For most manufacturers, business management software has been a part of operations since computers entered their back offices. However, the evolution of these solutions from the enterprise information systems of the 60's to cloud, mobile and advanced analytics-based ERP software today has influenced significant changes in manufacturer operations and how firms approach efficiency.

According to Wall St. Cheat Sheet, ERP systems used to belong to the major corporations, but today small businesses are leveraging it inventory management software and accounting solutions just as effectively as their larger counterparts. EIS systems were originally for financial or inventory automation, and these tools evolved to include scheduling, product planning, materials requirements and eventually overarching supply chain management and even customer service and CRM solutions. This evolution resides not just in the demand for ERP software, but that recognition that these tools continue to offer more to companies looking to streamline their back office operations and enhance productivity on a broad scale.

The primary advantage of manufacturing ERP software is the boost to profitability. This is achieved through a series of smaller enhancements to operations that firms have to embrace, such as project management automation, improvements to HR and to consolidation of these resource into single computing systems. Ultimately, this will help optimize workflow around the technology companies are using, rather than implementing a different system for every process, which slows down efficiency.

From shipping to product planning, ERP solutions are critical for manufacturers to keep up with demand and competitors' progress.  These are integral tools for businesses looking to maintain growth in increasingly complex global markets, and establish a baseline for quality and efficiency of service at the same time.