AI & ERP: The Next Step for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses
In the first part of our series, we talked about how AI is changing the way businesses run by making ERP systems smarter. Now, let’s dive into how small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) can make the most of AI in their ERP systems like Sage 100 and Acumatica and what’s coming next.
How AI Can Help Your Business Go Further
AI is becoming an essential part of modern business operations, especially in ERP systems. If you’ve already started using AI in your Sage 100 or Acumatica system, you’re on the right track. But what’s next? Let’s explore the steps you’ll need to take to prepare your business and make to most out of AI.
Overcoming Challenges When Adopting AI
While AI is incredibly useful, implementing it doesn’t come without challenges. Let’s go over a few things to think about as you continue integrating AI into your ERP system:
- Quality of Your Data: AI thrives on structured, accurate data. If your business isn’t already collecting and organizing data, now’s the time to focus on it. With better data, AI can give you even better results.
- Making AI Work with What You Already Have: If you’re using Acumatica or Sage 100, incorporating AI with your current systems as they continue to evolve, many of the AI features will be easy to adopt and integrate, so it’s worth the effort.
- Training Your Team: For AI to be truly helpful, your employees need to know how to use it. Training is key, getting your team comfortable with AI tools will allow them to unlock the full potential of your ERP system.
A Simple Roadmap to Move Forward with AI
So, how can SMBs keep up with the growing role of AI in ERP systems? Here’s a simple guide to help you stay ahead:
- Start Small: Don’t overwhelm your team by jumping into complex AI tools right away. Start with simple AI-powered features, like invoice processing automation or predictive analytics, and expand as you get comfortable.
- Go for Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-based ERPs like Acumatica offer AI updates automatically, so you don’t have to worry about upgrades. This makes it easier to adopt new AI features as they become available.
- Make Smarter Decisions with AI: In the future, AI in your ERP system will help you make decisions, not just automate tasks. Imagine being able to see what could happen if you make certain business choices. AI can give you a detailed plan to help guide you.
- Invest in Training: AI can’t reach its full potential without the right people behind it. Make sure your team gets the training they need to understand AI insights and use them to make better business decisions.
What’s Coming Next for AI in ERP?
As AI continues to grow, we’re just beginning to see what it’s capable of. Here’s what you can expect in the future:
- Even More Personalized AI: Your ERP will start offering more customized dashboards, reports, and workflows, tailored to each user’s role and preferences. This will save time and make your system even easier to use.
- Smarter Forecasting: AI’s forecasting abilities will get even better. It will predict everything from sales trends to inventory needs with greater accuracy.
- AI for Big Decisions: AI in ERP will not only help with day-to-day operations but will become a powerful tool for business strategy. You’ll be able to ask AI what will happen if you make different business decisions, helping you choose the best path forward.
Final Thoughts: Keep Moving Forward with AI
If you’re already using AI in your ERP system, congratulations! You’re on the right path. But don’t stop there. As AI continues to evolve, there are even more opportunities to improve your business and stay competitive.
Whether you’re using Sage 100 or Acumatica, it’s the right time to explore the deeper AI tools available to you. As the technology improves, these systems will help you make smarter decisions, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction.
Ready to take the next step with AI in your ERP system? Let’s talk about how you can unlock the full potential of AI and make it work for your business.
Contact ACC Software Solutions for a FREE consultation.
