Debunking Top ERP Myths: What Decision-Makers Need To Know

Though Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are constantly in the spotlight, sometimes their reputation can precede them in an unflattering manner.
Labels such as “only for large companies” or “unnecessarily expensive” are thrown around casually when it comes to ERP software, even though these labels couldn’t be further from the truth.
These misleading myths can hinder the digital transformation of a company by preventing it from investing into custom ERP, thus slowing down its own growth.
Let’s quash these myths in this blog and replace them with facts that decision-makers and key stakeholders must know.
Myth #1: Opt for an ERP only if you have a large-scale business
Fact: Opt for an ERP irrespective of your business’s size.
While enterprise resource planning systems were exclusively used by large-scale organizations, that era is now over. Modern-day ERP solutions are scalable and modular by default, which means they can expand and grow as your business evolves from a small-scale company to a mid-sized one and so on and so forth.
In fact, the invention of cloud-based ERP has significantly reduced the cost of entry and infrastructure needs, making it easier for organizations with as little as 20 employees to successfully implement a centralized system that improves visibility across the board while driving efficiency.
Myth #2: ERP systems are extremely expensive
Fact: They are as inexpensive as you want them to be.
Terming ERP systems as “too expensive” is a way to undercut their real value. They are an investment, no doubt, but with their flexible pricing models, you no longer have to burn a hole in your pocket to implement them.
Moreover, the Return on Investment (ROI) for custom ERP software is good enough to cover and eventually outweigh the entry cost. Benefits such as data accuracy and process automation save money in the long-run compared to disconnected systems and manual processes.
Myth #3: ERP implementation is slow and tedious
Fact: Implementation timelines can be swift.
It totally depends on the complexity of the custom ERP system you intend to implement. For example, if you have a large organization with complex processes, the timeline of ERP implementation might be longer though it can be easily shortened with the help of a proper implementation plan along with executive support and extensive user-training pre-launch.
In fact, you can further shorten the implementation process by opting for cloud-based ERP that employs industry-specific templates. You can go live in months now!
Myth #4: ERP makes your team unnecessary
Fact: ERP empowers your team.
ERP systems are not here to replace humans. They are here to help them perform better than ever before. By automating manual tasks, ERP takes the pain and errors out of repetitive routines such as data entry, inventory tracking, or invoice processing so your team can focus on the bigger picture. Basically, it frees up your resources to provide scope for strategic, high-value work that actually contributes to the growth of your company. The result? Improved job satisfaction and data-backed decisions.
Myth #5: Company-wide Implementation is the end of the road
Fact: Implementation is just the beginning.
Let us clear the air - custom ERP is not a one-and-done type of thing. It’s a dynamic platform that evolves overtime as your business grows. This means continuously optimizing it based on user feedback is part of the process. So is regularly updating it. Treating your ERP system with ongoing attention will help you modify the software so it can meet your company’s growing needs. If you want long-term gains out of it, think of it as a living tool, not a static one.
Conclusion
ERP systems have gone through a dramatic growth over the years and the myths that once probably echoed their truth are nothing more than falsehoods now. Getting rid of outdated myths can help you see how ERP fits into your company’s growth strategy.
If you are ready to streamline your operations and make solid data the core driver of key decisions your company makes, Vestra Inet is here for you. With over 20 years of crafting affordable, scalable and efficient ERP systems for a myriad of companies, we know exactly how to develop a tailored solution for your business too. Contact us to get a custom ERP system that will become the transformative asset your company needs.