With the massive emergence of business technologies, more and more enterprises are realising the significance of automation software and looking for reliable ways to streamline workflows. SMEs need software that can be integrated into multiple processes, increases productivity, and develops a well-connected workforce. And this is where Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system comes in.  If you and your team are struggling with old or legacy systems, it’s high time to implement a modern ERP system in Malaysia or elsewhere to manage your business operations within a single database. However, you can’t just jump onto anything all of a sudden; you need to make the right selection, especially when it comes to ERP implementation. So before you go ahead with ERP implementation, make sure to be prepared with the project team, ERP vendor, and strategy for success.  Don’t worry; we’ve created a comprehensive guide that will prepare you to step towards the ERP software.  Let’s get started!  Introduction to ERP System  Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a scalable, innovative, and flexible business management solution that covers all facets of a business such as production, procurement, finance, inventory, supply chain, human resources, job costing, and other critical processes. It includes multiple applications to integrate and automate the core business operations and information on a centralised system through a multi-level interface. It is said to be an aid to manage processes and run all departments across the organisation with peace of mind.  Different Types of ERP System  Source: SelectHub  When we talk about ERP solutions, there are three types:  On-Premise  The on-premise private system is installed on the business’ server and hardware and further handled by your IT staff. This is certainly the least recommended out of three options as companies need to manage and maintain the security of their own data. This could be a good option for businesses that have an internal team of IT experts to keep the track of data.  Hosted Private Cloud  The SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) system is reflected immediately on the system. Companies that choose this route will have an external team to manage their platform and host data servers in their cloud. It could be a cost-effective option as you just need to pay for software, not the additional hardware.   Hybrid Cloud  As the name suggests, it is a combination of both on-premise and hosted cloud solutions. Companies can choose to keep some of their servers in-house, yet use a hosted cloud system to handle and disperse data among different locations. This could be a reliable option for companies who are seeking to incorporate applications or mobility to their existing on-premise system or planning to switch to a web-based solution.  Source: Accenture  As you can witness, Cloud ERP software is a highly effective, smart, and innovative way to manage business information across the entire organisation. That’s why, we recommend SMEs to adopt cloud ERP rather than on-premise ERP system to greatly enjoy low upfront cost, quick deployment options, high mobility, and data security.   Why SMEs Should Use ERP Solution?  Without the ability to track orders, materials, billing, shipping, and sale within a single system, your business won’t be able to compete in today’s fast-changing industry. Don’t worry; easy ERP implementation has opened many opportunities for businesses to expand wisely, regardless of their sizes to reap the rewards of advanced resource management.  Source: Panorama Consulting  ERP systems can help automate business processes, generate reports, and gives access to all your company’s data in one place. SMEs can secure the best results using built-in analytics and world-class functionalities for multiple operations, including production, job costing, finance, inventory management, accounting, reporting, budgeting, and procurement. With modern ERP software, companies no longer need to rely on manual tasks and scattered spreadsheets, offering you the most reliable software to unlock your real potential and achieve digital transformational goals.  Thanks to the mobile and cloud technology available in the market, making the adoption of ERP software for SMEs an excellent choice to thrive in a competitive environment even in times of uncertainty. Below are some perks of using an ERP system:  Improves efficiency  Safe and secure  Improved supply chain management  Easy to comply with regulatory forms   All expenses and information are focused on one centralised system  Workflow is consistent  Makes reporting and analysing easy  Enhanced customer satisfaction  Low infrastructure cost  Effective project management  Accelerates business growth  How to Choose the Right ERP System?  Since ERPs have a broad scope, it can be difficult to identify a suitable one for your company’s needs. It’s best to focus on the core objectives and requirements of your business to make the right selection. When selecting an ERP solution, it is good to consider the following aspects:  Is ERP the best fit for your enterprise?  Which ERP systems are very popular?  What features and functionality do you need?  Is it being utilised on-premises or in the cloud, or both?  Are you being practical?  What does success look like?  What resources do you need?  Have you found a genuine software partner?  Once you get answers to these, you will be able to make a better-informed decision on what kind of ERP will fit best for your business.  Source: Statista  The statistics shown by Statista reveals that the global cloud ERP market was expected to be worth 40.5 billion U.S. dollars by 2025, emerging at a GAGR of 13.6% during 2019 and 2025. After all, the system is comprised of multiple modules, each works on different areas and departments that can be catered to a wide range of industries.  How do you know if you need ERP?  Some SMEs with relatively a low volume of transactions may find standalone accounting software sufficient to manage their finances, sales, and inventory. The turning point falls when the company starts to scale and hit a specific level of growth. The wall of expansion may vary, but some common signs indicate the situation when your business needs an ERP system.   Source: Evans Data Corporation  Let’s have a closer look at those indicators:  Increased administrative and financial workload due to a high volume of transactions and conflicting internal procedures  Employees are having a hard time managing all facets of a business at once  The existing system doesn’t seem compatible, making it challenging to evaluate business information  Recurring stock-out, consistently missing the project deadlines and facing delays  Customers are getting exhausted at being bounced from one location to another to get their issues or queries resolved  Being repeatedly late in generating reports, relevant information, and taxation policies  Keep in mind, when the data is stored across

With the fierce competition in the market, cement manufacturing firms are now focusing on using their fixed assets to produce optimum production outcomes. There is a wide spectrum of automation tools and technologies designed to help SMEs work efficiently. But none of them reaches their full potential unless they are incorporated with effective planning, forecasting, and scheduling processes. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is the need of an hour to manage businesses, functions, and data with one centralised solution. Some may have a misconception that ERP is best suited for large-scale companies due to the high cost of ownership, subsequent maintenance cost, and complex implementation. However, over time, with mobile and cloud technology becoming simpler, SMEs can bring themselves closer to reality and take a step ahead for ultimate success. The successful ERP implementation will allow cement slab manufacturers to maximise capacity utilisation, reduce operational cost, and achieve a greater level of operational efficiency. Before you start to utilise the ERP system in the cement industry, we will show you how to implement one and how it can help refine your goals. Let’s get started! Challenges Faced By Cement Slab Manufacturers Consistent development in environmental protection needs a high level of transparency to access information across the production chain. You might have clearly noticed a lack of communication, project delays, and inaccuracy among departments. This might happens due to the obsolete system exists which is slowing down the business processes. The cement industry requires tight control over workflows to ensure hassle-free supply chain and inventory management in a timely manner, from raw material procurement to shipping. Additionally, manufacturers rely on scheduled maintenance and preventive practices to ensure better functionality and downtime to a minimum. To solve these problems, you can integrate ERP solutions like Acumatica ERP system to obtain real-time information of the cement trade from production to purchase, resulting in productivity, optimum ROI, and lower operational costs, thereby, helping manufacturers gain a competitive advantage. Acumatica ERP being built on advanced cloud technology, you will be assured of knowing that it will leverage your processes with unmatched benefits. Perks of Successful ERP Implementation for Cement Slab Manufacturers In a rapidly evolving market, it is vital to have a fully integrated ERP software solution that will evaluate efficiency, reduce costs, and boost sales. Also, it will help you make a more informed, strategic, and rational decision by offering transparent and control functionality inherent within a single database. If you’re considering ERP software to boost your manufacturing firm’s growth, here are a few benefits you should know: • Automate, Manage, and Simplify Business Processes A scalable ERP system will improve business’ performance by streamlining and organising processes. All data is accessible in real-time in one centralised location which brings clarity, better insights, and quick decision-making. This can also eliminate manual tasks which can significantly mitigate human errors, data duplication, and associated costs. An employee can track and handle production activities from anywhere, anytime, without depending on the entire team. From production to materials, ordering, costs, and more, the workforce can track everything seamlessly that boost efficacy and enable businesses to meet commitments. • Manage Supply Chain A comprehensive view of the supply chain is essential to prevent production interruptions and potential miscalculations. ERP system allows companies to:  Track costs, budgeting, price fluctuations, and accounting  Automate inventory control and restocking  Obtain a 360-degree view of business activities  Establish powerful HR modules and manage workforce  Manage order materials, components, and optimise delivery times  Recognise lags or errors in problematic areas  Work within multiple segments and gain a wider picture of processes • Control Business End-to-End ERP solutions can help businesses meet their deadlines and customer requirements with accurate and precise control over inventory, production, ordering, and scheduling processes. Customers can track information, including status reports, quotes, pricing, and product deliveries that improves efficiency for both business and customers. The BI tools across the board within an ERP solution allow you to schedule and oversee workflow, resulting in fewer errors, fast decision-making, and better execution of business processes. • Reduce Costs and Enhance Your Bottom Line ERP system reduces manual operations and time-consuming processes that often create delays and discrepancies in reporting. It provides fully integrated, compliant, and stock handling to ensure finance and inventory management. It can help overcome complex cases in the organisation to create order accuracy, on-time delivery, quality, and pricing. 6 Steps to Create the ERP Strategy Manufacturers need the right ERP software to stay ahead of the curve and bring more value to their business. Learn the six steps on creating a solid ERP strategy, here’s what we recommend: Identify and address installation issues Establish a budget Plan for integration Set a change management plan Conduct a risk assessment Create an ERP roadmap ERP software can take your business on the right path to success. But don’t forget, everything starts with research and planning to define clear goals and milestones with sufficient resources. Selecting the Right ERP Software is Key to Improve Functional Efficiency Acumatica Cloud ERP system is a highly customisable and innovative application for small and mid-sized companies, offering all the modules businesses need such as finance, distribution, CRM, project accounting, and more. With multiple benefits like increased visibility into insights, timely financial statements, better reporting, and more, businesses can operate more intelligently and efficiently. Do these perks seem practical for your business? If yes, you shouldn’t miss any opportunity to reap these rewards and set up modern ERP software for better flexibility and efficiency. It also utilises the Acumatica Cloud xRP platform and core applications to deliver project accounting, change orders, compliance management, job costing, and document management. When you combine application suites and features like project and cost management with cement slab manufacturers and other industry capabilities, you can significantly lower the cost of operating a business, thereby, allowing you to plan for a brighter future. At Netsense, we work with clients towards the end and help them