How the Mobile Cloud is Changing ERP

When it comes to streamlining operations, ensuring accountability and providing in-depth information to those who need it, few things are as important as a solid ERP platform. As the post-PC era takes shape, cloud and mobile computing will change the way that ERP solutions are planned and implemented in many ways.
 

Gartner recently predicted that by 2016, cloud services will grow to a global market size of approximately $206 billion. From NetSuite integration to in-house mobile ERP platforms, transitioning and integrating existing technologies to a mobile, cloud-friendly platform is shifting from cutting-edge to necessary at rapid pace. However, planning and proper implementation are essential parts of the ERP migration process.

Not all areas of ERP are ideal for mobile use. This makes it important to analyze the needs of the business and create a proper implementation plan. Areas such as sales tracking, manufacturing, invoicing, and customer service are ideal for mobile or cloud based platforms. In contrast, accounting, in-depth reporting and input-heavy tasks are less than ideal for touch screen devices.
 

The Cloud Looms Over ERP
 

Trends in mobile ERP are leading towards clean interfaces with an emphasis on key functions. By limiting features to those most needed, using the mobile tools are simple, fast and efficient. Full-featured interfaces are often reserved for cloud-based PC platforms. By auditing the existing ERP processes and policies, a business can pinpoint the areas that would best benefit from either cloud or mobile integration. This allows the business to create a customized solution that takes advantages of the benefits of both technologies.
 

After determining the areas for implementation, creating a growth plan can also help to avoid unexpected conflicts or other issues in the future. From scaling of existing ERP systems to the addition of features, each change made the system will likely involve both an investment of both time and money. Creating a map of future plans can also help to determine the best ERP platform for the business. While pre-configured services, such as NetSuite, offer easier setup and integration, they often lack the flexibility and robust feature set of a custom-coded solution. By determining the best system for business needs, the business can also predict future IT needs and further narrow the list of potential service providers or consultant services.
 

When choosing to use a BPaaS or SaaS solution, the provider chosen can impact the benefits and overall user experience as much as the choice of software itself. Businesses should consider support and configuration needs, overall budgets, platform features and scalability when considering a provider. If a business is creating a custom solution, considering the need for IT consultants and cloud hosting is important as well. These services will ensure smooth deployment while helping to maximize the benefits obtained from the new technologies. Employee training should be considered before finalizing a platform or provider as these services are often available through consultants and IT services as well. Even the best ERP systems will provide little benefit without proper employee and company use.

The Future of ERP

From big data and cloud storage to CRM and ERP solutions, cloud computing and mobile technologies are changing the way that businesses communicate, operate and provide products or services. Though predictions on the future of these new technologies vary, they are definitely here to stay. As mobile computing and BYOD trends continue to evolve, implementing these new technologies and platforms will become increasingly important. However, with proper planning and deployment, mobile and cloud computing offer undeniable productivity and efficiency benefits for businesses of any size.