E-shop and ERP systems integration: Myths, reality and best practices

In recent years, the market has undoubtedly changed radically! Many consumers are increasingly choosing online shopping over visiting a physical store, even for their daily needs, such as supermarket shopping!

As consumers shape the market, businesses are called upon to adapt and follow the changes brought about by the digital age. One way to achieve this is to interconnect their eshop with ERP systems.

Many myths have been heard around this interconnection, which may create insecurity in businesses to carry out this interconnection. However, it is time to dispel common myths and see the reality behind them.

What are ERP systems?

ERP (Enterprise resource planning) systems are a comprehensive software solution through which companies can manage key parts of their businesses. Many ERP software applications are vital to companies because they help them implement resource planning, integrating all the processes required to operate their companies with a single system.

In this way, the various departments communicate with each other and exchange information more easily with the company, as the information is available to all departments.

ERP systems help a company gain greater self-awareness by linking information related to production, finance, distribution and human resources.

Are ERP systems needed in E-commerce?

For e-commerce businesses, ERP systems are not just useful, but essential tools, regulating a wide range of operational needs. Small, medium and large businesses choose to integrate them into their e-shops.

An ERP system significantly enhances the efficiency and profitability of an e-commerce platform, ultimately allowing companies to achieve more with fewer resources.

As ERP adoption continues to expand, the global ERP software market will grow from $81.15 billion in 2024 to $238.79 billion by 2032. With this rapid growth, decision makers need to understand what ERP can do for their businesses.

The most common myths about ERP systems

Myth No.1: ERP systems are only for large companies

Truth: ERP systems are not just for large companies. Modern ERP systems are built to adapt to small and medium-sized businesses, as they offer flexibility and are affordable to all entrepreneurs.

Myth No.2: ERP systems are too expensive

Truth: While an ERP system may seem expensive, the long-term ROI often outweighs the cost. ERP systems automate tasks, improve efficiency, prevent errors, and reduce operating expenses, leading to long-term savings.

In addition, many ERP systems allow businesses to implement only the functionality they need, thereby reducing costs.

Myth No.3: Installing an ERP system is complicated and time-consuming

Truth: Installing an ERP system may seem like a difficult task, however, by working with the right professionals, its installation in your e-shop can be done quickly and simply, with only a small interruption to your online store.

Myth No.4: ERP systems and e-shops only communicate about inventory

Truth: While this is one of the functions, it is not the only one. ERP systems facilitate inventory tracking, eliminating human data entry, errors and inventory tracking, making inventory management more efficient.

So, in terms of e-commerce, ERP systems facilitate order entry, processing and tracking. This reduces manual handling of orders, speeds up order execution and improves order accuracy.

Another area they help with is the recording of customer information, so that personalized service is provided, depending on their preferences and they receive faster assistance. In this way, customers feel happier and show greater loyalty to the company.

Of course, they provide the ability to make financial management easier. It automates financial processes, ensures they are accurate, and provides you with real-time insights so you can make smart decisions.

Finally, as ERP systems look at details about sales, customers, and how the business operates overall, they allow business owners to improve their processes and make better decisions!

What are the best practices for proper integration?

Using an ERP system in e-commerce requires proper planning and careful execution. To achieve this, there are a few steps to follow!

1. Define your goals and requirements

Find clear goals and needs for your business, identifying what problems you want to solve with an ERP system and which features are important to you.

2. Conduct a thorough evaluation

Research and compare ERP systems on the market and choose the one that best fits your needs and long-term goals.

3. Customize and configure

Work closely with your ERP provider to customize and configure the system to fit your unique business needs.

4. Provide comprehensive training

Invest time and money so that your employees have the skills they need to use the ERP system well.

5. Test

Before going live, you should try to thoroughly validate the ERP system. Test various situations and processes to make sure the system is working as it should and that all its parts work together properly.

6. Monitor and optimize

Once your ERP system is up and running, monitor how it’s performing and ask for feedback from users. Find areas where the method could be better and make the necessary changes. Keep your ERP system up to date with new features and improvements by updating it frequently.

It is therefore essential to understand the importance of ERP systems in e-commerce, especially in an era when the market is changing rapidly. By choosing to work with the right professionals, you can ensure that this integration will be easy, fast and effective.