Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is among the commonly used tools for managing data, measuring employee’s performance, and understanding customer needs, among others.

Because of its wide-ranging capabilities, more and more companies are incorporating it into their processes and deploying it to track various operations including human resources, supply and inventory, financial management, business intelligence, and so on.

What is more fascinating is that all these things can be done within a centralised system. The tool stores data and processes across multiple departments and locations in a single path, allowing for a clear chain of command, reduced costs, increased transparency, and more.

To enjoy the above advantages, one must consider the software’s key features. Here are four of the important functionalities that ERP software should have:

Security

Any software application should boast of a secured interface. Security should always on top of the checklist to safeguard the company’s reputation.

Businesses, especially those with highly sensitive records (i.e. medical files, customer’s personal information) should prioritise data protection. Failing to protect confidential data can result in financial repercussions or worse—damaged reputation.

This is why enterprise software should have high levels of security. There must be a built-in firewall that will help keep the core system secure; provide uncomplicated access for users whilst preventing unauthorised use.

It also helps to check whether the system instils security best practices with compliance management. For example, the software should assist in keeping tabs on a business’s transactions, log user access, and identify or resolve any suspicious activity.

Scalability
Every company envisions to grow, expand and stand out from the competition. When success knocks on the door, the company should be able to keep up with the changing demands.

This is where the scalability functionality comes in handy. A scalable ERP software solution grows with any business. It can manage the influx of resources, customers, and data; maintain its speed as the database increases, and handle new functions or requirements.

Since it can function continuously despite the company’s increasing usage needs, the idea of purchasing other systems are taken out of the picture. Therefore, a company is freed up from any additional expense.

There are many ways to check software scalability. The following are some of the common scalability testing attributes: response time, throughput, CPU usage, memory usage, and network usage.

Usability

From every user’s perspective, usability is an important feature that any software program should have.

Imagine, how can individuals complete the task accurately if a certain system is hard to operate in the first place? Instead of making the job easier for them, the system only adds up to the burden.

This scenario implies the need for intuitive user experience. By intuitive, it means users of different technical levels must be able to grasp the platform easily. It should not only be easy to use but also easy to demonstrate when training new employees.

To ensure that ERP software promotes ease of usage, it should meet the following factors: interface across all modules, common operations, customisable user experience, streamlined processes, and more.

Mobility

A software application’s utility is not maximised to a greater extent if it lacks mobile support or mobility.

It is not enough for software to be designed high security, scalability, and usability; it should also work effectively on mobile. Why? Because several businesses are now running, monitoring, and managing their businesses via their mobile devices.

Apart from the business leaders, mobile-friendly enterprise applications also allow every member of the organisation to run the program, access workflows and collaborate with teams either in-house or on-the-go.

With this kind of mobility, remote or out-of-the-office employees, in particular, remain updated and can still perform crucial business-related activities. Anyone enjoys full functionality from their smartphones or tablets anywhere and at any time.

Take Note of the Essentials

For an organisation to maximise the utility of ERP software, it should first understand what its needs are. From there, it would help if the above important features are taken into account and aligned with the company’s needs.