The demand for enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is growing. A recent report from Technavio indicated that the ERP market will accelerate at a 9% compound annual growth rate over the next five years, with much of the expansion due to rising need in North American and increasing adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises.

For organizations that want to realize greater gains and efficiencies by purchasing and implementing a new ERP system, there are many options to consider, including whether they should go with a mobile ERP solution.

Since many ERPs are already based in the cloud and accessible online, you might already think of them as mobile ERPs. For our purposes, a mobile ERP is one that has prioritized mobile use in its features and interface. Accessing the ERP solely through a web browser is less likely to drive mobile adoption for users than a solution that emphasizes mobile experience.

Here's why a mobile ERP solution might make sense.

Mobile ERPs have some distinct advantages. Here are a few.

Greater responsiveness

When an ERP solution is integrated with users' mobile devices, their ability to input data on the fly increases their responsiveness to enterprise functioning. When they carry a mobile device with them onto the shop floor, they can update business information as it happens instead of hours later, which also improves accuracy. Routine tasks are no longer separated from data input functions. These operations can now happen in sync, keeping ERPs regularly updated and making individual contributors more productive.

Better use of cloud ERP functionality

Though there are other ERP systems that also rely on cloud computing instead of onsite or third-party servers, mobile ERPs may make better use of their functionality. If workers use the mobile ERP interface in a responsive manner, making adjustments as changes occur, then there is less lag in connected workflows. Cascading actions occur with the help of the ERP more quickly because decisions, and responses, occur in real time.

Improved customer service

Mobile ERP enables greater transparency for customers, too. Depending on how the system is configured, the customer's view into company operations also benefits from the improved speed and accuracy that comes from on-the-go mobile updates. Customers who have greater insight into operations have expectations that are accurate, verifiable and easier to manage. Giving customers that direct insight into company activity also lessens the burden on customer service personnel, since there will be fewer questions for them to answer.

Streamlined interfaces

Paring down applications for mobile touch screens generally forces software designers to bring the most important user functions to the fore. Different ERP solutions will vary in how they prioritize user experience on mobile devices, so compare the functionality of different interfaces to determine which will suit your needs best. You should also consult with your software solution provider to see if they have any suggestions for what mobile ERP might work best for your needs, or if they're aware of any custom workarounds.

Accent Software can help you find the mobile ERP system that's right for you and integrate it with your systems in a way that meets your needs.