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VAI 2020 Predictions: Top 4 Predictions For The ERP Software Industry In 2020

VMblog Predictions 2020 

Industry executives and experts share their predictions for 2020.  Read them in this 12th annual VMblog.com series exclusive.

By Pete Zimmerman, North American Software Sales Manager, VAI

Top 4 Predictions For The ERP Software Industry In 2020

In 2019, enterprises were challenged with operating in environments, both globally and domestically, that were fast-paced, highly competitive, and unpredictable. As businesses continue to provide unmatched service to consumers, they are constantly looking for ways to streamline processes and control inventory management - leading to significant developments in ERP systems. 

What then, will happen to ERP software going forward? The following predictions are an assessment of the future for the ERP marketplace:

  • Continued adoption and use of mobile apps as business tools: With the rapid expansion of mobile devices, many manufacturers and distributors everywhere are being dramatically impacted by the new wave of mobile technology. In 2020, we expect to see companies integrate more mobile solutions with the end-goal of turning ordinary smartphones into powerful business tools that can help our customers improve efficiencies, enhance customer service, and increase sales.

These powerful mobile solutions also provide file synchronization, and give users offline access to content when a network/wireless connection in unavailable. For example, if a power outage hits, these companies can stay up and running without experiencing any downtime. When the power is restored and distributors are back online, companies will have the ability to automatically synchronize data from the application back to the company server.

  • Analytics leveraging AI to predict future outcomes based upon past history: Predictive analytics will continue to be a major trend in 2020. Companies will continue to leverage AI to uncover historical data, reveal real-time insights, and predict future events. By utilizing these advanced analytic techniques, enterprises will have the ability to transform the way their business operates while simultaneously increasing productivity. 

With advancements in technology today, businesses in highly competitive markets simply cannot depend on intuition or gut feeling to make critical business decisions. Instead, they count on data-driven insights to get more accurate results in the field, as well as customer buying trends and market conditions. In 2020, we will see more businesses leaning on predictive analytics to obtain relevant and important insights to maximize their bottom-line.

  • The Cloud will continue to evolve and we will see more customers opt to deploy in the cloud: More companies further the cloud evolution to manage and store their data in a secure way. By moving to the cloud, employees can work seamlessly while harnessing the ability to access all enterprise applications in a centralized database. A cloud-based solution can equip companies with the advanced technology they require to reduce costs, make smarter business decisions, and address real-time business imperatives.

In addition, as more consumers and businesses adopt tools such as smartphones and tablets, the ability to host applications in the cloud and access it from just about anywhere on the planet is quickly becoming vital. By leveraging cloud technology, enterprises will be able to access their data -  provided they have an Internet connection - no matter their location.

  • Robotics Automation will continue to transform the warehouse, creating a faster and more streamlined process: The complexity of warehouse operations will continue to grow in 2020, which can be taxing on employees. With automation however, Robotics in the warehouse can take the lift off of workers and help manage tasks. For many companies, the coming year will be a time where robotics continues to advance in the warehouse, controlling the scale of work being completed.

Warehouse operations have detailed procedures such as global supply chain shipments and compliance to heavy regulations, both in which are expected to get more complicated in 2020. By adding robots to help monitor and accomplish tasks such as packaging, sorting, and tracking, companies can be assured that employees gain the proper amount of time to finish other projects that require human surveillance.

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About the Author

Pete Zimmerman 

Pete has worked in software implementation for over 20 years, with a specific focus on providing technology solutions that improve efficiencies in the manufacturing sector. In addition to his wide-ranging knowledge of manufacturing, Zimmerman has significant expertise selling solutions and services across broad IT portfolios and with virtually all types of enterprise software. As an IBM Certified Specialist and manufacturing industry expert, Zimmerman has spoken at numerous conferences and trade shows.

Published Thursday, December 12, 2019 7:41 AM by David Marshall
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