Enterprise resource planning (ERP) helps you successfully manage many different aspects of your business. It’s a software system that supports automation and other important processes concerning human resources, finance, supply chains, manufacturing, procurement, services, and more. ERP can help you take control of your business and become more efficient. And to do so, you’ll need to onboard an expert team of ERP developers.

What Is ERP?

ERP affects so many different parts of a business that it can be tricky to get your head around. Here’s a list of all the core business processes that you need to successfully run a company:

• Human resources
• Finance
• Supply chains
• Manufacturing
• Procurement
• Services

ERP developers make it easier to manage all these processes and more in a single, integrated system. This is a very basic description. ERP has come a long way since it was first created decades ago. Today’s ERP systems are incredibly complex and are best left to the experts.

In 2023, ERP systems are delivered via the cloud and take advantage of all kinds of modern technology, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). They use the latest technology to create improved efficiency, intelligent automation, and in-depth insights within the business.

Modern cloud-based ERP software can also connect internal operations to networks and business partners around the globe, providing organizations with the agility, collaboration, and speed they need to stay in the lead. 
 

What Does an ERP Developer Do?

For enterprise resource planning software to run smoothly, it needs the support of ERP developers. An ERP developer is responsible for creating the software, maintaining it, and updating the guidelines on how to use it. They may work for a specific company, ensuring that the ERP system is best customized to meet their needs. Or they may work for a company that creates ERP systems, developing and improving ERP models.

ERP developers play crucial roles in getting the system started and keeping it running. They update the software so it keeps up with the needs of your business and maintain documentation on how to use it so nobody gets left behind. An ERP developer goes through the ERP system to make sure there are no bugs and it’s working as intended.

They review the ERP system regularly to make sure it’s doing the best job it can and achieving optimum results for the organization. As things are removed, added, and updated, they rewrite guidelines so everyone in the company knows how to get the most out of the software. If something isn’t working or there are parts of it that could be improved, it’s the responsibility of an ERP developer to make it happen.

ERP Benefits

Improved business reporting:

• Enhanced reporting tools with real-time data
• A single integrated database for all business processes

Better customer service:

• In-depth customer information
• Quicker response times
• Better on-time delivery
• Higher order accuracy

Greater cash flow:

• Enhanced invoicing
• Improved collection tools to receive cash faster

Cost savings:

• Better inventory planning
• Improved procurement
• Enhanced customer service
• Better vendor relationship management

Improved security:

• Dedicated security resources
• No installation of malicious software
• Data spread across multiple locations

Business process improvements:

• Automation of manual and routine tasks
• Launch more efficient workflows

Supply chain management:

• Decrease production bottlenecks
• Greater transparency through the business

Avoid having too much or too little inventory. 
 

ERP Disadvantages

High Initial Cost to Deploy

Purchasing ERP software and hiring ERP developers to deploy it is a big expense many companies don’t budget for. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a valuable investment that will pay for itself.

Demands Training and Practice

ERP systems are complex and all staff with access to it will need training. It can take considerable time and effort to get to grips with its functionality. Onboarding practices for new staff will need to include a segment on how to use it, too.

Requires Customization

For the implementation of ERP software to be successful, it needs thorough and precise adjustments carried out by expert ERP developers. This is true for ready-made systems and custom systems.

Takes Time

ERP takes a long time to realize its full potential. There’s a lengthy development process, plus various stages of deployment, customization, data input, and staff training to consider before the system becomes effective. 
 

FAQs:

Q1. What does an ERP developer do?

An ERP developer develops and maintains Enterprise Resource Development (ERP) software. Some of their specific responsibilities include:

• Developing reports on employee data
• Adjusting the usability and user interface for ERP software
• Customizing elements of the ERP software system
• Updating the best practice guidelines

ERP developers create a system that’s used to improve efficiency in almost all aspects of an organization, including human resources, finance, supply chains, manufacturing, procurement, services, and more.

Q2. Which programming language is best for ERP?

Most developers agree that the best programming language for ERP development is Java. It gives a high level of versatility and works well with cloud-based applications. It also has powerful networking capabilities and is regularly referred to as the most powerful programming language for cloud computing.

Other programming languages which can also be used for ERP include:

• PHP
• Python
• JavaScript
• SQL
• .Net
• Ruby
• C++

Q3. Can I build my own ERP system?

Yes, if you have the right tools and knowledge, you can build your own ERP system. There are five main steps involved in building an ERP system from scratch:

1. Clarify the requirements
2. Choose the technology stack
3. Begin the development phase
4. Test the ERP system
5. Receive initial feedback from users