Often, the word “automation” brings to mind machines and modern technology. We think of our automatic thermostats, scheduled bill pay, and calling “Hey Siri.” While automation actually dates back to the early 19^th century at the Portsmouth Block Mills, which boasted 22 types of machine tools for making the parts of rigging blocks for the Royal Navy, today we are talking about modern technology automation. More specifically: the two types of automation that you’ll find in top ERP software, such as SYSPRO and others.

Top ERP software, or enterprise resource planning software, will likely be promoted to you based on its ability to automate a lot of your business’ processes. But, it’s important to understand the types of automation your ERP offers in order to ensure you’re getting the most out of the software.

Traditional Business Processes

The most obvious ERP automation is the automation of traditional business processes. ERPs were initially developed to automate the processes of manufacturing companies. With ERP automation integrating information and breaking down the information silos that previously existed within an organization, processes become faster. Sales can see all the relevant data from customer service, who can see all the relevant data from the warehouse.

Beyond data access, automating traditional business processes means things get done faster. As soon as a new sales order is processed, the ERP will make automatic connections to inventory, finance, and shipping. Automation works to reduce the number of errors and minimize duplication of effort and data. With the resulting streamlined communication, your ERP can put both time and money back into your business’ pocket.

Finally, an ERP consolidates data into a central database, which gives you easier access to your information all in one place for data analytics and more informed decision-making over all areas of the business.

ERP Features and Functions

Any ERP will automate traditional business processes, but many of the top ERP software systems take it up a notch by increasing automation of the software’s own features and functions. They accomplish this by incorporating the newest technologies to dominate the marketplace, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

AI works to integrate processes better than before to increase automation. By setting AI up to complete the more routine, repetitive tasks (which machines excel at completing), it frees your human employees  to do the more creative and analytical tasks that are based on AI’s results, but cannot be completed by AI. With the advanced machine learning that top ERP systems have, AI has the ability to predict and execute basic transactions. AI may even enable your employees to use voice interactions for hands-free operations and enhanced accuracy and efficiency.

We used to just have the internet. Now, we also have the Internet of Things, various household items that connect through WiFi and Bluetooth to provide data and perform functions for users who may be miles away. While your ERP system won’t get much use out of an app-enabled coffee mug, it may use IoT to collect information on product lifecycle and/or failure rate, allowing you to act on that collected information for better business decisions.

SYSPRO Promotes Automation

Top ERP software systems, such as SYSPRO, will support both these types of automation. For example, SYSPRO’s visibility, agility, and control encompass more than 50 modules for manufacturers and distributors. With its role-based user interface, SYSPRO can easily control business components such as financials, sales, customer relationship management (CRM), inventory, operations, and supply chain management. Plus, SYSPRO offers the flexibility for both on-premises and cloud-based software for the best control to meet the needs of your business.

Getting the best automation out of your ERP system requires having the right ERP automation partner. PositiveVision has been helping businesses streamline inefficient processes for larger revenue streams and reduced costs for more than 15 years. With extensive knowledge of SYSPRO and other top ERP software systems, PVI can help you not only find the best ERP for your needs, but get the most out of its automation capabilities.

Find out how ERP automation can benefit your organization.