ERP software has become essential for SMEs today, as it allows them to optimize the management of their resources and increase their operational efficiency. These solutions offer a wide range of functionalities ranging from inventory and finance management to human resource management and project planning. In this article, we will explore how SMEs can benefit from using ERP software and the current trends in this area.
In 2024, small and medium-sized businesses continue to face challenges in managing their business and financial processes. However, the advancement of software development solutionsand ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software has allowed SMEs to optimize and simplify their operations more effectively.
ERP software solutions have become increasingly accessible and customizable, allowing SMEs to adopt software solutions that fit their specific needs. In this article, we will explore how ERP software solutions can help SMEs improve their efficiency and profitability.
What is ERP software?
The acronym ERP in English means Enterprise Resource Planning , which in Spanish we can translate as Enterprise Resource Planning System , since they are systems that were initially created for manufacturing planning, as well as material requirements. Today, ERP software has evolved into systems much more complex, some managing all areas of a company's relationship with its customers and suppliers: production, logistics, inventory, shipping, invoices and accounting, sales, deliveries, inventory management, quality, indicators, strategy, human resources , etc. That is, they increase the functions of CRM and in general of any generic management application. ERP programs are information management systems that allow the automation of a multitude of operational and productive business actions. ERP software is global management application for companies . They are usually made up of several modules, which accommodate the management of the different areas that we have mentioned above.
What are the general objectives and characteristics of ERP software?
- Optimize company processes and resources.
- Access information quickly, easily and simply.
- Share information among all members of the company.
- Filter data and operations management in an automated way.
The main objective of an ERP application is to increase service to the company's customers, improving response times to their needs, as well as improving efficiency in information management that allows for more agile decision making. that allows reducing operating costs.
What is ERP software for SMEs?
Now that we have learned that ERP software can reach all management areas of a company , we see that these systems can become enormous and therefore their associated costs are also enormous: purchase, implementation, adaptation, training, licenses, etc. Some large companies invest large amounts of money to implement and keep their ERP systems up and running, integrated and communicated with all areas of their organization.
So it is likely that, at this point, the question arises as to whether an ERP software is appropriate for an SME (small and medium-sized business) or for a programming department of a larger company. The answer is: yes, an ERP It is also appropriate for small and medium-sized companies , as well as for some IT departments.
The primary reason is that, as we indicated before in the definition, ERPs are modular systems , so it is possible that, if an SME only needs the billing part - connected to its production and logistics system, if not, it would only be a billing application, not an ERP - can implement the ERP software, being able to dispense with the rest of the modules and integrations, thus lowering the costs of software implementation.
SME ERP Software in 2024
In 2024, there are many ERP software options for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
- NetSuite ERP - A complete cloud ERP solution including finance, human resources, purchasing, sales and more.
- SAP Business One - An ERP solution designed specifically for SMBs that includes finance, purchasing, sales, inventory and more.
- Oracle NetERP - A cloud ERP solution that offers a wide range of functions, including finance, human resources, purchasing, sales and more.
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central - A cloud ERP solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses that includes finance, purchasing, sales, inventory and more.
- Odoo - An open source ERP solution that includes a wide range of modules, including finance, human resources, purchasing, sales and more.
It is important to note that each business has unique requirements, so it is important to carefully evaluate the options and choose the solution that best suits your business needs.
Additionally, it is important to consider cost, scalability, integration with other systems, and user experience when choosing ERP software.
ERP software for SMEs and programming departments
For those small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), as well as those programming departments that have the task of developing, programming, implementing and maintaining business management applications ERP is a right solution.
Instant productivity : Start with open source purchasing, sales, warehouse and accounting, already programmed.
- Easy to adapt : Simple and customizable source code.
- Expand the functionality of your ERP thanks to the ecosystem of components.
- We help you : In addition to documentation and video tutorials, you will have excellent technical service, as well as consulting services.
Application or ERP software in a very short time, is a template that covers the needs of many SMEs and software application development company, because in addition to the aforementioned immediate productivity, thanks to its open business code and help and support in the form of documentation, videos, forums or consultancies, it has three other characteristics that make it a very valuable resource for this type of clients and companies:
- Large projects saving resources : The most agile and profitable development.
- Reliability and easy maintenance : Not only is development fast and economical.
- Cloud, mobility and multiplatform : Adapted to all scenarios.
How to develop ERP management software for SMEs
What is an SME? PyME is the acronym used for "Small and Medium Enterprises." Small or medium-sized companies with respect to volume of income, value of assets and number of workers. Small and medium-sized companies usually focus on the commercial and service sectors, since due to their size and characteristics they cannot choose to configure themselves in the industrial sector that demands a greater investment of resources.
ERP software for companies Vs. ERP software for SMEs
When we simply refer to "companies", many times we are ignoring SMEs in that categorization. In the same way that an SME focuses more on commerce , services and the most personalized treatment possible, large industries and companies. The largest ones focus on offering the most standardized products on the market, in order to reach as many customers as possible. This dichotomy between companies and industries and SMEs can be extended to the world of software development.
ERP software development for SMEs
So, what is the main difference between developing software for companies or developing software for SMEs? Depending on the focus of each of these companies (small, medium and large), the needs to be covered by our software will be. A large company in, for example, the automotive sector, will need to have various management programs for its operations : from an ERP, through logistics software for the warehouse, a CRM for commercial management, resource management, security, human resources and a very long etcetera. Some companies develop their own system that takes all these areas into account, others decide to implement different applications and communicate between them. Be that as it may, the final result is that of a monstrous computerized system , which also requires enormous maintenance , not to mention future customizations or adaptations. A medium or small company (SME) will never be able to cope with a system of these characteristics, since from the outset the implementation costs will be unattainable. On the other hand, the vast majority of SMEs , if not all, do not need such systems . Organizing the operations of 5,000 employees with 300 projects and several million daily sales is not the same as organizing the operations of four employees with the same project.
Advantages of creating, making or programming SME ERP software
In the same way that software for large industries requires a good investment in time, resources, personnel and training, creating or making SME management software allows us to be much more agile in terms of development, implementation and training times. , as well as in resources, personnel and training, since in many cases, the program or software programmed for the SME will be significantly personalized and adapted to that specific business, so the learning curve will be significantly reduced and thus They will reduce the resources necessary to be able to start working with the new management software designed for the company.
Update 2024
Management systems for SMEs have evolved significantly in recent years. With the advancement of software development solutions, today there is a wide variety of options for small and medium-sized businesses looking to implement an ERP system in their business. These solutions have become more accessible, intuitive and customizable, which has allowed SMEs to improve their business processes, increase their productivity and competitiveness.
One of the most notable trends in the SME ERP software market is the adoption of cloud-based solutions. This means that companies can access their ERP systems from anywhere and at any time, allowing them to work remotely and collaboratively. Additionally, implementing cloud-based solutions requires fewer resources and time than traditional implementations, making them ideal for SMBs with limited budgets and timelines.
Another important aspect of ERP software for SMEs is its ability to integrate with other business tools and applications. SMEs can integrate their ERP system with management tools for sales, marketing, finance, logistics and many other business areas. This allows them to get a complete, unified view of their business, helping them make more informed and accurate decisions.
Lastly, ERP software for SMEs is also evolving in terms of customization and flexibility. Modern ERP solutions allow SMEs to customize their system to their specific needs, allowing them to get the most out of their software investment. Additionally, many SMB ERP solutions offer additional modules and functionality that can be added and removed based on changing business needs.
An SME ERP is an essential tool to improve the efficiency, productivity and competitiveness of small and medium-sized companies. With the constant evolution of custom software product development , these types of solutions are becoming more accessible, intuitive and customizable, making them ideal for any business looking to improve their business processes.
