transported food.

Retail ERP

The retail industry is busy and complex, and success in this field relies upon being able to bring
quality goods to market, overdeliver on customer expectations, and stay connected with all the
integral partners needed to maintain competitive leverage.

ERP solutions are becoming more heavily utilized in the retail industry because they can help
companies to:

Track supplies, vendors, and shipments efficiently

Manage all operations and vendor collaborations in a centralized system

Manage sales, orders, and inventory in one system to keep operations flowing smoothly

Keep pace with market trends and customer demands with real-time analytics