There is a lot of hype about the cloud, both in regard to enterprise resource planning (ERP) and in cloud computing in general. The question is, should you listen to the hype about ERP implementation on the cloud? The answer is “yes.” There are several reasons why using cloud-based ERP may be well worth your time.
1. ERP Is Less of a Commitment
You don’t have to make a long-term commitment to the cloud like you would with a system install on your local server. If you are unsure about cloud-based ERP, there are opportunities to make short-term commitments or partial commitments. Some approaches include ERP systems hosted off-site by a third party or multi-tenant software-as-a-service (SaaS) models.
2. ERP Implementation Comes with a Lower Cost and Provides Flexibility
Cloud implementation of ERP can be the more attractive option for any size business, but especially for smaller and more agile businesses. Because of its low-cost and flexibility, using the cloud is an ideal option for growing startups. The major benefit of a cloud system is that it will grow naturally with your company, so there is no need for expensive add-ons or new installs further down the line.
3. Include Remote Workers with ERP
Cloud ERP can be useful for larger, wide-reaching and international companies. In a business that employs remote workers, using a cloud system will make it much easier to integrate those employees into the system and allowing them to access whatever they need wherever they are and at whatever time they happen to be working.
4. As Your Business Grows, So Does ERP
The flexibility of cloud ERP makes it worthwhile for seasonal businesses. With the cloud you can easily scale up your ERP through your busy times and scale down during quieter months when less rigorous resource management is needed.
5. No Need for Your Own Server When You Implement ERP
Newer businesses will find cloud ERP advantageous, because it doesn’t require the investment in server equipment. Older businesses will find cloud ERP advantageous, because it doesn’t require server upgrades or the risk of overloading aging server equipment. When a company needs to do a server install, they could face a potentially costly meltdown.
Web-based ERP implementation will most likely be the best way for you to maximize your business efficiency, due to scalability, speed of implementation, and freedom from client-software. In short, cloud-based ERP is well worth a look.
About the Author: This is a guest post by Sandra Bellow on behalf of QAD. QAD offers cloud based ERP Implementation and solutions to global manufacturing companies.
