Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are the foundation of modern distributors and manufacturers. Some of the most popular ERP systems include Epicor (Kinetic, Prophet 21, Eclipse), Infor (M3, Distribution SX.e). Sage, NetSuite and Acumatica. In addition to accounting and financial reports, statements, and information, the ERP is where you keep your customer information, project management information, manufacturing production schedules, and inventory management tools all in one place to be accessed at any time by anyone who needs them. The best part about this powerful software? When integrated with an eCommerce platform, they combine to deliver powerful sales and efficiency results.

Let’s look at some of the important benefits of ERP and eCommerce integration.

‍

Better Customer Experiences

ERP and eCommerce integration keeps customers updated and gives them insight into your supply chain. They can see stock levels before purchasing, which improves the customer experience, while also preventing backorders. Customers can see their invoices, order status, and tracking information from inside a single platform, reducing inefficiency and improving overall satisfaction. These benefits strengthen the customer relationship and encourage brand loyalty.

‍

Reducing Operational Costs

When you integrate your eCommerce platform with an ERP system, your product data is always up-to-date and can be accessed at any time, from anywhere. Integration ensures fewer human errors since tasks like updating pricing or images can be automated. You can save money by reducing costs of unnecessary tasks concerning manual ordering or inventory management; all this while still benefiting from a fully integrated workflow between these two systems.

‍

Better Control and Insight

The ability to generate and view detailed financial reports for your eCommerce business is an invaluable tool when it comes time to make strategic decisions. Review data like Order History, Abandon cart, Usage Reports, Successful and Failed Search data, and more. With this data, your company can get objective insight into product performance and quickly adapt your marketing and sales strategies to maximize success.

‍

Streamlined Processes

With an integrated eCommerce and ERP system, order information is automatically delivered to the ERP where it's created, packed, labeled, loaded, and shipped. The eCommerce platform then receives the invoice, tracking information, and any pertinent information from the ERP system. This automated process means less data entry work for your customers and frees up time for your internal team, as well.

‍

Scale Efficiently

Integrated systems are a crucial component to any company’s growth. They give you the ability to scale your business much more efficiently and effectively. With integrated ERP and eCommerce systems you can streamline the responsibilities of your accounting and customer service teams– minimizing tedious and unnecessary paperwork, emails, and phone calls.

‍

Reduced Errors

Minimize or eliminate errors by automating as many processes as possible. From the initial order entry through order fulfillment – any task or process that can be automated will have fewer data discrepancies than if they were done manually. Reducing the amount of time spent on basic, repetitive tasks will also lead to increased productivity. Integrated workflows between the ERP system and eCommerce platform save on valuable resources such as manpower hours or time-consuming task supervision.

‍

Pricing Management and Product Access

Pricing management gives you complete control of pricing in your product catalog. You can set different prices for different customers. Set negotiated rates for a specific customer and show a different price for customers who are not eligible for the negotiated rate. Each customer or company sees the correct information based on their status. With an ERP integrated eCommerce platform, you can also determine who gets access to specific products or categories. Controlling customer access to products based on your business needs and the specific requirements of your customers is important to everyone’s success.

‍

Integrate for Success

eCommerce integration with your ERP system is important to business success. Look for an eCommerce partner that specializes in ERP eCommerce integration and ensures your specific business requirements are met. Integration can be challenging due to the complexity involved, but there are many benefits for your company when done right.

‍