6 Reasons Why Updates Improve an ERP System

Whether you don't have time, are expecting an important email or are traumatised by Windows - the truth is this: Updates are like appointments at the dentist. If something important comes up, it's easy to put them off. In the case of ERP system is no different. However, there are good reasons why it is important to bring the software up to date. Here are six of them.

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Patch, service release or new version?

Before we convince you of the importance of updates, it is good to know that there are different types of updates for ERP systems. These are divided into patches, service releases and versions.

Patches are the most frequent updates and the manufacturer's response to problems reported by system users. Support then creates such a patch or "bug fix" and hands it out to the customer.

On Service release in turn is usually published once or twice a year. Here the patches and mini updates are collected and sent as one package

A new version in turn only occurs approximately every three to four years. This release includes new functions, improved performance and new features for the usability.

With regard to the update routine of ERP users, it is noticeable that the smaller packages are often ignored or postponed, while new versions are often "updated" at a central point. However, this is the first stumbling block on the way to a long-term functioning ERP system.

1. postponement causes effort

An ERP system works for a long time without updates. Years to be precise. However, the hurdles are getting bigger and bigger, especially when it comes to integrating the rest of the IT infrastructure. Restoring this and bringing it up to date is almost like a new ERP project the same. This involves a lot of time and money.

2. software "expires"

Software has an expiry date. At least the obsolete components do. At some point, certain components are no longer supported, which means that individual functions are disrupted or can no longer be executed at all. Patches, i.e. minor problem fixes, can then also no longer be integrated. In addition to the limited functionality, this leads to gaps in software security, as viruses become more insidious this day. Current software solutions can usually prevent these threats. However, outdated systems increase the risk of being affected by malware.

3. updates go hand in hand

What many do not know: Every server, every operating system and even the hardware must be updated from time to time. Often the updates take effect Hand in hand into each other. This means that when a ERP system is not up to date, but the operating system is updated, malfunctions may occur. It does not really matter if the updates are carried out at different times, as long as they are carried out at regular intervals.

Tip: Information on the compatibility of, for example, the current ERP version and operating systems can be obtained from your software support.

4. use patches as individual updates

But let's not just look at the risks of update laziness. In fact, companies also benefit from regular updates in both the short and long term. Particularly in the case of patches, ongoing system maintenance can become a life-extending measure for the ERP system. As patches primarily solve problems, they constantly adapt the software and improve the functionality and therefore also the effectiveness of the system. The system therefore continues to develop with the company in a customised way. This form of agile customisation is not only more cost-effective than a specially commissioned Individual programmingbut also takes effect precisely at those points where the system is not working optimally. The same applies to service releases, except that they often contain additional updates that improve the performance of the software. Continuous improvement of your ERP system.

5. legally up to date with updates

Whether it's the introduction of new banking functions, new tax laws or the GDPR is: As the central link in a company's data management, an ERP system must comply with the latest legal requirements. This data must also be retrievable under certain conditions, including by external parties (DATEV). Laws change and the technical requirements continue to develop. Updates bring the system up to date here and ensure that interfaces work for data transmission.

6. updates extend the ERP service life and make it competitive

Once again, the point of longevity should be emphasised in detail. Nowadays, software continues to develop at a rapid pace. ERP projectsincluding the analysis, introduction and implementation are already multi-year projects. These two factors alone mean that an ERP system is never a fixed end result. A modern solution can only survive in the long term if it remains flexible and adapts to developments. And the best and easiest way to do this is through updates.

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