10 Advantages of Using a Cloud-Based ERP Program
It’s no secret that business owners and high-level managers are busy. They have to oversee disparate parts of their companies to ensure that everything comes together in a cohesive way. Unresponsive software can limit these entrepreneurs’ ability to do their jobs and create needless inconveniences that can grind productivity to a halt.
You don’t have to resign yourself to inefficiency, though. Cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software can help you gain greater control over your processes. It’s intuitive, easy-to-use, and adaptable for most businesses.
Not convinced? Here are 10 ways cloud-based ERP software will improve your processes.
1. They Allow You to Integrate More Functions
No one knows what your business does better than you. Yet many business people let their software dictate their processes when it should be the other way around. On-premise ERP programs are notoriously difficult to enhance. They may not work properly if you try to add more features to them.
Cloud-based solutions are more adaptable. You can alter their functions with simple software upgrades. As a result, your programs will never restrict your operations.
2. They Help You Cut Back on Hardware
Hardware is crucial to many applications, but it can also be inconvenient. It’s prone to wear and degradation, it takes up space, and it costs a pretty penny to purchase and install. If you use on-premise ERP solutions, you’ll probably need to invest in more servers, which will create issues if you want to avoid any of the former problems.
Thankfully, there’s a way out. Cloud-based ERP software requires no on-site hardware. Providers maintain servers that you can access remotely, so you don’t need to give up your space or your money to optimize your processes.
3. They Require Less Up-Front Investment
Any type of ERP software requires investment. On-site programs cost more upfront, while cloud solutions create additional operating costs. If your budget is currently tight and you don’t mind spreading your investment out over time, you should seriously consider the latter option.
4. You Can Anticipate Costs Ahead of Time
While cloud-based services require more investment over time, there’s no guarantee that on-premise ERP programs will operate at peak efficiency forever. Their reliance on software could result in further maintenance costs, and severe issues may leave you on the hook for replacement expenses.
When you buy cloud software, you just pay to use the service each month. You’ll never have to worry about unexpected fees or costs.
5. They Don’t Restrict Your Access
On-site servers allow networked computers to access ERP programs and integrate their processes. But what happens if one of your employees wants to work from home, or if one of your servers goes down?
Cloud-based software allows you to access your ERP solutions from anywhere. This means your staff can carry out its tasks with greater ease and adaptability.
6. They Keep Your Data Safe
A cloud-based ERP provider that leaks data is a provider that won’t be in business for very long. The businesspeople behind these organizations understand that their entire operation depends upon keeping their clients’ data in safe hands. As a result, they take extensive measures to secure their servers. While on-premise assets require constant surveillance and remediation, cloud solutions take this burden off your shoulders.
7. They Allow You to Scale with Greater Ease
On-premise ERP may meet your current needs, but what happens if you experience sudden growth? All of a sudden, your tools won’t be able to accommodate your demands. Cloud solutions can grow and shrink with ease, so they’ll always suit your company’s needs.
8. They’re Easier to Master
The longer it takes you to adapt to new software, the more your productivity suffers. Cloud solutions are easy to learn, so your employees can adapt to them quickly without compromising on efficiency.
9. They Can Be Implemented Faster
Installing on-premise solutions is no easy feat. Cloud software, on the other hand, can be implemented with the push of a button, which allows you to change your processes without missing a step.
10. They Run Better (with Less Investment)
You can’t settle for mediocre hardware when your operations use on-premise ERP. Everything needs to work perfectly in order for you to get adequate performance. Cloud-based options run well all the time, no matter how you access them.