Optimize your ERP system
An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system helps manage business processes by integrating and automating various departments. At a time when effective information management is critical, however, many organizations appear to be struggling to fully support these business processes with standard ERP applications. LeanForms offers an innovative digital solution that not only leverages the full potential of ERP systems, but also reduces costs while optimizing data management throughout the organization. You can read more about it in this article.
The basics: business process mapping
A solid foundation for process optimization begins with detailed mapping of business processes. To do this, use a business process management tool, for example. The great advantage is that you then have a picture of the interaction between the various business processes. The result of one business process is identical to the input for the next process. Follow the information and eventually you get the process result. Such a business process management tool can also be used as a digital quality management tool. Thus, the knife cuts two ways and you integrate quality management is the organization. And if there are changes in the future, then such a digital blueprint helps to identify the impact and thus limits the risk of failure during implementation.
While ERP systems are powerful in managing master data for financial and logistics transactions, they often lack the in-depth information needed for full process optimization. Complaints, investigation results and corrective actions are often captured elsewhere, losing valuable insights. LeanForms complements these by working seamlessly with ERP systems and capturing detailed information for better understanding and continuous improvement of business processes.
Avoid unnecessary costs
We see the same thing happening in many companies: an ERP system that in theory should streamline processes, but in practice actually creates extra work. Manual input, customization that complicates updates and hidden costs prevent companies from getting the most out of their ERP.
We regularly get to look into our customers’ ERP kitchens and see where things often go wrong. In this blog we show you how to optimize your ERP system for faster processes, lower costs and maximum efficiency, without unnecessary customization.
Common ERP challenges: Where do things go wrong?
- Too much customization leads to inflexibility and high costs.
ERP systems are powerful, but the more customization, the greater the likelihood of high maintenance costs, limited scalability and dependence on IT & consultants. Companies can adapt their ERP less flexibly because changes require technical knowledge.
- Manual input causes lost time and errors
Many companies still work with loose forms or spreadsheets that are manually transferred into the ERP. This leads to increased risk of errors, process delays and inefficiencies.
One of our clients in the construction industry saved 40% time per inspection by replacing manual input with digital forms that sync directly with the ERP.
- Lack of clarity about costs and hidden expenses
An ERP system involves more costs than just licenses. Many companies underestimate costs for implementation and training, expenses for customization, maintenance and licenses for users who hardly need the ERP
The solution: Replace customization whenever possible and use smart digital forms that automatically process data and make it readily available in the ERP.
By integrating digital forms with your ERP, many tasks can be accomplished without the need for additional ERP licenses. This directly saves on licensing costs and makes the system more accessible to employees.
The benefits of an optimized ERP system with LeanForms
By linking digital forms to your ERP, you enjoy the following benefits:
- Lower ERP licensing costs: Only employees who really need access to the ERP are licensed. Other users work through forms.
- Faster processing and fewer errors: Automation eliminates errors that occur when manually copying data.
- Always up-to-date data in the ERP: No delays in reports due to duplicate entries or incorrectly copied data.
- Flexible adjustments without IT: Supporting business processes can be adjusted without IT intervention.
- Fewer software packages required: Users work in one streamlined system, which increases acceptance and efficiency.
- Better data analysis: Direct integration with ERP provides faster and more reliable insights.
- Higher employee satisfaction: Less frustration from unnecessary actions and a more user-friendly workflow.
- Greater transparency in business processes: Real-time visibility into data and workflows without additional administration.
A strong foundation: mapping business processes
A solid foundation for process optimization begins with detailed mapping of business processes. This is preferably done with a business process management tool that provides insight into the interaction between processes. This allows you to see exactly how information flows through the organization and where there are bottlenecks. A good digital process overview not only serves as a blueprint for optimization, but also helps with quality management and risk management during changes.
Checklist: Is your ERP set up optimally?
Do employees still have to manually enter data?
Are there processes that take too much time due to duplicate entries?
Does customization limit the flexibility and update capabilities of your ERP?
Are ERP licenses a big expense for employees who barely use the system?
If you answer “yes” to one or more questions, there are gains to be made in ERP optimization!
Find out how your ERP can work more efficiently and cheaply
Want to know how LeanForms can optimize your ERP system? Request a no-obligation demo and find out how you can save time and reduce costs with smart digital forms.
While ERP systems are powerful in managing master data for financial and logistics transactions, they often lack the in-depth information needed for full process optimization. Complaints, investigation results and corrective actions are often captured elsewhere, losing valuable insights. LeanForms complements these by working seamlessly with ERP systems and capturing detailed information for better understanding and continuous improvement of business processes.
On the intergrations page, see which ERP systems we already integrate with.
Want to know more? Get in touch
Do you have questions or are you curious how LeanForms can support your organization? We are ready to answer all your questions! Get instant specialized advice on the best solution for your specific situation.
Related items
Efficient business processes
The secret of data quality. Data is increasingly being used as an integral part of decision-making. Low quality of this data can lead to inefficiencies, improper analysis and, ultimately, wrong decisions.
LeanForms and Power BI at Hegin Metalfinishing
Choose the right tool for more efficient business processes. Process optimization is becoming increasingly important in organizations to remain efficient and competitive.
Transform HSE processes with the HSE HUB
In this blog, colleague Alexander Simons explains how the HSE HUB eliminates fragmented HSE data and helps organizations proactively address safety and environmental issues with smart, centralized recording and analysis. Transform HSE processes with the HSE HUB.
Workflow in Lean administration: A practical example
Do you recognize that your work is delayed by outdated, duplicate or inaccurate information? Many companies struggle with these kinds of delays due to inefficient information management.
