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When you’re running a growing business, efficiency is everything. Whether you’re in manufacturing, import/export, or distribution, the right ERP system can transform your operations.
As Uniware’s General Manager, Craig Alford has extensive experience working with decision-makers in these industries and others. Here, he answers some of the most common questions about choosing and implementing an ERP system.
1. What are some of the biggest operational bottlenecks the businesses you speak with are dealing with, and how can an ERP help?
Many growing businesses struggle with disconnected systems, inefficient processes, and scattered data. Common challenges include:
- Lack of visibility – Data is spread across spreadsheets and different software, making it hard to get a clear picture of operations. This often leads to poor or inefficient decision-making.
- Inventory management issues – Overstocking ties up capital, while stockouts result in lost sales and dissatisfied customers.
- Manual, time-consuming processes– Data entry and order management slow things down.
- Scaling difficulties – As order volumes increase, inefficient systems create bottlenecks.
- Poor system integration – When tools don’t communicate, duplicate work and inefficiencies arise.
- Regulatory and compliance challenges – Managing tax regulations and reporting standards can be complex.
A robust ERP system eliminates these roadblocks by centralising operations, automating processes, and integrating key business tools – helping businesses run more efficiently and scale with confidence.
2. Transitioning to an ERP can be overwhelming, particularly if a business has never had one before. What advice can you offer to ensure a smooth implementation?
Adopting a new system indeed takes time and planning. And if it’s something that a business hasn’t done before it can be daunting. To minimise disruption, I encourage people who are about to start that journey to:
- Speak to multiple ERP providers – Have a clear set of assessment questions to find the right fit for your business. Download our ERP Evaluation Toolkit to help with this.
- Assign a dedicated point of contact – This streamlines communication and implementation.
- Clearly define business requirements – This helps prevent unexpected costs or roadblocks.
- Train key staff across departments – The value of training cannot be underestimated. That’s why Uniware offers dedicated training services for all clients.
- Set realistic goals and a ‘go-live’ date – Rushing implementation leads to issues, while a structured rollout ensures success.
3. Some growing businesses wanting to upgrade to an ERP are moving from tools like Excel and Xero. What challenges might they face, and how can they overcome them?
Switching from spreadsheets or basic accounting software to a full ERP is a big leap and not without hurdles. Common challenges people might face during the process often relate to:
- Budget concerns – businesses worry about upfront costs.
- Time investment – learning and implementing a new system takes effort.
- Staff resistance – teams often prefer familiar tools.
- Deciding on the right ERP – often, people won’t know the right questions to ask when researching different providers.
So, what’s the key to overcoming these challenges? I’d say:
- Take your time choosing the right system. Speak to industry experts and define your objectives clearly.
- Assign an internal ERP champion. Having that dedicated person to oversee the project end-to-end can really make all the difference and help to ensure a smooth transition.
- Invest in training. Encourage your staff to explore the new ERP system hands-on before it goes live – give them the freedom to play around, get familiar with it, and ask questions. Implementation can also be a great time to refine internal processes to improve efficiency. Training can help with this too.
4. Customisation is a key strength of Uniware ERP. Why does this matter for long-term success?
- Align with unique business workflows.
- Automate manual processes for greater efficiency.
- Support long-term growth without forcing businesses to change what already works.
- Enhance business efficiency.
- Support new business processes and opportunities.
Rather than dictating how a business should operate, we enhance the system to fit their unique needs – creating a true partnership that supports success and growth.
5. What ERP features are most valuable for businesses looking to scale?
There are no set rules and, as I’ve said, every business is unique. But for those that are focussed on growth, here are some key ERP capabilities that Uniware ERP offers:
- Automated purchasing and reporting to streamline operations as the business scales.
- Mobile sales app for remote teams to process orders in real-time, no matter where they are.
- Scalability that allows your ERP to grow with your business – only additional users requiring ERP access incur extra costs.
- eCommerce integration to expand sales channels and reach more customers.
6. In a nutshell – why should a business choose Uniware ERP?
Uniware ERP is Australian-owned, fully customisable, and built to integrate seamlessly with your existing operations. More than just a platform, we provide real people and real support – helping businesses optimise efficiency, improve visibility, and scale with confidence.
Ready to take the next step in your ERP journey?
Download our free ERP Evaluation Toolkit, a practical resource that will empower you to make the best ERP choice for your business.
