6 Reasons Why Updates Improve an ERP System

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

Patch, service release or new version?

Before we convince you of the importance of updates, it is good to know that there are different forms 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 then includes new functions, better performance and innovations for the usability.

With regard to the update routine among ERP users, one notices that the smaller packages are often ignored or postponed, while new versions are often "updated" at a central point. However, this is already 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 exact. 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 a new challenge. ERP project the same. This involves a lot of time and money.

2. software "expires

Software has an expiry date. That is, at least the obsolete components. At some point, certain components are no longer supported, which leads to isolated functions being disrupted or no longer executable 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 of this day become more insidious. Current software solutions can usually keep these dangers at bay. However, outdated systems increase the risk of being affected by malicious software.

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, this can lead to malfunctions. It is not a problem if the updates are carried out at different times, as long as they are carried out at regular intervals.

Tip: You can obtain information on the compatibility of, for example, the current ERP version and operating systems from the support team of your software.

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. Especially in the case of patches, ongoing system maintenance can become a life-extending measure for the ERP system. Since patches mainly solve problem cases, they constantly adapt the software and improve the functionality and thus also the effectiveness of the system. The system thus evolves in an individual way with the company. This form of agile adaptation is not only less expensive than a specially commissioned Individual programmingbut also takes effect at precisely those points where the system does not work 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 is the introduction of new banking functions, new tax laws or the GDPR An ERP system, as the central link of data management in a company, must comply with the latest legal requirements. This data must also be retrievable under certain conditions, including by external bodies (DATEV). Laws change and technical requirements continue to develop. Updates bring the system up to date here and ensure that the interfaces function for data transmission.

6. updates extend ERP 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 projects, including the analysis, introduction and implementation are already multi-year projects. Because of these two factors alone, an ERP system is never a consolidated end result. A modern solution can only exist in the long term if it remains flexible and adapts to developments. And the best and easiest way to do that is through updates.