Frequently Asked Questions

Product Overview & Company Information

What is Priority Software and what does it do?

Priority Software is a leading provider of scalable, agile, and open cloud-based business management solutions. It serves organizations of all sizes and industries, offering real-time access to business data and insights from any device. Over 75,000 companies across 70 countries use Priority to manage and grow their businesses efficiently. Learn more.

What products and services does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software offers a comprehensive suite of business management solutions, including:

See the Company Profile for details.

Which industries does Priority Software serve?

Priority Software serves a wide range of industries, including agriculture, nonprofits, professional services, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, wholesale & distribution, electronics, healthcare, medical devices, software & technology, financial services, and construction. See all industries.

How many customers and partners does Priority Software have?

Priority Software is trusted by over 75,000 customers in more than 70 countries and has a network of 100+ partners worldwide.

Who are some notable customers of Priority Software?

Notable customers include Ace Hardware, ALDO, Adidas, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, GSK, Teva, and Checkmarx. See more customers.

Features & Capabilities

What are the key features of Priority Software?

Key features include:

Does Priority Software offer AI-powered capabilities?

Yes, Priority's aiERP suite embeds artificial intelligence and machine learning into its core architecture. Users can interact with the ERP using natural language, create complex business rules, generate and summarize reports, forecast demand, and optimize delivery routes. Learn more about aiERP.

What integrations does Priority Software support?

Priority Software supports over 150 plug & play connectors, unlimited API connectivity, and embedded integrations. Key integrations include:

See the Hospitality Marketplace and Cloud ERP for details.

Does Priority Software provide an open API?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API for seamless integration with third-party applications. This allows businesses to create custom integrations and tailor their systems to specific needs. Learn more about the Open API.

Is technical documentation available for Priority Software?

Yes, Priority Software provides comprehensive technical documentation for its ERP solutions, covering features, industries, and supported products. Access the documentation here.

Use Cases & Benefits

Who can benefit from using Priority Software?

Priority Software is designed for a wide range of roles and companies, including retail business owners, operations and supply chain managers, sales and marketing managers, CFOs, IT managers, and organizations in manufacturing, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, technology, and services. It is ideal for businesses seeking scalability, efficiency, and industry-specific solutions.

What core business problems does Priority Software solve?

Priority Software addresses:

What pain points does Priority Software address for retail businesses?

Priority Software helps retail businesses overcome:

It provides centralized management, real-time insights, automation, and omnichannel capabilities. Learn more.

How does Priority Software help with operational efficiency?

Priority Software boosts operational efficiency through built-in automated workflows, AI recommendations, centralized data, and real-time reporting. This reduces manual processes, improves resource utilization, and enables faster, data-driven decisions.

How does Priority Software support business growth and scalability?

Priority Software's cloud-based platform is designed for scalability, supporting high-volume transactions and adapting to business growth without the need for complex integrations or on-premises IT infrastructure. It enables continuous innovation and long-term value.

Customer Success & Social Proof

What feedback have customers given about Priority Software's ease of use?

Customers consistently praise Priority Software for its intuitive interface and user-friendly design. For example, Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) noted that employees can manage daily tasks without relying on IT. On G2, Priority ERP has a rating of approximately 4.1/5, with users highlighting its simplicity and configurability. See more testimonials.

Can you share specific customer success stories with Priority Software?

Yes, examples include:

See all case studies here.

What industry recognition has Priority Software received?

Priority Software has been recognized by Gartner in the 2025 Magic Quadrant™ for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises, named a “Major Player” in the 2025 IDC MarketScape for AI-Enabled ERP, and ranked as the top ERP Solution in the 2025 TEC Insight Report for SMBs.

How does Priority Software perform according to customer reviews?

Priority ERP has a customer rating of approximately 4.1/5 on G2. Users highlight its intuitive interface, ease of use, and configurability as major strengths. See reviews.

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Dynamics 365?

Microsoft Dynamics 365 requires heavy customization for industry needs and lacks smooth migration from Business Central. Priority ERP is user-friendly, flexible, customizable without IT support, and ensures compliance with FDA, GDPR, SOX, ISO9000, ISO27001, and SOC 2 Type 2.

How does Priority ERP compare to SAP Business One?

SAP Business One is powerful but complex, expensive, and lacks multi-company capabilities. Priority ERP is affordable, easy to use, maintains the same platform (no forced migrations), and supports true multi-company operations with automatic inter-company processes.

How does Priority ERP compare to Acumatica?

Acumatica focuses on cloud ERP but lacks industry-specific features, has limited WMS, a steep learning curve, and unpredictable pricing. Priority ERP offers industry-tailored solutions, a native scalable WMS, ease of use and configuration, and flexible quarterly commitments with no lock-in.

How does Priority ERP compare to NetSuite?

NetSuite is a strong cloud ERP but is expensive and enforces contract lock-in. Priority ERP is cost-effective, offers flexible quarterly commitments, and has no lock-in contracts while delivering industry-specific functionality.

How does Priority ERP compare to Odoo?

Odoo is open-source but has scalability limits, performance issues, long learning curves, and high implementation failure rates. Priority ERP provides structured implementation, scalability, proven methodologies, experienced partners, and quick user adoption.

How does Priority ERP compare to Sage X3?

Sage focuses on accounting, not full ERP, and many Sage products are nearing end-of-life. Priority ERP integrates accounting with analytics, automation, and industry features, and supports no-code customizations for apps, portals, workflows, and automation.

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Business Central?

Business Central requires heavy coding for industry features and lacks specialized functionality for industries like manufacturing, retail, and pharma. Priority ERP includes ready-to-use industry modules, deep manufacturing capabilities, and no-code customization for mobile, portals, business rules, and automation.

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Navision?

Microsoft Navision has reached end of life, forcing businesses to migrate. Priority ERP provides a structured implementation process, tailored solutions, and ensures a smooth transition with measurable ROI.

How does Priority Optima compare to Oracle Hospitality OPERA?

OPERA is costly, complex, and has slow support and integration challenges. Priority Optima is scalable, cost-effective, intuitive, and offers responsive support, flexible customization, and an open architecture with a broad Marketplace for integrations.

How does Priority Optima compare to Cloudbeds?

Cloudbeds can lack depth for complex operations and may have inconsistent support. Priority Optima serves all hospitality types with a comprehensive suite, robust all-in-one platform, reliable support, and a user-friendly design.

How does Priority Optima compare to Mews?

Mews can require significant training and has a cluttered interface. Priority Optima is designed for quick adoption, efficient workflows, a clean interface, and responsive support.

How does Priority Optima compare to Protel?

Protel has a steep learning curve and limited integrations. Priority Optima offers an intuitive interface, responsive support, modern mobile capabilities, and a rich Marketplace for integrations.

How does Priority Retail Management compare to ERP competitors like Microsoft, Oracle, Acumatica, and Sage?

These ERP providers offer generic capabilities and lack specialized retail management features. Priority Retail Management delivers a comprehensive ERP suite enhanced for retail, supporting multi-location, omnichannel, and high-volume environments—all in one platform without requiring additional integrations.

How does Priority Retail Management compare to POS and unified commerce providers like Aptos, LS Retail, Retail Pro, Enactor, and Oracle Retail?

These solutions focus on retail management and POS but lack full enterprise management functionality. Priority Retail Management offers an end-to-end solution with ERP, retail management, unified commerce, and POS natively integrated, eliminating costly integrations and ensuring smooth operations across the retail chain.

Support & Implementation

What professional and implementation services does Priority Software provide?

Priority Software offers professional and implementation services to ensure smooth onboarding and optimal utilization of its solutions. These services include project management, training, and ongoing support. Learn more.

What partnership opportunities are available with Priority Software?

Priority Software offers partnership opportunities, including technology partnerships and AWS partnerships. Partners can access the Priority Market and benefit from a strong ecosystem. Learn more about partnerships.

What is the Priority Market?

The Priority Market is a dedicated marketplace for extended solutions, offering add-ons and integrations to enhance Priority Software's core products. Visit Priority Market.

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When was this page last updated?

This page wast last updated on 12/12/2025 .

Mar. 18, 2026
ERP

What is cloud-based ERP software?

Summarize with AI:

What is cloud based ERP?

Cloud-based ERP is an enterprise resource planning software hosted on a vendor's shared computing platform, allowing businesses to access data over the internet. This model eliminates on-site server maintenance by utilizing remote data centers to manage core business processes like accounting, inventory, and human resources via a subscription-based service.

While traditional ERP is an on-premise system that runs on in-house servers at a company's location, Cloud ERP systems run on a vendor-managed public or private cloud, eliminating the need for on-premise installations and offer a wide range of time, resource, and cost-saving benefits.

How does cloud ERP work?

Cloud ERP works by hosting enterprise software on a service provider's remote servers accessible via the internet. Unlike local software, cloud ERP centralizes data in a shared database where real-time updates occur across all departments, allowing users to access business applications through a web browser or mobile app without maintaining physical on-site hardware.

The cloud-based platform allows for automatic updates and maintenance, reducing the need for manual IT support. Data security is also enhanced through advanced encryption and regular backups, reducing the risk of data loss or cyber attacks.

ERP deployment

Multi-tenant SaaS

Many cloud systems are multi-tenant SaaS. A multi-tenant model means multiple organizations use a single software version and its infrastructure. Although different organizations use the same software hosted on the same server, each organization's data is inaccessible to others.

Single-tenant SaaS

This model means that only one organization uses a single system and its infrastructure. That organization's data is hosted on a private server, with each organizations data and configurations isolated from others, and any customizations or modifications made to the software are unique to each organization.

Public cloud

In a public cloud, multiple organizations share cloud services that are owned by a third party vendor, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Google Cloud.

Private cloud
Completely private cloud usage that is not shared with any other organization. A private cloud generally has a much higher upfront cost, but comes with:

  • A Dedicated Infrastructure
  • More Customization
  • Better Security and Control

The scalability of a private cloud setup is limited by the physical infrastructure's capacity, therefore, expanding the capacity might require additional hardware investments.

Hybrid cloud

Hybrid is a “mix” of both, combining on-premise ERP software with a private or public cloud. With a hybrid cloud setup, organizations can have greater flexibility and more deployment options. For example, critical workloads can be run within the private cloud, while less-sensitive workloads can be run on the public cloud.

Why choose cloud ERP over on-premise ERP?

Choosing cloud ERP over on-premise ERP provides significant advantages in cost reduction and scalability. Cloud systems eliminate expensive hardware maintenance and upfront capital costs, while offering automatic security updates and universal remote accessibility that allow teams to collaborate in real-time from any location without managing complex local servers.

Cloud ERP is the ideal solution for companies that don't have an in-house IT department or those who may be intimidated by the challenges of on-premise ERP.

Vendors usually offer cloud ERP based on an annual or monthly subscription fee. The fee often covers software updates, security, installation, customer service, and tech support. As a result, organizations worry less about their operational processes and have more time to focus on their actual business strategy.

Cloud ERP is a particularly attractive option for businesses looking to scale up and grow their operations because Cloud ERP is often offered as a solutions suite or package consisting of several basic modules, with each module targeting a specific area of the business. If, for example, a customer doesn't require a complete cloud ERP suite, it's possible to choose only the required modules and scale as and when needed.

Ideally, because cloud ERP runs on a vendor-managed public or private cloud, it's exceedingly more cost-effective. Cloud-based solutions provide the flexibility and mobility to access an ERP system and its connected solutions through the vendor's cloud platform and are more convenient, as the system can be accessed from any location and at any time.

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Different types of cloud ERP deployment

The different types of cloud ERP deployment prioritize improved system performance and accessibility through high uptime and real-time data. These systems offer cost efficiency by using predictable subscription models and ensure scalability via modular solutions that grow with the business, while providing rapid deployment to minimize operational disruptions during implementation.

Improved system performance and accessibility

Cloud ERP offers unmatched system performance, ensuring smooth business operations without the hiccups often associated with on-premise systems. The cloud infrastructure guarantees high uptime, reducing system outages and disruptions. Cloud accessibility means businesses can operate from anywhere, which boosts productivity and ensures that decision-makers have constant access to real-time data.

Cost efficiency

Unlike traditional systems with high upfront costs, Cloud ERP operates on a subscription model with predictable costs. This often includes software updates, security, installation, customer service, and tech support. As a result, businesses can better manage their budgets, eliminating unexpected expenses and focusing more on strategic investments.

Scalability

Cloud ERP offers modular solutions that can be adjusted to specific needs. If a company doesn't require a full suite, they can opt for specific modules and then scale up as their operations expand. This flexibility ensures that businesses only pay for what they need, allowing for efficient resource allocation.

Rapid deployment

Cloud solutions can be implemented much faster than traditional systems, resulting in minimal disruptions and allowing businesses to benefit from the new system quickly.

The benefits of cloud ERP

The primary benefits of cloud ERP include increased system performance and reduced operating costs through a flat-rate subscription model. These systems provide easier data access for remote work, enhanced security with strict user-level controls, and automatic updates that ensure businesses always use the latest innovations while maintaining disaster recovery protocols to safeguard business continuity.

Increased performance

On-premise ERP needs to rely on 'big' computer power, including extensive hardware, servers, and costly IT resources to carry the load. Cloud ERP just needs a reliable Internet connection, and it's your vendor who manages the rest. Your Cloud ERP will perform faster and better, with little or no downtime, as would an on-premise system.

Reduced operating costs

On-premise ERP solutions need hardware and an IT team to maintain them. You'll then have to purchase the system, licenses, renewals, and updates. With cloud ERP, pricing is based on a flat-rate fee, reducing your implementation costs and overall expenses, especially since your provider can manage your maintenance.

Easier data access

With cloud ERP, you can access your information from anywhere, anytime, with an Internet connection. This enables your workforce to work outside the office, at customer's sites, and on the go, with fast, easy, and real-time data access.

Enhanced security

You want to keep your data safe inside and outside of your organization. Cloud ERP ensures that your company data is secure when moving from your systems to the host servers. To safeguard internal data, cloud ERP offers strict user-level access provided and secured by the system itself.

Innovation and upgrades

Cloud ERP helps businesses adapt to today's business challenges. A Cloud ERP system provides organizations with real-time visibility into the business, as the organization's data, including the latest software versions and updates, are updated in real-time on the Cloud. Stakeholders can drill down by using reporting apps and analytics to monitor workflows and processes in the organization and react quickly to changes in the supply chain.

Automatic updates and maintenance

Cloud ERP ensures that businesses always operate on the latest software version without manual intervention. It enhances system performance and security and frees up valuable time, allowing companies to focus on core business activities without worrying about system upkeep.

Customizations and agility

Some Cloud ERP systems offer customizations tailored to specific business needs. This agility allows companies to adapt swiftly to changing market dynamics. By enabling bespoke configurations and rapid adjustments, Cloud ERP ensures that businesses remain competitive, responsive, and aligned with their unique operational requirements.

Disaster recovery

Cloud ERP systems have built-in mechanisms to restore data and ensure business continuity in unforeseen incidents, like data breaches or system failures. This eliminates prolonged downtimes and safeguards critical business information.

Is cloud ERP “Right” for my business?

When taking the benefits listed above into consideration, there are “tried and true” reasons why most companies would yield positive results, increase efficiency and productivity, and reduce costs by onboarding a cloud ERP system. If your organization is thinking about implementing an ERP system or upgrading your current ERP, Cloud ERP is a solid and viable option.

If your organization is global, with offices dispersed throughout various locations, and if you work closely with colleagues, vendors, and/or partners around the world, then cloud ERP is a good fit. Similarly, if your business is primed and ready to grow, and implementing an ERP is on the table, but an on-premise system is not within your budget, cloud ERP delivers the accessibility and functionality you need to manage and control your business on a global scale.

Cloud ERP FAQs

What is the difference between ERP and cloud ERP?

ERP, or Enterprise Resource Planning, is a software system that assists organizations in managing their daily business activities. Traditional ERP systems are on-premise, meaning they operate on in-house servers. In contrast, cloud ERP systems run on a vendor-managed cloud, offering benefits like cost savings, flexibility, and scalability.

Why is cloud ERP so popular?

The rise in popularity of cloud ERP solutions can be attributed to their numerous advantages over on-premise ERP. They offer enhanced flexibility, scalability, and accessibility. Moreover, with cloud ERP, businesses can avoid significant upfront costs and ongoing maintenance expenses associated with traditional ERP.

Which industries can benefit from Cloud ERP Services?

All industries and industry sectors can benefit from cloud ERP services, from manufacturing and retail to healthcare and finance; any organizations looking to improve operational efficiency, streamline processes, and access real-time data can leverage the advantages of cloud ERP systems.

Is cloud ERP secure?

Cloud ERP solutions prioritize data security. Cloud service providers employ advanced encryption methods, strict user-level access controls, and regular backups to ensure data integrity and protection against potential threats.

How much does cloud ERP software?

The cost of cloud ERP software is typically subscription-based, varying based on features, user count, and other specific requirements. This model often results in lower overall expenses than traditional on-premise ERP systems.

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