What Is Cloud ERP Software? A Guide to Its Benefits and Implementation

ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. ERP software helps businesses run smoothly by managing central processes and coordinating everyday operations. Core business functions, including invoicing, purchase orders, HR data, payroll, financial reporting and more, can all be managed within one software program or application. Plus, ERP software makes comparable data and KPIs more accessible for efficient and informed decision making.

Cloud ERP software is hosted online, which means that it can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, and that the software is maintained by the ERP provider off-site. Implementing a cloud ERP system will lead to positive outcomes for your business when handled correctly.

We’ll explore the benefits of cloud ERP here, as well as how you can go about implementing and integrating cloud-based ERP successfully.

Why Use Cloud ERP Software?

ERP software can improve daily business operations by modernizing and centralizing core procedures. With one software solution, you can eliminate standalone legacy programs and in doing so, simplify workflow, reduce inefficiency and reduce costs.

The benefits of cloud ERP are greater than those offered by legacy on-premises systems. This is because cloud-based ERP solutions can also offer:

• Continuous upgrades. Cloud ERP providers can deliver software improvements and new functionality as soon as they are available. This happens remotely so disruption is minimized.
• The latest reporting and analytic tools. The use of AI, machine learning and Big Data within ERP systems is changing fast. Legacy systems can only offer what are now quite archaic reporting tools, whereas when you invest in cloud-based ERP, you will be able to unlock the latest intelligent tools and technology.
• Unparalleled security. Backups, recovery and all security issues are handled remotely by ERP vendors. Providers use the best possible data security for all their clients, thus removing many of the risks posed to vulnerable small and medium enterprises using less secure on-site systems.
• Access to mobile ERP and work-from-anywhere solution. Cloud ERP is accessible from any internet-connected device, giving your personnel access to real-time information and reporting tools from anywhere in the world and making it an ideal workflow software for those working from home or out the office.
• Scalability. As your business grows, your cloud ERP can easily grow with you simply by increasing your data storage capacity.
• Even lower costs. Cloud-based ERP offers the opportunity to reduce costs associated with IT and IT maintenance staff as this will be managed remotely by the provider.

Implementing and Integrating Cloud-Based ERP Solutions

Implementing cloud ERP software has several major steps, namely:

• Planning the project by assessing requirements
• Selecting an ERP solution and the software modules you’ll need within it
• Configuring software and beginning data transfer
• Training staff
• Testing
• Going live
• Supporting within-organization-users and liaising with the ERP vendor

The pathway to a successful implementation is not smooth or straightforward. This is why 55%-75% of ERP migrations fail to meet all their objectives.

Challenges include:

• Being overwhelmed by the choice of cloud ERP providers
• Choosing the right ERP cloud solution and/or software modules for the business and its development needs
• Ensuring end users understand the project and its objectives
• Resistance to change within the organization
• Giving adequate attention to change management (i.e., establishing project structure and assigning roles)
• Providing appropriate training
• Ensuring sufficient testing
• Cost and time overruns

Cloud ERP projects require expertise and thorough planning if businesses are to avoid these common problems.

The Role of Independent ERP Consultants in Implementing Cloud ERP

Utilizing ERP project advisory consultants is an opportunity for your business to avoid the many pitfalls associated with implementing and integrating a new cloud ERP system. Here’s what their expertise can provide.

Finding the Best Cloud ERP on Your Behalf

There will be multiple ERP vendors wanting to compete for your project but not all will have a product that suits your organization’s needs, development goals, or budget. Independent ERP consultants can vet potential vendors without risk of bias to shortlist the best cloud based ERP and determine an ideally-suited solution.

To do this, the independent ERP consultant will work closely with your project leaders as an objective partner to understand the challenges you face and assess your requirements. Using their knowledge and industry insights will highlight advantages and disadvantages of cloud ERP services that you may not otherwise identify.

Cloud ERP implementation is complex, but an independent consultant can simplify the process for you.

Ensuring Your ERP Cloud Migration Stays on Budget and on Time

With the project management skills and experience of an independent ERP consultant, you can be confident that the migration will stay within budget and timeframes. During cloud ERP implementation and integration, they’ll smooth the process by ensuring your staff adapts quickly to the new system, improving productivity through the implementation stages.

Reducing Risk

Independent ERP consultants can undertake risk assessment and management processes on your behalf. With hands-on experience with the challenges of adapting to a new ERP system, the strategies to mitigate these, and problem-solving, external consultants are best placed to minimize the risks when implementing cloud ERP.

Undertaking Change Management

To combat cloud ERP implementation issues, independent ERP consultants can handle all elements by ensuring proper staff training occurs before the go-live, and managing expectations of the project from start to finish. Fear, uncertainty and resistance amongst your staff all have the power to derail a project. However, independent ERP consultants can ensure that the change is proactively managed.

Independent ERP Consultants in the UAE

At Affility Consulting, we work with organizations within a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, education, healthcare, F&B, hospitality, retail, and many more. We can advise you on the best cloud ERP solutions for your business, ensuring you overcome challenges and are able to grow your business. We understand how to choose and implement an ERP system successfully, and we have expertise and experience in ERP migration projects in many different industries.

To discuss your requirements for cloud ERP in the UAE, fill out our contact form today. We look forward to working with you.