what is an erp

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a type of software that organizations use to manage day-to-day business activities such as accounting, procurement, project management, risk management and compliance, and supply chain operations. ERP is usually referred to as a category of software that integrates all of these activities into one system, often in real-time and mediated by software and technology. ERP systems unify critical business functions like finance, manufacturing, inventory and order management, customer communication, sales and marketing, project management, and human resources. ERP modules are integrated into one complete system and share a common database to streamline processes and information across the enterprise. ERP is critical business software that collects information from various departments in a common database, enabling leaders to monitor the pulse of a company using a single vision of reality. An ERP system can cover many core functions across an organization, helping break down the barriers between the front office and back office while offering the ability to adapt the solution to new business priorities.