Running an e-commerce business is no easy task. Between managing inventory, processing orders, tracking finances, and juggling customer service, it’s easy for things to slip through the cracks (especially if you don’t have a large finance or admin team backing you up). That’s where a top-tier cloud-based ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system can be a game-changer.

But with so many ERP platforms on the market, how do you know which one is best for your business? In this guide, our expert team will break down what makes a cloud-based ERP truly great, especially for Kiwi businesses operating online. Along the way, we’ll also be tossing our hats in the ring to show how First Software’s ERP solution stacks up against these essential features.

What Makes a Great Cloud-Based ERP?

Each Enterprise Resource Planning platform is unique, and if you already have a tech stack going for your business, you’re likely in the market for a solution that supports it, not replaces it.

In your hunt for a cloud-based ERP, here is what we recommend you look for:

1. Seamless inventory management.

Inventory management is one of the most crucial aspects of running a product-based business, so your ERP should provide a real-time overview of stock across all sales channels. You might be selling through Shopify, WooCommerce, your own website, or other platforms; regardless, your solution should alert you to low stock, manage reorders, and prevent overselling.

2. Integrated financial tools.

A truly built-for-purpose cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning solution will do more than just track stock. It will integrate with your accounting software (such as Xero) to automatically reconcile your sales, manage payroll, handle GST, and provide you with real-time insights into your cash flow.

3. Cloud-based flexibility.

Cloud access means you can manage your operations from anywhere. No clunky software installs. No worrying about hardware upgrades, just secure access to your system on any device.

This is vital if you have multiple hubs across the country or if you are scaling your operations with a remote workforce.

4. User-friendly design.

For the less technical members on your team, who may not have a dedicated IT team, your ERP should be simple to navigate, easy to onboard new staff, and intuitive. Dashboards should feature the data that matters most, and the system’s architects should fundamentally understand your business needs.

5. Scalable and customisable.

For most product-based businesses, the goal is to scale. To that end, your ERP should never be the thing holding you back; it should scale with you. Look for Enterprise Resource Planning solutions that allow for custom workflows, integration with third-party tools, and additional modules as needed.

6. Reliable support.

Finally, there are times when you may need extra guidance or help in solving a specific issue. Having access to local support that understands Kiwi business practices, NZ tax rules, and eCommerce needs is invaluable. Look for providers who don’t just offer a generic solution. Seek out those who truly understand what it means to do business in Aotearoa.

Why First Software’s ERP Stands Out

With all of that in mind, your ideal solution should fold these benefits into a single, intuitive package built to scale with you. The First Software cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning solution has been purpose-built to exemplify these traits and more.

After all, we didn’t build a generic system for a global market. We built a tailored, cloud-based ERP specifically for Kiwi businesses that sell, move, and manage products. So, let’s take a closer look at how our solution can meet your needs from day dot.

How we help:

• Inventory: We help you to stay on top of your stock with real-time tracking, low-stock alerts, and multi-location management.
• Xero integration: Our integrations work seamlessly for you, providing a streamlined connection between your enterprise resource planning and accounting software. No double-handling, no headaches.
• Built for eCommerce: It’s an online world out there, so we make it easy to integrate with Shopify, WooCommerce, a hard-coded site, or even multiple sales platforms at once.
• Designed by real people: You don’t need to be a tech wizard. If you can use a browser, you can manage your business with our software.
• Supported by Kiwis: Our team is based right here in NZ, ready to support you with real advice (no overseas call centres or canned responses!).

In our opinion, the best ERP is the one that best suits your business. It should be reliable, easy to use, and help you run things more efficiently (not just add more complexity). If you’re looking for a platform that understands the unique challenges of your business, we’re proud to say we’ve built a solution on the back of years of experience with Kiwi product businesses.

If you’re curious, we’d love to show you how our ERP can simplify your day-to-day operations, provide better visibility, and free you up to focus on what matters: growing your business.

Discover what enterprise resource planning can do for your business.

Here at First Software, we’ve built the integrated cloud-based n2 ERP and eCommerce powerhouse for your distribution or retail business. Explore how we can help you with tailor-made solutions built on the back of a team that truly understands what Kiwi businesses need.

Get in touch with our team for a free demo today.