ERP Solutions

Why Custom ERP Solutions Often Outperform Off-the-Shelf Systems

Choosing the right ERP system is a critical decision for any business. At ERA IT, we specialize in custom ERP development, offering solutions tailored to your specific needs, unlike off-the-shelf products from vendors such as SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, or Sage.

Our engineers, with extensive experience in these platforms, have witnessed the limitations of pre-built systems. This knowledge has guided us to focus on custom solutions that deliver unmatched ROI, flexibility, and control for our clients.

The Unique Advantage of Custom ERP

One of the most compelling benefits of custom ERP is ownership of the source code. Unlike traditional providers, who retain control over their systems, ERA IT transfers full ownership of the software to you. This means:

  • Full control: You decide how to evolve the system based on your needs.
  • Flexibility: You can switch service providers at any time without being locked into a single vendor.
  • Independence: No reliance on third-party licensing, forced upgrades, or restrictive contracts.

This approach is unique in the industry and empowers our clients to take charge of their systems without hidden dependencies.

 

Avoiding Vendor Lock-In: The SAP S/4HANA Example

A prominent example of vendor lock-in is SAP’s push for clients with SAP Business Suite 7 & SAP ERP 6.0, to migrate to S/4HANA, often resulting in millions of euros in costs for licenses, infrastructure, and retraining. For many companies, these forced migrations are disruptive and financially draining.

With a custom ERP from ERA IT, such scenarios are eliminated. You own the system and are free from imposed updates, licensing fees, and unplanned expenses.

Real-World ROI: The Case for Custom ERP

In 2014, a manufacturing company faced a choice:

  1. Invest €2 million in a pre-built ERP system with €1 million in customization fees.
  2. Develop a fully custom ERP solution with ERA IT for €3 million.

The custom solution:

  • Automated 70% of administrative processes, saving thousands of hours annually.
  • Streamlined production workflows, reducing inefficiencies by 60%.
  • Delivered real-time analytics, accelerating decision-making.

ROI Breakdown:
Within the first year, the company saved €3.2 million through increased efficiency and reduced downtime. Over 10 years, the cumulative savings exceeded €30 million, while the system continued to adapt without requiring costly upgrades.

The off-the-shelf alternative, however, demanded frequent updates, licensing renewals, and additional costs to meet evolving requirements.

Who Benefits Most from Custom ERP?

Complex Processes: Businesses with unique workflows that don’t fit into rigid templates.

Cost-Conscious Enterprises: Companies seeking long-term cost efficiency without recurring licensing fees or forced migrations.

Scalable Organizations: Businesses expecting growth that need flexible, adaptable systems.

Ownership-Minded Clients: Those who value complete control over their software and want the freedom to switch providers if needed.

Fixed-Price Guarantee

ERA IT ensures transparency and financial predictability with a fixed-price model. From start to finish, your project stays within budget, with no surprises or additional fees. This approach, combined with rigorous planning and risk management, minimizes financial risks and ensures project success.

A Data-Driven Approach

Our ERP solutions are built using the latest technologies, modular architecture, and advanced analytics. Key features include:

  • Custom dashboards: Real-time data visualization tailored to your KPIs.
  • Scalability: Modular design that grows with your business.
  • Advanced security: Compliance with ISO 27001 and GDPR standards.

With ERA IT’s custom ERP solutions, you gain more than a system—you gain control, independence, and a platform that evolves with your business needs.