Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are essential for businesses, holding critical data such as financial records, inventory levels, and customer information. However, these systems can often cause more friction than flow, leading to inefficiencies and decreased productivity.

Extending Existing ERP Systems

Rather than replacing their ERP systems entirely, businesses can extend them using low-code tools like Microsoft Power Platform. This platform allows companies to build custom applications, automate workflows, and visualize data without the high costs and long timelines associated with full replacements.

Power Platform consists of three primary components: Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI. Power Apps enable teams to build custom applications with minimal coding experience, providing a simple and user-friendly front end for complex ERP processes. Power Automate connects different applications and services to simplify workflows, removing manual work from employees’ plates. Power BI is a business analytics tool that provides interactive visualizations, connecting directly to ERP data with real-time dashboards and simple reports.

Practical Applications

Power Platform has been successfully deployed by leading national companies like T-Mobile to improve their processes and customer interactions. For example, businesses can use Power Automate to automate invoice processing and approvals, reducing manual work and increasing efficiency. Additionally, companies can use Power Apps to mobilize their field and warehouse teams, enabling real-time data capture and improving operational readiness.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.