When most people think of “legacy” and how it relates to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software terms like “outdated” or “lacking features” tend to be synonymous. However, this isn’t always the case with legacy ERP systems. If you’re on the latest version of your software and still missing important features, you can supplement functionality with independent software vendor (ISV) solutions. These ISV solutions can bridge the gaps in your legacy ERP to give you access to next-generation features.
Before you read any further reference to my previous blog post titled, “Legacy vs. Next-Gen ERP: Should I Stay, or Should I Go?” if you are considering a move to a next-gen modern ERP solution like Infor CloudSuite Distribution (CSD). This quick read will provide you with the knowledge to make a more educated decision on whether you should stay on your legacy ERP or go to a next-gen ERP.
Top Three ISV Solution Integrations for Distributors
If you decide you’re going to continue to use your legacy ERP and want to modernize by adding an ISV, you may not be sure where to start. The ISV landscape is saturated with solutions of all kinds from Sales Tax Compliance to Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and everything in between. To help you navigate the treacherous terrain of ISV software we conducted a survey where legacy ERP distributors were asked which types of ISV solutions they use. From that survey, we’ve ranked the top three types of ISV integrations for distributors.
#3: Document Management
Competitive distributors need to manage their entire supply chain quickly and effectively. One major disruption in your supply chain could potentially derail your entire business. Fortunately, a document management solution is a cost-effective way to improve logistics, distribution, and warehouse operations that can help your business grow.
#2: Business Intelligence (BI)
In today’s always-on, always-connected world, data is being delivered at such a fast pace that it’s easy to succumb to information overload. Don’t let information overload prevent you from losing out on data-driven revenue. Business intelligence provides real-time insights into supply chain risks and oddities allowing you to identify and resolve potential problems before they become a situation to make better business decisions faster.
#1: Ecommerce
B2B ecommerce in the distribution industry has been developing at a steady pace for years but skyrocketed in what seems like overnight due to the pandemic. Distributors that didn’t have a B2B ecommerce plan in place had to quickly adapt or were put at risk of large revenue losses due to more online transactions being made than ever before. An ecommerce solution allows your B2B customers to interact in an easy-to-use, familiar online experience like B2C ecommerce storefronts how they want, when they want in their day-to-day lives.
Which ISV Solution is Right for Me?
Choosing the right ISV solution that will provide the most ROI is an important step to modernizing your legacy ERP. Just make sure before you sign on the dotted line that your current legacy ERP version and hardware meet the ISV solution’s requirements. Ultimately the ISV solution you choose will help bridge the gaps in your legacy ERP and add functionality to continue using it for years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about proven ISV solutions that have been integrated into your legacy ERP before contact us to receive a full list of proven ISV solutions for distributors.
Phil is a Practice Manager in the Supply Chain Division and leads the team responsible for supporting and delivering services for both Infor A+ and FACTS customers. For more than 30 years, Phil has provided strategic direction to customers implementing ERP software and infrastructure technology solutions.