Common misconceptions about AR and your ERP system
But there's good news: a bridge exists to awaken your ERP data's true potential - AR integration. Cloud computing and the rapid rise of AI and machine learning have made AR automation accessible, efficient, and adaptable for businesses of all sizes. It's like handing your AR team a team of tireless, hyper-focused assistants who automate tedious tasks, chase down payments, and predict customer behavior.
Despite this, myths about AR integration still linger often hindering companies from realizing the full potential of their ERP data. Addressing these myths and embracing the power of AR automation can be transformative. By doing so, businesses can efficiently leverage their ERP data, streamline their AR processes, optimize cash flow, and ultimately drive robust financial health and growth.
Myth 1: ERP Systems are built for AR management
Reality: Yes, all ERP systems will have some AR management functionality, but in practice, while traditional ERP systems can be customized to support certain areas of the AR function, it takes time and usually expensive, external expertise. The issue here isn't just the cost of integration. It's also having to figure out if the operational delays to your IT network are worth the risk of automating the AR function.
Here's another reality. Not all ERPs are great at the AR function. For example, manufacturing ERP systems are designed specifically for manufacturing needs. Stock ERPs are designed with a focus on inventory. This means the ERP is less likely to have the necessary functionality to enable the automation of your AR function without extensive customization.
To truly optimize AR processes, a dedicated AR management tool, which complements and integrates with your ERP system, is often necessary to streamline the complexities and nuances of modern AR workflows.
Myth 2: ERP Systems can fully automate AR functions
Reality: ERP systems can automate some AR tasks but can't fully replace the need for strategic decision-making and human intervention.
While ERP systems are data processing beasts, they were never designed to manage complex account receivables situations, like resolving customer disputes or making strategic decisions regarding credit risk management and customer retention.
Myth 3: Systems integrations are time-consuming and disruptive
Reality: Integrating with ERP can streamline and enhance existing AR processes rather than disrupt them.
ERP systems are designed to consolidate all business operations in one place. In contrast, AR automation solutions focus on specific financial operations. Integrating ERP software with AR automation apps such as System1A can help your business get the best out of both systems.Talk to us about how our platform integrates with leading ERP systems… in minutes.
Myth 4: Integrating AR into ERP systems is expensive
Reality: While ERP systems are comprehensive and costly, integrating them with AR automation solutions can enhance efficiency without needing a complete overhaul. In addition, integration with dedicated AR automation software offers a more comprehensive and cost-effective solution than unique ERP customisations.
A well-defined integration plan will help identify potential challenges and scope the project accurately, which can help avoid costly surprises later on. Many AR system vendors offer cloud-based integration solutions with faster implementation times and lower ongoing maintenance costs than on-premise solutions.
Myth 5: AR Integration leads to security issues in your ERP
Reality: Integrating AR systems with ERP can boost data security by providing centralized access controls, encryption, and audit trails for sensitive financial information.
What's more, with ERP integration, unified security policies are implemented across all systems, ensuring consistent data protection practices organization-wide. Together, these measures offer a robust framework for maintaining data security and proactive risk identification and mitigation.
Myth 6: ERP and AR integration is only for large companies
Reality: Streamlined operations, accurate data, and exceptional customer service aren't just for the bigwigs. Whether you're a nimble startup or a seasoned enterprise, the right integration strategy paves the way to achieving these business goals.
That's because modern ERP and AR systems are built with flexibility and growth in mind. They're not one-size-fits-all monoliths, but dynamic platforms that adapt to your unique needs and evolve alongside your business. This means small and medium-sized enterprises can leverage the same benefits as their larger counterparts, starting with a tailored configuration and scaling seamlessly as they grow.
Myth 7: Integrating AR in ERP requires costly training
Reality: Deploying any new system comes with a learning curve. However, when implementing AR automation solutions, the bigger picture often outweighs the training costs: improved efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced customer service.
Plus, you can minimize training costs and ensure easy onboarding by selecting an AR system with an intuitive UI and easy-to-follow instructions. Also, ERP and AR system vendors have pre-built training materials, tutorials, and online resources baked into their service.
Myth 8: ERP systems cannot easily integrate with other software
Reality: With the right tools, integration can be easily achieved between modern ERPs and various add-on software.
These integration capabilities guarantee that even if the ERP's native AR functions are limited, third-party applications can be seamlessly incorporated. (In System1A's case, it takes minutes.)
Myth 9: Implementing AR integration with ERPs is super complex
Reality: While integration requires initial effort and planning, it isn't as difficult as it seems.
Contrary to popular belief, integrating Accounts Receivable (AR) with your existing ERP system doesn't have to involve complex setups and tech-induced headaches. While the level of complexity varies depending on the software, the right one can transform onboarding into a smooth process waiting to happen.
For instance, System1A offers a straightforward solution that integrates with your ERP system. This process, which takes approximately 45 minutes, utilizes a read-only connection, simplifying the setup and reducing the perceived complexity of integration.
Myth 10: AR software offers the same capabilities as ERP systems
Reality: Sure, there are some overlaps but ERP systems aren't built to streamline invoice-to-cash workflows. Also, they lack advanced analytics, enhanced customer communication tools, and detailed tracking and reporting of receivables. Companies actually benefit from using both systems due to more focused transaction management and enhanced financial reporting.
For more about moving beyond your ERP accounts system, visit System1A's comprehensive guide to AR and ERP.
System1A: Unlock your ERP potential
Myths about AR and ERP integration can cloud the journey toward actual efficiency and accounts receivable optimization.
Our cloud-based, one-app platform offers seamless integration with leading ERP systems, enabling you to:
- Automate mundane AR tasks like invoice and statement distribution, payment tracking, and dunning reminders, freeing your team to focus on strategic decision-making.
- Leverage advanced analytics that offers granular insights into your AR performance to identify trends and make data-driven decisions that optimize cash flow
- Access personalized communication tools and unlock proactive dispute resolution, customer-focused AR strategies, and cross-departmental collaborations.
- Break down data silos and bring customer, financial, and AR data into a single, secure platform, enhancing data accuracy and visibility.
- Streamline AR workflows, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency, leading to faster cash collection and reduced costs
System1A unlocks your ERP's potential by providing Financial Information Symmetry in One Application.
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