ERP 101: What is ERP and How Do You Use It?

ERP system implementation

Running a small business is full of challenges that multiply alongside growth and success. An ERP system is an essential tool for streamlining overall operations, reducing costs, and eliminating workflow inefficiencies. But what is ERP, and how can you implement it to work effectively for your small business?

What is ERP and Why is it so Crucial to the Success of Your Business?

You have most likely heard of ERP systems, whether you have chosen to implement them into your own business or not. ERP is the commonly used acronym for “Enterprise Resource Planning,” which refers to integrating and streamlining essential business management processes through the use of digital systems. In order to fully understand the value of ERP, it’s important to break it down into its many components and capabilities.
While all ERP software systems differ in their exact offerings, the majority of these business management solutions offer comprehensive processes for the following crucial elements of running a business:

  • Accounting
  • Inventory Management
  • Marketing and Sales
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
  • Human Resources 
  • Quality Management
  • Project Management
  • Cloud Hosting

Combining these business processes together creates a cohesive foundation with excellent visibility, full integration, and reduction in costs and inefficiencies. While not all businesses need all of the above features to begin with, it can be difficult and expensive to opt out of ERP systems in favor of unintegrated, manual systems. If your business vision involves growing and scaling your business ERP systems will be essential down the line, and it’s important to choose your ERP provider wisely.

Discover Attivo All-in-One: Integrated business management systems, tools, and processes built to help you achieve your vision.

What ERP Solution is Right for Your Business?

Determining which ERP system is the right match for your business can be a challenge because business owners often don’t have clear or reliable predictions of growth. Despite this unknown, it is crucial to choose an ERP system that has the capability of scaling up alongside your business to reduce the often inevitable future need for expensive system upgrades and add ons. 
Simply implementing an ERP system is not enough to drive success in your business. It is equally important to understand how this software relates to your specific business needs in order to increase overall efficiency and realize the full potential of this technology. Choosing an ERP system with ongoing support and expert consultation is key to maximizing the impact of these software systems to ensure the technology is working for your business rather than adding to frustrations.
One of the most comprehensive, affordable, and scalable options for small and medium-sized businesses is Attivo All-in-One. More than ERP alone, this collection of integrated systems and services is differentiated by a strategic partnership that leverages the domain knowledge of Attivo’s expert senior consultants and answers the million-dollar question, “How can technology help you achieve your business vision?”. At a completely fixed cost with no hidden fees or pricey upgrades, Attivo All-in-One will grow alongside your business to streamline all essential business management processes to help your business achieve its goals. Learn more about how Attivo All-in-One can solve your business’s unique challenges and provide personalized education and guidance: