Business management software has many uses, but some factor into the versatility of high-quality solutions while others are standard features every company should look for. In manufacturing ERP software in particular, there are a few trends that firms should consider major drivers for adoption.

• Cloud flexibility – New cloud-based ERP solutions can save firms time and money, especially midmarket manufacturers, due to their ease of integration and the simplicity of customization. The cloud offers a scalability that many manufacturers find valuable, but it also enables cost savings that allow companies to embrace other useful trends faster.

  "Less money spent on IT means a lower cost of product delivery, enabling businesses to get a competitive pricing edge and/or higher margins. This also frees up dollars to devote to hiring, R&D and other growth initiatives," said Christine Hansen, product marketing manager, Epicor, according to Enterprise Apps Today.

• Mobile integration – The availability of mobile ERP platforms allows manufacturers to make their workforce more productive and efficient by enabling remote access, and demand is increased of mobile support from employees as well. The news source noted that ERP is catching up with CRM in terms of mobile viability.
• End of Life upgrades – Many firms are seeing their ERP systems reach their end of service life dates currently, or in the near future, making it prime time to update to more advanced solutions that support these new technologies, like the cloud and mobility. Many core ERP systems sit on outdated platforms, like Windows NT, as well, making new solutions key to advancing overall manufacturing software systems.

Ultimately, adopting newer, higher-quality ERP solutions can kick-start growth and help firms start leveraging their back office technology for profitability more effectively.