Which solution is right for your business?
11 May 2022
All the features of SAP Business One for companies
Companies of all types need ERP Do you want to learn more about the features that SAP Business One has to offer? This article contains details about what this software solution provides.
SAP Business One, the perfect ERP for companies
SAP Business One software is the specific solution that SAP offers for SMEs. Not surprisingly, SAP has a 50-year track record developing business software solutions.
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) allows the main aspects of a business to be controlled centrally from the cloud. And this is important, since actions can be taken from a desktop, laptop, mobile phone or tablet. We should also note that this tool allows multiple employees to make changes based on situations or needs.
Another feature of this ERP is that it works with modules that can be activated depending on what you need. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs because they save costs and, moreover, when they incorporate a new module, it automatically takes information from the existing modules, which also saves time.
ERPs are also known for the security they offer. Keep in mind that traffic is encrypted, and access is also limited to authorised persons. Companies that place a special emphasis on security will be interested in this.
However, in order for an ERP to fulfil its task, it needs to have the necessary features, be user-friendly and have good technical support. All of which you will find in SAP Business One.
Benefits of SAP Business One for SMEs
SMEs have a lot to gain by incorporating an ERP like SAP Business One into their daily operations. Some of the most notable and interesting aspects are as follows:
This is the ideal software for SMEs with a global focus
The SAP Business One ERP is the ideal choice for companies with a global focus. This is because of its breadth and the customer support it offers.
Keep in mind that SAP Business One is in use in over 180 countries. We should also note that it has more than 440,000 customers all over the world. And of course, you will receive round-the-clock customer service in the event of any incident. Remember that SAP is a leading global brand in business application software.
So if what you want is software for SMEs that want to take a step forward, it is a worthwhile option.
Simplified access to information
The ERP features a centralised management system. This means you can access the information you need in an instant through its intuitive interface. Thinking of all those times you've had to jump through hoops just to log into all the different sections you need to access? You won't have that problem here.
SAP's Hana technology is a robust and highly useful platform. Its very design is intended to make it easier to access those sections you need without major problems. As a result, it has become a useful alternative.
Oftentimes, problems accessing information makes it seem like it's more scattered. And that can no doubt be a problem in the medium- and long-term to finding what you need. This ERP is intuitive and encourages direct searches.
You will improve efficiency
Improving efficiency is probably one of the most obvious advantages for business owners. You will be able to carry out the same operations as before (and more) in less time while reducing the margin for human error. This will also involve optimising how work is used, focusing it on activities that contribute value.
The time savings are achieved because operations are not duplicated thanks to modifications in real time. This is very practical and also has to do with the different modules available.
Automation is also crucial for reducing human error. It's obvious to everyone that this is one of the main sources of problems. Well, this technique also reduces the likelihood of dysfunctions.
The factors are limited by definition. And, therefore, an ERP is key if what you want is to do more with less, and to do it better. In this regard, the solution we offer satisfies this condition.
It helps lower costs
Cost reduction is another issue that will make a difference. Why? Because you don't have to repeat the same operation multiple times, thus saving time. For example, if a modification is written, it is automatically transferred to all the company's modules.
Costs are also reduced because you won't need to rely as much on labour input to get the job done. And it is clear that this point, in the long run, is important. Especially for SMEs that have a good business model but need to be more competitive.
We should also note that the possibility of carrying out more actions with fewer resources will also help lower costs, in terms of labour input, electricity or any other type of input.
Fast to implement
The rapid implementation of an ERP is one of the advantages that SAP Business One offers over other options. And this, in recent years, has turned into an element that makes all the difference.
An interesting aspect is that the user's learning curve is very shallow. This is because it is easy to use, so it doesn't require a significant time investment. This means you won't have to spend a lot of time getting your people up to speed on how to use the ERP in their routine. We don't have to tell you that time is money, which makes SAP Business One an interesting alternative.
It's normal for the implementation process to be over in a few months. And this will obviously let you take several steps forward and minimise the opportunity cost associated with the learning processes.
Many business owners think twice before implementing an ERP, precisely out of fear of losing a great deal of time. Well, you won't have that problem here.
It can be customised to your needs
Customization is yet another advantage of SEIDOR One's ERP. Not surprisingly, this modular solution lets you go as far as you need.
A growing company could have a certain need that it then wants to expand. The problem with buying a non-modular ERP is that it may offer features you don't need. And this, in the long run, means the system will be under-used and resources will be wasted. Modular solutions are currently the most suitable for SMEs, since if they launch a growth or expansion process, they can adapt to the circumstances.
The features of SAP Business One are designed to be activated independently. This way, you can start with a sales module, and expand it with one for purchasing, accounting or human resources, depending on how quickly you are growing. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs, which can incorporate what they need when they need it. It's also worth noting that there are specific modules for companies in certain sectors, such as retail.
And, most importantly, you only pay for the modules you need and the information will be shared automatically. This way, you won't have to start from scratch when you add new modules.
You will improve your turnover
An ERP by itself won't save a business, but it does allow decisions to be made that will improve turnover. And this is noticeable in the long term.
Keep in mind, on the one hand, that you will be using more accurate information, which makes it easier to make decisions. You can also monitor your vendors and customers, making it easier to choose the right ones and apply specific policies to boost sales.
Yes, we know perfectly well that, to sell more, you have to do market studies and give your customers what they need. But nobody doubts that having information that is available and well-structured makes things easier. In this regard, an ERP leverages information to make business departments more efficient.
As a result, when properly used, an ERP like SAP Business One helps you sell more. And this, in the long run, will be felt in the bottom line.
The main features of SAP Business One
ERPs have several functions, and in the case of SAP Business One, they can be enabled gradually using modules. The idea is for each company to use the modules it really needs to optimise its investment. These are the main features of SAP Business One:
Analyses and Reports
In these times of Big Data, doing analyses and reports in different fields is essential. This is how right decisions can be made. It should be noted that this circumstance is true for all the company's departments.
The ability to generate analyses and reports is thus one of the most beneficial features of the ERP. In fact, you can design dashboards and reports of the company's key figures. What's more, you can manage this information internally in a collaborative way in order to achieve the company's goals. This functionality does not have its own module; rather, it is part of every module.
Thus, the possibility of generating analyses and reports is one of the main features of SAP Business One. In the end, information is power, and this solution makes it easier to manage.
Business intelligence
Business Intelligence lets you identify the right analyses and generate the right reports. As a result, this is a key aspect for this ERP.
This feature lets you, for example, decide which metrics to use to design the reports. Thanks to this, the data will be filtered based more on what you are looking for. It should also be noted that it is possible to use and generate reports in combination with Excel. The goal is to make it easier to generate and create reports that are tailored to your business' characteristics. And this, in the long run, makes a difference because it will be easier to generate your own methodology.
In short, Business Intelligence is a feature that lets you go further in generating reports. The result is the ability to manage the creation of the reports and metrics that you want.
Financial management
Financial management is one of the most widely used features in an ERP today. And it's no wonder, because this way you can carry out multiple transactions. There is a specific module for doing these operations.
Firstly, the financial management feature lets you view and make transactions in your bank accounts without leaving the ERP. And you can also check all your balances simultaneously. This obviously saves time and gives you a clear idea of the company's actual situation. You can also automate payments and collections. All this gives you the agility you need to do things better and, above all, avoid problems.
Financial management also includes accounting. This module will make it easier for you to prepare balance sheets, income statements and accounting entries. In addition, a change in one element is automatically cascaded to other elements, saving you time. This is particularly useful to keep the company's accounting up to date and keep track of your company's assets. Your company's accounting department will thus have the tool it needs to make changes in real time.
This tool also includes cash flow management. Knowing how much there is, when and in what proportion will let you be more proactive. And you can avoid financial problems resulting from ignorance.
Purchasing and inventory management
The purchasing and inventory management module is another key feature. Knowing how much and by what means a company makes purchases and the status of its inventory is essential for any industrial, distribution or commercial concern.
Purchasing may involve several transactions that an ERP can streamline. First, purchase requests, which can be easily processed. It is also possible to generate and manage purchase orders and invoices, as well as refunds. Finally, you can manage master data to optimise the purchase, and thus improve performance by, for example, directly accessing the vendor's data to compare them. Not surprisingly, this online management is faster and more effective.
Inventory management is another key element, since this can sometimes be problematic. It goes without saying that a stock shortage can have disastrous results. Some of the options that exist are the generation of stock reports by the warehouse and the inventory valuation simulation report. You should also know that you can manage routine inventory operations from the time goods arrive until they leave. This is key to ensuring product traceability.
It should be noted that the two aspects have to work together. This is why this is regarded as such a beneficial feature.
Human Resources Management
Human Resources management is another feature of an ERP. And when it comes to a company above a certain number of employees, this is particularly important. This module can facilitate work in several ways for intelligent staff management.
First, you will be able to monitor each employee's performance, as well as their times. You also have the option of checking each one's salary. Plus, the information is managed in individual files detailing their skills, as well as their contact details. This is a practical example of how ERP, using Big Data, helps you make decisions.
Finally, it should be noted that there are other interesting sub-modules for further work monitoring. First is the personnel administration module: the second sub-module is time management, and there are other sub-modules to calculate salaries or manage trips. Once again, you have to consider what the company's business area is, because in some, such as sales, company trips are relevant.
In short, if you want to manage your company's Human Resources from a single place, this is an interesting option.
Sales and customer management
Sales and customer management is essential because this is ultimately the key part of any company. Therefore, having quality information and operating effectively becomes an essential point.
And this module makes it possible to manage sales. On the one hand, you can get information on your customers' purchasing habits based on their history, making it easier to craft personalised offers. Another option that is no less important is having an alert to monitor customers. And of course, you can also generate invoices and see if they are paid.
There are two key aspects that any sales department has to consider, although it all boils down to having information. First, knowing what the customer wants and, secondly, determining if it interests the company. The decisions made will vary depending on the answer. Nobody is oblivious to the fact that this information is important in the medium and long term.
Nowadays, closely monitoring customers to determine where they are in their life cycle is essential. Ultimately, this lets you target your efforts in the right direction.
Other specific features
SAP Business One features can also include specific modules for certain sectors of activity. So it's only natural that we spend some time addressing this circumstance.
For example, there are specific modules for companies in different sectors. There is a module for industrial manufacturing companies, another for distribution companies, a third for agricultural companies and, finally, a fourth for the retail sector. This way we can touch on all those nuances that are essential for improving. It should be noted that in some cases, an independent module is required. So that's one thing to consider.
Another point, no less important, is the possibility of purchasing other solutions from SEIDOR One. Such is the case of Ulises for warehouse management, RTLS for locating assets, Gensam for improving worker productivity, Simple Expense for optimising expenses or Smart Planning to improve your planning. These solutions are compatible with the ERP, so you can still keep using them.
The core concept of SAP Business One's features is to offer a service that is open to companies of any kind and that can be expanded to accommodate their growth. Which is all the more reason to decide if this product can meet your needs.
Conclusion
The features of SAP Business One are many and, in practice, allow any company to activate the ones it needs. However, it is extremely important to choose the one option that is really suited to your needs and that you will use to its full extent. Are you looking for a reliable, secure and adaptable ERP with good support? At SEIDOR One, we'll help you choose the SAP Business One solution that is right for your company. Contact us to find out more!
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