ERP is an Enterprise Resource Planning system that centralizes all business operations on a single platform. It provides an update to the core business processes. However, these systems differ in features, functionalities, and capabilities.
Therefore, businesses need to understand their requirements before investing in ERP software. Moreover, the wrong ERP system may cost twice as much as your budget, and it can take 50% longer to implement. Further, after implementation, it may not offer smooth operations for businesses.
When choosing an ERP system, consider factors such as security, integration capabilities, cloud accessibility, mobile access, cost, and advanced features like AI integration to increase productivity and growth. According to ZipDo, SME’s contribute approximately 45% in ERP deployments globally. However, selection of an ERP is a complex decision for new businesses; that’s why many consulting firms work with companies to find the best fit tailored to their needs.
In this article, we will review the best ERP software for businesses and provide you with the main factors to consider when purchasing one.
What is Sumato ERP?
Sumato ERP is business management software that helps companies manage all their business operations on a centralized platform. It has core modules for sales & purchase, inventory, finance, setting and admin, customer management, point of sales, production, and supply chain management. Additionally, the system will enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and assist in business development. It is expandable, flexible, and easy to operate. These features made it a great fit for small and mid-sized businesses, growing companies, and enterprises in different industries, such as healthcare, education, the IT sector, manufacturing, real estate, and many more.
Key Features of Sumato ERP
Selecting the right business management tool improves workflow, strategic planning, and overall business productivity. Therefore, Sumato ERP has the following main features that make it best for your business.
1. Business Needs & Key Features
Each business is different, so one-size-fits-all does not apply in choosing the best ERP software. You should consider the specific areas of your business, such as financials, electronic invoicing, or inventory management, that require improvement. The ideal ERP system should not force you to alter your business processes to work with it. Instead, it should accommodate your business operations and help improve them.
2. Integration Capabilities
Many business owners share a common concern: How will the ERP system connect with our existing software?
Many businesses already utilize various tools and software, and an ERP system needs to integrate smoothly to ensure accurate data flow. An ideal ERP solution should ensure that shared data remains consistent across platforms. It should also offer integration options such as APIs, web services, or XML support. Further, it enables smooth and real-time data exchange between different systems.
3. Cost & Investment Considerations
ERP budgets of businesses vary depending on the company’s size. However, the purchase and implementation of an ERP system are very costly. According to the software path report, the average cost of ERP and its implementation is $9,000. However, it’s a significant investment and profitable move for the business if you get the appropriate solution.
Some vendors offer ongoing support, but organizations must provide the infrastructure for setting up and running an ERP.
4. Customization and Scalability
Modern ERPs analyze past user experience. This feature makes customization essential for meeting the unique requirements of businesses. Since no two companies have the same needs, choose an ERP that allows tailored components to achieve operational efficiency.
Moreover, it is essential to consider the long-term implications when selecting an ERP. It should support the long-term goals of your business, adapt to change, and enable future expansion.
5. Cloud Compatibility
One aspect to consider when companies choose an ERP is whether to run it on the cloud or keep it on-premises. On-premises ERP requires on-site servers and support, whereas cloud-based ERP operates through the internet, which is flexible and has lower IT costs. However, cloud-based ERP systems must have a feature to provide access from any internet-connected device. It allows real-time collaboration of teams, data entry, and decision-making from anywhere. Further, this flexibility supports remote work environments and increases overall productivity.
Therefore, Cloud ERP simplifies system management and enables businesses to adapt to modern technology.
6. Data Security & Compliance
A reliable ERP must follow data protection laws to ensure security during data handling. Still, cyberattack threats and leaks exist; therefore, strong data backups and security measures are crucial for data protection.
As the centralized database holds the most valuable information of your business, ERP software must meet all protection standards to secure it effectively.
Core Modules of Sumato ERP
1. Inventory Management
Sumato ERP inventory module supports multi-warehouse management, stock tracking, and real-time adjustments. Moreover, it offers features like bills of materials, work orders, and production planning.
2. Accounting and Finance
The accounting module of Sumato ERP has smart financial management tools such as invoicing, payments, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting. It supports multi-currency transactions and compliance with various international accounting standards.
3. Supply Chain Management
This module offers advanced supply chain management AI-powered tools for inventory, order management, and logistics. Further, it can handle demand management, supply chain, and integrated business planning.
4. Customer Relationship Management
The CRM module helps manage customer relationships, track sales opportunities, and improve the sales and operational workflow. It offers features such as lead management, pipeline tracking, and automated follow-ups.
5. Setting and Admin
This module of Sumato ERP provides complete control of system configuration and customization of specific business processes. Further, it maintains data security, focusing on managing the ERP system’s users, roles, and permissions to ensure smooth and efficient workflows.
6. Point of Sales
The Point of Sales module provides an interface for managing secure transactions and real-time sales tracking. It automates the processes to streamline business operations. Moreover, it handles order processing, payment acceptance, inventory tracking, and customer data for better workflow.
7. Production
The production module in Sumato ERP helps businesses plan, monitor, and track work progress seamlessly across multiple locations worldwide. It ensures timely order fulfillment and efficient resource utilization.
8. Sales & Purchase
The Sales module streamlines the sales cycle from quotation formation to invoicing. It provides real-time insights to increase revenue. However, the purchase module simplifies procurement and vendor management.
9. HRMS
The HR management module smartly manages employee information, payroll, benefits, and performance reviews. Moreover, it also includes tools for talent acquisition, onboarding, and many more.
Hands-on Experience of Sumato ERP
Sumato ERP is easy to implement, which means it does not require a complex installation. The onboarding team offers guiding instructions. After signing in, the interface is intuitive and provides a user-friendly interface of modules, such as Sales, Finance, Inventory, and many more. These modules are simple to navigate.
Moreover, the preparation of invoices, updating of inventory, and report creation are done smartly and efficiently, and it saves time. Further, the system provides real-time data synchronization. It eliminates the gaps in communication between the departments. The reports and customizing dashboards do not require any technical knowledge.
Sumato ERP is the best ERP software for both small and mid-sized businesses, growing companies, and enterprises that are seeking a modern, responsive ERP solution.
Pros & Cons of Sumato ERP
1. Pros
- A simple and easy-to-use interface makes setting up and managing payment and billing easy.
- Easily integrate with various ERP systems, e-commerce platforms, and accounting software.
- Scalable and supports both small and large businesses, growing companies, and enterprises.
- Offer excellent security practices and international data protection.
- Contains a large set of modules and features that allow the software to fit in diverse industries to meet their business requirements.
2. Cons
- Payment processing fees can be high, especially in businesses that have heavy transaction volumes.
- A limited subscription plan may not fully meet the needs of small businesses.
- Over-customization increases the cost and time to implement.
- Set up and configuration often require professional services and consultants.
Comparison with Other ERP Software
1. Ease of Use
Sumato ERP has a simple and easy interface, whereas traditional ERPs are complicated and need specialized training.
2. Implementation Time
Sumato ERP has a quick cloud-based configuration, unlike other ERP software that involves an in-depth on-site installation.
3. Pricing Model
Sumato ERP also has a low-cost subscription model for small businesses and growing companies, whereas traditional ERPs can feature high initial licensing and implementation fees.
4. Customization
Sumato ERP enables users to customize modules with minimal coding, unlike traditional ERP, which may incur additional costs for changes or require vendor service support.
5. Cloud Accessibility
Sumato ERP is cloud-based and remote-based, while a traditional ERP relies on local servers or offers limited cloud functionality.
ROI and Business Value
Sumato ERP delivers maximum ROI by reducing manual work, increasing efficiency, and promoting business growth. It has a minimal cost for subscription that makes Sumato ERP suitable for small and mid-sized businesses. It increases productivity and decision-making in real-time data, centralized control, and automation.
Software Path indicates in a report that companies with ERP systems record a 23% reduction in operational expenses and a 22% increase in productivity levels. Sumato ERP also grows with your company, enabling easy expansion without any significant upgrades.
Choose the Right ERP System
Choosing the right ERP system enhances your business’s efficiency and productivity. Before deciding, assess your company’s requirements, consider integration capabilities, and evaluate the total cost of ownership. This ensures a smoother implementation process and better alignment with your business goals.
Sumato ERP offers a modern, scalable, and user-friendly solution to manage business operations. It simplifies operations and supports growth with its real-time data, cloud access, and customizable modules.
