The Internet of Things is changing the way enterprises use technology. By allowing devices and tools to gather and report data to workers, business management software, like enterprise resource planning systems, is smarter, faster and more flexible. 

Universal communication
The simplest way of describing the Internet of Things is to say that devices talk to each other, and the information goes both ways. Connecting tools with active sensors can more effectively connect functions like sales, marketing and finance, wrote Rick Carlton of ERP Focus. 

New opportunities
Rian van Heur of Computer Weekly said that thanks to the IoT, modern ERP software makes IT part of a product's unique selling point. He added, "by collecting, analyzing and processing all the data from sensors, companies can offer their customers new services." When a product is sold to the customer, it doesn't disappear. Smart sensors on the product can help the manufacturer continue providing service, suggesting improvements and providing upgrades with a faster turnaround time. 

Real-time intelligence
The IoT lets businesses harness crucial information to provide better services to their clients. By helping ERP systems acquire this information in real-time, the IoT is making modern ERP more flexible. Real-time data allows businesses to act faster, whether they're entering new markets, upgrading an existing product or rolling out a new product to meet a shifting customer demand. Businesses can also gain quick information on their processes, allowing them to improve and streamline workflows as they see bottlenecks appearing. 

At Accent Software, we work with growing manufacturers to implement Microsoft business software, helping them reduce costs to achieve a competitive advantage. If your legacy system isn't cutting it, contact us to see how a modern ERP program can give your enterprise a competitive advantage.