SMEs and Business Operating Systems

While Business Operating Systems (BOS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems were once viewed as a business solution for large corporations, research shows that SMEs are embracing them too.

A properly implemented ERP or BOS strategy allows SMEs to run as smaller companies but still compete against larger corporations by levelling the playing field.

Recently, a survey with over three hundred respondents, found that 77% of SMEs had already implemented a BOS solution. Those who had not, were considering it because BOS supports explosive growth (39%), and because there are low-cost options (39%).

Five reasons SMEs implement Business Operating Systems

1. To manage growth

The main driver for SMEs to implement BOS is to manage growth expectations. SME owners know that unsupported growth on the back of patchwork systems could result in business failure.

2. To reduce costs

BOS reduces costs due to operational improvements. Once the system is implemented, SMEs can manage their staff, keep track of their growth, spot bottlenecks, view their profitability, and manage inventory while running a smoother, more efficient operation.

3. To simplify business processes

To grow, SMEs must differentiate themselves from their competitors and establish themselves as industry leaders among their target markets. BOS helps SMEs run their businesses more efficiently by providing transparent processes and accurate information.

4. To manage operations at multiple locations

As SMEs grow, they often add additional operating locations. BOS integrates operations from geographically diverse locations. Managers can assess the daily operations of all the branches in real time without leaving their offices.

5. To gain managerial insight

The saying goes, ‘you cannot manage what you can’t measure’ – and in the case of SMEs this is especially true. Without visibility into operations, it is difficult to correct course or identify underperforming areas. With BOS, adverse events such as bottlenecks in production, staff productivity, or stock shortages are quickly uncovered which allows management to respond sooner and keep the business on course.

Three of the many reasons to choose QuickEasy BOS

Not all systems are equal. QuickEasy BOS is an adaptable system geared for SMEs. Here are only three of the many reasons to choose QuickEasy BOS.

1. Ease and speed of implementation

Growing businesses cannot afford lengthy downtimes during BOS implementations. They need the systems in place quickly without cutting corners. With over 20 years of experience, QuickEasy staff help businesses smoothly transition so they can hit the ground running.

2. Cloud Hosting and Mobile Access

Cloud hosting allows SMEs to login to their databases from anywhere. Key metrics can also be viewed from their mobile devices.

3. Automated Notifications

BOS can email progress notifications to managers in real time. Documents can be sent to various recipients so that reps and managers always have the latest invoice or quotation sent to their customers on hand.

Daunted by Installing BOS?

Implementing any new system requires change management, planning, and an acceptance that the business will be disrupted for a short while as the team adjusts to the new system. Follow these steps to minimise this disruption:

  1. Understand the cost and time constraints. Setting up the systems can be time-consuming and expensive for a SME. Ensure that you budget both time and money for the process.
  2. Benchmark current operations to get a baseline to measure progress against. Compare current systems to the reports being generated on the new system to ensure you get the information you really need.
  3. Set business, process, and technology standards. Clarify your end result to ensure you setup and implement the right features.
  4. Ensure senior managers on board. Emphasise the positive outcomes to excite managers and staff about implementing the new system. The more excited they are about the outcomes, the more willing they will be to spend the time and effort to learn and adapt to the new system.
  5. Use a BOS agent or consultant for the implementation. Although getting help might be more expensive upfront, the benefits may pay off in the long run. For example, explaining your processes to a third party may highlight vulnerabilities that have gone unnoticed. An experienced agent could also suggest ways to streamline your current operation flow.
  6. Assess End-User Acceptance. End-users might fear modern technology and resist change. Breakdown this reluctance by clearly communicating the change and allowing staff and customers to offer input and advice.
  7. Assign a job role or group dedicated to data management. Ensure the data being input into the new system is accurate. Incomplete or outdated data could lead to process failure, underperformance, and low productivity.
  8. Measure the benefits from the BOS implementation. Although you should evaluate all the reports and information that is available, focus on the key information you need so you are not overwhelmed by the quantity of information.
  9. Keep learning. Once implemented, invest time in getting to know BOS. BOS has many features which will take time to master.