Successful businesses are always searching for the holy grail: increased productivity at a decreased expense. With all the advancements in data capture, automated processes and lightning fast information exchange, it makes sense that ERP integration software should also keep pace.
When the switchover from manual processes to automated integration started to take place, custom coding of automated systems was the most efficient solution to enable faster, more accurate data exchange. However, like everything in business, evolution is unavoidable–and it should be embraced.
With this article, we’ll address some of the common misconceptions we hear when speaking to businesses about their SAP Business One integration software—many of which are based on outdated solutions. How many of these myths do you still believe?
Myth #1: Quality SAP Business One integration software requires custom coding
Just because it’s the way things have always been done doesn’t mean that it’s the way it should continue. Getting the right SAP Business One integration software previously required working with a software development company that took months to analyze your ERP and integration needs, code software from the ground up and test the software thoroughly in a development environment before you could pull the trigger on deployment. Months would pass before you could actually begin using your software.
These days, the more efficient integration software platforms are pre-configured to match the most commonly used ERP systems, including SAP Business One and SAP HANA. All of the testing and development has been done well before you receive the software so you don’t need to waste precious business hours or company resources on managing a software development project.
Myth #2: You’ll get locked into a contract
Many integration software companies still insist on contracts, but if you eschew the custom coded method and choose an out-of-the-box solution instead, you can cancel at any time.
Eliminating contracts and their accompanying early termination fees means you have the freedom to make business decisions without worrying about penalties. You’re not forced to throw good money after bad due to a heavy investment in a custom coded solution. We recommend looking for an SAP integration provider who does not require a long-term contract.
Myth #3: Document updates mean code changes
When you use a hard-coded solution for SAP Business One integration, document updates require changes to the core software. That means another round of developing and testing before deploying.
By using a plug-and-play integration solution, document updates are handled on the back-end and fully vetted and tested before they land in your system. Then you’re good to go. The updated document is immediately ready for use.
Myth #4: You get what you pay for
Too many business executives still subscribe to the myth that paying a lot means that you’re getting a better product. While that might hold true for certain services, advancement in data processing capabilities mean that if your SAP integration software is ultra-expensive, it’s probably because your integration software partner is still rooted in the past.
Look for a nimble software partner who is at the forefront of efficient software development and deployment. If you’re still paying the same high fees as 10 years ago, it’s time to reevaluate your provider.
Myth #5: Custom integrations take months to implement
Sometimes your business has very specific data capture and exchange requirements that must match your workflow precisely. When using a custom-built SAP integration solution, it takes months of development and testing before you can use a custom integration.
With today’s platform integration solutions, you simply outline your requirements and change settings and configurations without a developer’s involvement. This can dramatically shorten the time it takes to deploy your custom integration. You experience virtually no interruption to your sales workflow.
The bottom line is that if you still equate SAP Business One integration with expensive, time-consuming software development, you’re operating in the past. Reevaluate your integration needs and start comparing solutions that take advantage of today’s robust platform coding to streamline your processes and reduce your spend on integration software.
If you would like to know more about how the Alluvia platform can meet your SAP integration needs, contact us today.