Running a small business comes with its own set of challenges. Keeping track of finances, inventory, and day-to-day operations can consume much of a small business owner’s time, leaving little room for growth and strategy. Fortunately, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can help small businesses overcome these obstacles by streamlining processes and automating tasks. But with so many ERP systems on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 ERP systems for small businesses.
Acumatica
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP system that offers flexibility, mobility, and security. It includes modules for financial management, distribution, project accounting, and customer relationship management (CRM). Acumatica is known for its user-friendly interface and customizable workflows, making it a popular choice for small businesses. Pricing starts at $40 per user per month.
NetSuite
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP system that offers a wide range of modules, including financial management, order management, supply chain management, and CRM. NetSuite is known for its scalability, making it a great option for growing small businesses. Pricing starts at $999 per month plus $99 per user per month.
Odoo
Odoo is an open-source ERP system that offers modules for project management, CRM, inventory management, and eCommerce. Odoo is known for its extensive library of third-party apps, making it a versatile choice for small businesses. Pricing starts at €20 per user per month.
Zoho Books
Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software that offers modules for financial management, inventory management, and CRM. Zoho Books is known for its affordability and integration with other Zoho products, making it a convenient choice for small businesses already using Zoho’s suite of tools. Pricing starts at $9 per month.
QuickBooks Enterprise
QuickBooks Enterprise is a desktop-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, inventory management, and CRM. QuickBooks Enterprise is known for its familiarity and ease of use, making it a popular choice for small businesses already using QuickBooks for their accounting needs. Pricing starts at $1,155 per year.
Epicor iScala
Epicor iScala is a cloud-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, supply chain management, and CRM. Epicor iScala is known for its localization capabilities, making it a great option for small businesses operating in multiple countries. Pricing varies based on the number of users and modules needed.
SYSPRO
SYSPRO is a cloud-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, distribution, and manufacturing. SYSPRO is known for its deep industry expertise, making it a popular choice for small businesses in specialized fields. Pricing varies based on the number of users and modules needed.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing. Infor CloudSuite Industrial is known for its robust reporting capabilities, making it a great option for small businesses needing detailed insights into their operations. Pricing varies based on the number of users and modules needed.
IFS Applications
IFS Applications is a cloud-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing. IFS Applications is known for its strong servitization capabilities, making it a popular choice for small businesses that sell services alongside physical goods. Pricing varies based on the number of users and modules needed.
Sage X3
Sage X3 is a cloud-based ERP system that offers modules for financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing. Sage X3 is known for its international reach and multilingual capabilities, making it a great option for small businesses operating globally. Pricing varies based on the number of users and modules needed.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an ERP System for Your Small Business
Before choosing an ERP system, it’s essential to consider your small business’s specific needs. Here are some factors to consider:
Size and Complexity
Consider the size and complexity of your small business when choosing an ERP system. If your business is relatively simple, you may not need a robust ERP system with extensive features. On the other hand, larger or more complicated businesses may require more sophisticated ERP systems to handle their operations.
Budget
Budget is always a concern for small businesses. Make sure to choose an ERP system that fits within your budget while still providing the necessary features and functionality.
Deployment Preferences
ERP systems come in two forms: cloud-based and on-premise. Cloud-based ERP systems are hosted offsite and accessed via the internet, while on-premise ERP systems are installed locally on a company’s servers. Choose the deployment model that works best for your small business.
Scalability
It’s essential to think about the future when choosing an ERP system. Look for an ERP system that can grow with your small business and expand to meet your needs as you grow.
Technical Skills
Consider the technical skills of your team when choosing an ERP system. Some ERP systems require more technical expertise than others. If your team lacks technical skills, choose an ERP system that is user-friendly and doesn’t require extensive training.
Implementing an ERP System for Your Small Business
Implementing an ERP system can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these tips for a smooth ERP implementation:
Plan Carefully
Planning is key to a successful ERP implementation. Take the time to map out your processes and identify any potential roadblocks.
Train Users Thoroughly
Make sure to train all users thoroughly on the new ERP system. Provide hands-on training sessions and encourage users to ask questions.
Start Small
Start small and gradually roll out the ERP system to different departments. This will allow you to identify and resolve any issues before rolling out the system to the entire company.
Set Expectations
Set clear expectations for the ERP implementation. Be transparent about the timeline and communicate regularly with stakeholders.
Test Everything
Test everything before going live with the ERP system. Ensure that all modules are working correctly and that data is being transferred accurately.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ERP system for your small business is crucial for success. By considering your small business’s specific needs and budget, and following these tips for a smooth ERP implementation, you can choose an ERP system that will streamline processes, automate tasks, and set your small business up for success. Whether you choose Acumatica, NetSuite, Odoo, Zoho Books, QuickBooks Enterprise, Epicor iScala, SYSPRO, Infor CloudSuite Industrial, IFS Applications, or Sage X3, make sure it’s the right fit for your small business.
