Can startups and MSMEs afford ERP Software

Choosing the right ERP software is challenging when multiple vendors come up with their respective products and prices. Some deals may seem amazingly cheap, but then you doubt the services, while others are just the right fit for the small business but costly. Getting an affordable ERP solution is a prime challenge for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The good news is- the leading ERP company, SAP, has introduced ERP for startups and MSMEs. SAP Business One Starter Package is a product best suited to handle the processes of startups and small businesses in an affordable range.

Factors influencing ERP costs

It is not enough to price up the ERP software by contacting an ERP services company. You must estimate the Total Cost of Ownership for the chosen ERP solution. The ERP service cost is influenced by the following five factors:

1. Type of deployment: SaaS deployment is the most intelligent choice for small & micro businesses and startups. SaaS deployment offers a minimum initial outlay, unlike on-premise solutions. One of the major advantages of a SaaS solution is that it provides per-user-based payment. The cost of installation is reduced exponentially.
2. User-based payments: The ERP software offers their users to expand the user base when needed. The payments are also managed depending on the number of users handling the software. Startups can sync their activities with the per-user payment system.
3. Features and modules: The ERP services will let you choose the features and modules that are NEEDED. MSMEs need not worry about the unnecessary payments they need to make for the functionalities not required. Some of the common solutions that are included are accounting, customer relationship management (CRM), business intelligence (BI), etc.
4. Customization facilities: MSMEs and startups need not spend extra on enterprise apps and proprietary systems. They can shortlist the ERP solutions offering pick-and-mix packages or stick with the program that handles everyday business processes.
5. Training costs: ERP training is one of the most crucial aspects for an MSME when it is switching to ERP software. Bigger businesses need not worry about the costs needed to train the user groups. The ERP services company offers training programs to get off the ERP blocks. 

Thus, the answer to the principal query is ‘YES.’ Going for an affordable ERP solution to enhance the business functionalities of your small business would be a wise step when SAP Business One Starter Package is providing a plethora of choices to stimulate your dream startup.