TOP 5 REASONS TO SHOW THAT YOUR DATA IS SAFE IN THE CLOUD

“Digital freedom stops where that of users begins… Nowadays, digital evolution must no longer be offered to a customer in trade-off between privacy and security. Privacy is not for sale, it’s a valuable asset to protect.” ― Stephane Nappo

Sure an ERP Software System is great, but is my data safe in the cloud?

This is a common FAQ asked by ERP buyers while contemplating on moving to the cloud.

Due to common misconceptions, and with wide spread myths about cloud storage some companies remain hesitant to move forward into the future.

The cloud enables greater transparency and accessibility, rapid deployment of the software across the company and seamless scaling of business functions to meet market changes. There have been a number of high profile attacks on company data in the past year, a case in point being Sony. These stories are bound to make some hesitant about switching to the cloud.

These are the top buyer misconceptions and the myths busted related to cloud ERP system:

1. Cloud data is more prone to attack: An ERP software vendor has more expertise on data security than the average enterprise engaging its services. The physical location of the server, be it on company premises or within a cloud provider’s data center, has little relevance on the server’s potential vulnerability. The data’s security relies less on the physical location of the server and more on the security measures implemented by the center. Companies with on premise ERP have the added responsibility of maintaining its server’s security and maintenance. They are generally superior to that of the average enterprise. Thus purely in terms of data security, the cloud system is the better option for most small and medium-sized enterprises.

2. Data Residency Control: Many countries have regulations that restrict personal or sensitive data to be exported or stored in a different country. Companies that fear that their data and records may be outsourced without their consent can rest east knowing that there are legislative restrictions to prevent that. By choosing a reputable and reliable ERP software vendor who is transparent about the internal and external policies governing the relationship, the firms can be assured that their data is in reliable hands and rest easy.

3. Rival firms with the same vendor can hack and sabotage: A persistent but unfounded concern is that a cloud based system that houses the data of multiple firms is inherently more susceptible to data hacks, leaks and attacks. In a cloud system, firms share a pool of network and storage resources, which brings about this fear, because in the business world, sharing is not about caring. Firms can be assured that the cloud providers segment and secure the servers and resources in such a way that essentially each company’s data is in their own private space, completely detached and inaccessible for others.

4. No Cloud, No Worries!: A firm that has not opted for a cloud ERP system may smugly assume that it is safer. “My data is not stored on the cloud, it is stored on my own computer. I am completely safe!” But if the computers are connected to the internet, the firm is already on the cloud. Given that most, if not all, companies are connected to the internet, no company is perfectly safe from attacks and data theft.

5. Data security is the sole responsibility of the Cloud Provider: The cloud ERP software vendor does manage the network security and associated tasks for the firm. However, to rely solely on the vendor for all aspects of data security is a massive folly. Internal data management and confidentiality policies, password policies, employee accessibility, user management and security training of employees are equally, if not more, important when it comes to maintaining data integrity and safety.

There are several reasons to choose a cloud based solution for your business needs. Lower costs, greater accessibility and flexibility are some of the many reasons that firms are increasingly opting for cloud-based ERP. The common myths and misconceptions regarding data security on the cloud are more fiction than fact. Enterprises looking for a suitable ERP system can be rest assured that the cloud options are safe.

Cloud ERP – The magic tool you cannot function without!

With the increase in globalisation, the demand for Cloud ERP has increased. Manufacturers in foreign trade have realised the indispensability of ERP system in order to survive in the competition. With Cloud ERP software, manufacturers can integrate all operations from multiple locations in a unified process. According to IDC  Statistics, data resourceful industries invest heavily on the Cloud ERP. This clarifies that manufacturers and exporters globally use the Cloud to store, process and retrieve data from several locations.

Another survey states that the manufacturing sector leads cloud adoption with a staggering 45% adoption rate. IOT and Cloud have penetrated widely across the sector to process real-time data. Even in automation productivity demands overarching connectivity in the enterprise. This can only be solved by Cloud integration creating a seamless workflow.

Undoubtedly, the Cloud computing platform enables several solutions and opens up the flow of work for plenty of such bottlenecks.

The right fit will make all the difference

Every industry and every business is different. For successful implementation and operation of an ERP one needs to find the right fit for the business. The right ERP vendor who is the perfect fit for manufacturers and exporters are those who can integrate various aspects of business on the cloud. With over 15 years of R&D and market testing Expand smERP uniquely designed to cater to the manufacturers, exporters & Omni-channel retailers.

Expand Sure Shield ensures:

. Multiple location Storage – Data is on cloud, stored in multiple location ensuring maximum safety.

. Stored on trusted technology platform (Microsoft Azure, SDL Server)

. 99.99% uptime (the cloud never sleeps)

. SSL Encrypted Data Transmission – Similar technology as Net banking and thus extremely secure.

. Private Database – each user has the private database and not a shared one as in open source ERP.

Expand smERP is India’s best-fit ERP on cloud for the Retailers & Exporters in midsized manufacturing business. It drives business efficiency with ease by perfectly fitting into the existing business process and effectively automating most complex processes, unlike many such ‘one size fits all ERPs’ which doesn’t give desired results to specific businesses. With Expand smERP one can manage his entire business completely online. To derive more details call 09007026542

Top 6 Common ERP Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them

“It’s fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.”   – Bill Gates

While considering purchasing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for your company, take the time to ensure you are selecting the best fit ERP software system to avoid any failures after implementation. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems can be huge investments of money, resources and time. And while a successful ERP implementation can help your organisation streamline workflow and cut costs, a poorly planned and implemented ERP can severely cost organizations, in terms of lost productivity and delay in completion of work.

To ensure your ERP implementation is a success, and to minimize potential problems we have come up with some common ERP mistakes and their solutions.

1. Inadequate planning – Strategic planning is extremely necessary if you want your ERP project to succeed. Many organizations do not plan enough before they begin an ERP software evaluation which often leads to confusion because they might not fully understand their current processes and how to develop them to maximize business benefits and efficiencies. To solve this problem, organizations should conduct an internal assessment of all of their processes and policies before choosing an ERP system.

2. Not understanding or using key features. Without knowing features, companies miss opportunities to automate business processes, complete functions faster, and meet business objectives. To solve this problem, it is advisable to create a list with all features, tracking usage, and occasionally reviewing the list to determine which features are being used and which are the most helpful. This knowledge catalogue can be used to train new employees, write test scripts, and help with review, compliance, and reporting requirements.

3. Underestimating the time and resources required – All companies underestimate the time and resources required to implement a new ERP system. So how can you calculate the necessary time involved? The time involved can be estimated by dividing the cost of the software by 100. Double that number if you plan to self-implement with minimal professional assistance. It is important to assign a dedicated project manager.

4. Not having the right people on the team – Sometimes, organizations do not bring the suitable team members together from the very start of an ERP implementation. ERP implementation is one of the biggest projects an organization can undertake, and consequently, mistakes can be made and plans might get out tracked if the right stakeholders are not involved in every part of the decision-making process. For example, many organizations focus on getting executive approval, instead of gathering key participants from across the organization, from finance, operations, manufacturing, purchasing, and the warehouse, in addition to IT. The employees who are actively engaged with the ERP implementation, who have an investment in getting it right from the start are benefitted.

5. Choosing the wrong vendor –  Simply purchasing ERP from a big name vendor, or one that has worked for someone that you know who isn’t in the same business, can be a huge mistake in the implementation process. You need to find an ERP vendor that is knowledgeable in your industry and will understand the unique needs of your business. Also, since you will need to have a long-term relationship with your vendor, look for an ERP software provider that offers certified ongoing support, product releases, user forums, and other business tools as part of their service.

6. Choosing the best fit ERP software – Finally the most essential mistake companies make is to install any ERP which belongs to the ‘one size fits all’ category. Your company is unique and so are its needs. Every organisation has specific problem areas and needs specific solutions for them. Therefore only the best fit ERP software system can bring the desired results of an ERP implementation.

Expand smERP is India’s best-fit cloud ERP system for fast growing businesses like yours. It empowers the mid sized manufacturers in the export and retail industry with real-time visibility and complete control over their business for faster expansion by simplifying complex business processes. 

With over 15 years of extensive R&D and market testing, we have developed a software that seamlessly fits into Indian Business. We are the OEM of this solution. Further, specific fitment through customization and integration are made for the company’s unique needs. All measures are taken to fit seamlessly into the existing business processes to deliver the maximum benefit of our solution.

Expand smERP cloud software drives maximum growth and ROI to your business.

At such an hour of national emergency, we are open for business and believe that with cutting edge technology even you can work remotely seamlessly with ease. To know more about Expand smERP and how it will transform your business operations please allow us to arrange for the best fitment test and product walkthrough by our BizTech Expert.

Top 10 must have tools to manage your business online

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Your business is your dream child. Nurturing it in the best possible ways is in your hands. Understanding the secrets of growth in business is the first step towards success. All business entrepreneurs have a distinct vision to see its company grow in a certain number of years. Developing the perfect strategies and navigating the mission results in growth and ROI inevitably.

Today most successful businesses are abreast with the ever overwhelming digital world we are living in. Without technology there is no respite and surviving in the cut throat competitive market is almost impossible. The tech-savvy business owners are at an edge over the not so tech-savvy entrepreneurs who have to break down walls with their hands to set their businesses on a rollercoaster ride. Moreover in the current unprecedented times going online and moving to digital automation seems like the ultimate step towards restoring your business.

It is astonishing to see how using the right tools can bring tremendous change in the business process resulting in growth.

Enlisted below are the Top 10 business tools that can leverage growth and manage your business completely online:

1. Acquire – is a multiple channel online helpdesk which enhances customer experience. You customer support team need not have to overwork or fear of failing in their duties as the customer service is performed in real-time engagement. Self-trained, high-end technology bots attend to customers inquiries and provides solutions on time. Acquires AI based sales bot collates online interactions of customers and provides apt information of their needs. This saves time and resources immensely. With pro-engagement features like cobrowse, your customer support team is better positioned.

2. Zipbooks – Many business owners and operators have a hard time dealing with large numbers in financial records. Zipbooks is an accounting software that takes care of every finance and number related needs of your business. Its intelligence driven software takes it a notch higher than other finance softwares by providing insights on performance and guides your interactions with customers. This tool also helps in standing the test of time when tracking expenses, revenues and profit and reduces human errors.

3. Basecamp – This tool serves almost the purpose of an organizer. It creates an opportunity for team members to work closely, executing both individual and group tasks. Being organized at the workplace along with effective communication, increases productivity. Basecamp builds strong communication bond between team members by facilitating instant transfer of information. It also allows you to assign tasks to the most appropriate team members based on expertise and forte.

4. Wunderlist – helps you to plan and organize your engagements and plan ahead, preventing any important matters from being unforeseen. To get the most out of 24 hours, multitasking is the only other option. You need to execute tasks one after the other or side by side. Wunderlist helps you to organize your activities with a to-do-list on the basis of priority. 

5. G- Suite – This tool is one of Google’s most sought after software’s that speaks volumes of the usefulness of their innovations. It equips organisations with flexible tools that are essential for grown in today’s modern society. G-Suite takes emails further beyond the regular emails by giving businesses the opportunity to have a business identity with a professional email. It also takes accurate care with several features in areas of documentation, survey, presentations, mobility, etc. It’s cloud-based feature empowers businesses to initiate and execute tasks without physical restrictions. 

6. Google Meet/ Hangout – These are video collaboration tools for real-time communications. It’s clarity in audio and video quality and capacity to engage up to 100 members is a huge respite for offices working from home. You no longer have to worry about projects stalling due to important parties not being present to engage in face to face interactions, as they can join from their individual locations. Meetings, trainings, video webinars and school classes can be conducted with these apps. It is a savior in the times of social distancing where distance is merely physical and not virtual.

7. Optimonster – This tool is a conversion optimization tool used to grow email lists for continuous customer engagement. Optinmonster grabs the opportunity whenever anyone visits your website and retains them forever. It’s automated messages makes visitors feel at home, leading them to subscribe to your list. Its targeted website messages display useful messages to your newsletter subscribers and returning visitors based on their recorded interactions. 

8. Buzzsumo – Online business tool Buzzsumo is a must have for businesses with content marketing needs. Content marketing can be truly effective when you churn out the right content. Creating content that people may not be interested in creates no substance and gains no traction. Buzzsumo’s analytic tools show you the leading keywords on various niches. When you inculcate these in your content marketing, you pave your way up the search engine ranking with ease.

9. Ahrefs – is a search engine optimization tool that gives insights on what your competitors are doing to stay on top of their game, and shows you what you can do to outrank them. It gives you the right tools such as content research, backlink research, and web monitoring for competitive analysis. You are able to create useful and timely content that will gain traffic and enhance sales.

10. Enterprise Resource Planning  – An ERP is the one solution to manage your business online with ease and enhance growth. It is a digital automation software to streamline and integrate daily business activities like Finance, Inventory management, HR and payroll, CRM, Sales etc. The users will get real-time data and reports of individual departments in single dashboard, which reduces time and resources resulting in growth.

Expand is India’s best-fit ERP on cloud for the Retailers & Exporters in midsized manufacturing business.

It drives business efficiency with ease by perfectly fitting into the existing business process and effectively automating most complex processes, unlike many such ‘one size fits all ERPs’ which doesn’t give desired results to specific businesses. With Expand ERP one can manage his entire business completely online.

With over 15 years of extensive R&D and market testing, this unique software has been ‘made in India’ which seamlessly fits into Indian Business. Further, to fit best to the business, we focus on export and retail domains only.

Quick implementation with no business process alteration, no Capex, low customization, less training time due to user-friendly interface makes our Software hugely popular among our patrons.

Our core strength lies in complete customization to adapt to the specific businesses & continuous integration (with WhatsApp, Paytm, Flipkart, Amazon, Magento, Shopify, Bluedart, Shiprocket, etc.) with growing needs.

To know more about Expand smERP and how it will transform your business operations please allow us to arrange a demo by our BizTech Expert. Call .. 09007026542