During the two years since we published our Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Diaries series (you can revisit them here: #2), the world and technology have changed significantly. And yet, when it comes to ERP adoption, many businesses and their system implementors seem somewhat stuck in the past… taking an out-dated approach that overcomplicates, over customises and takes an extended time frame to deliver a system that ultimately falls short of its potential, costing more to build and more to run.

Cloud-based ERP systems mark a significant departure from traditional models, offering swift deployment and configuration within weeks instead of months. The era of spending over a year to align core systems with business needs is fading. Modern ERP solutions eliminate the requirement for dedicated infrastructure, providing standard backup and near-perfect uptime.

The real strength of cloud-based ERPs lies in their evolved functionality, tailored to meet diverse business requirements. However, their efficacy hinges on seamless integration with other enterprise systems. True digital transformation is achieved by interconnecting systems across the entire business, fostering efficiency, reducing errors, and maximising service potential.

Integration in modern ERPs is primarily through APIs and automation, blending legacy systems with newer, API-centric technologies. As businesses strive for efficiency and innovation, their ERP framework can sometimes impede progress. Panamoure has guided hundreds of clients in mastering their ERP systems. Our approach in ERP automation is designed for quick, sustainable results, digitising workflows across the business using API, RPA, and AI.

However, there are critical red flags to watch for: 

• Being told that ERP implementation is a major risk and is the key step in your digital transformation, not just the first step.
• Expectations of implementation timelines extending to several months or, even worse, years.
• System designs requiring multiple customized code changes instead of standard configurations.
• Project teams lacking clarity in defining specific business outcomes.
• Lack of focus on digital adoption, continuous improvement, and staff empowerment in the transformation journey.
• Excluding AI, Smart Automation, and SaaS solutions from the core of digital transformation.

If any of these issues resonate with your current situation, then we recommend you contact Panamoure immediately.

Stay tuned for further insights in our series, where we delve deeper into the following topics: the rise of D365 as the ERP of choice, system support as a function of continuous improvement, the role of digital change in staff empowerment and the integration of data, AI, and smart automation as central to IT strategy.