The world of ERP software is evolving rapidly. A strong ERP package that supports your company well in all aspects will help you realize your ambitions. These are the 4 most important challenges for 2022 to gain a competitive advantage with the help of your ERP system:
1. Have a standard package that is right up your alley
Very few organizations still work with a self-written ERP system or have a cartload of customizations in their ERP system. After all, the disadvantages of this are enormous; it is expensive, complicated and not future-proof. A standard package with little or no customization and conforming to the prescribed processes and way of working is much more common. But does that standard adequately fit your organization? A great goal for 2022 is to use a standard ERP system that feels like it fits your organization perfectly. That means working with a successful, popular software solution that specializes in your industry, but where you have the ability to mold the system to your liking through settings and flexible features.
2. Treat ERP as an integrated part of the IT landscape
ERP has long since ceased to be a standalone application. It is increasingly intertwined with other systems and solutions within the organization. Think, for example, of Microsoft Office, interfaces with suppliers and partners, a mobile application, the link with payroll, etc. It is becoming increasingly important to treat ERP not as a separate component, but as an integrated part of the complete IT landscape. A project to replace the ERP system should only exist as part of a long-term vision of the complete IT infrastructure. That could be a transition to the cloud or a digital transformation project or entering a new market. Think carefully about how ERP fits into the overall picture.
"New applications can be clicked onto Business Central like Lego bricks, so to speak."
3. Making it even easier to add external applications
An app for claiming expenses, an external planning tool or a handy scanning solution; every day you may come across new applications that make certain tasks easier, more pleasant and/or faster. You don't want to be held back by technological problems or limitations. For example, because it is complicated, expensive or even impossible to get the external application to communicate with your ERP system. With an up-to-date ERP system based on modern technology, you don't have to worry about this. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is an example of this. New applications can be clicked onto Business Central like Lego bricks, so to speak. In terms of technology, they connect seamlessly to the ERP system and you can immediately enjoy the benefits.
4. Make upgrading a non-event
Many project managers are at a loss when just thinking about upgrading an ERP system. Mapping processes, transferring customization, change management, getting setups right, data conversion, testing, documenting, etc. With a modern cloud solution, you're rid of that once and for all. No more a complex, expensive and time-consuming project to upgrade every few years, but every few months or even few weeks a small update that runs automatically and that you hardly notice. Set yourself a goal to make upgrading ERP a non-event by 2022.
These challenges are primarily technological in nature. However, do not lose sight of the most important thing: the business! Because ERP software is designed to optimally organize and automate your business processes so that you achieve the organizations' objectives and perform at a maximum level now and in the future.
