Best of Breed vs. Best Overall ERP

Companies in most industries can streamline their operations by implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, which helps a company manage all aspects of its business, including manufacturing, distribution, accounting, and service operations within one software system. Some companies use a Best of Breed (BOB) software system for each aspect of their operations. A BOB system can help small companies initially manage their business. Larger organizations and growing businesses reap substantial benefits by using the best overall ERP systems to aid their operations.

What's the Difference Between BOB and ERP Software?

Best of Breed software uses several software vendors to manage the operations of a business. For instance, finance and accounting use a solution just for accounting, manufacturing uses another, and services uses yet another software solution. While each vendor is responsible for their niche, communication among vendors is minimal and duplicate data entry or poor integrations mean that everyone is always trying to reconcile with the other. Enterprise Resource Planning software has all the business operations in one suite with one software solution for the primary business operations. All departments are integrated and have transparency through an ERP system, helping to enhance operational performance.

What Are the Main Advantages of Using ERP Software for a Business?

The main advantages of having an ERP system include:

• Transparent business reporting. Businesses have access to real-time data and information on all operations within their systems. That operational overview can help each company improve problematic areas to increase performance.
• Inventory control. Proper inventory is crucial for businesses, especially manufacturing businesses. An ERP can help a company determine how much product is needed, where to get the supplies, and when to expect deliveries.
• Customer satisfaction. Customers expect to receive a correctly assembled final product on time. Because an ERP system tracks and manages the supply chain, a business can deliver a correct order when promised.
• Flexibility and scalability. Businesses can tailor their ERP systems for their unique needs and adapt their systems as the businesses grow or downsize. Also, companies can add or remove users as needed, or each company can add new modules if it changes direction.

All these benefits ultimately lead to increased profits for the businesses.

What Is the Best Overall ERP for a Business?

Depending on the business needs, two ERPs stand out: Acumatica and Microsoft Dynamics 365. 

Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP system with a "no-user license cost" policy allowing selected employees access to vital information. Acumatica is ideal for remote workers because team members can view data from all devices, including tablets and smartphones. As a business grows, it can add suites such as manufacturing management, ProMRO, and service management.

The cloud based Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers multiple solutions for companies, like flexible programs for global finance departments, supply chain and manufacturing management. This software can meet a business's needs by connecting key employees and working with existing applications and systems for continuity and efficient workflow. Also, it takes little time on average for employees to adapt to Dynamics 365 programs.

Implementing an adaptable ERP system will benefit a business by increasing production, decreasing operating costs, and improving customer satisfaction. Clients First Business Solutions helps streamline ERP solutions from supply chain issues to manufacturing. For more information, call us at 800-331-8382 or email  info@cfbs-us.com.