Cloud ERP Archives

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What is Cloud-based ERP software?

February 10, 2021/in blog /by AppSolute

Cloud-based ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software is a comprehensive business software solution that centralizes data produced by the different departments of a company. While traditional ERP software solutions run on company servers and networks, Cloud-based ERP software runs in the Cloud.

With Cloud-based ERP software, companies are able to analyze and process data in real time. Further, by keeping all company data in a single database, Cloud-based ERP software is able to ensure the integrity of company data to make sure the entire organization is working with current information.

Cloud-based ERP software includes:

Acumatica Cloud ERP
Oracle ERP Cloud
NetSuite Global ERP

Benefits of Cloud-based ERP software

Benefits that Cloud-based ERP software provides to companies includes:

Real-time data

Without access to data in real time, companies have to wait until reports are compiled in order to make informed strategic business decisions. But with Cloud-based ERP software, no delay is experienced for reports to be prepared. As transactions occur within the different company departments, data is kept current in the ERP database.

Scalability

Cloud-based ERP software solutions help companies scale, through the ability of the software to automate tedious and repetitive tasks. Moreover, through its centralization of company data, Cloud-based ERP software enables companies to exchange data throughout the organization more quickly and accurately.

Mobility

Traditional ERP software solutions are increasingly being replaced with modern Cloud-based ERP software solutions. One reason for this is because Cloud-based ERP software can be accessed from anywhere in the world where an Internet connection is available. This is particularly important as businesses shift more and more to remote work opportunities.

Reliability

Companies that continue to use traditional ERP software running on premises are responsible for making sure their computer servers and networks are functioning properly. If a server or piece of networking equipment fails, the company is responsible for repairing or replacing that broken hardware.

On the other hand, companies that use Cloud-based ERP software solutions delegate to professional data center engineers the responsibility of maintaining and upgrading servers and networking equipment. This ensures greater uptime and reliability of the Cloud-based ERP software solution.

What is the difference between on-premises ERP and Cloud ERP?

On-premises ERP and Cloud-based ERP both improve the business operations of a company. However, there is a key difference between the two.

On-premises ERP operates on company-owned hardware. The company IT department or dedicated staff is needed to make sure the IT hardware is working properly, that software is always updated, and security patches are always applied.

Cloud-based ERP software operates on state-of-the-art data center hardware. Highly trained and experienced data center engineers manage that hardware, as well as the ERP software, meaning companies that use Cloud-based ERP software only have to use the software, not maintain it. Software updates and security patches are handled by the data center engineers.

One main difference between on-premises ERP and Cloud-based ERP is that traditional ERP software typically can only be used by employees who are connected to the company network. In contrast, Cloud-based ERP can be remotely accessed from anywhere, and from any device, as long as there is Internet connectivity.

Why companies are moving to the Cloud

By moving to the Cloud, companies are able to realize significant savings by avoiding the responsibility to purchase and maintain their own expensive, enterprise-grade IT hardware. Further, companies are able to take advantage of the vast span of resources available on the Cloud, including scalable processing power and unlimited data storage capabilities.

Companies that move to the Cloud are able to focus on business, rather than on maintaining IT infrastructure.

How AppSolute can improve your business

AppSolute is made up of a talented team of individuals who take great pride in helping businesses grow and be more productive. The AppSolute team knows the ins and outs of a wide range of industries, including distribution, eCommerce, and manufacturing. With this knowledge, the AppSolute team is able to tailor Cloud-based ERP solutions for the exact needs of a company.

Companies that partner with AppSolute to implement Cloud-based ERP solutions receive quality service to make sure the specific goals of the company are achieved.

Since its founding in 1997, AppSolute has harnessed the same core message: “Your Success is Our Success.”

To learn more about what Cloud-based ERP software solutions can do for your company, contact AppSolute today.

3 features of cloud ERP that trump QuickBooks

October 1, 2020/in blog /by AppSolute

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.

What to do when your business outgrows QuickBooks

August 31, 2020/in blog /by AppSolute

QuickBooks is an obvious go-to finance software solution for startups and SMEs. In fact, QuickBooks dominates the off-the-shelf accounting software market with a 62 percent lion share. This is because it is simple, easy to use, inexpensive, and familiar.

The problem with QuickBooks

As a generic small business accounting software, QuickBooks has some serious drawbacks. First of all, it is not designed for heavy lifting, making it nearly impossible to work on complex data with multiple variables. It also lacks sophisticated financial management functions such as advanced cash flow analytics, tracking, comprehensive reporting, and resource management.

Thirdly, QuickBooks’s primary functions are only centered around accounting, and their scope is limited to the very basics. This means you would still need other business management software to work alongside QuickBooks to fully digitize your enterprise. A business can quickly outgrow the platform once its financial transactions exceed a certain threshold.

Signs that your accounting needs are beyond QuickBooks

It is easy to bottom out QuickBooks’s capabilities without even realizing it. Here are the signs that your business needs a more robust small business accounting software:

Reliance on additional accounting solutions

Once you hit QuickBooks’s functionality limits, you might find yourself looking for additional tools to fill in the gaps. Your accountants may revert to primitive methods such as manual calculations and spreadsheets or seek out more effective accounting facilities elsewhere. If you have to process your finances using multiple systems, then QuickBooks is failing as your primary accounting software.

An expanding enterprise

You cannot realistically expect a rigid small business accounting software to match a growing business’s needs. According to QuickBooks’s user agreement, each license has a limit for the number of users, data storage, and file size. Since there is nothing you can do about these limits, it is impossible to scale the system’s performance beyond a certain point. This then becomes a problem when you want to increase your staff, sign new vendors, increase inventory caches, or open more locations.

New demands for complex resource management

Financial management and business accounting are growing more complicated due to increasingly sophisticated business models. Consolidating multiple income streams, managing dynamic inventory, tracking cash flow, analyzing financial performance, and automating entangled processes can be too much for a simple small business accounting software.

Nowadays, accounting is not just about balancing the books. Thanks to intelligent data systems, you can get a lot more from your financial information. If you are struggling to draw useful insights from your data or run complex accounting processes using QuickBooks, you need a digital upgrade.

The solution: upgrading to an ERP system

Having outgrown QuickBooks, the next step is to upgrade to an enterprise resource planning solution. ERP is a holistic business management software suite that integrates all the vital back-office functions from supply and distribution, sales, workflow management, and resource control to analytics.

Accounting is often tied to most of the core business processes, so it makes sense to have an enterprise-wide digital solution that covers financial management and all its dependencies. Unlike a small business accounting software, a centralized EPR solution shows you the whole picture and links every process through a common platform.

According to a recent report, 64 percent of organizations implement ERP solutions to improve their overall business performance — ERPs are not just for accounting.

Even better still is a cloud ERP that lets you manage a single establishment or multiple business locations remotely and conveniently. Acumatica is an ideal cloud ERP solution for businesses looking for more than the usual balance sheets from accounting software. Get in touch with us and learn how this powerful cloud ERP can help propel your business.

Is cloud-based ERP right for your business?

August 18, 2020/in blog /by AppSolute

Enterprise resource planning, or ERP, is one of the most powerful types of business software. It’s also one of the most expensive and difficult to implement — over half of ERP implementations fail and most exceed the expected budget. This is one reason why, in the past, only large companies and multinationals that could shoulder the resource investment enjoyed the competitive advantage that ERP offers.

With cloud-based ERP, however, SMBs across industries are able to take advantage of the operational, efficiency, and productivity benefits of ERP software. Cloud-based solutions come with predictable costs that most small businesses can afford. It’s also much easier to get started using the software because your provider handles the implementation process, which is a must for a lot of fast-paced small and medium-sized companies that can’t afford to wait months for deployment.

If you’re considering adopting a cloud-based ERP system but aren’t sure if it’s right for your business, take a look at what you stand to gain from a cloud solution. Also, what types of businesses can benefit the most.

What is cloud-based ERP?

Cloud-based ERP, like an on-premise solution, is modular business software that includes multiple applications and integrates them into one platform. The huge benefit of ERP is this unification — data is housed on one platform, which makes information easier for users to access, and easier for your organization to protect.

When your organization’s customer management, project accounting, financial management, inventory management, and other solutions are integrated into one platform, your business will save time. It will also run more seamlessly, and cut down on wasted time and resources.

Because a cloud-based ERP solution runs on your provider’s cloud computing platform, your business doesn’t have to invest in expensive servers. It also doesn’t have to worry about deployment, managing the software, or handling updates. Also, because the software and data are housed in the cloud, your users can access it anywhere, offering incredible flexibility.

In addition to the accessibility and flexibility, cloud-based ERP offers:

Easier IT budgeting – You only pay a flat monthly fee, which is usually based on the number of users.
Performance you can count on – There’s no risk of poor performance due to a poorly set-up system. Instead, you can count on the experts — your cloud-based ERP provider — to ensure the system is well-maintained.
Better security – Cloud-based solutions come with advanced security measures and robust access controls.
Effortless scaling – With a cloud-based ERP, you can scale your software as your business grows.

Which businesses are well-suited to cloud-based enterprise resource planning?

Small to mid-sized companies that are ready for a more robust software solution and are struggling to unify operations. This is because of the use of separate apps can benefit from cloud-based ERP. Even new businesses are adopting ERP solutions to help them operate fluidly from the outset. Along with marketing solutions, new business owners are prioritizing ERP software platforms over other types of software.

ERP has always been an invaluable asset for businesses in the manufacturing, construction, health care, hospitality, and retail sectors. This is because of the time-saving benefits and business insights an integrated software solution promises. With its huge range of benefits, cloud-based ERP has the potential to completely transform your operations. No matter what industry you’re operating in. Learn more about how a cloud-based ERP solution can unlock your organization’s potential.

Enabling a mobile workforce with cloud ERP

July 23, 2020/in blog /by AppSolute

As mobile technology, innovative solutions, and advances in cloud computing continue to enhance business productivity. Many find themselves asking whether a physical office is even necessary for a successful business anymore. And as we’ve been forced to learn during these unprecedented times, the answer could very well be no.

According to the 2020 Enterprise Mobility Trends Report by Clearbridge Mobile, 42% of the global workforce and a staggering 75% of the total U.S. workforce will be comprised of mobile workers in 2020. With numbers like these, the ability to support remote working is going to be top of the list. This helps you keep a competitive edge all while attracting and retaining top talent.

Why your business needs cloud ERP software

If you don’t know what ERP software is, it can be hard to understand why you need it, much less why your business might need a cloud ERP platform. No matter the size of your business, there are multiple departments and areas working together every day. All of them rely on data from each other for each part of your business to operate successfully.

This is where ERP comes in. Each of these sectors might use different software in order to perform the processes they’re meant to. With ERP software, all of the information from the different software you might use is accessible from one central point. These can be easily shared between each other as well. This Investopedia video does a great job of explaining ERP as well.

By using cloud ERP software, you’re taking this easy accessibility one step further. Now anyone and anything can access the data they need at any time, no matter where they happen to be. Your New York office can share important data with your London office, and someone on a business trip in Hong Kong can access your cloud ERP whenever they need to.

The benefits of cloud ERP software

If you want your business to grow effectively, there is no real way around needing to invest in an ERP system. You might already have multiple systems doing a great job. However, consolidating all the info in Excel spreadsheets can only get you so far.

Because all of your data is always comprehensive, up to date, and easily accessible no matter the time or place, cloud ERP improves your reporting processes. And, you can usually create customized reports for individual users, so they’re only getting the data relevant to them.

ERP systems can be expensive to invest in. They also require complex infrastructure as well as a dedicated team to manage it. With cloud ERP, you’re getting all the benefits at a fraction of the cost. And very little of the maintenance burdens that come with them.

Implementing an ERP is a complex and challenging process. Once completed it improves collaboration and communication because of its centralized nature. It also reduces the time spent on mundane and repetitive tasks, improves data capture and entry, simplifies processes, and lowers admin costs.

And with a cloud ERP system, your business isn’t hindered in the event of a natural disaster or other emergencies. This includes lockdown measures being enforced in the face of a global pandemic. Even just because members of your team have to travel overseas for business reasons.

Businesses cannot escape the fact that the workforce dynamic is changing. And because of these changes, the expectations, needs, and demands of both their enterprise software and employees are changing. Thankfully there is a wealth of technology perfectly poised to support remote workers in every industry while helping organizations capitalize on the benefits of a mobile workforce.

5 things you probably don’t know about cloud-based ERP (but should)

April 3, 2019/in blog /by AppSolute

Cloud-based computing services have become ubiquitous in the business IT environment. From critical infrastructure and communication platforms to collaboration applications, cloud solutions are quickly overtaking traditional on-premise solutions. Despite the increased acceptance of cloud services, ERP is making the shift at a slower rate, despite sharing a number of similarities with the cloud computing philosophy.

Research and advisory firm IDC estimates that 70% of companies’ core applications currently run on-premises or in co-location facilities. But Statista forecasts the cloud ERP market at $28.8 billion by 2022, with just 8% compound annual growth since 2016. In fact, surveys from other research firms indicate a majority of corporate teams expect a focus on off-premise cloud technology in 2020.

An ERP system is designed to manage and automate core operational activity on a single integrated software platform, from product planning and development to sales and marketing. Businesses benefit greatly when they have central access to shared data with a single application and user interface. Cloud-based ERP solutions extend these benefits into new territory with hybrid environments and dedicated cloud-based models.

Let’s look at five things you should know about cloud-based ERP so your business can take advantage of the best in modern enterprise technology.

1. Cloud-based ERP software is accessible and affordable

While ERP has long been associated with enterprise organizations and even specific industries, the cost benefits and operational advantages of integrated software now more widely available because of the cloud computing model. From health care and hospitality through to transportation and financial services, businesses of all sizes can benefit from cloud-based ERP solutions.

The ability to share operational resources offers increased cost advantages to anyone who relies on integration of multiple databases and software applications.

2. Cloud-based ERP increases flexibility

Despite the benefits of an integrated approach, on-site ERP solutions can create problems when business needs, processes or demands change. Instead of getting tied down by complex, expensive hardware and software, more businesses are migrating to a cloud setup.

Cloud-based ERP solutions are capable of enabling much greater organizational flexibility to adopt, adapt, and maintain key services quickly and efficiently.

3. Cloud-based ERP improves scalability

Cloud-based ERP solutions are much more scalable than comparable onsite solutions. Along with avoiding many of the upfront costs associated with computing infrastructure, cloud services allow you to update your commitments and scope as you grow and evolve. This is a particular advantage to small and medium businesses who don’t have access to unlimited capital.

By avoiding expensive hardware costs and restrictive software licenses, you can budget more effectively and focus your efforts on running your business. Having the ability to scale resources up or down according to seasonal, operational and market demand is a major advantage to any business.

4. Cloud-based ERP enhances agility

Agility, or the ability to operate and adapt quickly, is a crucial aspect of cloud computing. Rather than relying on slow infrastructure and outdated technology, cloud-based ERP gives you the speed and power of a much larger organization. The opportunity to adopt software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), or infrastructure as a service (IaaS) solutions with the latest technology advances increases agility across industry sectors.

If you need to expand your capabilities, the added capability to develop, test, and launch software applications quickly is integral to business growth.

5. Cloud-based ERP ensures security

Cloud-based ERP ensures privacy, data security, and compliance in the case of data or network disruption. Whether it’s a cyberattack, a natural disaster, or human error, cloud-based ERP ensures the safety of your data at all times. According to a study by TechnoUSA, 94 percent of all businesses think their security is improved due to cloud services.

Regular backup services are integrated into ERP solutions, along with other important security features like multi-factor authentication, multiple data centers, geographically decentralized infrastructure, regular hardware maintenance, and a comprehensive disaster recovery plan.

Working with an IT partner like AppSolute that experienced in ERP is the best way to ensure the successful implementation, customization, and maintenance of a cloud-based ERP system.

How to choose the right ERP solution for your business

January 10, 2019/in blog /by AppSolute

All businesses use technology. The most successful businesses have learned that by integrating it into their very core, they can make technology work for them in new and exciting ways. Enterprise Resource Planning, better known as ERP, is designed to manage the most important parts of your business. By using adaptable, cloud-based technology, ERP can accelerate your business, making you more efficient and competitive than ever before.

We have compiled this guide to help you choose the right ERP solution for your unique business needs.

Related reading: 5 signs you need an ERP system

Goals and processes

When you consider ERP systems it is very important to have a clear understanding of your immediate and long-term business goals. In addition to goals, consider the way your business operates. What are your needs? Where are your shortcomings? Have these things clearly in mind before you begin the process of comparing ERP systems. Each ERP system is a little bit different. It is important to choose a system that works with your existing business processes and best practices and will provide assistance where you need it most. Doing so will ensure a cohesive match and as little interruption as possible when it comes to product integration.

Compatibility

As you begin to review ERP systems, you will want to look beyond the technology itself. Consider systems and software you already have and use on a daily basis. Is the ERP compatible with these systems and programs? If not, are there affordable alternatives that you are willing to consider? In the long run, choosing an ERP system that is compatible with existing technology will save you both time and money, as well as the frustration of learning too many new things at once. The simpler the integration process, the happier everyone will be.

Training

As you compare and contrast ERP systems, consider whether training is an important aspect for you and your business. The training that is offered may differ considerably between systems. You should inquire about the following: whether training is included in the cost of implementation or is a separate fee; the scale of training available; training method (i.e. in person, video conference, etc); and whether there are manuals or other supplemental materials available.

Some businesses underestimate the cost and necessity of training and find they do not have the resources needed for training, in order to use their system to its full potential.

Budget

For many small businesses, a budget will be at the top of your list of concerns when it comes to choosing an ERP system. For this reason, it is imperative that you remember to consider all associated costs, including implementation, licensing, training, and on-going support. Talk to potential ERP providers for a detailed list of fees. You certainly do want to choose a system that you are comfortable paying for.

That said, while the price is a factor, it should not be the most important one you’re deciding. Choosing a system that is cheap, but poorly suited for your business can have negative long-term consequences. On the flip-side, if you choose to spend a little more in something that is better suited to your goals and needs, a well-suited ERP system can positively impact both efficiency and profits. This is one product that is worth viewing as an investment.

More reading: What ERP means for your small business

Comparing cloud ERP to on-premise

December 27, 2018/in blog /by AppSolute

Effective enterprise resource planning (ERP) is key to maintaining a successful business, with the advantages outweighing the costs when companies choose cloud computing over IT on premise.

By 2021, 28 percent of all IT spending will be used to support cloud-based infrastructure, middleware, application and business process services, according to Gartner. Confidence is growing among enterprises that Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), along with Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), will be able to offer a secure and scalable platform for application development in the future.

Evaluating ERP needs

According to IDC, more than 85 percent of enterprises will soon tap into multi-cloud architectures using a mix of public cloud services, community clouds, private clouds, and hosted clouds. The time is ripe to migrate to this technology. There have been significant advancements in cloud ERP, and the versatility of the technology still enables companies to save money if they plan well for their migration to the cloud.

Taking this into consideration, there are still many factors companies should consider when choosing between cloud ERP and the standard on-premise infrastructure. In addition to the financial and labor costs of migrating to the cloud, the most effective solution depends upon business needs.

Consider your organization’s size and scope, the expectations of your customers, the regulatory environment, the demand of workloads on cloud migration, and how your IT team defines the cloud. To manage cloud infrastructure efficiently, you’ll need to have the correct people and tools in place.

Advantages of cloud infrastructure

The cloud offers companies more agility, giving CIOs the flexibility to form cloud-based solutions that are catered to their company. Cloud ERP provides many benefits to companies who are willing to put in the time and resources to make the switch. It can be especially beneficial to startup companies, small companies or even mid-sized companies, by stimulating business growth while limiting operational expenses.

As the technology matures, companies can offer advanced data security and cybersecurity, while also helping your team save time, reduce risk and work smarter. With access to IT devices and programs that are usually reserved for larger corporations, you can also become more competitive in the marketplace.

With cloud ERP, companies can also enjoy a wide variety of options for IT solutions, choose solutions that scale well and have their choice of service providers. The management provided by an off-site team lends an added level of confidence to IT infrastructure. As an added benefit, companies often experience fewer downtimes.

Reasons to maintain on-premise technology

As you consider whether to migrate to cloud ERP solutions, it may be advantageous to perform risk analysis on behalf of your company. Take into account the collaboration needs of your firm, as well as financial operations, training operations and auditing.

Companies in heavily regulated industries may find that it’s not beneficial to migrate all operations to the cloud. The risks also increase for companies that employ more than 500 workers, as the size and scope of the migration will be more complex.

The cost of the switch varies greatly depending on the nature of a company, what infrastructure is needed, and whether the company moves fully to the cloud or opts for a hybrid option. Choosing a firm that will lead you through the process, and offer a cost-efficient solution is essential. This should consist of meeting and planning stages, steps to architect and design solutions that fit into the master plan, and a smooth plan for management of your IT solutions.

Depending on the timing of a migration, you may decide that it’s best for your company to maintain on-premise solutions. This can also be advantageous if your team is not fully prepared such a migration because of its size and scope.

How modern ERP helps businesses make better decisions

December 13, 2018/in whitepaper /by AppSolute

According to a recent report, 44% of supply chain leaders have already implemented an upgraded ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system or are currently in the process of implementation. Around half of these organizations report undergoing this process simply to replace an outdated software system. However, the key to success with an ERP is fully understanding the benefits it provides. Modern-day, cloud-based ERP systems – such as the Acumatica platform – are invaluable tools to a business owner and management team, especially in a fast-paced decision-making environment.

As a uniquely specialized managed services provider, AppSolute has explored the top four ways that a modern ERP helps businesses make better decisions:

Simplify business health reports

Successfully owning and operating a business of any size is no easy feat. While most business owners have an idea of their company’s overall health, it can be a long and complicated task to fully analyze performance. With a modern ERP in place, you no longer have to wait for reports and analysis from various departments before receiving a full picture. Instead, all the crucial information you need is presented in a comprehensive manner at your disposal. In turn, this allows you to identify your business’s strong points and overcome any minor weaknesses before they turn into critical problems.

As your business grows, the day-to-day activity and the operation as a whole become drastically more complex. With a modern ERP in place, you eliminate common time-consuming mistakes like data re-entry with access to real-time data and information across all departments. In turn, each department is able to collaborate with one another more efficiently and effectively. Modern ERP software allows every aspect of your business, from manufacturing to accounting, to operate in sync within a single system. This allows all senior management from numerous departments to offer valuable feedback while looking at the operation in its entirety.

Related: 5 Signs You Need an ERP System

Focus on customer retention and pursuing sales leads

With a modern ERP, many repetitive, manual processes can be drastically reduced or eliminated altogether. In turn, this allows employees to focus on other aspects of their job. For instance, instead of spending hours entering data into a spreadsheet, employees are free to focus on customer retention, sales leads or other revenue increasing tactics. Similarly, this eliminates frequent human errors and makes the information more accurate and accessible to management.

Fine-tune targeted marketing campaigns

A compelling advantage of using a modern ERP is the ability to track customers from the beginning of their journey to the end. The data is stored and compiled to more quickly and easily identify your target audience. In turn, you can be more confident in your targeted marketing campaigns utilizing this data. Along with saving an immense level of time, it can also eliminate the guesswork associated with marketing and improve your overall ROI by up to 33%.

Remain competitive in your industry

Above all, one of the greatest benefits of implementing a modern ERP system is to stay ahead of the competition. In today’s technology-driven business climate, it is likely that your competitors are already reaping the rewards of the software. While older, standard methods are still utilized, business owners who invest in innovative solutions save time and money in the long run. This allows them to achieve more accurate results and make better, more informed decisions for their business.

Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of modern ERP systems like Acumatica, and how to get the support you need to maximize them for your business.

5 Server Maintenance Tips and Tricks to Better Support Your Business

November 22, 2018/in blog /by AppSolute

Each and every day, you likely go about your daily business without giving your server much thought. They typically operate 24/7 without much hassle, but like all machines, they do require some level of maintenance.

This is why you need to take a proactive approach.

As you monitor and maintain your server, you will be able to help prevent a possible failure — one that could quickly turn into a disaster. To help guide you, we have created a little tips and tricks checklist. That way, you can avoid costly outages and unnecessary headaches.

Consider These 5 Server Maintenance Tips and Tricks

Unlike larger companies, you may not yet have a dedicated IT department. If this is the case, you may be currently weighed down by technical tasks that are somewhat out of your wheelhouse. The following tips and tricks are intended to guide you. However, if you are completely in the dark, it’s best that you seek the assistance of a managed service provider.

In the meantime, consider the following:

Tip #1: Update your OS

This may seem obvious. However, there are many businesses that are using outdated operating systems, leaving their companies vulnerable. All it takes is one attack, like WannaCry, for you to face a highly disruptive, potentially detrimental situation. The key here is to regularly update your operating system so that it supports regular patch releases. If you don’t, you may not have issues for months, even years — but eventually, an unpatched server will catch up with you.

Tip #2: Clean your server

If you have your server tucked away in a closet, it’s important to physically clean it on a regular basis. Although quality servers have fairly powerful fans, that does not mean that dirt and dust can’t settle in the server’s case. This will increase the temperature within the case, potentially leading to a range of issues — including a potential fire. If your server has filters, clean them on a regular basis and use compressed air to access hard-to-reach places.

Tip #3: Check for potential hardware errors

Review your company’s system logs in order to identify signs of hardware issues. From network failures to overheating notices, it is important that you’re aware of how your hardware is operating. This is particularly important if your system has not been running as expected recently. However, even if there are not any apparent issues, checking your logs for hardware errors should become a standard part of your server maintenance strategy.

Tip #4: Confirm that your backup server is running properly

You may have already gotten into the habit of checking your backup system on a weekly basis. However, are you actually verifying that your backups are working as expected? Often overlooked, this step is imperative in regards to a solid backup plan. Even if you decide to outsource this task, you should still have a firm grasp on all the elements within your plan, including the schedule, backup location, and recovery times.

Tip #5: Move to the cloud

The cloud has allowed companies to reduce to reduce outages, which is why you should move at least a portion of your infrastructure to the cloud. This step will help you streamline your operations, hosting, data storage, and more — all while increasing speed, flexibility, and overall peace-of-mind.

Still in need of support? Please feel free to contact us regarding your IT service needs.

Also, be sure to read the following helpful resources: