3 features of cloud ERP that trump QuickBooks

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is critical to any growing business, no matter which sector you operate in. That’s because it allows you to integrate all your company’s day-to-day processes and streamline resources across your entire business. And with so much real-time data at your fingertips, you can instantly make the decisions necessary to achieve your company’s goals. But what exactly is cloud ERP, and how is it superior to software like QuickBooks? Let’s take a look.

Cloud ERP

Cloud ERP is a virtual version of on-site ERP. You’re taking all the benefits of a standard ERP system and moving them online. And since over 50% of US SMBs plan on maintaining a remote workforce in the long term, virtual enterprise management solutions have never been more critical.  

In fact, studies show the cloud ERP market share will grow at least 17% by 2025.  

Why QuickBooks is not an ERP tool

Before we move on, let’s be really clear about one thing — no, QuickBooks is not a cloud ERP tool. It’s accounting software — you can only use it to manage your finances. And while finances matter, there’s more to running a business than tracking invoices. 

You can’t:

  • Format financial reports properly.
  • Bill clients as quickly as possible based on the most up-to-date information.
  • Share financial and inventory data with colleagues as it comes in.
  • Manage your cash flow effectively.

Simply put, accounting software like QuickBooks offers a limited snapshot of your business performance. Most companies will outgrow it soon enough. 

Why you should choose cloud ERP over QuickBooks

Maybe you’re still wondering why a small business needs anything more than simple accounting programs. Only rapidly expanding companies need fancy cloud ERP tools, right? Not at all — and here are three reasons why.

1: Integration

Integration is the key benefit of cloud-based ERP. With cloud ERP, finances, inventory, marketing programs, and other tools are brought together under one platform. So you’re not just viewing your financial information in a vacuum — at the touch of a button, you can see how all your day-to-day business activities come together.

In other words, since you always have access to the most accurate data, you can easily make informed business decisions. Integration saves you valuable time and prevents costly misunderstandings due to outdated information.

2: Unity

With integration comes unity. Essentially, cloud ERP streamlines your business processes. 

  • Data is centralized. 
  • You don’t need to save files and copy them over from various databases. 
  • Streamlined processes lead to a more productive workforce.
  • It’s easy to unify communications throughout the company. 

The best part? Since it’s cloud-based, ERP is easily deployed across a remote workforce.

3: Scalability

Finally, cloud ERP is entirely scalable to your requirements. 

  • With an OpEx model, you pay for only the services you need. 
  • A flat monthly fee makes it easier to control your IT budget. 
  • Need more storage or facilities? The cloud adapts to suit you. 

Takeaway

While programs like QuickBooks are useful, they don’t have the scalability and manageability you get with cloud-based ERP. So for more information on deploying cloud ERP solutions across your organization, contact us today.