SAP ERP vs. the New ERP

Corporations and smaller companies are realizing the benefits of implementing ERP systems. ERP refers to a collection of interconnected software applications, such as accounting, scheduling, advanced planning, customer relationship management (CRM), supplier relationship management (SRM), inventory, and in some cases, manufacturing execution systems MES. These applications help the enterprise predict and plan for the future, allocate resources, streamline manufacturing processes and provide superior service and products to their customers.

SAP, one of the large traditional ERP software providers, has offered expensive and somewhat inflexible systems based on best practices. Many companies are turning to a new kind of enterprise resource planning software. This new model is much more affordable, provides faster return on investment, is easier to implement across an enterprise and provides superior connectivity.

Browser-native ERP applications hold many advantages over the traditional SAP ERP software systems of the past. They are easier to modify and customize, for one. This ease of configurability opens up the door to agility - changing the software system to take advantage of new opportunities or changes in the market for optimal positioning. The software can change as quickly as the company can.

Another tremendous advantage to the new browser-native systems is their inherent ability for connectivity. Extracting and utilizing data from other browser-native applications is easy when compared to accessing data in traditional legacy based systems. Connectivity allows for seamless flow of an order from CRM, to accounting, to scheduling, to SRM, inventory and so on.

Affordability is another major factor companies both large and small must consider when purchasing ERP. SAP ERP systems can cost millions of dollars with huge maintenance fees on top of that. Browser-native systems cost a fraction of the price tag of a legacy ERP software system. Maintenance, upgrade and modifications fees are significantly less, too.

Faster implementation means faster return on investment (ROI) for browser-native systems. SAP ERP systems can take years to develop and implement. A browser-native ERP system can be up and running in a few weeks or months. Organizations can start reaping the benefits of a streamlined, more productive, more profitable enterprise sooner. Be sure to check out Model Driven Architecture in ERP. They have a good site that offers ERP reviews and information on ERP providers and technology.