ResourcesGuide to ERP modules: Features, functions & benefits
May. 19, 2025
ERP

Guide to ERP modules: Features, functions & benefits

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What are ERP modules and how do they work?

ERP modules are functional components within an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system that manage specific business processes. Common modules include finance, human resources, supply chain, inventory, customer relationship management (CRM), and manufacturing. Each module integrates data across departments to streamline operations and improve decision-making.

Using different ERP modules simultaneously can help organizations gain a holistic view of their business processes, allowing them to make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information. For example, sales and marketing modules provide organizations with the tools to manage their sales teams and customer relationships, finance modules help handle financial transactions, and HR modules enable the management of employee data and payroll.

ERP follows a modular approach to automate and manage various backend operations, often offering additional and more advanced modules that cater to specific requirements such as Business Intelligence, Materials Requirements Planning (MRP), and more.

ERP modules

Core ERP modules serve as a quintessential component of enterprise resource planning software. Every ERP suite consists of core ERP modules that help businesses streamline, automate, and manage the most common business operations. They enable collaboration between different organizational departments and eliminate manual data entry. This results in enhanced productivity, operational efficiency, and improved bottom-line figures. The most common ERP modules are Financial Management, Supply Chain Management, CRM and Sales, Human Resource Management, and Warehouse Management.

From the electronics sector to the fashion industry, every niche organization has unique requirements specific to its area of operation. Advanced ERP modules are tailored to cater to these particular niche requirements and tend to work in tandem with core ERP modules to provide comprehensive business management capabilities.

Core ERP modules

Financial management

financial management ERP module helps businesses track their profits and losses, streamline their accounting, and manage their cash flow. It facilitates recording data related to accounts payable and accounts receivable and ensures that invoice processing, approval, and execution of payments are automated. It also manages the general ledger and gives crucial insight into current and future financial status.

Supply chain management

supply chain management ERP module helps businesses to track and monitor their goods and supplies across the supply chain. It helps manage, track, and liaise with suppliers, vendors, manufacturers, and warehouse managers. A supply chain management module can help automate critical supply chain functions: demand forecasting and supply planning, replenishment, order fulfillment, and managing variability. This module helps optimize and manage inventory movement while tracing every unit of raw material back to its origin.

CRM and sales

Customer relationship management (CRM) modules simplify sales and marketing processes by streamlining customer and sales-related data. It helps enhance support and marketing communication by segmenting data and deriving rich customer insights. The CRM module acts like a contact management application that can tie order history to each customer, issue tickets, create quotes, and boost customer support performance. Many ERP suites only focus on backend CRM operations, whereas others include a full-fledged CRM module in the ERP suite.

Human resource management

Human Resource Management (HRM) module helps companies hold employee data, conduct performance appraisals, track time and attendance, and manage payroll processes (some ERP systems offer a separate Payroll management module). It holds an enormous amount of information related to employees. It helps automate processes like approving leave requests, delivering specific training modules, recruitment, talent management, time and attendance, compensation, and access management. It acts as a single source of truth to manage the employee journey, from recruitment to departure from the organization.

Warehouse management

Warehouse management ERP modules help manage and streamline different warehouse-related functions such as picking and shipping inventory, moving goods and storing them in warehouses despite space constraints, and being able to track every item in the warehouse to its origin. It helps warehouse managers and employees control workflow and coordinate with different entities such as shipping yards, suppliers, and vendors. The warehouse management module also helps process bills and orders when the inventory needs replenishment.

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Advanced ERP modules

Business intelligence

Business intelligence ERP is a specialized module that helps analyze data, engage in data querying, and implement reporting. It is an essential analytical source that examines historical and current data to help prepare for future operations and processes.

Project management

project management ERP module helps developers, manufacturers, and other project-intensive industries to streamline their projects and achieve deliverables efficiently. It enhances collaboration and allows organizations to implement their chosen project management frameworks.

Equipment rental

An equipment rental ERP module is a software solution that helps organizations simplify and automate their equipment rental processes. It provides an end-to-end solution to seamlessly manage various aspects of servicing, renting, and invoicing different types of equipment. By using an equipment rental module, businesses can improve their operational efficiency and offer better customer service to their clients.

Manufacturing

manufacturing ERP module is specifically designed to help plan and manage production cycles. From ensuring that the shop floor is run efficiently to ensuring that products pass stringent quality tests, a manufacturing module allows factories and manufacturing units to manage various manufacturing processes.

Material requirements planning (MRP)

A material requirement planning module helps manufacturers to streamline their production process. It boosts the efficiency of planning, scheduling, and managing inventory and keeps up to date with compliance requirements. MRP effectively coordinates with workers and the machines they work with. As a result, the production process benefits from enhanced capability and effectiveness.

Retail & eCommerce

Retail and e-commerce management modules help stores to implement omnichannel and multi-channel sales strategies successfully. They help implement sales and marketing campaigns, process orders and payments, and engage with customers throughout their buyer journey. This module is essential for brick-and-mortar retail units, e-commerce stores, and those who adopt a combined approach.

Mobile ERP

Mobile ERP helps organizations to manage their businesses remotely and access information on the go. Advanced mobile ERP solutions support sales mobility, support for field services, and access to a diverse range of customized on and off-site applications, which aim to enhance productivity and improve team collaboration.

What to consider when selecting ERP modules

Business needs

The first step in selecting ERP modules is assessing your business needs, identifying the areas that require support, and determining which modules can provide the best solutions. Evaluate your business processes and identify the areas that need improvement, then decide which ERP modules can address those specific needs and prioritize them accordingly.

Integration

You want an ERP system that works seamlessly across business functions such as customer relationship management (CRM), accounting, and other enterprise applications.
Integration is crucial because it reduces data duplication and creates a more cohesive workflow.
It's essential to look for ERP modules that offer APIs to integrate with other software systems and applications you already use.

Ease of use

Your team will be using the ERP modules daily, so choosing systems that are easy to use and require minimal training is important. Look for intuitive, user-friendly interfaces and modules that can be customized to your specific needs.

Scalability

Choose ERP modules that are scalable and can grow with your business. Ideally, your ERP system should accommodate additional users, functionality, and data storage as your business expands. Scalability will help ensure that your ERP system remains relevant when the business grows or if it changes direction.

Vendor support

Work with a reputable vendor that provides comprehensive support, including updates and troubleshooting help, to ensure your ERP system stays in optimal condition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ERP Modules & Product Information

What are ERP modules and how do they work?

ERP modules are functional components within an ERP system that manage specific business processes such as finance, HR, supply chain, inventory, CRM, and manufacturing. Each module integrates data across departments, streamlining operations and improving decision-making. Using multiple modules provides a holistic view of business processes and enables informed decisions based on real-time data. [Source]

What core ERP modules does Priority offer?

Priority offers core ERP modules including Financial Management, Supply Chain Management, CRM and Sales, Human Resource Management, and Warehouse Management. These modules help businesses automate and manage common operations, enhance productivity, and improve efficiency. [Source]

What advanced ERP modules are available with Priority?

Advanced ERP modules from Priority include Business Intelligence, Project Management, Equipment Rental, Manufacturing, Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Retail & eCommerce, and Mobile ERP. These modules are tailored for industry-specific needs and work alongside core modules for comprehensive business management. [Source]

How does the Financial Management module in Priority ERP work?

The Financial Management module helps businesses track profits and losses, streamline accounting, manage cash flow, automate invoice processing, and maintain the general ledger. It provides crucial insights into current and future financial status. [Source]

What does the Supply Chain Management module do?

The Supply Chain Management module tracks and monitors goods and supplies, manages relationships with suppliers and vendors, automates demand forecasting, supply planning, replenishment, and order fulfillment, and traces inventory back to its origin. [Source]

How does the CRM and Sales module benefit businesses?

The CRM and Sales module streamlines sales and marketing processes, manages customer and sales data, segments data for rich insights, ties order history to customers, issues tickets, creates quotes, and boosts customer support performance. [Source]

What is included in the Human Resource Management module?

The Human Resource Management module manages employee data, performance appraisals, time and attendance, payroll, leave requests, training, recruitment, talent management, compensation, and access management. It acts as a single source of truth for the employee journey. [Source]

How does the Warehouse Management module support operations?

The Warehouse Management module manages picking, shipping, inventory movement, storage, workflow control, and coordination with shipping yards, suppliers, and vendors. It also processes bills and orders for inventory replenishment. [Source]

What is the Business Intelligence module in Priority ERP?

The Business Intelligence module analyzes data, supports data querying, and implements reporting. It examines historical and current data to help organizations prepare for future operations and processes. [Source]

How does the Project Management module help organizations?

The Project Management module streamlines projects, enhances collaboration, and allows organizations to implement project management frameworks efficiently. It is especially useful for developers, manufacturers, and project-intensive industries. [Source]

What is the Equipment Rental module?

The Equipment Rental module simplifies and automates equipment rental processes, providing end-to-end management for servicing, renting, and invoicing equipment. It improves operational efficiency and customer service. [Source]

How does the Manufacturing module support production?

The Manufacturing module helps plan and manage production cycles, ensures efficient shop floor operations, and supports quality control. It is designed for factories and manufacturing units to manage various manufacturing processes. [Source]

What is the Material Requirements Planning (MRP) module?

The MRP module streamlines production by improving planning, scheduling, inventory management, and compliance. It coordinates workers and machines for enhanced production capability and effectiveness. [Source]

How do Retail & eCommerce modules support omnichannel strategies?

Retail and e-commerce management modules help stores implement omnichannel and multi-channel sales strategies, manage sales and marketing campaigns, process orders and payments, and engage customers throughout their journey. [Source]

What is Mobile ERP and how does it benefit organizations?

Mobile ERP allows organizations to manage their businesses remotely, access information on the go, and supports sales mobility, field services, and customized applications to enhance productivity and collaboration. [Source]

What should businesses consider when selecting ERP modules?

Businesses should assess their needs, prioritize modules that address specific requirements, ensure seamless integration, choose user-friendly and scalable solutions, and work with vendors offering comprehensive support. [Source]

Does Priority ERP support integration with other software?

Yes, Priority ERP offers APIs and integration capabilities to connect with other enterprise applications, reducing data duplication and creating cohesive workflows. [Source]

Is Priority ERP scalable for growing businesses?

Yes, Priority ERP modules are designed to be scalable, accommodating additional users, functionality, and data storage as your business grows. [Source]

What kind of vendor support does Priority provide?

Priority provides comprehensive vendor support, including updates and troubleshooting, to ensure your ERP system remains in optimal condition. [Source]

Features & Capabilities

What features does Priority Software offer across its solutions?

Priority Software offers a comprehensive suite of features including cloud-based ERP, retail management, hospitality management, school management, professional implementation services, and a marketplace for extended solutions. Each solution is modular and tailored for specific industries and business sizes. [Source]

Does Priority Software provide an open API for integrations?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API that enables seamless integration with third-party applications, allowing businesses to tailor their systems to specific operational needs. [Source]

What integrations are available with Priority Software?

Priority Software offers over 150 plug & play connectors, RESTful API, ODBC drivers, SFTP file integration, and embedded integrations with leading vendors in hospitality, ERP, and retail. Notable integrations include SAP, Webhotelier, Verifone, SiteMinder, and more. [Source]

Does Priority Software provide technical documentation?

Yes, Priority Software provides detailed technical documentation for its ERP solutions, covering features, industries, and supported products. [Source]

How user-friendly is Priority Software?

Priority Software is praised for its intuitive interface and ease of use. Customers highlight its user-configurability, quick learning curve, and minimal reliance on IT teams. It has a G2 rating of approximately 4.1/5 for usability. [Source]

What automation capabilities does Priority Software provide?

Priority Software offers built-in workflows, AI recommendations, and automated processes that reduce manual errors and improve operational efficiency across departments. [Source]

Does Priority Software support no-code customizations?

Yes, Priority Software allows businesses to adjust workflows, layouts, and field names without IT support, enabling rapid adaptation to changing business needs. [Source]

What analytics and reporting tools are available?

Priority Software provides hundreds of pre-defined reports and no-code reporting tools, enabling actionable insights and informed decision-making. [Source]

Does Priority Software offer industry-specific features?

Yes, Priority Software offers tailored functionalities for industries such as retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality, ensuring solutions meet unique business needs. [Source]

Use Cases & Benefits

Who can benefit from using Priority Software?

Priority Software serves a wide range of industries and roles, including retail business owners, operations managers, CFOs, IT managers, manufacturers, healthcare organizations, and technology firms. [Source]

What problems does Priority Software solve for businesses?

Priority Software addresses challenges such as poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, manual processes, outdated systems, limited scalability, integration complexity, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. [Source]

How does Priority Software help with inventory management?

Priority Software optimizes inventory levels, improves forecasting and demand planning, and enhances supply chain efficiency, resulting in reduced overstocking and happier customers. [Source]

How does Priority Software address operational inefficiencies?

Priority Software uses built-in automated workflows, AI recommendations, and centralized views to improve operations across departments and locations, reducing manual errors and boosting efficiency. [Source]

How does Priority Software support end-to-end order fulfillment?

Priority Software provides end-to-end order fulfillment capabilities, optimizing order routing, inventory utilization, and automating workflows to ensure timely and accurate deliveries. [Source]

Can you share some customer success stories with Priority Software?

Yes, customers like Solara Adjustable Patio Covers, Arkal Automotive, Dejavoo, Nautilus Designs, TOA Hotel & Spa, Dunlop Systems and Components, Global Brands Gallery, and Cowtown Retail Chain have reported improved workflows, operational efficiency, and business growth after implementing Priority solutions. [Source]

What feedback have customers given about Priority Software?

Customers praise Priority Software for its efficiency, ease of use, quick customer support, and ability to improve management and operations. Testimonials highlight its intuitive interface and user-configurability. [Source]

What types of companies use Priority Software?

Priority Software is used by companies in retail (e.g., Ace Hardware, ALDO, Adidas), manufacturing (Toyota, Dunlop), healthcare (GSK, Teva), technology (Checkmarx, Outbrain), and more. [Source]

How does Priority Software help with data centralization?

Priority Software centralizes real-time data, enabling transparency, reliable reporting, and better forecasting. This leads to tighter budget control and stronger customer loyalty. [Source]

How does Priority Software address integration complexity?

Priority Software's modular, all-in-one solution eliminates the need for complex integrations, ensuring seamless workflows across operations and customer engagement. [Source]

How does Priority Software support compliance and security?

Priority Software supports compliance with industry standards such as FDA, GDPR, SOX, ISO9000, ISO27001, and SOC 2 Type 2, ensuring data security and regulatory adherence. [Source]

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 major regulations. [Source]

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, supports true multi-company operations, and maintains the same platform without forced migrations. [Source]

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 delivers industry-specific functionality without lock-in contracts. [Source]

How does Priority ERP compare to Odoo?

Odoo is open-source but has scalability limits, performance issues, and high implementation failure rates. Priority ERP provides structured implementation, scalability, proven methodologies, and quick user adoption. [Source]

How does Priority ERP compare to Acumatica?

Acumatica focuses on cloud ERP but lacks industry-specific features and has a steep learning curve. Priority ERP offers industry-tailored solutions, a native scalable WMS, and ease of use and configuration. [Source]

How does Priority ERP compare to Sage X3?

Sage focuses on accounting, not full ERP, and many products are nearing end-of-life. Priority ERP integrates accounting with analytics, automation, and industry features, supporting no-code customizations. [Source]

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 and retail. Priority ERP includes ready-to-use industry modules and deep manufacturing capabilities with no-code customization. [Source]

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. [Source]

Support & Implementation

What professional and implementation services does Priority offer?

Priority offers professional and implementation services to ensure smooth onboarding and optimal utilization of its software solutions, including training, support, and best practices. [Source]

How can I access Priority's marketplace for extended solutions?

You can access Priority Market, a dedicated marketplace for extended solutions and integrations, at market.priority-software.com.

Where can I find more information about Priority Software's offerings?

You can find a detailed overview of Priority Software's offerings in the Company Profile and on the Priority Software website.