Companies are constantly adapting their business processes to meet the rapid changes in the markets. The number of companies that are also expanding their ERP system to do so is also increasing: 62% are planning to add additional functions to their ERP software in the next two years, according to a study by PAC. SMEs from the manufacturing and retail sectors are focusing on seven topics in particular for the coming year. The ERP specialist Pro Alpha has compiled them:

1. play at the top internationally

SMEs are ideally positioned for further expansion abroad: An article in the scientific journal "Journal of Product Innovation Management" recently analyzed the recipe for success: despite scarce resources and high costs, domestic companies score points with product and process innovations, delivery reliability, service orientation, a high level of market expertise and product quality, according to the authors. In order to fully develop these qualities in a new target market, ERP software is required that supports intercompany business by seamlessly exchanging systems, versions and clients. The language and legal requirements are mapped in suitable country versions.

2. link the store floor with the ERP

The networking of technical and commercial processes must not end at the production hall gate. This is why it has long been possible to record and evaluate operating data from production and feed it into subsequent processes. Relatively new, however, are the possibilities to control the machines directly from the order-managing system, the ERP software. A lack of standards or an older machine fleet are no longer an obstacle. In 2019, more and more systems and machines will communicate directly with the ERP system in both directions.

3. exploit mobile application possibilities

Mobility is a key factor driving digitalization, be it in production, distribution, logistics, sales or service. Accordingly, the Trovarit study "ERP in Practice 2018/2019" ranks mobile ERP use among the top 5 ERP trends, as it did last year. For mobile use to be a success story, applications for handheld devices, tablets, etc. must be geared towards consumer apps and also cover complex ERP processes.

4. keeping agility and stability in balance

ERP systems used to be monolithic blocks with long implementation times and complex customizing. Agility is the order of the day. But for all their flexibility, companies need stable backbone systems that handle their business processes reliably and securely. In this area of conflict between agility and stability, ERP systems are developing into platforms with a stable core that can be configured and expanded flexibly and modularly and can be operated on-premise and in the cloud as required. In addition, the adaptation of software to business processes is also becoming increasingly simplified.

5. ensure data quality

Data is the foundation for the optimal use of an ERP system. However, companies are currently only utilizing around half of the value creation potential of their data: One of the main hurdles is likely to be poor quality. However, the completeness, accuracy and clarity of data is becoming increasingly important due to increasing automation. Half-hearted cleansing projects are therefore doomed to failure. Data quality management integrated into the ERP system has a lasting quality-enhancing effect.