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Basics of CRM Software Development: Step-by-Step Guide for Enterprises

If you own a medium or large business, you’re likely already familiar with some widely-used CRM solutions. If you are reading this article, however, we would assume that your business has grown to a stage where off-the-shelf products no longer suffice to match all your business requirements, hindering your progress toward further growth and success. At this point, you might be wondering about CRM software development as the way to cut down software fees and use your own, custom-built CRM system. The global CRM market is expected to reach $128.9 billion by 2027, and these growth prospects just go to show the further growth of the industry and the growing impact of the industry’s major players.

In today’s article, we will look at the reasons behind custom CRM software development and how you can do that with the assistance of a reliable software development partner.

Why Businesses Need CRM Systems

Before delving into the process of building a CRM application, let’s examine the reasons for choosing custom CRM software development rather than off-the-shelf options. First and foremost, this CRM software development benefits large enterprises that pay exorbitant costs for third-party solutions. At a specific size, investing in a custom solution is better than paying for the off-the-shelf solution. Here are other benefits of CRMs and the reasons why you might want to invest in CRM software development services.
Manage client data
Most standard or tailor-made CRM software systems facilitate the collection and storage of client information. This encompasses personal details, contacts, contracts, company documentation, and more. The specific features vary depending on the product.
With this information, you can:
Identify client preferences.
Anticipate their needs.
Enhance your sales strategy.
On top of that, all valuable data is consolidated in one location, in a well-organized format, enabling accessibility and utilization by everyone within your company.

Automate and integrate tasks

If your customer data is dispersed across various applications and services, CRM software development may be necessary. Integrating CRM with live chat, email marketing solutions, call tracking systems, and other services streamlines communication channels, simplifies task management, and ensures data synchronization from various sources.

Optimize and centralize data storage

Centralizing data eliminates concerns about sales duplicating customer profiles, and prevents missing vital client feedback, or marketers overlooking crucial reports. The database, accessible from any location and device, is a comprehensive repository for years, documenting the entire history of customer interactions.

How does CRM Software Development Happen?

Now that we have specified the reasons behind the decision let us take a look at how a CRM software development company approaches the process and builds a custom solution. Naturally, this process might vary depending on your specific needs and requirements but the major steps are common for most such projects.

Select the right type of CRM system

Operational systems are designed to optimize and automate sales, customer service, and marketing. This type of CRM application is well-suited for businesses engaging with customers through various channels such as call centers, blogs, websites, communities, direct mail, and direct sales. Key features of operational CRM systems include:

  • A unified client database for convenient and quick access.
  • Utilization of multiple communication channels.
  • Registration, processing, and execution of all client requests.
  • Continuous analysis of interactions with clients.
  • Task distribution and handling of typical interaction scenarios.
  • Analytical systems collect information from various client touchpoints and process this data. The primary goal of these CRMs is to assist in organizing daily operational work with clients and generate analytics for developing and planning future interaction scenarios. Key features of analytical CRM systems are:
  • Analysis of customer requests and their key attributes.
  • Segmentation of customers into groups based on various parameters.
  • Forecasting the outcomes of interactions with clients.

Strategic systems contribute to enhancing communication and teamwork within a company. These CRM systems combine multiple departments (sales, marketing, technical support) to achieve a common goal—utilizing accumulated data to enhance service quality and attract new customers.

Combined systems typically consist of operational CRM applications with a limited set of analytical tools (customer reports, sales, and performance analytics), along with the ability to communicate directly with customers and colleagues through integration with instant messengers, social networks, and the website.

Define the user roles

When incorporating a user into a CRM system, you designate a specific role to their account, such as salesperson, manager, head, or executive. Each role comes with predefined rights and capabilities essential for executing corresponding tasks. For instance, if the designated role is a manager, the account will encompass the following functionalities:

  • Viewing and managing personal activities.
  • Managing created contracts and accessing the contacts directory.
  • Overseeing events, applications, documents, and transactions created by or assigned to the user.
  • Viewing and completing assigned events.
  • Other associated tasks.

In the process of CRM software development, it is crucial to establish several templates for standard roles from the get-go (e.g., “Owner,” “Storekeeper,” “Manager 1,” “Manager 2,” “Full access,” “Extended access,” etc.), while also incorporating the ability to generate and configure roles. The roles that users can create should be contingent on their level of access. For instance, a “Senior Manager” may create accounts with the “Manager” role but may not add another “Senior Manager” or “Owner” to the system.

Calculate the expected budget

Now, what about the cost of CRM software development services?

Several factors impact the cost associated with CRM software development. The key considerations include:

  1. Number of features: Each feature in the program code takes a specific number of man-hours.
  2. Number of user roles: Roles such as General Manager, Supervisor, Salesperson, or Branch Office entail distinct access rights and capabilities within the system. The implementation of each role also requires a certain amount of man-hours.
  3. Platform support: The more platforms the application needs to support, the higher the cost of the final software product.
  4. Method of information entry: The manual creation and editing of client profiles by managers, as opposed to automatic system-generated profiles, have different implementation times. The latter option demands a significant amount of time, thereby increasing development costs.
  5. Events and tasks: Implementation can range from simple notes to more complex elements with labels, attributes, interaction with invoices, deadline tracking, and reminder settings.
  6. Sales funnel: The sales funnel can be a straightforward visual representation with manual lead status changes by managers or a solution with automated business logic that guides leads through the sales funnel while recording all interactions.
  7. Interaction reports: Regular reporting may include the ability to assess potential customer profitability and likely responses to offers. Additionally, data about customer interactions on social networks can be collected.
  8. Integration with other services: The cost of developing this feature is contingent on the number and complexity of third-party services involved.

You should also factor in the cost of a partnership with your software development vendor. It is also critical to select a partner who can guarantee the highest standards of CRM software development services at a reasonable cost and adequate time frame.

Final Thoughts

Having outlined the major steps in the process of CRM software development, we must acknowledge that this process is far more nuanced than a short article can outline. Each system is unique as it follows the inherent parameters of the client’s business. As a reliable software development partner, BilSoft offers strong expertise in CRM and ERP software development along with a client-centric approach that guarantees strict adherence to your business specs and technical requirements.

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Five Key Trends Shaping the Future of ERP System Development

If you own a medium or large business, you’re likely already familiar with some widely-used CRM solutions. If you are reading this article, however, we would assume that your business has grown to a stage where off-the-shelf products no longer suffice to match all your business requirements, hindering your progress toward further growth and success. At this point, you might be wondering about CRM software development as the way to cut down software fees and use your own, custom-built CRM system. The global CRM market is expected to reach $128.9 billion by 2027, and these growth prospects just go to show the further growth of the industry and the growing impact of the industry’s major players.

In today’s article, we will look at the reasons behind custom CRM software development and how you can do that with the assistance of a reliable software development partner.

Why Businesses Need CRM Systems

Before delving into the process of building a CRM application, let’s examine the reasons for choosing custom CRM software development rather than off-the-shelf options. First and foremost, this CRM software development benefits large enterprises that pay exorbitant costs for third-party solutions. At a specific size, investing in a custom solution is better than paying for the off-the-shelf solution. Here are other benefits of CRMs and the reasons why you might want to invest in CRM software development services.
Manage client data
Most standard or tailor-made CRM software systems facilitate the collection and storage of client information. This encompasses personal details, contacts, contracts, company documentation, and more. The specific features vary depending on the product.
With this information, you can:
Identify client preferences.
Anticipate their needs.
Enhance your sales strategy.
On top of that, all valuable data is consolidated in one location, in a well-organized format, enabling accessibility and utilization by everyone within your company.

Automate and integrate tasks

If your customer data is dispersed across various applications and services, CRM software development may be necessary. Integrating CRM with live chat, email marketing solutions, call tracking systems, and other services streamlines communication channels, simplifies task management, and ensures data synchronization from various sources.

Optimize and centralize data storage

Centralizing data eliminates concerns about sales duplicating customer profiles, and prevents missing vital client feedback, or marketers overlooking crucial reports. The database, accessible from any location and device, is a comprehensive repository for years, documenting the entire history of customer interactions.

How does CRM Software Development Happen?

Now that we have specified the reasons behind the decision let us take a look at how a CRM software development company approaches the process and builds a custom solution. Naturally, this process might vary depending on your specific needs and requirements but the major steps are common for most such projects.

Select the right type of CRM system

Operational systems are designed to optimize and automate sales, customer service, and marketing. This type of CRM application is well-suited for businesses engaging with customers through various channels such as call centers, blogs, websites, communities, direct mail, and direct sales. Key features of operational CRM systems include:

  • A unified client database for convenient and quick access.
  • Utilization of multiple communication channels.
  • Registration, processing, and execution of all client requests.
  • Continuous analysis of interactions with clients.
  • Task distribution and handling of typical interaction scenarios.
  • Analytical systems collect information from various client touchpoints and process this data. The primary goal of these CRMs is to assist in organizing daily operational work with clients and generate analytics for developing and planning future interaction scenarios. Key features of analytical CRM systems are:
  • Analysis of customer requests and their key attributes.
  • Segmentation of customers into groups based on various parameters.
  • Forecasting the outcomes of interactions with clients.

Strategic systems contribute to enhancing communication and teamwork within a company. These CRM systems combine multiple departments (sales, marketing, technical support) to achieve a common goal—utilizing accumulated data to enhance service quality and attract new customers.

Combined systems typically consist of operational CRM applications with a limited set of analytical tools (customer reports, sales, and performance analytics), along with the ability to communicate directly with customers and colleagues through integration with instant messengers, social networks, and the website.

Define the user roles

When incorporating a user into a CRM system, you designate a specific role to their account, such as salesperson, manager, head, or executive. Each role comes with predefined rights and capabilities essential for executing corresponding tasks. For instance, if the designated role is a manager, the account will encompass the following functionalities:

  • Viewing and managing personal activities.
  • Managing created contracts and accessing the contacts directory.
  • Overseeing events, applications, documents, and transactions created by or assigned to the user.
  • Viewing and completing assigned events.
  • Other associated tasks.

In the process of CRM software development, it is crucial to establish several templates for standard roles from the get-go (e.g., “Owner,” “Storekeeper,” “Manager 1,” “Manager 2,” “Full access,” “Extended access,” etc.), while also incorporating the ability to generate and configure roles. The roles that users can create should be contingent on their level of access. For instance, a “Senior Manager” may create accounts with the “Manager” role but may not add another “Senior Manager” or “Owner” to the system.

Calculate the expected budget

Now, what about the cost of CRM software development services?

Several factors impact the cost associated with CRM software development. The key considerations include:

  1. Number of features: Each feature in the program code takes a specific number of man-hours.
  2. Number of user roles: Roles such as General Manager, Supervisor, Salesperson, or Branch Office entail distinct access rights and capabilities within the system. The implementation of each role also requires a certain amount of man-hours.
  3. Platform support: The more platforms the application needs to support, the higher the cost of the final software product.
  4. Method of information entry: The manual creation and editing of client profiles by managers, as opposed to automatic system-generated profiles, have different implementation times. The latter option demands a significant amount of time, thereby increasing development costs.
  5. Events and tasks: Implementation can range from simple notes to more complex elements with labels, attributes, interaction with invoices, deadline tracking, and reminder settings.
  6. Sales funnel: The sales funnel can be a straightforward visual representation with manual lead status changes by managers or a solution with automated business logic that guides leads through the sales funnel while recording all interactions.
  7. Interaction reports: Regular reporting may include the ability to assess potential customer profitability and likely responses to offers. Additionally, data about customer interactions on social networks can be collected.
  8. Integration with other services: The cost of developing this feature is contingent on the number and complexity of third-party services involved.

You should also factor in the cost of a partnership with your software development vendor. It is also critical to select a partner who can guarantee the highest standards of CRM software development services at a reasonable cost and adequate time frame.

Final Thoughts

Having outlined the major steps in the process of CRM software development, we must acknowledge that this process is far more nuanced than a short article can outline. Each system is unique as it follows the inherent parameters of the client’s business. As a reliable software development partner, BilSoft offers strong expertise in CRM and ERP software development along with a client-centric approach that guarantees strict adherence to your business specs and technical requirements.

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Blog posts

The Evolution of ERP Development: Strategies for Business Growth and Innovation

If you own a medium or large business, you’re likely already familiar with some widely-used CRM solutions. If you are reading this article, however, we would assume that your business has grown to a stage where off-the-shelf products no longer suffice to match all your business requirements, hindering your progress toward further growth and success. At this point, you might be wondering about CRM software development as the way to cut down software fees and use your own, custom-built CRM system. The global CRM market is expected to reach $128.9 billion by 2027, and these growth prospects just go to show the further growth of the industry and the growing impact of the industry’s major players.

In today’s article, we will look at the reasons behind custom CRM software development and how you can do that with the assistance of a reliable software development partner.

Why Businesses Need CRM Systems

Before delving into the process of building a CRM application, let’s examine the reasons for choosing custom CRM software development rather than off-the-shelf options. First and foremost, this CRM software development benefits large enterprises that pay exorbitant costs for third-party solutions. At a specific size, investing in a custom solution is better than paying for the off-the-shelf solution. Here are other benefits of CRMs and the reasons why you might want to invest in CRM software development services.
Manage client data
Most standard or tailor-made CRM software systems facilitate the collection and storage of client information. This encompasses personal details, contacts, contracts, company documentation, and more. The specific features vary depending on the product.
With this information, you can:
Identify client preferences.
Anticipate their needs.
Enhance your sales strategy.
On top of that, all valuable data is consolidated in one location, in a well-organized format, enabling accessibility and utilization by everyone within your company.

Automate and integrate tasks

If your customer data is dispersed across various applications and services, CRM software development may be necessary. Integrating CRM with live chat, email marketing solutions, call tracking systems, and other services streamlines communication channels, simplifies task management, and ensures data synchronization from various sources.

Optimize and centralize data storage

Centralizing data eliminates concerns about sales duplicating customer profiles, and prevents missing vital client feedback, or marketers overlooking crucial reports. The database, accessible from any location and device, is a comprehensive repository for years, documenting the entire history of customer interactions.

How does CRM Software Development Happen?

Now that we have specified the reasons behind the decision let us take a look at how a CRM software development company approaches the process and builds a custom solution. Naturally, this process might vary depending on your specific needs and requirements but the major steps are common for most such projects.

Select the right type of CRM system

Operational systems are designed to optimize and automate sales, customer service, and marketing. This type of CRM application is well-suited for businesses engaging with customers through various channels such as call centers, blogs, websites, communities, direct mail, and direct sales. Key features of operational CRM systems include:

  • A unified client database for convenient and quick access.
  • Utilization of multiple communication channels.
  • Registration, processing, and execution of all client requests.
  • Continuous analysis of interactions with clients.
  • Task distribution and handling of typical interaction scenarios.
  • Analytical systems collect information from various client touchpoints and process this data. The primary goal of these CRMs is to assist in organizing daily operational work with clients and generate analytics for developing and planning future interaction scenarios. Key features of analytical CRM systems are:
  • Analysis of customer requests and their key attributes.
  • Segmentation of customers into groups based on various parameters.
  • Forecasting the outcomes of interactions with clients.

Strategic systems contribute to enhancing communication and teamwork within a company. These CRM systems combine multiple departments (sales, marketing, technical support) to achieve a common goal—utilizing accumulated data to enhance service quality and attract new customers.

Combined systems typically consist of operational CRM applications with a limited set of analytical tools (customer reports, sales, and performance analytics), along with the ability to communicate directly with customers and colleagues through integration with instant messengers, social networks, and the website.

Define the user roles

When incorporating a user into a CRM system, you designate a specific role to their account, such as salesperson, manager, head, or executive. Each role comes with predefined rights and capabilities essential for executing corresponding tasks. For instance, if the designated role is a manager, the account will encompass the following functionalities:

  • Viewing and managing personal activities.
  • Managing created contracts and accessing the contacts directory.
  • Overseeing events, applications, documents, and transactions created by or assigned to the user.
  • Viewing and completing assigned events.
  • Other associated tasks.

In the process of CRM software development, it is crucial to establish several templates for standard roles from the get-go (e.g., “Owner,” “Storekeeper,” “Manager 1,” “Manager 2,” “Full access,” “Extended access,” etc.), while also incorporating the ability to generate and configure roles. The roles that users can create should be contingent on their level of access. For instance, a “Senior Manager” may create accounts with the “Manager” role but may not add another “Senior Manager” or “Owner” to the system.

Calculate the expected budget

Now, what about the cost of CRM software development services?

Several factors impact the cost associated with CRM software development. The key considerations include:

  1. Number of features: Each feature in the program code takes a specific number of man-hours.
  2. Number of user roles: Roles such as General Manager, Supervisor, Salesperson, or Branch Office entail distinct access rights and capabilities within the system. The implementation of each role also requires a certain amount of man-hours.
  3. Platform support: The more platforms the application needs to support, the higher the cost of the final software product.
  4. Method of information entry: The manual creation and editing of client profiles by managers, as opposed to automatic system-generated profiles, have different implementation times. The latter option demands a significant amount of time, thereby increasing development costs.
  5. Events and tasks: Implementation can range from simple notes to more complex elements with labels, attributes, interaction with invoices, deadline tracking, and reminder settings.
  6. Sales funnel: The sales funnel can be a straightforward visual representation with manual lead status changes by managers or a solution with automated business logic that guides leads through the sales funnel while recording all interactions.
  7. Interaction reports: Regular reporting may include the ability to assess potential customer profitability and likely responses to offers. Additionally, data about customer interactions on social networks can be collected.
  8. Integration with other services: The cost of developing this feature is contingent on the number and complexity of third-party services involved.

You should also factor in the cost of a partnership with your software development vendor. It is also critical to select a partner who can guarantee the highest standards of CRM software development services at a reasonable cost and adequate time frame.

Final Thoughts

Having outlined the major steps in the process of CRM software development, we must acknowledge that this process is far more nuanced than a short article can outline. Each system is unique as it follows the inherent parameters of the client’s business. As a reliable software development partner, BilSoft offers strong expertise in CRM and ERP software development along with a client-centric approach that guarantees strict adherence to your business specs and technical requirements.

Categories
Blog posts

Unveiling the Hidden Potential: The Impact of Customized ERP Solutions on Business Performance

If you own a medium or large business, you’re likely already familiar with some widely-used CRM solutions. If you are reading this article, however, we would assume that your business has grown to a stage where off-the-shelf products no longer suffice to match all your business requirements, hindering your progress toward further growth and success. At this point, you might be wondering about CRM software development as the way to cut down software fees and use your own, custom-built CRM system. The global CRM market is expected to reach $128.9 billion by 2027, and these growth prospects just go to show the further growth of the industry and the growing impact of the industry’s major players.

In today’s article, we will look at the reasons behind custom CRM software development and how you can do that with the assistance of a reliable software development partner.

Why Businesses Need CRM Systems

Before delving into the process of building a CRM application, let’s examine the reasons for choosing custom CRM software development rather than off-the-shelf options. First and foremost, this CRM software development benefits large enterprises that pay exorbitant costs for third-party solutions. At a specific size, investing in a custom solution is better than paying for the off-the-shelf solution. Here are other benefits of CRMs and the reasons why you might want to invest in CRM software development services.
Manage client data
Most standard or tailor-made CRM software systems facilitate the collection and storage of client information. This encompasses personal details, contacts, contracts, company documentation, and more. The specific features vary depending on the product.
With this information, you can:
Identify client preferences.
Anticipate their needs.
Enhance your sales strategy.
On top of that, all valuable data is consolidated in one location, in a well-organized format, enabling accessibility and utilization by everyone within your company.

Automate and integrate tasks

If your customer data is dispersed across various applications and services, CRM software development may be necessary. Integrating CRM with live chat, email marketing solutions, call tracking systems, and other services streamlines communication channels, simplifies task management, and ensures data synchronization from various sources.

Optimize and centralize data storage

Centralizing data eliminates concerns about sales duplicating customer profiles, and prevents missing vital client feedback, or marketers overlooking crucial reports. The database, accessible from any location and device, is a comprehensive repository for years, documenting the entire history of customer interactions.

How does CRM Software Development Happen?

Now that we have specified the reasons behind the decision let us take a look at how a CRM software development company approaches the process and builds a custom solution. Naturally, this process might vary depending on your specific needs and requirements but the major steps are common for most such projects.

Select the right type of CRM system

Operational systems are designed to optimize and automate sales, customer service, and marketing. This type of CRM application is well-suited for businesses engaging with customers through various channels such as call centers, blogs, websites, communities, direct mail, and direct sales. Key features of operational CRM systems include:

  • A unified client database for convenient and quick access.
  • Utilization of multiple communication channels.
  • Registration, processing, and execution of all client requests.
  • Continuous analysis of interactions with clients.
  • Task distribution and handling of typical interaction scenarios.
  • Analytical systems collect information from various client touchpoints and process this data. The primary goal of these CRMs is to assist in organizing daily operational work with clients and generate analytics for developing and planning future interaction scenarios. Key features of analytical CRM systems are:
  • Analysis of customer requests and their key attributes.
  • Segmentation of customers into groups based on various parameters.
  • Forecasting the outcomes of interactions with clients.

Strategic systems contribute to enhancing communication and teamwork within a company. These CRM systems combine multiple departments (sales, marketing, technical support) to achieve a common goal—utilizing accumulated data to enhance service quality and attract new customers.

Combined systems typically consist of operational CRM applications with a limited set of analytical tools (customer reports, sales, and performance analytics), along with the ability to communicate directly with customers and colleagues through integration with instant messengers, social networks, and the website.

Define the user roles

When incorporating a user into a CRM system, you designate a specific role to their account, such as salesperson, manager, head, or executive. Each role comes with predefined rights and capabilities essential for executing corresponding tasks. For instance, if the designated role is a manager, the account will encompass the following functionalities:

  • Viewing and managing personal activities.
  • Managing created contracts and accessing the contacts directory.
  • Overseeing events, applications, documents, and transactions created by or assigned to the user.
  • Viewing and completing assigned events.
  • Other associated tasks.

In the process of CRM software development, it is crucial to establish several templates for standard roles from the get-go (e.g., “Owner,” “Storekeeper,” “Manager 1,” “Manager 2,” “Full access,” “Extended access,” etc.), while also incorporating the ability to generate and configure roles. The roles that users can create should be contingent on their level of access. For instance, a “Senior Manager” may create accounts with the “Manager” role but may not add another “Senior Manager” or “Owner” to the system.

Calculate the expected budget

Now, what about the cost of CRM software development services?

Several factors impact the cost associated with CRM software development. The key considerations include:

  1. Number of features: Each feature in the program code takes a specific number of man-hours.
  2. Number of user roles: Roles such as General Manager, Supervisor, Salesperson, or Branch Office entail distinct access rights and capabilities within the system. The implementation of each role also requires a certain amount of man-hours.
  3. Platform support: The more platforms the application needs to support, the higher the cost of the final software product.
  4. Method of information entry: The manual creation and editing of client profiles by managers, as opposed to automatic system-generated profiles, have different implementation times. The latter option demands a significant amount of time, thereby increasing development costs.
  5. Events and tasks: Implementation can range from simple notes to more complex elements with labels, attributes, interaction with invoices, deadline tracking, and reminder settings.
  6. Sales funnel: The sales funnel can be a straightforward visual representation with manual lead status changes by managers or a solution with automated business logic that guides leads through the sales funnel while recording all interactions.
  7. Interaction reports: Regular reporting may include the ability to assess potential customer profitability and likely responses to offers. Additionally, data about customer interactions on social networks can be collected.
  8. Integration with other services: The cost of developing this feature is contingent on the number and complexity of third-party services involved.

You should also factor in the cost of a partnership with your software development vendor. It is also critical to select a partner who can guarantee the highest standards of CRM software development services at a reasonable cost and adequate time frame.

Final Thoughts

Having outlined the major steps in the process of CRM software development, we must acknowledge that this process is far more nuanced than a short article can outline. Each system is unique as it follows the inherent parameters of the client’s business. As a reliable software development partner, BilSoft offers strong expertise in CRM and ERP software development along with a client-centric approach that guarantees strict adherence to your business specs and technical requirements.

Categories
Blog posts

Navigating the Complexity of ERP Development: Insights for Business Leaders

If you own a medium or large business, you’re likely already familiar with some widely-used CRM solutions. If you are reading this article, however, we would assume that your business has grown to a stage where off-the-shelf products no longer suffice to match all your business requirements, hindering your progress toward further growth and success. At this point, you might be wondering about CRM software development as the way to cut down software fees and use your own, custom-built CRM system. The global CRM market is expected to reach $128.9 billion by 2027, and these growth prospects just go to show the further growth of the industry and the growing impact of the industry’s major players.

In today’s article, we will look at the reasons behind custom CRM software development and how you can do that with the assistance of a reliable software development partner.

Why Businesses Need CRM Systems

Before delving into the process of building a CRM application, let’s examine the reasons for choosing custom CRM software development rather than off-the-shelf options. First and foremost, this CRM software development benefits large enterprises that pay exorbitant costs for third-party solutions. At a specific size, investing in a custom solution is better than paying for the off-the-shelf solution. Here are other benefits of CRMs and the reasons why you might want to invest in CRM software development services.
Manage client data
Most standard or tailor-made CRM software systems facilitate the collection and storage of client information. This encompasses personal details, contacts, contracts, company documentation, and more. The specific features vary depending on the product.
With this information, you can:
Identify client preferences.
Anticipate their needs.
Enhance your sales strategy.
On top of that, all valuable data is consolidated in one location, in a well-organized format, enabling accessibility and utilization by everyone within your company.

Automate and integrate tasks

If your customer data is dispersed across various applications and services, CRM software development may be necessary. Integrating CRM with live chat, email marketing solutions, call tracking systems, and other services streamlines communication channels, simplifies task management, and ensures data synchronization from various sources.

Optimize and centralize data storage

Centralizing data eliminates concerns about sales duplicating customer profiles, and prevents missing vital client feedback, or marketers overlooking crucial reports. The database, accessible from any location and device, is a comprehensive repository for years, documenting the entire history of customer interactions.

How does CRM Software Development Happen?

Now that we have specified the reasons behind the decision let us take a look at how a CRM software development company approaches the process and builds a custom solution. Naturally, this process might vary depending on your specific needs and requirements but the major steps are common for most such projects.

Select the right type of CRM system

Operational systems are designed to optimize and automate sales, customer service, and marketing. This type of CRM application is well-suited for businesses engaging with customers through various channels such as call centers, blogs, websites, communities, direct mail, and direct sales. Key features of operational CRM systems include:

  • A unified client database for convenient and quick access.
  • Utilization of multiple communication channels.
  • Registration, processing, and execution of all client requests.
  • Continuous analysis of interactions with clients.
  • Task distribution and handling of typical interaction scenarios.
  • Analytical systems collect information from various client touchpoints and process this data. The primary goal of these CRMs is to assist in organizing daily operational work with clients and generate analytics for developing and planning future interaction scenarios. Key features of analytical CRM systems are:
  • Analysis of customer requests and their key attributes.
  • Segmentation of customers into groups based on various parameters.
  • Forecasting the outcomes of interactions with clients.

Strategic systems contribute to enhancing communication and teamwork within a company. These CRM systems combine multiple departments (sales, marketing, technical support) to achieve a common goal—utilizing accumulated data to enhance service quality and attract new customers.

Combined systems typically consist of operational CRM applications with a limited set of analytical tools (customer reports, sales, and performance analytics), along with the ability to communicate directly with customers and colleagues through integration with instant messengers, social networks, and the website.

Define the user roles

When incorporating a user into a CRM system, you designate a specific role to their account, such as salesperson, manager, head, or executive. Each role comes with predefined rights and capabilities essential for executing corresponding tasks. For instance, if the designated role is a manager, the account will encompass the following functionalities:

  • Viewing and managing personal activities.
  • Managing created contracts and accessing the contacts directory.
  • Overseeing events, applications, documents, and transactions created by or assigned to the user.
  • Viewing and completing assigned events.
  • Other associated tasks.

In the process of CRM software development, it is crucial to establish several templates for standard roles from the get-go (e.g., “Owner,” “Storekeeper,” “Manager 1,” “Manager 2,” “Full access,” “Extended access,” etc.), while also incorporating the ability to generate and configure roles. The roles that users can create should be contingent on their level of access. For instance, a “Senior Manager” may create accounts with the “Manager” role but may not add another “Senior Manager” or “Owner” to the system.

Calculate the expected budget

Now, what about the cost of CRM software development services?

Several factors impact the cost associated with CRM software development. The key considerations include:

  1. Number of features: Each feature in the program code takes a specific number of man-hours.
  2. Number of user roles: Roles such as General Manager, Supervisor, Salesperson, or Branch Office entail distinct access rights and capabilities within the system. The implementation of each role also requires a certain amount of man-hours.
  3. Platform support: The more platforms the application needs to support, the higher the cost of the final software product.
  4. Method of information entry: The manual creation and editing of client profiles by managers, as opposed to automatic system-generated profiles, have different implementation times. The latter option demands a significant amount of time, thereby increasing development costs.
  5. Events and tasks: Implementation can range from simple notes to more complex elements with labels, attributes, interaction with invoices, deadline tracking, and reminder settings.
  6. Sales funnel: The sales funnel can be a straightforward visual representation with manual lead status changes by managers or a solution with automated business logic that guides leads through the sales funnel while recording all interactions.
  7. Interaction reports: Regular reporting may include the ability to assess potential customer profitability and likely responses to offers. Additionally, data about customer interactions on social networks can be collected.
  8. Integration with other services: The cost of developing this feature is contingent on the number and complexity of third-party services involved.

You should also factor in the cost of a partnership with your software development vendor. It is also critical to select a partner who can guarantee the highest standards of CRM software development services at a reasonable cost and adequate time frame.

Final Thoughts

Having outlined the major steps in the process of CRM software development, we must acknowledge that this process is far more nuanced than a short article can outline. Each system is unique as it follows the inherent parameters of the client’s business. As a reliable software development partner, BilSoft offers strong expertise in CRM and ERP software development along with a client-centric approach that guarantees strict adherence to your business specs and technical requirements.

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Benefits of ERP: Advantages, Disadvantages & Selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning System

At the moment, recognizing the benefits of ERP is crucial for thriving in a fast-paced and efficiency-driven environment. According to Statista, the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software market is experiencing significant growth, with revenue projected to reach $62.36 billion by 2028, which is a major increase from the current $49.38 billion. For those considering a custom ERP solution development, it’s vital to understand both the advantages and potential drawbacks of ERP systems. Let’s take a closer look at them.

 

Understanding ERP Systems

 

An ERP system is a software platform to manage essential business parts. These systems encompass planning, purchasing, inventory, sales, marketing, finance, and human resources. In a nutshell, ERP helps companies handle multiple directions and directives at once. It is paramount when you want to free some of the valuable resources and invest them in growth, which is particularly useful for startups.

 

Benefits of ERP Systems

 

Which is an ERP key advantage? While it is challenging to give a definite answer, one thing is clear – ERP systems are transformative business tools. From boosting efficiency to improving customer service, these systems are integral in modern business management, and they offer some notable advantages:

 

  1. Improved efficiency. ERP is all about eliminating repetitive processes, significantly reducing the need to enter information manually. This improves user productivity and efficiency.
  2. Integrated information. Data is no longer spread across separate databases. All information is stored in a single location. This means you can integrate platforms like CRM software, making the business process more efficient and accurate.
  3. Reporting and planning. Enhanced reporting capabilities allow businesses to respond more easily and quickly to complex data requests. Users can now run their reports without relying on help from the IT department.
  4. Customer service. Improved access to customer information leads to better customer service. Sales and customer service people can improve customer relationships by accessing their information and history more quickly and accurately.
  5. Long-term cost savings. With improved efficiency and centralized data, businesses can save on costs through an ERP. This system can also help in managing day-to-day activities more efficiently.

 

The advantages ERP systems bring are numerous. They enhance efficiency and integrate information, significantly improve customer service, and contribute to cost savings. By leveraging these systems, businesses can effectively manage their resources and stay ahead in the highly competitive market.

 

Disadvantages of ERP Systems

 

Now that the ERP system’s benefits are out in the open, it’s important to acknowledge its drawbacks as well. Understanding these disadvantages is crucial for businesses to make informed decisions and prepare for potential challenges.

 

  1. Cost. Not only are the systems expensive to install, but the costs can continue to accrue when businesses need to modify the system to fit their specific needs. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and updates can further increase the financial burden.
  2. Complexity. Some ERP systems can be difficult to use and require significant training. This complexity can lead to a longer adjustment period for employees, potentially hindering productivity in the short term.
  3. Customization limitations. While ERP systems are robust, they might not be able to meet every specific need of a business, leading to additional costs for customization. The system can be less efficient than expected if the necessary customizations are extensive or complex.
  4. Implementation time. Implementing an ERP system can take a long time, often months or years. This prolonged period can disrupt normal business operations and delay the realization of benefits.
  5. Dependence on a vendor. Businesses often become dependent on the ERP system vendor for support and updates, which can be risky if the vendor encounters problems or discontinues support.

 

ERP is a powerful tool for business management. Yet, remember they come with some challenges, such as high costs, complexity, customization limitations, lengthy implementation times, and vendor dependence. Businesses must weigh these disadvantages against the potential ERP benefits to determine if an ERP system is right for their needs.

 

Selecting the Right System to Tap Into ERP Benefits

 

Selecting the right ERP system is a critical decision for any business. It does not matter whether you have chosen an off-shelf, custom, or hybrid solution. In any case, you must consider various factors carefully to ensure that the chosen system aligns well with the business’s needs and goals. Here are key points to consider, along with additional insights for each, to guide you in making an informed choice:

 

1. Understand your needs

 

Assess what your business needs from an ERP system. Consider the size of your business, the industry you’re in, and the specific processes you want to improve. Also, think about future requirements to ensure the system remains relevant as your business evolves

 

2. Remember scalability

 

Ensure that the ERP system can grow with your business. Scalability is crucial for long-term success. A system that can’t scale might quickly become obsolete, requiring costly replacements or upgrades.

 

3. Check the cost

 

Consider both the initial cost and the long-term costs of the ERP system. Be mindful of hidden costs such as customization, integration, and additional user licenses that may arise.

 

4. Ease of use

 

Choose a system that is user-friendly and does not require extensive training. A more intuitive system reduces the learning curve and helps in quicker adoption across the organization.

 

5. Support and training

 

Ensure that the vendor offers adequate support and training. Good support can drastically reduce downtime and improve system utilization.

 

6. Vendor reputation

 

Research the vendor’s reputation and the performance of their ERP systems in similar businesses. Look for reviews and case studies to understand their track record and reliability.

 

7. Integration capabilities

 

Check how well the ERP system integrates with your existing tools and software. Seamless integration is key to maintaining smooth operations and data consistency.

 

8. Customization options

 

Evaluate the customization options available with the ERP system. A flexible system that can be tailored to your specific needs can provide a better fit for your business processes.

 

Choosing an ERP system is a strategic decision that impacts many aspects of your business. By thoroughly evaluating your needs, scalability, cost, ease of use, support, vendor reputation, integration capabilities, and customization options, you can select a system that meets your current requirements and supports your business’s growth and evolution in the long run. The abovementioned factors bring you closer to various benefits of Enterprise Resource Planning systems.

 

Wrapping Up

The benefits of ERP are numerous, from improved efficiency and higher productivity to better customer service and cost savings. However, it is crucial to consider both sides of the coin when choosing a system that suits your business. Businesses can gain an edge using the right ERP system for their markets.

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What is an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Solution?

What is an ERP solution? This question is at the forefront of modern business management strategies. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is vital in streamlining various business processes. In today’s dynamic business environment, custom ERP development is increasingly sought after for its ability to tailor ERP systems to specific business needs. Keeping this in mind, let’s have an in-depth look at ERP.

ERP Solutions In a Nutshell

At its core, ERP solutions mean a comprehensive approach to managing and integrating different business processes. ERP solutions are software systems that consolidate various business functions, such as accounting, human resources, and customer relationship management (CRM), into a unified, coherent whole. This integration enables businesses to operate more efficiently and make data-driven decisions.

To define ERP solutions, they are the backbone of modern business infrastructure, providing a central hub for information and process management. ERP systems facilitate improved communication and data sharing across different departments, increasing productivity and reducing operational costs.

ERP solutions’ meaning indicates that they are not one-size-fits-all. They vary greatly depending on the industry, the size of the business, and specific operational needs. From manufacturing to retail, healthcare to finance, ERP solutions are customizable to fit the unique requirements of each sector.

How Do ERP Solutions Work?

ERP solutions, at their most basic level, function by centralizing and automating various business processes. They are a unified system that collects, stores, manages, and interprets data from different business activities. This centralization allows for a more streamlined workflow and easier access to information.

Step-by-step functionality of ERP solutions

To fully grasp what ERP solutions mean, let’s dive into their core functionalities step-by-step:
Data collection. The ERP system gathers data from various sources within the organization, such as sales, procurement, production, and human resources.
Data integration. This data is then integrated, creating a single source of truth. This integration helps reduce data redundancy and ensures all departments access the same, up-to-date information.
Process automation. Many routine tasks are automated, which reduces the likelihood of human error while speeding up operations. For instance, an ERP system can automate invoicing, payroll processing, and order tracking.
Real-time analysis and reporting. ERP solutions offer real-time data analysis and reporting capabilities. This means managers and decision-makers can quickly access vital information, like financial reports or inventory levels, enabling prompt and informed decisions.
Scalability and customization. ERP systems are designed to be scalable and customizable. They can grow with your business, adapting to new requirements or changes in business processes. Customization allows different industries to tailor the ERP to their specific needs.

This step-by-step breakdown highlights how ERP systems consolidate and streamline essential business processes, fostering an environment of efficiency and informed decision-making.

Examples of ERP solutions in action

Understanding what are ERP solutions, in theory, is one thing. Seeing them in action across various industries brings a clearer picture of their impact.

Manufacturing. In manufacturing, an ERP system can streamline production planning, manage inventory, track supply chain operations, and integrate these processes with financial data.
Retail. For retail businesses, ERP solutions can help manage inventory across multiple locations, process orders, and analyze customer data to improve sales strategies.
Healthcare. In healthcare, ERP systems can manage patient records, track inventory of medical supplies, and efficiently handle billing and insurance claims.

These examples demonstrate the versatility of ERP solutions, showing how they can be adapted to different sectors to enhance operational efficiency and address industry-specific challenges.

Understanding what are ERP solutionsinvolves recognizing their role in unifying and optimizing business processes. ERP solutions significantly enhance operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities by automating routine tasks, providing real-time data, and facilitating better communication across departments.

Why Do Companies Choose ERP Solutions In The First Place?

Companies turn to ERP solutions primarily to unify and optimize their business operations. In a complex business environment, having a centralized system that efficiently manages various functions is not just an advantage – it’s a necessity.
Centralized data management

One of the key reasons for choosing an ERP system is its ability to centralize data from different departments. This centralization eliminates data silos, ensuring all departments access consistent and accurate information, which is crucial for making informed decisions.
Streamlined processes

ERP solutions automate and streamline business processes, from accounting and HR to supply chain and customer relationship management. This streamlining leads to significant time and cost savings. This allows companies to prioritize focus on growth and innovation.
Improved efficiency and productivity

ERP systems boost operational efficiency by automating routine tasks while also providing real-time data. Employees can focus on important tasks that benefit the business instead of manual data entry.

Scalability

As companies grow, their systems and processes must scale accordingly. ERP solutions offer the scalability necessary to accommodate growth, adapt to market demands, and integrate new functionalities or technologies.
Better compliance and risk management

ERP systems help maintain compliance with various regulations. They provide detailed audit trails and reporting capabilities, essential for risk management and regulatory compliance.
Enhanced customer satisfaction

With integrated CRM functionalities, ERP systems offer better insights into customer behavior and preferences. This insight helps companies improve customer service, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Data-driven decision-making

The ability to access real-time data and analytics is a game-changer. ERP solutions provide comprehensive reporting tools that empower management to make data-driven decisions, improving overall business strategy.

Companies choose ERP solutions to bring about a transformation in their business processes. The benefits of implementing an ERP system – from improved efficiency to higher customer satisfaction – make it an essential tool for businesses aiming to thrive in the competitive market landscape.

Conclusion

Understanding what are ERP solutions marks the first step toward a strategic transformation in how businesses operate. These solutions are more than technological upgrades. ERP systems enable businesses to operate more cohesively, efficiently, and adaptively, enhancing internal communications, customer experiences, and informed strategic decisions.

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Custom ERP System and Its Integration Capacities

ERP integration is a critical component in today’s business landscape. A custom ERP system tailored to the specific needs of a business can significantly enhance operational efficiency and data management. When discussing custom ERP development, one must recognize the importance of its integration capacities.

Gone are the days of bulky, on-premise ERP systems that required extensive IT support. The evolution from these cumbersome systems to more agile, cloud-based solutions marks a significant shift in the ERP landscape. Unlike their predecessors from the nineties, modern ERPs offer enhanced flexibility and power at a reduced cost, thanks to cloud technology. As a result, exploring ERP integration closer proves to be a must.

What Is ERP Systems Integration?

ERP integration connects and synchronizes an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system with other software applications and tools within a business. This integration aims to create a unified system where information and processes from different departments or software solutions can communicate and work together seamlessly.

ERP systems integration is like creating a central nervous system for a business, where information flows smoothly, systems communicate effectively, and decision-making is based on comprehensive, real-time data. This integration is crucial for companies looking to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance overall performance. Besides, there are numerous options to choose from.

How ERP Integration Works?

ERP integration is a process that connects an ERP system with other business applications, enabling seamless data exchange and workflow enhancement. This integration is pivotal for modern businesses to streamline operations and unify data. When you decide to tap into ERP, integration is the process that must be taken with great caution and with these steps in mind:

Establish communication channels. Initiate by setting up communication pathways between the ERP system and other applications or systems.
Connect APIs. Link the ERP’s Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) with those of external systems to facilitate mutual understanding and communication.
Enable seamless data flow. This connection allows data to flow effortlessly between the ERP system and other software, synchronizing information across different platforms.
Map fields between different software. Align data fields in the ERP system with those in other software to ensure cohesive data sharing and functionality.
Create a unified database and login. Integration results in a single, unified database accessible through the ERP system, streamlining the user experience.
Utilize pre-built integrations in cloud ERP systems. Modern cloud-based ERP systems often come with pre-built integrations, offering quick and efficient connections to typical business applications and replacing traditional, slower integration methods.

ERP integration transforms businesses’ operations by unifying disparate systems into a cohesive network. This streamlined approach enhances efficiency and paves the way for more informed strategic planning.

ERP System Integration Key Methods

ERP systems come in different forms. These can be off-the-shelf, custom, and hybrid solutions. In such a sense, the variety also applies to the integration approach. Specifically, for ERP integration, several strategic methods can be employed:

Point-to-point integration involves direct connections between your ERP software and another system. Suitable for small companies with limited software needs, this method offers simplicity but needs more scalability for more extensive software ecosystems.
Enterprise service bus (ESB), an on-premise architecture, is more robust, allowing multiple system integrations with ERP. It standardizes data entry and processing but only scales horizontally, limiting its efficiency with additional third-party software or SaaS applications.
Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) is a cloud-based ERP system integration solution that offers quick, flexible, and cost-effective integration without additional hardware. It’s an ideal solution for most contemporary businesses.

Custom development is another viable option, designing a unique application for integrations that precisely meet specific business needs and capabilities. Overall, integration with ERP systems comes in different shapes and forms.

Benefits of ERP Integration

The importance and relevance of ERP integration solution for modern businesses are manifold. These are the key aspects to mention:

Better data management. Integrating ERP with management software like CRM systems enables seamless data flow and integrity, reducing the need for multiple application navigations.
Enhanced insights and visualization. Breaking data silos allows for better data collection and exchange, speeding up decision-making and processes.
Increased workforce productivity. Automating major processes leads to quicker task completion and more time for strategic tasks, boosting productivity and reducing burnout.
Reduced training time. Integrated ERP systems simplify training processes, easing the transition for teams accustomed to legacy systems.
Reduced human errors. Automation minimizes manual data entry errors, leading to more accurate operations.
Holistic customer image. Integration with CRM or eCommerce solutions provides deeper insights into customer behavior and preferences.
Data-driven strategy. Enhanced data management leads to better understanding, optimization opportunities, and growth potential.

ERP integration significantly boosts business efficiency by streamlining data management and automating processes, leading to more informed decisions and a more productive workforce. This strategic approach is key for businesses aiming to stay competitive and agile in the modern market.

Challenges of ERP Systems Integration

Integrating an ERP system into a business environment presents several challenges that can impact the overall success and efficiency of the process. These challenges range from technical issues to human factors, each critical in the integration journey. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

Limited visibility. It can be challenging to get a clear view of all processes and data across different systems. This lack of visibility can lead to inefficiencies and errors.
Time management. ERP integration projects can be time-consuming, often taking longer than expected. This can disrupt business operations and result in increased costs.
Resistance to change. Employees and management may resist changing existing processes and systems, which can hinder the successful implementation of an ERP system.
Integration of legacy systems. Integrating new ERP systems with older legacy systems can be challenging, as these systems may need to be compatible or require extensive modification.
Data incompatibilities. Different systems may use different formats for data, making it challenging to ensure consistency and accuracy across the integrated ERP system.
Security. Ensuring data security during and after integration is a significant concern, especially with the increasing number of cyber threats.
Lack of skillful personnel. Finding and retaining skilled personnel knowledgeable in ERP integration can be challenging, impacting the project’s success.

Addressing these challenges effectively is crucial for a successful ERP integration. Businesses must carefully plan and execute their integration strategies, considering technical and human aspects, to ensure a smooth transition and optimal use of their ERP systems.

Wrapping Up

The adoption capacity of a custom ERP system integration is a critical factor in its success. It streamlines various business processes and ensures that all systems within an organization work in harmony. As a result, your business continues to evolve. And its ability to integrate seamlessly with multiple systems will remain a crucial element in the effectiveness of an ERP solution.

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Steps for a Successful ERP Implementation

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a significant step for any organization, especially considering ERP implementation steps. Custom ERP development, tailored to meet specific business needs, can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the implementation process.

 

The ERP software market is experiencing a compound annual rate growth (CAGR) of 10.5%, indicating its high demand among companies. To be one of the frontrunners and get a competitive edge ahead of others, it is crucial to have a clear answer for this – what are the steps in ERP implementation? This article provides insights on precisely that. 

 

Step 1. Define Your Goals and Objectives

 

When you decide that ERP implementation is a go, the first thing about ERP system implementation steps is clearly defining your business goals and objectives. Understand what you want to achieve with the ERP system, whether it’s streamlining operations, improving data analysis, or enhancing customer service. Clear goals guide the implementation process and help measure the ERP system’s success.

 

Conduct thorough internal discussions with key stakeholders across various departments to complete this step. This collaborative approach ensures that your goals are comprehensive and align with the broader objectives of your organization. It’s also essential to perform a gap analysis to identify the current shortcomings in your processes that the ERP system can address. This analysis will help set realistic and achievable goals, forming a solid foundation for the ERP implementation process.

 

Step 2. Choose the Right ERP System

 

Selecting the right ERP system is critical. Assess various ERP solutions and choose one that aligns with your business requirements and goals. Consider factors like scalability, user-friendliness, compatibility with existing systems, and cost.

 

Create a detailed list of your business’s functional and technical requirements. This list should include specific features, integrations, and customizations your business requires. 

 

Next, evaluate various ERP solutions against this list, prioritizing those that closely match your criteria. Discuss with potential ERP vendors to understand their support and service structures and clarify any concerns you may have. 

 

Step 3. Project Planning and Team Formation

 

Effective project planning is a cornerstone in the steps of ERP implementation. Form a skilled project team comprising members from different departments. This team will oversee the implementation process, from planning to execution.

 

Identify vital roles and responsibilities for the ERP implementation project. Look for individuals within your organization with the necessary expertise, experience, and understanding of your business processes. Including members from various functional areas like finance, IT, operations, and sales is crucial to ensure a well-rounded team. 

 

Once formed, equip your team with a clear project plan that outlines timelines, milestones, and deliverables. Regular meetings and clear communication channels should be established to keep the team aligned and the project on track.

 

Step 4. Business Process Analysis and Reengineering

 

Analyze your current business processes and identify areas that need improvement. The ERP implementation offers an opportunity to reengineer processes for increased efficiency and productivity. Align these processes with the capabilities of the ERP system.

 

Involve process owners and end-users in the analysis to comprehensively understand all operational nuances. Utilize flowcharts or process mapping tools to visually document and analyze existing processes, making it easier to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

 

Step 5. Data Preparation and Migration

 

Data preparation and migration are crucial ERP system implementation steps. Cleanse your existing data to ensure accuracy and consistency. Then, carefully plan the migration of this data into the new ERP system, minimizing disruptions to your business operations.

 

During this step, establish a data governance team to oversee the data migration process’s quality, consistency, and security. Conduct data audits pre- and post-migration to ensure data integrity and accuracy.

 

Step 6. Customization and Integration

 

Customize the ERP system to meet your specific business needs. This may involve modifying certain features or integrating the ERP with other business applications. Ensure that the customization aligns with your business objectives and enhances system functionality.

 

When customizing, prioritize modifications that add significant value and avoid over-customization, which can lead to increased complexity and maintenance challenges. Document all changes thoroughly for future reference and maintenance.

 

Step 7. Training and Change Management

 

Training your staff to use the new ERP system is a vital step. Provide comprehensive training to ensure smooth adoption. Additionally, focus on change management to help your team adapt to the new system and processes.

 

Implement a structured training program, including online and in-person sessions tailored to different user roles. Encourage feedback and continuous support during the initial adaptation phase to facilitate a smoother transition.

 

Step 8. Testing and Quality Assurance

 

Before going live, thoroughly test the ERP system. Conduct quality assurance checks to ensure all features and functionalities work as intended. Identify and fix any issues to ensure a smooth transition.

 

When completing this ERP implementation step, Involve end-users in the testing phase to validate the functionality from a practical, day-to-day usage perspective. Set up a feedback loop to quickly address any issues or concerns raised during testing.

 

Step 9. Go-Live and Support

 

Once testing is complete, you’re ready to go live. Implement the ERP system across the organization. Provide ongoing support and maintenance to address post-implementation issues and ensure continuous system performance.

 

Establish a dedicated support team to assist users post-go-live, addressing technical issues and user queries. Monitor system performance actively in the initial weeks to swiftly resolve operational hiccups.

 

Step 10. Continuous Evaluation and Improvement

 

Finally, continuously evaluate the performance of your ERP system. Gather feedback from users and analyze system data to identify areas for improvement. Regular updates and enhancements are crucial to maintain the effectiveness of your ERP system.

 

Regularly schedule review meetings to discuss system performance and user feedback. Leverage analytics to track usage patterns and identify opportunities for further system optimization or training needs.

 

Key Takeaways

By following these steps for ERP implementation, businesses can ensure a successful ERP integration, leading to improved efficiency, better data management, and enhanced overall performance. Remember, a well-planned and executed ERP implementation is crucial to business transformation and growth.

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Top Technologies to Use for Your MVP Development

Top Technologies to Use for Your MVP Development

Once you decide to develop a product MVP and hire a developer to a team for it, it’s time to think about what technology is the best fit for your product.

If you don’t have vast experience in MVP development this may seem hard to make the best choice for your product.

At BilSoft we have over decade experience in helping startups with their MVPs. According to our experience, there are some essential things to consider when choosing the tech stack:

  1. Pick the proven technologies. Your MVP will eventually grow into an end product with the growing number of users, so you’ll need more software engineers to handle the project. By choosing proven technologies, you’ll make sure you can find the needed amount of developers quickly.
  2. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Focus on client acquisition as it’s more important for early days of your startup, not R&D for some unique technology.

From our experience we can recommend using the following technologies for your MVP: .Net for your backend and browser based apps with React Native for iOS and Android apps.

These technologies will help you accelerate time-to-market and save resources while providing a robust set of tools to build a great product.

Why Use .Net For Your MVP

.Net has a solid following among software engineers. Common best practices make it faster and easier to write and debug code. A robust community means that developers can use open source gems to speed up the development.

It’s 30–40% faster to develop with .Net compared to similar technologies.

When speaking of MVP development, software engineer time is one of the largest outlays.

Keeping up with the budget limits is vital not only for early stage startups, but for established businesses as well. Here are some companies which already use .Net – Airbnb, GitHub, Basecamp.

React Native for Mobile Apps

Using React Native is another way to save resources on development. React Native is used for cross-platform mobile development. It lets you reuse 90% of your code when you create Android and iOS apps. The good news is that you still have all the features and performance as native apps.

This technology is a good fit not only for startups who build their first app, but for established companies such as Instagram, Facebook, Skype, Walmart, Uber and others.

.Net: When It’s Not the Best Option

With all great features and opportunities RoR provides, it doesn’t always fit an MVP perfectly.

When your project is a super high load app processing millions of requests, Golang is something you should consider.

Other projects may require machine learning and advanced data science. Then your best choice would probably lie in Python.

At BilSoft, we also faced projects with legacy code, especially PHP. It mostly requires great resources for system support and maintenance, which does not have business sense. So we decided to redevelop the application on .Net

What Else to Consider

You should also consider Laravel, Django and all-JavaScript apps with Node on the backend which are all legitimate options for startups. Keep in mind that in the end of development most frameworks deliver more or less the same result. From our experience, Rails is still faster and cheaper to use.

Technology is just a tool

Tech only helps you build a profitable business, so don’t make its choice the main focus. End users will care on how the app actually works, not how trendy your tech is.

From a business perspective, you need to make sure your tech supports your needs, is maintainable and sustainable both in terms of cost and your expansion plans. That’s why .Net on the backend plus iOS and Android apps with React Native is the way to go for most startups.

If you are still not sure about what technology to choose for your startup – let’s discuss your specific issue and BilSoft team will provide a consultation for free.

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How to choose the right technology stack for your MVP

How to choose the right technology stack for your MVP

Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is building a product with some core features before developing the end one. It’s used for getting quick feedback from your target audience and making product improvements cost- and time-efficiently. With quite a lot of information about the concept itself and its use available in the net, there is not enough info about building the MVP from a technical side.

The core idea of building an MVP is to get quick feedback on the product while making cost- and time-efficient iterations to get some new ideas for the final product. With the primary MVP purpose in mind, the tech stack is also something that impacts customer feedback.

Here at BilSoft, we work with MVP development for both startups and established businesses. Many founders don’t have a final idea about the technology to use and don’t know where to start from when picking one. Enterprises also turn to MVP development when they need to test a new approach or idea and then go for fully functional software. We decided to share our expertise in building an MVP based on our previous cases.

Feature Set

When picking the tech stack for your MVP – there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Future functionality is something that defines the technology the most. Thus, you can choose Ruby on Rails for one MVP and PHP for another. In some cases, it’s better to use some pre-built options like Facebook Connect then building something from scratch.

If excellent mobile user experience is vital in your project – you need an immersive front-end technology. So don’t go only by the opinion of the technology experts but define the core functionality

Costs

Fitting the budget is essential both for startups, SMBs, and large enterprises. Instead of going to a costly and long-term tech stack, check if you can use the open-source technologies. Keep in mind the development costs as well.

Sometimes it’s more expensive to hire a developer for a specialized technology than it was expected. You should also consider other spendings like licensing requirements, hosting costs, and costs of technology frameworks, etc.

Scalability

There is a common idea that you don’t need to care much about scalability when building an MVP. At BilSoft, we think it can result in terrible failures later. We agree that MVP is not the final product, and it needs to grow into a scalable end product. This means that the technology you pick should let you expand the architecture into a scalable software.

If you are going to test only the core idea, you might not even need a tech product but a landing page. But if you need to provide a demo with some functional features – you need a product that can be quickly scalable. There is always a chance of some success and media coverage of your MVP, which will provide new users. So your product should be ready to handle the load.

Simple Changes

The picked technology should be flexible and allow making quick changes after getting any feedback from your users. It should allow for easy iterations and modifications.

For such cases, it’s a good practice to use agile project management methodologies as it’s designed for fast product changes. It also allows product owners to communicate and effectively contribute ideas on an ongoing basis.

SaaS Option

SaaS is one of the best options to go with MVP development due to no upfront commitment and no need to worry about maintenance or upgrade. It’s great if you want to save time and resources.

For instance, you can always use services like Google Apps to collect user information, LiveChat, or LivePerson for customer support chat, kissmetrics or mixpanel for analytics, RJMetrics or Google Analytics for data collection and analysis, ZenDesk for customer support, GoodData, or Chargify or Recurly for billing services.

Talent Availability

If you are an early-stage startup owner, you might have faced the shortage of experienced developers. Therefore choosing the technology for your MVP depends on the availability of the right engineering team members.

While some technologies might be old but a good fit for your product, it can be hard to find developers who are willing to work with a specific technology. The reason is that it’s not so innovative and forward-looking.

In contrast, some modern technologies may be very attractive for the developers, but you’ll face a limited talent pool.

However, we suggest choosing your MVP technology based on the user profile, features, and strategic plans. At BilSoft, we have a large talent pool with various technologies available to start building your MVP right away.

Community Support

If you consider using open-source technology to develop an MVP, check the community network, and support the technology. It’s a must-have to accelerate the product development lifecycle. A strong community network and detailed documentation can be essential resources for solving any issues or learning about the new functionalities.

When building your MVP, consider the features set carefully. Try not to add too many features as you can mess up with the technology and launch deadlines. Pick the parts that will cause a “Wow” effect the ones you believe in.

Go with cloud hosting if it’s possible to ensure easy scaling. It might be a great idea to create videos to explain your product instead of textual content or JavaScript demos.

After giving thoughtful consideration to your target audience, pick the tech stack, engineering talent available, scalability options, and strong developer network.

If you have any questions or need some guidance, don’t hesitate to talk to the MVP Experts at BilSoft, and we will be happy to assist you.

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Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom vs. Hybrid ERP Software – What to Choose for Retail Business?

Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom vs. Hybrid ERP Software – What to Choose for Retail Business?

If you started thinking of an ERP solution for your business, you probably noticed it’s not a piece of cake. With so many offers on the market with various features, pricing, and subscription models – how not to get lost in this variety?

Let’s start from the beginning and mention several kinds of ERPs: out-of-the-box, custom, and a hybrid combining features of both.

An off-the-shelf ERP, you get a pre-built set of features that can fit your business or not. A customized solution differs with its perfect-fit to your business processes. In contrast, hybrid one is something that has the best of both – software packages with pre-built features that can be tailored to your specific needs.

Need a piece of advice on picking the right option? Let’s get started.

Advantages of Out-of-the-Box ERP Solution

A pre-built ERP is a software containing all the tools, samples, and features from the get-go.

The bad news is that such platforms are developed to match as many businesses as possible. So they are almost 100% generic, which means you can’t modify them according to your specific requirements. Also, some features don’t fit the needs of individual businesses.

It’s often an easy-to-use system, and you can learn it in simple steps, but it won’t cover every process your particular business requires. There also can be some features you don’t need at all – as it tends to be not flexible but rather a universal solution.

Here are some points you should look at when considering generic out-of-the-box ERP systems:

  • Off-the-shelf systems usually have a lower cost. But keep in mind that initial purchase price often excludes fees for upgrades, monthly or annual licensing, per-seat charges, software support, and per-website or installation licenses. All these issues can considerably affect your final spendings. Over time, these fees can even exceed the costs of a custom solution.
  • Process adjustments. When implementing such an inflexible solution, you might have to change some of your processes to match the logic of software. This leads to the need for staff education and a slower work rate at the beginning. And don’t forget you’ll still need to cover the processes that ERP doesn’t.
  • Infrastructure requirements. You may need to change your infrastructure to accommodate the software. For example, you may need to use new browsers, programming language, rollout processes, etc.
  • Because an out-of-the-box ERP software is not a perfect fit with your business, it won’t be modified as your retail business grows. 
  • Most out-of-the-box ERP systems are not flexible and customizable. Even if there is an opportunity for tailoring, customization can be costly.
  • Off-the-shelf ERP software vendors are not interested in on-going support. As they gain profits from your initial purchases, they don’t put much effort into resolving the issues you may face. When you need to troubleshoot the problem, you’ll likely contact their call center representative – not an experienced software developer.

To sum up, off-the-shelf ERPs can perfectly fit small and medium businesses that don’t have too many complex processes or are looking for an affordable solution.

Why You Should Consider a Custom ERP System 

Choosing a custom software means you’ll be using an ERP based on your business requirements and processes. You’ll decide what features and components should be included.

Usually, flexible software like Oracle or SAP would still have the base of a feature that comprises roughly 20% of it. This means you’ll have 80% of the features and customization in your hands. Decent software vendors should analyze your processes and needs and make a custom package offering for you.

So what is essential to pay attention to when considering a custom EPR system:

  • Custom ERP solutions cost more upfront than their off-the-shelf competitors as they need to be prepared before they are ready to use. You should also remember that additional features and adjustments are likely to be considered extra. Sometimes you may even require hiring an in-house engineer to help you with the system integration and support, which also increases the cost. Of course, you know what you pay for – the efficiency and automation are significantly higher than an out-of-the-box software can provide.
  • Rollout Time. The system rollout process involves many people, such as database engineers, QA, developers, and so on, so it takes longer. In some cases, the rollout may even take up to several months. Hiring and onboarding your developer, if required, may also take time. The rollout often happens in the background without interfering with your core business processes, so you can run your business as usual and wait until the ERP is ready.
  • Another advantage of choosing a custom ERP software – it’s suitable for integration with other systems. If you’re using QuickBooks for bookkeeping, you can set up your ERP system to operate with it automatically. Out-off-the-box ERPs are far more demanding in this regard due to the lack of customization and integration options.
  • Custom ERP software vendors tend to build long-term partnerships with their customers as they prefer to continue modifying the software for as long as possible. This provides personalized support to take care of your specific needs and requirements. You’ll interact with trained software engineers, not call center representatives.
  • Implementing custom ERP is quite complex and requires plenty of time involved. You need to make sure the software company you choose is stable financially and has a lot of expertise in your industry. A good practice is to talk with other customers and meet the team before signing a contract – this will provide more transparency and certainty in long-term investment efficiency.

In conclusion, custom ERP software is a good fit for large-to-enterprise-level retailers, such as Walmart or Target, as they can afford the cost and have big and complex chains, no generic system can cover.

Generic + Custom ERP Hybrid System – Pros and Cons

At this stage, you might be thinking there is no perfect solution for your retail chain entirely as you’re neither small nor large. It’s good to know that you can get an ERP system that combines the best of both types.

In most cases, hybrid ERPs are 80% out-of-the-box and 20% customizable. So you have an option to get something that meets most of your requirements while providing plenty of customization options to cover the rest of them. You don’t spend so much time and money on putting together a whole system – only on your business’s specific critical aspects.

Let’s take a look at what you should consider when analyzing hybrid ERPs:

  • The upfront costs (with support as extra) of the hybrid ERP software fall right between their off-the-shelf and custom ones. They cost less than fully flexible ERPs due to the lower amount of adjustments required to get them working.
  • Rollout Time. Hybrid ERP software takes less time to implement than their fully customizable counterparts, but longer than generic software. The rollout of the off-the-shelf aspect is generally on the faster side since it’s the same copy-and-paste process for all retailers.
  • A customizable aspect takes longer since it depends heavily on the complexity and size of your retail chain. Usually, the software vendor analyzes the current business processes to pinpoint any gaps and ensure that the new system addresses them, which does take time. The pay-off is that you get all the features you need.
  • Industry specifications. As this kind of ERP software is not 100% or even 80% customizable, make sure that its core features are usable in your specific industry and meet your business needs.
  • Hybrid ERP software vendors tend to form lasting partnerships with their customers, the same as with custom ERP software vendors. This leads to personalized support that’s there when you have specific needs and requirements. So you’ll address your requirements to trained software engineers.
  • One of the most significant advantages of hybrid ERP systems is its readiness to be modified as your business grows. Considering this, you’ll never get to the point where it becomes obsolete or unusable, as is often the case with generic systems.

Hybrid ERP software is a perfect option for small-to-medium specialty retailers with over $10 million in revenue.

What About Building an ERP System In-House?

Building your ERP system brings the ultimate flexibility and fully-customizable features. This way, you’ll make sure that every tool matches your every need and process.

It’s the option that requires much time and money investments, but you’ll get a perfect solution with no need to depend on subscriptions and licenses of pre-built and custom solutions. You’ll also get the tool that will grow and change with your business.

If you’re considering this option, take the following into account:

  • Building an ERP system is not your core competency; you may not have enough expertise to create one that functions at an acceptable level. As a result, you may end up with a system that costs a lot to make but doesn’t quite work as expected. You’ll need a team of skilled developers to pull this off the right way.
  • Investing in skillful software developers will likely end up costing you more than merely buying a system – whether it’s off-the-shelf or custom-built. It’s also highly likely that you’ll go through multiple iterations of the software before getting it right, which won’t be cheap. You may run out of money before you even get to that point.
  • Upgrades & upkeep. To ensure your ERP system continues to function correctly, you will need to have a designated IT person or department oversee its operations. The last thing you want is for your system to crash while your IT person is either on vacation or busy with something else. Besides, your IT person will have to be skilled enough to fix the problem.

With so many ERP software vendors out there, it’s much easier to find one that can meet your exact needs. The market is insanely competitive, so the vendor you find will likely do their utmost best to keep you as their customer.

Instead of Conclusion

Your decision will mostly depend on your business needs and resources. If you’re a smaller retailer, it will make more sense to go for an out-of-the-box ERP system. If you’re somewhere in the middle, with massive growth potential, then an out-of-the-box + custom ERP system might suit you better. If you’re a large enterprise with more than 250 locations, then a fully customized ERP solution is the perfect fit for you.

All retailers are different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. So, evaluate your business carefully before you come to a decision.

If you need any consultation on choosing or building the right ERP system for your business – the BilSoft team is ready to help. Get your consultation for free by filling up the form, and we’ll get in touch soon.

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The difference of ERP for SME and Startups

The difference of ERP for SME and Startups

If your business processes are not transparent, there is a pool of inefficient paperwork, your departments are disparate, and it’s hard to find needed information quickly – it’s time to consider using an ERP solution.

But finding an effective ERP solution is only half a plan. Finding software that fits your specific business model and needs perfectly is something you should focus on when looking for an ERP. What is the difference between platforms for large enterprises, SMEs, and startups? 

If your business is at an early stage or you only plan to build a one, you should prevent such an issue. A scalable ERP system can become a great option for you.

Such ERPs are designed to grow and scale as your company grows. Let’s find out how to choose a perfect ERP for startups and SMEs along with looking at some examples.

ERP for SMEs

So what is ERP and why it plays such an essential role in the operational performance of each company? If you’re a business owner you’re no stranger to optimizing and maintaining processes that often require additional time resources. With an ERP system, you can avoid manual work and reach cost efficiency, as well as data accuracy and availability.

The key features of ERP systems that fit small and medium-sized businesses:

  • Integration
  • Automation
  • Data Analysis
  • Reporting
  • CRM
  • Accounting
  • Tracking and Visibility

Whether you have a small company in the manufacturing of a digital startup, you’ll need some core set of features for each business process. As your business is developing, you require more information to be collected and managed. So the ERP system should be scalable and adaptive to your changing needs.

With an ERP platform, you can improve the efficiency of everyday workflow. It’s a tool for managing resources, tracking, tracing business, and manufacturing processes from A to Z. All in one system.

Let’s look at the key modules that you may need:

  • Invoicing
  • Supply chain
  • Sales
  • Inventory control
  • Development

Best ERP system with a set of core features for small businesses

IQMS Manufacturing ERP

IQMS fits SMEs perfectly. What is good about it is a clear interface, centralized data that is easy to use and manage. IQMS has one cloud-based app covering all modules and functionality, so you can access it at any time. Why is IQMS so good for small businesses, let’s take a look at its features.

  • Inventory management allows you to get full control over the cash flow, see the number of assets, bills of materials, and work orders. You can also get alerts in real-time and see the sticking level. This functionality is useful for optimizing business processes by managing and forecasting reorders for the future. It also helps you manage the production workflow and prevent any troubles that could lead to the cost loss.
  • Real-time data. Each piece of information is accurately displayed in real-time. Track the performance and efficiency of all the teams on helpful dashboards, monitor the production time, prevent any unexpected downtimes, the number of parts missing, and so on.
  • Quality Management Software helps meeting all the requirements from government and regulatory organizations and provides accurate information on current product quality.
  • Electronic Data Interchange is used for processing orders and invoicing. You can easily automate lots of processes, have a shorter supply chain cycle with auto-filling of requests, production time reduction, and so on.
  • A built-in warehouse management system that also works in real-time. Manage the inventory and production amount with access to required accurate information anytime.

Custom ERP

Most businesses consider building a custom solution when looking for a perfect match. Unlike out-of-the-box-solutions, custom ERP will have the right number of features or modules that you can choose yourself. You can build a solution for your specific industry vertical – no matter if it’s manufacturing or banking, retail, or supply chain business. It’s also flexible and scalable to your team’s requests. And of course, you won’t need to pay a monthly/yearly subscription or worry about security issues.

ERP for medium-sized businesses

When choosing an ERP for your SME, mind such factors as budget, timelines, processes, and resources. Think about all functional requirements to find an ERP that meets 100%.

Also, check some more factors will be useful:

  • Warehouses with a bar-code scanning module
  • Bills of materials
  • Planning module
  • Repairs and services
  • Inventory management module
  • Simple return process

It’s a good practice to compare the ready-to-use ERP systems using this list of features. If you choose to build your solution discuss each module and requirements with a software vendor, consider using business analysis from their side to ensure platform efficiency.

Try not to overdo with the ERP system. It doesn’t need to be super complicated or difficult and requires much time for staff training. This solution aims at simplifying and automating the processes. 

Also, you should choose if use a cloud or on-premise-based solution. Most modern systems are cloud-based and this trend is growing. Is it the best solution? Let’s consider the issues that may arise here:

  • Internet connection quality
  • Remote access
  • Scalability

Standard or Custom Solution

Are your requirements standard and common in such ERP systems? How to choose an up-to-date solution that will meet all the modern needs and processes? 

Here are the features that every modern ERP platform for small businesses should provide:

Cloud solution with no need to maintain the hardware or software yourself.

Mobile interaction with your customers and employees is not a competitive advantage but a must-have in today’s market. 

E-commerce should be easy and accessible 24/7.

Cross-platform solution – the more channels for interacting with the customers you find, the more profit you may gain.

What is the best cloud ERP for SME?

Odoo

Being an open-source project, it can be used as an ERP platform for SMEs. Odoo offers a package of modules and features covering CRM, sales, inventory, manufacturing, project management, etc. You can choose those modules that you need for every team in your company.

The reduction of manual work is one of the most powerful advantages Odoo has.

All modules are compatible with each other and they act as parts of one big application, not as disparate apps. Automate processes, keep all the functions in one place, and access accurate data when you need it with one user-friendly platform.

Odoo provides free and paid apps. ERP system cost can vary and depends on the package. A comprehensive set of apps may make you lost – you’ll spend much time until you choose all you need. Here are the top categories for the Odoo modules:

  • eCommerce
  • Human Resources
  • Localization
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing
  • Productivity
  • Point of sale
  • Accounting
  • Document Management
  • Сustom

Here you can think about making a custom solution if you’re not a tech-savvy person and have a lack of time to deep dive into all the features and models. In such cases hiring software, a vendor may be a good option to consider. A vendor will become your partner and will take care of the whole process from start to finish. All you need to do is describe your requirements and expectations.

The second reason for choosing a custom solution is the lack of features or modules that you need. Each business is unique and out-of-the-box software solutions can’t always meet the needs of each company.

ERP for Startups

Managing a startup requires much time not only on searching for investors or polishing the ideas but on operational tasks as well. Once you face the number of tasks that you should handle, there comes a time when you have to choose a solution that will help you get over it. A right ERP solution will save you time and resources.

What kind of software will work for a startup? An aim of using ERP platforms is assisting businesses with their everyday activities. Evaluate how much time and other resources you spend on the processes that can be automated. Scaling and growing may be hard when handling hundreds of tasks, if you feel like it’s too much – consider using an ERP.

Productivity

Maximum efficiency is vital for each startup company. You should ensure access to accurate information to track and improve the way your every-day processes go – both with your customers and employees. You can access this information from any device, even from your phone. You can even have a mobile ERP system.

Your team members can have the same access to the information or you can limit this access for some specific parts of the data. You won’t need to spend time collecting information, analyzing it, and generating reports based on it. Automate this process, eliminate the chance of making a mistake and give yourself a boost on growth and scale.

No spreadsheets or notebooks are required. or If you have a custom app, you can have any visual elements that you want to see. You can decide how the future software solution will display information for you and your team players.

Scalability

ERP software growth and scales as your business do. It’s better to avoid using free apps as most of them are not supposed to be scaled in the future.

What are the best small business ERP cloud solutions?

Apprise for Discrete Manufacturing

This ERP platform provides such modules as financials, manufacturing, logistics, importing, retailer compliance, demand planning, forecasting, transportation, mobile sales, and so on. Any information is accessible at any time. You can manage all the manufacturing processes from the point of delivery to finishing operations and cost reduction. Apprise is available both on Android and iOS devices.

Batch Master for Process Manufacturing

Having a pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, or chemical and food business? Consider using a Bath Master ERP. You can use it as an add-on to Sage 100, QuickBooks, SAP Business One, or Microsoft Dynamics GP. It has modules for managing inventory, entering and updating formulas, reporting, auditing, and managing documents.

Epicor for Wholesale Distribution

This ERP system fits good for HVAC, electrical, fastener, petroleum, medical, plumbing, and fluid power industries. Manage orders, make purchases, accounting, manage the supply chain, and inventory with Epicor modules. You can also use the built-in Business Analyser to optimize the processes. This software is compatible with Windows OS.

TradeGecko for eCommerce

A cloud-based platform that acts out as a B2B e-commerce portal. You can add users so they could sell wholesale to retailers with the help of custom storefronts. There are complex CRM, accounting, demand forecasting, sales reporting, and demand forecasting modules. You can easily integrate it with Shopify, Amazon, Magento, WooCommerce, or Bigcommerce.

How Does ERP for SME and Startups Differ?

The reason for implementing ERP software in any type of business is meeting needs and requirements. Startups and small businesses often have different processes and needs of course. 

A startup provides a new product or service, uses new technology and innovation to bring this product or service to life. There’s no structured approach in most of the cases. It uses its own experience to grow.

An SME uses the so-called old approaches to analyzing the market niche, planning and organizing the production processes, and so on. They use someone else’s experience to grow.

Each business has its list of tasks to be solved and goals to be reached – focus on them when selecting the best software solution in your case.

Why you should pick up a scalable ERP solution

There’s one thing that unites all the companies no matter what industry you are in. It’s scalability. Why do you need it? You get an opportunity to grow. You get an opportunity to reach all business goals that you think of. It’s good to keep this idea in mind all the time when you are viewing information about ERP solutions.

How can you scale off-the-shelf products? Get in touch with the software developers and ask them about any updates or solve any problems. If they don’t have actively-responding support or don’t provide system updates, flexible features – try to avoid such a solution. You better to build a custom solution that will be as scalable as you need this.

How can you pick up a scalable custom ERP solution? You need to hire a reliable software vendor with a strong experience in building such applications. Check the Bilsoft portfolio to see the cases we worked on. If you decide to have a custom ERP app for your company or have any questions, we’ll be happy to assist you.

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ERP for Startups: When It’s Time to Consider It for Your Business

ERP for Startups: When It’s Time to Consider It for Your Business

Having a startup with multiple directions to develop, isn’t an easy task to handle. From investors pitching to crunching numbers and orders fulfillment – the processes require focus, creativity, and plenty of time.

When you feel like there’s something that needs to change it’s time to consider using an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The right ERP will save your time and money along with consolidating all your startup’s high priority business processes and data in one place. Despite the “enterprise” word in ERP, such a solution is an essential tool for businesses of all types and sizes. You’ll just need to find the best-fitting option for your needs. You should also consider cloud-based solutions as they are more affordable, easy-to-use, and reliable than ever.

Still have doubts about implementing an ERP in your business? Find out 5 reasons to consider it right away.

  1. You use multiple systems and duplicate data

    2. You use multiple systems and duplicate data

    Managing the same data in different unconnected spreadsheets or even systems can cause data loss, incorrectness, and inefficiency. If you rely on this inefficient data, how would you make the right decisions in managing your startup? An ERP will integrate your finance, sales, and customer info in one place so that you can access the latest and right data whenever it’s needed and on any device with an Internet connection.

  2. Your systems are disparate

    3. Your systems are disparate

    Working with data takes too much time on copying, pasting, or importing data from one spreadsheet to another – it’s getting harder to keep everything updated. These systems and spreadsheets are not connected to each other which causes the risk of losing vital data. With a properly set up ERP solution, you won’t need to worry about your sales, finance, fulfillment, and service processes linking. Just imagine you’ll have more time on developing your business – not troubleshooting it.

  3. Lack of business processes visibility

    4. Lack of business processes visibility

    In such a competitive ecosystem, startups need to be agile to succeed. To track key parameters,

    get ready to react to internal and external risks, and scale up when needed – it’s vital for a business owner to have at-a-glance insights into performance. An ERP solution is designed to provide real-time accurate performance reporting and brings transparency to each business department.

  4. Lacking an IT person on your team

    5. Lacking an IT person on your team

    If you manage an early-stage startup, you most likely handle multiple processes by yourself including IT. Let yourself focus on business growth and development by defining the highest priorities along with delegating and automating other tasks. With a cloud-based ERP, you won’t need to worry about IT issues, deployment, etc. Get a ready-to-use tool that can be customized to your business needs without a dedicated IT professional.

  5. Struggling to keep up with reporting

    6. Struggling to keep up with reporting

    Investors require accurate and frequent reporting delivered on time. It’s quite a challenge for most early-stage startups. Even trying to find accounting software for building reports might be hard and time-consuming as most basic systems are not designed for these demands. An ERP system will streamline the data flow and help with building custom detailed reports delivered on time.

If you’re running an early-stage startup and face the same challenges described above, it’s time to consider implementing an ERP solution. If you need any assistance with choosing, customizing the right one for your business, or consider building a custom solution – the Bilsoft team is here to help. Talk to our expert today and we’ll provide a comprehensive consultation for free.