The advantages of cloud ERP software can be quickly realized following a streamlined deployment. The push for moving business operations, including ERP software, to the cloud, is more prevalent than ever. Technology is more advanced and more and more of the workforce doesn't recall pre world-wide-web days. Let's discuss some of the advantages of cloud ERP software and how it can quickly springboard your business.
In the software as a service (SaaS) model, upgrades are performed automatically, or you can schedule them. The upgrade itself is performed as a part of your service plan and can be implemented outside of regular work hours so that users are not impacted. Security, database, and compatibility updates are automatically performed during a short window of time, so your data is always safe and compliant.
Another advantage to cloud ERP software is hardware is virtually eliminated as costly servers are no longer required. Workstation requirements are minimal, and your IT department does not need to maintain hardware or software; thus, their focus can be shifted toward other areas of your business.
Costs are predictable. With software as a service solution, setup, training, ongoing maintenance, and support are all included in the subscription that you are paying, so you can easily predict your monthly and annual spending.
The ability to access your data anytime, anywhere and from any device is one of the biggest advantages to cloud ERP software. However, many programs allow you to control who and how employees have anytime access to the data. For instance, one of our customers wanted certain employees to enter expense receipts from a mobile application. Still, they wanted to ensure that it was a secure environment, so we enabled a two-factor authentication process for the mobile app. Other users were only allowed access to their accounting system when they were at the physical office location, so we restricted their use by IP address. Modern systems give us this flexibility.
It’s a myth that cloud-based ERP systems are less secure; in many cases, they are more secure. The data hosts such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have the resources to ensure their servers are secure. These large data center providers have tools and controls that maintain security and protect data in the cloud. But if your organization requires all data to reside in a house, a hybrid cloud environment is also an option.
This is achieved by using web-based integration tools across various cloud-based programs. Even if one program does not offer the API’s to connect, virtually every accounting system offers integration tools outside of API’s that allow us to schedule imports that will enable data silos to connect.
Check out Milestone's other resources on cloud based ERP systems: What is Cloud ERP? or check out our Blog articles Why is Cloud ERP the Future or The Benefits of Cloud ERP. If you would like to see a Free demo on Acumatica Cloud ERP Contact us Today!