If Enterprise Resource Planning solutions aren't part of your current business operations, they probably should be. Small and large organizations can benefit greatly from these systems in the form of more synchronized processes across departments.

If you are thinking about integrating ERP into your company, that's great! But the question we need to ask is, where should you start?

You want to be on the cutting edge of technology so it can keep up with how you conduct business. That's why we're going to focus on the top ERP trends we can expect for 2017 (and probably for years to come).

1. The continued growth of IoT
Have you ever heard of the term Internet of Things? IoT is the concept of transmitting data from objects (think ATMs, wearable devices and even cars) to the internet. In fact, Statista reported that close to 100 percent of cars (we're assuming new ones) will be connected to the internet by 2020. We'd expect similar numbers for many other devices in the coming years as well.

In the world of IoT, manufactures will be able to connect machines to the internet. These machines, in turn, will upload information – such as performance metrics – that could then allow employees to make improvements and optimize development and shipment times.

2. Mobile availability
Sitting in front of a desk and uploading or studying data is old news. Today professionals are constantly on the go, and mobile devices are their way of staying connected to the world around them.

Many ERP solutions are decreasing in size (but not capacity or output), so employees can easily access everything from dashboards to in depth charts and displays. 

3. Social connection
Social media isn't new, but its integration into ERP solution is continuing to evolve. ERP solutions help connect employees to different types of data but social networking allows them (and clients) to discuss these points in real time.

As you think about the type of ERP solution you'd like to adopt, keep in mind these trends. While older systems may be less expensive, they could also act as an anchor and hold your company back.