ResourcesWhat is cloud-based ERP software?
Mar. 04, 2024
ERP

What is cloud-based ERP software?

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Summarize with AI:

What is cloud based ERP?

Cloud ERP is an Enterprise Resource Planning system that runs on a cloud computing platform rather than on-premises infrastructure. It provides real-time access to business data via the internet, allowing for scalability, automatic updates, lower IT costs, and remote accessibility across departments and locations.

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-based ERP systems help to increase the efficiency and connectivity of an organization by managing and improving how company resources are utilized without the maintenance and resource requirements of an on-premise solution.

Cloud ERP works by storing and managing all of an organization's business data and applications on a remote server, accessible through the internet. This means that users can access the system from anywhere, anytime, using any device with an internet connection.

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?

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.

It's more affordable, it's more accessible, and it's also faster in terms of implementation. 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

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.

What's in it for your business? The benefits of cloud ERP

In today's fast-paced business world, more and more companies are focusing on cloud ERP to maintain business continuity, keep up with the surge in digital transformation, and stay ahead of the competition. Cloud ERP offers businesses a wide range of value-added benefits. Here are the Top 8 benefits of cloud ERP.  

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.

Is cloud ERP the future of ERP?

The evolving business landscape and the increasing emphasis on digital transformation positions cloud ERP as a dominant force in the future of enterprise resource planning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Product Information

What is cloud-based ERP software?

Cloud-based ERP software is an Enterprise Resource Planning system that runs on a cloud computing platform rather than on-premises infrastructure. It provides real-time access to business data via the internet, enabling scalability, automatic updates, lower IT costs, and remote accessibility across departments and locations. Source

How does cloud ERP work?

Cloud ERP works by storing and managing all of an organization's business data and applications on a remote server, accessible through the internet. Users can access the system from anywhere, anytime, using any device with an internet connection. The platform allows for automatic updates and maintenance, reducing the need for manual IT support. Data security is enhanced through advanced encryption and regular backups. Source

What types of cloud ERP deployment models are available?

Cloud ERP can be deployed as multi-tenant SaaS, single-tenant SaaS, public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud. Each model offers different levels of customization, security, and scalability. Multi-tenant SaaS allows multiple organizations to use a single software version, while single-tenant SaaS is dedicated to one organization. Public cloud is shared among organizations, private cloud is exclusive, and hybrid combines on-premise and cloud solutions. Source

What products and solutions does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software offers cloud-based ERP systems, retail management solutions, hospitality management platforms, and school management systems. These solutions are designed for various industries and business sizes, providing end-to-end business management capabilities. ERP, Retail Management, Hospitality Management, School Management

What is the difference between ERP and cloud ERP?

Traditional ERP systems are on-premise and operate on in-house servers, requiring significant IT resources. Cloud ERP systems run on vendor-managed cloud infrastructure, offering benefits like cost savings, flexibility, scalability, and remote access. Source

Is cloud ERP secure?

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

How does cloud ERP improve system performance and accessibility?

Cloud ERP offers unmatched system performance, high uptime, and reduced system outages. Its cloud infrastructure enables businesses to operate from anywhere, boosting productivity and ensuring constant access to real-time data. Source

What are the cost benefits of cloud ERP?

Cloud ERP operates on a subscription model with predictable costs, often including software updates, security, installation, customer service, and tech support. This eliminates high upfront costs and allows businesses to better manage budgets. Source

How does cloud ERP support scalability?

Cloud ERP offers modular solutions that can be adjusted to specific needs. Businesses can opt for specific modules and scale up as operations expand, ensuring efficient resource allocation and only paying for what is needed. Source

How quickly can cloud ERP be deployed?

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

What are the top benefits of cloud ERP for businesses?

Top benefits include increased performance, reduced operating costs, easier data access, enhanced security, innovation and upgrades, automatic updates and maintenance, customizations and agility, and disaster recovery. Source

Is cloud ERP suitable for global organizations?

Cloud ERP is ideal for global organizations with dispersed offices and teams, providing accessibility and functionality to manage and control business operations on a global scale. Source

Which industries can benefit from cloud ERP services?

Industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, finance, and any organization seeking improved operational efficiency, streamlined processes, and real-time data access can benefit from cloud ERP services. Source

Why is cloud ERP so popular?

Cloud ERP is popular due to its flexibility, scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. It eliminates significant upfront costs and ongoing maintenance expenses associated with traditional ERP systems. Source

Is cloud ERP the future of ERP?

With the evolving business landscape and increasing emphasis on digital transformation, cloud ERP is positioned as a dominant force in the future of enterprise resource planning. Source

How much does cloud ERP software cost?

Cloud ERP software is typically subscription-based, with costs varying based on features, user count, and specific requirements. This model often results in lower overall expenses compared to traditional on-premise ERP systems. Source

Features & Capabilities

What features does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software offers integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, cloud-based scalability, industry-specific features, end-to-end order fulfillment, and a single source of truth for data. Source

Does Priority Software support API integrations?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API for seamless integration with third-party applications, enabling custom integrations tailored 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 vendors such as SAP, Webhotelier, Ving Card, Verifone, TrustYou, SiteMinder, and more. Source

Does Priority Software provide technical documentation?

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

How does Priority Software ensure data security?

Priority Software uses advanced encryption, strict user-level access controls, and regular backups to safeguard data and ensure compliance with industry standards. Source

Can Priority Software be customized for specific business needs?

Yes, Priority Software supports no-code customizations, allowing businesses to adjust workflows, layouts, and field names without IT support, ensuring adaptability to unique requirements. Source

Does Priority Software support mobile access?

Yes, Priority Software offers mobile ERP solutions, enabling users to access business data and workflows from any mobile device, anywhere and anytime. Source

Use Cases & Benefits

Who can benefit from Priority Software?

Priority Software is designed for global enterprises, SMBs, retail chains, manufacturers, healthcare organizations, hospitality providers, and educational institutions. Over 75,000 companies across 70 countries rely on Priority to manage and grow their businesses. Source

What problems does Priority Software solve?

Priority Software addresses 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

What are common pain points solved by Priority Software?

Priority Software solves pain points such as lack of real-time insights, operational inefficiencies, inventory inaccuracies, disconnected customer experiences, high IT costs, costly legacy systems, and integration challenges. Source

How does Priority Software help retail businesses?

Priority Software provides retail management solutions with real-time insights, centralized inventory management, omnichannel order fulfillment, customer loyalty modules, and POS solutions, supporting multi-location and high-volume environments. Source

How does Priority Software support hospitality businesses?

Priority Software offers an all-in-one Property Management System (PMS) for hospitality, covering guest-centric operations, advanced hotel management, and integrations with leading hospitality vendors. Source

How does Priority Software help educational institutions?

Priority Software provides school management platforms designed to manage educational institutions effectively, supporting teachers, students, and parents with tailored features. Source

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

Customers consistently praise Priority Software for its user-friendly design and intuitive interface. Testimonials highlight its efficiency, quick learning curve, and ease of daily task management without heavy IT reliance. Priority ERP has a rating of approximately 4.1/5 on G2. Source

Can you share specific case studies or success stories of Priority Software customers?

Yes, Priority Software has numerous case studies, including Solara Adjustable Patio Covers (accelerated workflows), Arkal Automotive (successful implementation), Dejavoo (growth without increasing headcount), Nautilus Designs (30% growth in order volume), TOA Hotel & Spa (improved guest experience), Dunlop Systems (improved data accuracy), and Global Brands Gallery (enhanced customer satisfaction). Case Studies

Competition & Comparison

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

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. Source

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Dynamics 365?

Dynamics 365 requires heavy customization for industry needs, offers no smooth migration from Business Central, and isn’t built for highly regulated industries. Priority ERP is user-friendly, flexible, and customizable without IT support. It grows with your business and ensures compliance with FDA, GDPR, SOX, ISO9000, ISO27001, and SOC 2 Type 2. Source

How does Priority ERP compare to SAP Business One?

SAP Business One is powerful but complex, expensive, and lacks multi-company capabilities. Its Version 10 will reach end-of-support in 2026. 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. Source

How does Priority ERP compare to Sage X3?

Sage focuses on accounting, not full ERP. Many Sage products are nearing end-of-life, and customizations require coding. Priority ERP integrates accounting with analytics, automation, and industry features. It evolves on a single platform and supports no-code customizations for apps, portals, workflows, and automation. Source

How does Priority ERP compare to NetSuite?

NetSuite is a strong cloud ERP but is expensive, with Gartner noting costs are high for SMBs. It also enforces contract lock-in. Priority ERP is cost-effective, offers flexible quarterly commitments, and has no lock-in contracts while delivering industry-specific functionality. Source

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Business Central?

Business Central is versatile but 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. Source

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 due to weak partner ecosystems. Priority ERP provides structured implementation, scalability, proven methodologies, experienced partners, and quick user adoption. Source

Support & Implementation

Does Priority Software offer professional and implementation services?

Yes, Priority Software provides professional and implementation services to ensure smooth onboarding and optimal utilization of its software solutions. Source

What support options are available for Priority Software customers?

Priority Software offers customer service, tech support, and access to resources such as documentation, product tours, webinars, and case studies. Support

Technical Requirements

What are the technical requirements for using Priority Software?

Priority Software is cloud-based and requires only a reliable internet connection. No on-premises hardware or extensive IT resources are needed, as the vendor manages infrastructure, updates, and maintenance. Source

Customer Proof

Who are some of Priority Software's customers?

Priority Software is trusted by companies such as Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, GSK, Teva, Alexander Schneider, Analog Devices, Dejavoo, and Cherwell. Source