There are two methods for customising the processes of an ERP. Customizing is the method of adapting the system within the possibilities that the system offers.
In the course of the digitalization business processes have become more and more individual. This has also increased the difficulty of mapping them. Although most modern ERP systems Many standard functions are integrated, but the software usually has to be customised to the company. This makes sense as long as it supports your competitiveness, i.e. strengthens your individuality. A portfolio of super-unique workflows may look good, but it won't bring you any competitive advantage in the long term. Optimisation of your company but little.
Customizing vs Code Basis
Coding is, of course, the method that requires greater expertise. This is usually associated with money, which is why many companies like to turn to Standard solutions on the ERP market that promise to work completely without customisation. The customising variant is therefore still more common. Depending on the complexity of the software, this offers a different number of home-made options for customisation. Some systems keep it very simple, while others allow you to modify every single step. On the user interface, these steps are usually represented by simple boxes so that the user is guided through the customisation process. However, if the complexity of the software increases, the customisations also become more extensive - meaning that one click may affect a much larger process. In this case, it is again worth having a consultant at your side to carry out the customisations together with you.
Advantage and disadvantage of customising
The great advantage of the customising variant is and remains that it is quick and easy. However, you are again limited to the customisation options that are integrated into the software. In the case of specialised industry software, this can be sufficient. However, young companies in particular set themselves apart by combining sectors (e.g. Retail and service), which is why their needs are not optionally mapped in ready-made ERP software.
Everything feasible at code level
The alternative is therefore to customise the system on a code basis. This allows you to add functions and expand processes. The advantage: You get a customised system. The disadvantage: the more specialised, the more expensive. That's the rule. This is because very few companies have an in-house programmer who specialises in ERP application software. Customised software also costs money every time you purchase it. updates extra, as the system does not automatically jump to the next version, but the modified source code must always be included. This can sometimes lead to complications if there are a lot of customisations. Due to the delays, an update is often postponed in order to save time and money. In the meantime, the system slowly but surely becomes obsolete.
The centre makes it
But enough of the horror stories. The bad reputation that precedes customisation programming ultimately doesn't help anyone. And neither does the cheap version of customising ERP software. Because the functions shown in a standard software to really accompany the processes in a company in the long term. However, dead-optimised ERP giant systems are also more of a burden than a help.
The solution is - as is so often the case - mediocrity. Processes that you need to map, but are flexible enough to adapt to a system without restricting the individuality and thus the competitiveness of your company. On the other hand, the applications that you definitely need to assert yourself on the market can be individualised - and you are welcome to reach into your wallet for this, because it is worth it. For example, if your company sells products (retail) on the one hand and personalises them on the other (service), you need to map and link different processes. If you differentiate yourself on the market through the service aspect, you should also strengthen it functionally accordingly.
Interfaces and Know How
ERP solutions such as SAP Business OneERP systems that, despite mapping many tried and tested standard functions, make it possible to link different systems via interfaces can be of great benefit here. Before adapting the ERP software, it may be possible to achieve the desired result by connecting additional specialised software. In this way, you can also solve temporary requirements without permanently bending your ERP system.
Coding and customising in the cloud
ERP systems are also increasingly being operated in the cloud. The customisability of these systems is often more or less limited due to the cloud logic. However, there are some differences here, depending on the specific cloud scenario behind the cloud. Private cloud, hybrid cloud, public cloud or PAAS and SAAS. There are many variations and, depending on this, there is also customisability. One thing is logical and clear: the more emphasis is placed on shared use by several parties, the less the software can be individualised.
more on the subject:
Standard ERP: Advantages and disadvantages
The standard usability of ERP systems in 9 points
ERP as standard - what does that mean?
Integrated ERP approach or special software for financial management?
Standard still trendy
