The modern business environment is becoming more complex and competitive. Ventures are looking for a holistic solution to their technology needs.
An ERP system offers a single platform with numerous tools to help with business management and a competitive advantage over rival companies. Here is a guide for ERP system integration.
What is ERP Integration?
Since enterprises will invest in several digital tools to improve their business operations and profitability, there is a need for ERP software to function with the other applications. A centralized system makes information easily accessible while improving efficiency in operations. ERP system integration combines with other business applications.
It is advisable to consider examples of ERP system Malaysia products compatibility with existing programs. If the apps do not synchronize well, it will hamper their functionality and negatively affect your desired outcome.
Business processes like marketing, e-commerce, and customer service matter when choosing a point-to-point integration platform. Also, how you want to store and utilize business data ensures you pick a platform that connects well with other tools.
ERP system integration creates a seamless information flow and enhances productivity. Businesses can have a programmer customize ERP software to make it compatible with other programs.
Alternatively, enterprises can ensure ERP system integrations using external hardware or a cloud-based platform to help connect several digital tools. Besides improving operations, the initiative is vital for scaling up a business.
Why Should You Do ERP Integration?
You may wonder what ERP systems are and why you should integrate them into your business. Here are some reasons to do it;
- To Improve Data Flow
Previously spreadsheets were adequate for data entry and manipulation. However, industries are moving away from the practice due to its rigidity in how data flows within an organization. ERP system integration will improve data sharing in any business and its stakeholders.
- For Error Minimization
A manual data entry increases the likelihood of human errors while inputting information into different platforms can create inconsistencies. ERP software integration can minimize the mistakes which can be costly to businesses by automating the process and offering a single database to use.
- To Make Data Available in Real-Time
Access to real-time data is critical for business process efficiency, especially in customer service. Implementing an ERP integration project will make data accessible to every department. Workers get information in real time and can work on the same project concurrently.
- Improve Conversion of Leads to Sales
Without an integrated systems approach, businesses cannot effectively target the numerous potential customers in their company database and lose sales opportunities. ERP system integration helps with every stage in the lead conversion process. A centralized lead generation platform will increase the results and reduce conversion time.
- For Better Team Collaboration
Teams working from different platforms will find inconsistencies in information, and it will be challenging to collaborate. But ERP system integration brings everything in one place and improves the workflow. It ensures all departments are on the same page and coordinate their operations.
- Reduced Maintenance Costs
Although investing in an ERP system requires a significant initial investment, its operational costs are much lower than using a single application for every business process. It reduces the maintenance costs a business incurs on software solutions.
Benefits of ERP Integration
Since you have background information on ERP system integration, you can understand its role in business management. Here are the benefits of implementing the digital strategy;
Automated Business Processes
Enterprises encounter loads of data in their daily operation with different business management tools collecting the information.
Integrating ERP with other applications automates the process and creates a centralized database. Staff will not need to input data into the system, which will be counterproductive as ERP pulls it from the applications.
Single Source of Truth
An ERP system ensures businesses have a single truth source by keeping their information up to date. Every department will be getting real-time data from the platform. It helps synchronize the records, which helps with information accuracy and consistency across the company.
Accuracy of Operations
Enterprise resource planning ERP software helps with data accuracy, which is essential in business operations. It averts the risk of employees making costly errors during data entry.
Still, an ERP software automates processes and improves customer service by ensuring customers get what they order.
Efficiency of Time Spent
Manual processes are cumbersome and take a lot of time to complete. ERP system integration will save time as automation makes data entry faster. It creates efficiency, and workers can spend time on other tasks.
Enhanced Workflow
ERP system integration improves business operations and streamlines workflow. It makes it easy for management to schedule tasks for each employee on the platform.
Departments can view what they need to accomplish and work on them depending on the priority. Also, it allows several users to work on the platform and eliminates task duplication.
Accelerated Sales Conversions
Integration of ERP systems with digital marketing tools improves revenues by accelerating and increasing leads that convert to sales.
The platform pulls consumer data from other applications making it available to the sales and marketing team. In turn, it increases the number of potential customers to target for sales conversion and retention.
Different Types of ERP Integration
Below are the ERP system examples and types of integration in businesses;
1. E-Commerce
Ecommerce allows enterprises to interact with numerous people and have lots of information about the people they are dealing with. It includes details about a customer, financial transactions, shipping location, and marketing lead generation.
Integrating the ecommerce platform with the enterprise resource planning application avails the data to all departments. Also, it implements e-commerce strategies better by providing uniformity in the information shared.
2. CRM
Businesses can maintain records about their clients using customer relationship management software. ERP system integration with CRM helps with demand and supply. The system ensures customers get the specific item they want.
In addition, it enhances performance in the supply chain and aids lead generation for target marketing. Synchronizing the two systems will create consistency in the consumer data within the company.
3. Project Management
A business must work with lots of data when implementing a project. It includes details about the personnel, tasks, and timelines to follow. Although ERP will have tools to help with project management, it would be best to integrate a separate application with the system for better results.
ERP system integration will provide real-time information on a project’s progress. Management can schedule tasks depending on the urgency and accomplish them within the set timelines.
4. Business Intelligence
The tech helps with complex business logic for better decision-making. Business intelligence will use data to provide an actionable solution. Access to information will empower workers to perform better and enhance collaboration between teams. Also, it promotes transparency in the decision-making process.
5. EDI
Transferring data electronically is essential for businesses and their stakeholders. Integrating the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) program with ERP is necessary for a seamless process.
It will support e-commerce initiatives by making logistics tasks more manageable and improving the process. ERP system integration makes sending or receiving supply records like orders and invoices easy.
6. EAM
ERP system integration with Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software will promote better utilization of resources. It optimizes the tasks, makes the process more efficient, and synchronizes data from other departments to aid businesses in managing their assets.
How to Integrate ERP with Your Business Applications?
Businesses can utilize iPaas system integrator for ERP integration with digital management applications. Below are the steps to follow when integrating the system;
1. Add System Credentials
All business management software will have credentials; the first step in ERP integration is configuring it. The administrator can add users and customize the system according to the business needs.
2. Create Flows
The step entails creating a template that establishes the standard approach to how the enterprise resource planning system interacts with other software. It will determine how the programs transfer data to the centralized platforms.
In addition, it sets out how people can execute commands such as creating, reading, updating, and deleting information from the system.
3. Configure Integration Pipes
We refer to the ERP system’s data points as pipes. The next step involves determining the data points to include in the enterprise resource planning system.
Some standard pipes have product, inventory, customer, and supply chain data. Businesses must configure all applications connecting to the ERP to link similar data streams.
4. Set Up Mapping and Modifiers
Data fields in the different business management programs are similar. In this stage, you will use business logic to determine the interaction of data fields in the various applications linked together.
Since ERP system integration makes software interdependent, map the fields to similar ones. The modifiers will synchronize the data collection across all platforms.
5. Enable Auto Mode
Enabling the auto mode aids with the verification of ERP integration with other business management software. You set the schedule and frequency of synchronization. The system should go live.
It indicates that the connections are working as intended. After the auto mode is active, the ERP system integrator will do the rest.
The ERP system integration process is complex and will require someone with IT skills to accomplish it. It is advisable to have tech-savvy personnel handle the tasks for your business.
Typical Challenges in ERP Integration
Although ERP integration is beneficial to businesses, there are challenges enterprises face while implementing the strategy. Here are some of the typical problems:
Picking the Right ERP Integration Approach
Besides selecting the ideal ERP software, picking an ERP system integrator is more challenging. It would help to consider the business needs when integrating the system with other applications.
You must know how an ERP integration platform works to identify the best suited for your business. Discussing with a vendor what you want to achieve with the technology will help get the proper application.
An expert in the field can help develop a strategy for ERP systems integration and avert the risk of buying software that does not work well with other programs.
Need for Maintenance to Update the System
Businesses need to update ERP systems whenever there are changes in software connecting to the platform. Failure to maintain a current database or edit fields as necessary will affect the system’s performance and success.
However, it would be challenging for enterprises to undertake maintenance tasks if they do not have the personnel to do the job. They will have to hire experts for the work.
Unsupported Data Format and Type
Sometimes ERP will not support a particular data type or format from the other integrated systems and software. It would help to know if your selected ERP software can work with data from other applications.
The data flow between the platforms should be seamless to achieve the desired results.
Limited Customizable ERP Solutions
Every business is different and will need a customizable application depending on the needs. However, there are limited customizable ERP solutions, as most have a fixed interface.
It is advisable to select a service provider offering the opportunity for businesses to personalize the software to fit into their processes.
Lack of Experts in ERP Integration
Most enterprises find it challenging to manage a system integrate ERP software because they do not have experts in-house. Outsourcing the service from professional companies or vendors will assist businesses in overcoming the challenge.
Successful ERP Integration Strategy with Bluecrystal
Bluecrystal is a leading firm and trendsetter in digital solutions for all businesses. The company has skilled personnel to help with an ERP systems integration project and ensure success with the strategies. Below are their services;
1. CCH® Tagetik CPM
The corporate performance management software from Bluecrystal is more versatile than other market options. It helps with business intelligence by utilizing a company’s operational and financial data.
Its features surpass the basic ones in standard CPM solutions; The available tools help with the following;
- Budgeting and Forecasting: it helps enterprises develop prudent operational and financial strategies through predictive analysis.
- Supply chain: CCH® Tagetik CPM will provide an overview of the supply chain lifecycle for better planning and management.
- Performance management: KPIs help gauge how businesses perform against the set objectives.
- Accounts management: the application supports accounting work like bookkeeping and reporting.
2. Property ERP System
Businesses in the real estate industry should adopt property ERP systems in digitization strategies. The system helps with front and back office operations. It automates the process making them more manageable, and assists with all property management functions.
It helps maintain updated data and makes information readily available across the departments. Still, it secures data as the system utilizes advanced security features to safeguard the information it holds.
Property ERP systems improve customer service by promoting good relationships between businesses and customers. With an enhanced consumer experience, enterprises can boost sales and maintain their client base.
3. Travel ERP System
The system will streamline office operations for travel companies and fits any business regardless of size. Utilizing the software will transform processes and provide a competitive edge over rivals.
Customers can access all information they need from a single platform, including the available packages and costs. It has a robust database allowing people to search for whatever they want and get results within a few seconds.
Apart from helping with customer service, the system has accounting tools. Travel businesses can use the feature to evaluate their financial health and comply with the industry’s accounting software requirements.
Travel ERP systems assist companies with marketing campaigns: agencies can generate leads from a hybrid integration platform for growth and profitability.
4. Accounting System
Bluecrystal’s accounting system can fit any business. It ensures compliance and assists with financial planning.
5. CRM System
The module for customer information management promotes growth and profitability.
6. E-commerce
The system has features to help with e-commerce. It provides digital solutions like inventory management, shopping cart, online payments, and reporting.
7. Chatbot
It assists with customer service as customers can communicate with a chatbot to get assistance.
8. HCM System
The system can handle a variety of tasks relating to human resource management.
9. Gym Trainer Booking System
Clients can book sessions, and trainers schedule appointments using the mobile application.
10. System Customization
The system helps enterprises adopt digital solutions and make them fit their specific needs through customization.
Takeaway
Choosing the suitable ERP integration method for your business is essential. The objective is to get the best solution depending on business processes.
Bluecrystal is a one-stop ERP solution provider. ERPs are the backbone of any organization and their integration is crucial. The best ERP integration services are offered by us.
Wait no more and head on to the Bluecrystal website to view ERP system examples and find the right platform to connect all your digital tools and their effectiveness.
Contact us today for a free quote!
