What is Cloud-Based ERP?

Before answering the question, “what is cloud-based erp?”, it’s important to clarify what enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is. ERP software solutions are designed to streamline communication across your business. The forerunners to ERP software came out of the manufacturing sector and were used for materials planning.

Modern ERP solutions connect different departments, ranging from accounting and finance to HR. They ensure that everyone has access to the same real-time data. ERPs make data analysis faster, more accurate, and more widely accessible to all your employees. They allow businesses to make better, more informed business decisions.

That brings us to cloud-based ERP, and specifically cloud-based ERP for small business.

Many ERPs systems are on premise. This means that they are installed and configured on your computers or local computer network. A cloud-based ERP solution is an ERP that lives in the cloud. It’s accessed over the internet and employees can log into it from anywhere on any device. All they need is an internet connection and their account information.

What are the Advantages of Cloud-Based ERP?

The advantages of a cloud-based ERP system include its faster implementation time and reduced costs. On-premise ERP solutions are great for some businesses, but they are also time-consuming and costly to implement because they must be installed locally. Training may also be more intensive for on premise vs. cloud EPR.

Unlike a cloud-based ERP that updates automatically, updates for on-premise ERPs are not automatic. They must be downloaded and your system may be offline until updates are complete. With a cloud based-ERP, you always know that your employees are using the most updated version of the program.

Troubleshooting and support may be difficult with on-premise ERPs as well. With a cloud-based ERP, its easy for support agents to access your ERP application directly without needing access to your local network. Similarly, if you have a remote or mobile workforce, a cloud-based ERP may be the most convenient type of software solution for your business.

The main cloud-based ERP benefits include its cheaper and faster implantation time, automatic updates, easier support options, and portability.

What Businesses Can Use Cloud Based ERP?

While ERPS originated in the manufacturing sector, don’t be fooled. Today they are used be a wide range of businesses. Your bank, your favorite online sports store, and your favorite nonprofit may all be using an ERP. They may even be using the same ERP software because these systems are highly customizable. Typically, ERP implementations are carried out by ERP implementation partners. Implementation partners work directly with businesses to configure their EPR application to fit their needs, train employees, and provide ongoing support and troubleshooting as needed.

Business sectors that use cloud-based ERPs include:

• Accounting and CPA Firms

• Construction and Real Estate

• Financial Services

• Franchise

• Healthcare

• Hospitality

• Nonprofits

• Professional Services

• Subscription and SaaS

• Wholesale Distribution

What’s the Best ERP for My Business?

There’s no simple answer to that question. Put simply, the best ERP for your business is the one that offers functionality that best fits your needs. It may be an on-premise solution or a cloud-based one. While the cost and speed of implementation is an important factor to consider, it’s not the only factor you should keep in mind. Scalability, functionality, and ease-of-use are all important considerations as well.

Ideally, a good implementation partner should help your business identify the ERP solution that best fits your needs.

About Us

CertiPro is a full-service implementation partner. We now offer Sage Intacct, a cloud-based ERP. Sage Intacct is the first and only AICPA preferred financial management solution. It’s also been rated #1 for customer satisfaction by G2. Contact us today to see if Sage Intacct would be a good fit for your business.