Companies in need of a new business management software solution often turn to enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms to address their diverse internal needs. From human resources to inventory management and scheduling, an ERP system can help support efficiency and reliability in many different enterprise types, including manufacturing firms. According to a study by Panorama Consulting, here are the 10 most common benefits company decision-makers attribute to their ERP platform:

1. Availability of information. When long lines, red tape and bureaucratic silos are keeping your information organized, it can be hard to access, find and confirm the documents or data points you need to do your job. From old paper systems to creaky offline spreadsheets, your internal intelligence might be a scattered mess that's tough to navigate. ERP Systems centralize the process so that the right information can be found easily and immediately. 
2. Increased interaction and integration. One of the reasons why information may not be available is a lack of integration across departments and projects. ERP systems unify your company's various wings like a central nervous system that keeps everyone compatible, all the time. 
3. Improved data reliability. With better data entry and analysis tools, the quality of respondents' business information improve as well. 
4. Improved productivity and efficiency. When the human resources currently dedicated to administrative tasks are minimized, your workers can focus their attention on more important projects and strategic functions. 
5. Better informed decision-making. As a result of these first four points, professionals have the right information to make the best decisions for the short and long-term goals of the enterprise. Working from incomplete or faulty information can lead to errors in judgment, while ERP systems eliminate those constraints on your executive power. 
6. Less duplication of effort. The inefficiency of legacy systems creates a "Whose line is it, anyway?" situation where multiple employees may complete the same task, due to poor delegation of responsibilities. With an ERP system, the whole company can be privy to work that is in progress. This reduces confusion and keeps your employees in their respective lanes. 
7. Controls for compliance. Observing standards set by partner organizations, government agencies and other bodies can be challenging without a standardized process for remaining compliant. ERP platforms provide an efficient and reliable way to honor standards and regulations, as well as an easy-to-follow record of all your enterprise activities. 
8. Improved lead time and inventory levels. For manufacturing companies, this item is one of the most helpful. When your inventory is the most valuable aspect of your business, measuring it accurately and overseeing partner relationships is critical to success. When lead time is reduced, your customers will be more satisfied, inspiring repeat business, larger orders and more. 
9. Reduced IT maintenance costs. Companies that rely on legacy business management systems may get hammered by the cost of upgrading, fixing and troubleshooting fault lines in their current method. ERP platforms like the Microsoft Dynamics NAV provide an easily serviceable system that your solution provider knows inside and out. 
10. Improved supplier interaction. Dealing with customers isn't the only business relationship you need to stay on top of: Your suppliers also need fast and accurate communication about ongoing items of business. ERP platforms make managing those partnerships easier than ever.

At Accent Software, our team of experts prides itself on tailoring ERP solutions to your specific business needs, both present and future. Contact us today to learn more about the advantage of working with an ERP solutions provider.