For most manufacturers, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is not a new concept and solutions such as Navision have been at the heart of manufacturing operations for decades.
Herein lies the problem; such ERP solutions are old, on-premise and out of date enough to represent a security threat. In the below, we explain how moving a cloud-based manufacturing ERP software can benefit your operations
Benefits Of Cloud-Based ERP Solutions
Cost Efficiency: Traditional ERP systems often demand substantial upfront investments in licensing, hardware and infrastructure. Cloud-based solutions, however, offer a more budget-friendly approach. Instead of pouring money into infrastructure, you pay a subscription fee, making it particularly appealing for small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises.
Scalability: The manufacturing landscape is dynamic, and your business needs may change rapidly. With cloud-based ERP, scaling up or down is a breeze. You can add or reduce resources and modules to align with your business's growth or pivot, ensuring you're only paying for what you need at any given time.
Accessibility: With cloud-based manufacturing ERP software, you’re not tied to your office. Solutions such as Business Central allow you to access your data from anywhere with an internet connection. This not only supports remote work but also fosters collaboration among teams dispersed across different locations. Decision-makers can tap into real-time information, empowering them to make informed choices even when they're away from the plant.
Security: Security is paramount in manufacturing. Cloud providers invest heavily in cutting-edge security measures. With a Microsoft ERP solution, for example, data is stored in secure, GDPR-compliant data centres with robust encryption and backup systems. This passes the onus on security from you to your ERP provider, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches or losses.
Regular Updates: Keeping your software up to date is essential for both security and functionality. Cloud-based manufacturing ERP software excels in this regard, as updates are handled by the provider. This means you'll always have access to the latest features, security patches, and compliance requirements without the hassle of manual updates.
Reduced IT Burden: Maintaining on-premises ERP systems can strain your IT resources. Cloud-based solutions relieve this burden by shifting hardware and software maintenance responsibilities to the provider. This enables your IT team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance tasks.
Integration: The manufacturing process involves multiple facets, and integration is key. Cloud ERP systems often offer seamless integration with other cloud-based applications. This creates a connected ecosystem where data flows smoothly between different functions of your manufacturing business, facilitating better decision-making.
Data Analytics: In manufacturing, data is gold. The cloud provides access to advanced analytics tools that allow you to mine valuable insights from your data. This leads to improved forecasting, inventory management, and a deeper understanding of customer preferences, giving your business a competitive edge.
Enhanced Mobility: Manufacturing doesn't always happen within the confines of the factory. Modern cloud-based ERP systems are accessible on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. This mobility empowers your workforce to remain productive on the shop floor, in the field, or wherever business takes them.
Improved Customer Service: Real-time data access enables you to respond to customer inquiries and address their needs promptly. This translates into higher customer satisfaction and cultivates customer loyalty, a cornerstone of manufacturing success.
Disaster Recovery: Manufacturing downtime can be costly. Cloud-based manufacturing ERP software is typically more reliable than an ERP system run from your in-house infrastructure. Plus, cloud-based ERP systems come equipped with robust disaster recovery plans: in case of data loss or system failure, your data is backed up and recoverable, minimising downtime and potential financial losses.
Environmental Sustainability: Embracing the cloud isn't just about efficiency; it's also about sustainability. By reducing the need for on-site servers, which consume substantial energy, cloud-based ERP contributes to a greener, more environmentally responsible future.
Exploring Cloud-Based Manufacturing ERP Software
In conclusion, cloud-based manufacturing ERP software is a powerful tool that can revolutionise your manufacturing business. Its cost efficiency, scalability, accessibility, security, and myriad other benefits are reshaping the industry. By embracing technology such as Business Central, you position your manufacturing business for greater agility, efficiency, and competitiveness in an ever-evolving market.
Discover more about Microsoft’s cloud-based manufacturing ERP software and our services:
