Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are robust solutions designed to help businesses improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance employee responsiveness. These solutions keep key information well-organized and readily accessible, so business owners and employees always have the data they need to promote smart management and streamlined growth. If you don't have an ERP or you're using an on-site ERP solution, there are some compelling reasons to consider sourcing this through the cloud.

Easier Implementation

Image via Flickr by BrotherUK

Many common barriers to implementation of an ERP system center around the time and effort that's required to get this type of software up and running. Business owners often shrink from the high costs associated with:

• Lengthy and complex installation procedures
• Extensive hardware, software, and infrastructure needs
• IT staffing requirements for maintaining on-site solutions
  
  

A cloud ERP eliminates these issues by providing business owners with a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) option. Hosted offsite, the program requires minimal staffing from within the organization. Infrastructure is handled in the cloud, making implementation quick and simple. Utilizing the cloud, you may finally find a feasible approach for affordable business growth.

Flexible Scalability

If you purchase an ERP that's hosted on-site, you may find that you're somewhat limited as far as growth. If your installation only handles a certain number of customers, you'll have to deal with the cost, time, and complexities of an upgrade when you scale beyond that point. A cloud ERP, however, can provide seamless growth within the same system. Since your storage is handled off-site, you don't need to adjust your infrastructure to manage more. Cloud systems offer the flexibility you need to boost growth quickly and efficiently.

Outstanding Support

As a small business, you're likely limited with your staffing. A cloud ERP can help do the job of several key individuals. Business intelligence and reporting tools can generate powerful reports to inform your key decisions. With easier access to client information, a smaller staff of customer service agents can do more for your growing client base. Off-site IT management will allow you to keep your on-site tech staff to a minimum, while still avoiding major issues or downtimes. Guaranteed uptime of cloud ERPs is usually around 99.5 percent, offering nearly unbeatable reliability.

Secure Systems

Cloud-based systems offer outstanding security. They're in a highly competitive marketplace where safety is a prime concern. Therefore, these providers go above and beyond to make sure your information is protected. Keeping your ERP on-site isn't the failproof security solution that some individuals mistake it for. Without a dedicated security engineer or cybersecurity analyst, your system can still experience major vulnerabilities. Cloud ERP systems maintain a full IT security staff to provide enterprise-class security to businesses of all sizes.

If you're looking for a smart path to scalability, a cloud-based ERP system is a solution that's worth exploring. You can gain agility and position yourself for rapid pain-free growth by relying on a system that's made to grow alongside you. Whether you're reaching out to a global audience or simply expanding across town, the right cloud ERP will simplify the job.