Want to punch above your weight?
Ever feel like the playing field has been stacked against small and mid-sized businesses?
Big enterprises can throw money at massive tech stacks while smaller companies are left in the dust with spreadsheets and manual processes.
What if that could change?
Cloud ERP has given SMBs access to enterprise-level tools that were once only available to the Fortune 500. With software solutions like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central small businesses can… wait for it…
- Spend less money
- Accelerate growth
- Gain a competitive advantage
Here’s what SMBs are doing with cloud ERP today.
Before getting into that, here’s what to know about cloud ERP and how it applies to smaller businesses.
What you’ll pick up:
- How Cloud ERP Levels The Playing Field For SMBs
- Why Going Cloud Is A Game-Changing Decision
- Where Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Fits Into The Picture
- Real Examples Of SMBs Winning With Cloud ERP
- Mistakes To Avoid When Adopting Cloud ERP
How Cloud ERP Levels The Playing Field For SMBs
Traditionally speaking, enterprise resource planning software has always been too expensive for small to medium-sized businesses. For years the major players got to leverage powerful on-premise ERP systems while SMBs were stuck making due with what they had.
Then cloud computing happened.
Cloud-based ERP software allows SMBs to use enterprise-grade tools for a low monthly subscription fee. There’s no need for expensive hardware or IT teams to manage on-premise installations.
Platforms like dynamics 365 business central were built from the ground up with small and mid-sized businesses in mind. They’re fully cloud-based and offer all the power of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central without the complexity.
It provides access to real-time financial, sales, operations and customer data in one centralized hub.
Why Going Cloud Is A Game-Changing Decision
Cloud computing isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s quickly becoming the new normal. A survey by DocuClipper found that 78% of organizations reported improved productivity by implementing an ERP system.
That statistic is huge. But it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cloud benefits.
Costs Less Money
How is this even possible?
It used to be that before a business could use an ERP, it had to invest in tons of hardware and software. Cloud ERP eliminates all those costs by running 100% remotely.
There’s no need to purchase or maintain expensive equipment.
Hosting, updates and ERP enhancements are handled by the provider. Businesses pay a predictable monthly fee and go about their day.
Easily Scalable
Another huge win for cloud ERP is scalability.
Cloud-based software allows businesses to scale up or down with the click of a button. Need more users? Add them. Need less? Remove them.
The ERP solution should grow with the business, not hold it back.
Real-Time Data & Reporting
Who wants to make decisions based off outdated, inaccurate information?
Decision makers can access live data, dashboards and reports from anywhere with an internet connection. This couldn’t be easier.
Most businesses today expect to have real-time answers immediately. Cloud ERP meets that expectation.
Where Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Fits Into The Picture
Not all cloud ERP platforms are created equal.
Some ERP software solutions cater to large businesses with global logistics. While others focus on simpler tools made specifically for SMBs.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is one of those tools.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central gives SMBs access to Financials, Sales, Operations and Customer Service modules all in one unified solution. It allows companies to…
- Manage cash flow and finances.
- Improve supply chain and inventory management.
- Automate sales and customer service.
- Access built-in analytics to make better decisions.
AND it integrates with the Microsoft tools most teams already know and love.
Like Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel. The list goes on.
Because Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central runs completely in the cloud it can have SMBs up and running in a fraction of the time vs. on-premise alternatives.
Real Examples Of SMBs Winning With Cloud ERP
By now it’s clear that cloud ERP offers massive benefits to SMBs. But what does that actually look like in the real world?
The SMB cloud ERP market is the fastest-growing segment with an annual growth rate of 21.2% through 2030. Clearly, SMBs aren’t just talking about leveraging cloud ERP. They’re doing it.
Here’s how cloud ERP has changed the game for these businesses…
Streamlined Workflows & Automation
Cloud ERP allows teams to set automation for common workflows like invoicing, expense tracking, inventory management, purchase orders and more. Imagine what a team could do if they weren’t bogged down by tedious manual tasks.
Businesses consistently report:
- Improved accuracy.
- Better time management.
- Happier employees.
Getting Employees On The Same Page
Disconnected systems are a major challenge for growing companies.
Different departments often use their own software tools to manage unique areas of the business. Account teams use one system. Marketing uses another. Project management has theirs too. Everyone operates in their own data silos.
Cloud ERP software solves that problem by bringing everyone together under one centralized platform.
Attracting Top Talent
This one is important, yet often overlooked.
Millennial and Gen Z employees these days expect modern tools that make their jobs easier. Cloud ERP allows SMBs to show potential hires that the business is investing in technology that empowers teams.
Employee happiness = More success for the business.
Mistakes To Avoid When Adopting Cloud ERP
Like any business tool or solution, cloud ERP can be misused. Kind of defeats the purpose, doesn’t it?
Avoid these all-too-common cloud ERP mistakes:
- Skipping proper planning. Cloud ERP implementation should always start with assessing current business processes. Without a strategy in place there will likely be roadblocks. Map out requirements before beginning the buying process.
- Underestimating change management. People are the most important part of any business. No ERP solution is perfect and there will be a learning curve when adapting to a new system. Make sure every department is on board and trained prior to launch.
- Not picking the right platform. Lots of ERP providers try to cater to all types of business. That doesn’t mean their system is the right fit. Be sure to pick an ERP that aligns with company needs today and can scale for tomorrow.
Bringing It All Together
Implementing cloud ERP is no longer a luxury small businesses can afford to ignore. Cloud computing has enabled SMBs to leverage enterprise-grade tools that were previously out of reach. From streamlining operations to breaking down data silos to empowering employees with better information…
Cloud ERP puts SMBs in control.
Here’s the recap…
- Cloud ERP democratized enterprise software for SMBs
- Solutions like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central give SMBs powerful tools that fit their needs
- Cloud ERP puts real-time data at everyone’s fingertips
- Avoid common mistakes when adopting cloud ERP to get the best results