• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to secondary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Subscribe
  • Your Membership
    • Edit Your Profile
  • Services
    • Advertising
    • Case studies
    • Design
    • Email marketing
    • Lead generation
    • Magazine
    • Press releases
    • Publishing
    • Sponsored posts
    • Webcasting
    • Webinars
    • White papers
    • Writing
  • Shop
    • My Account
    • Cart
  • About
    • Contact
    • Privacy
    • Terms of use
  • Events

Robotics & Automation News

Market trends and business perspectives

  • News
  • Features
  • Video
  • Webinars
  • White papers
  • Press releases
  • Featured companies
    • BlueBotics
    • SICK Sensor Intelligence
    • Vicor Power

10 Benefits of ERP integration for B2B eCommerce

December 22, 2020 by Polly 1 Comment

In their 2020 report, Digital Commerce 360 estimated last year, online sales on B2B eCommerce sites have increased by 18.2% to $1.3 trillion.

This growth in sales spans across manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and B2B businesses of all sizes operating in various industries. As B2Bs embrace digital transformation initiatives and move to eCommerce, a seamless ERP integration must be on top of their list.

Gartner predicts that B2B businesses that consider their integration capabilities as strategic investments will grow from 40% in 2019 to 65% in 2024. The main driver of growth is expected to be in online systems integration between tools like ERP, CRM, and eCommerce.

But what are some actual benefits of an ERP integration for B2B eCommerce businesses?

1. Automate manual processes

An ERP integration for B2B eCommerce automates various processes that would have to be performed manually. Some of the most obvious things include manual order entry into the eCommerce system, updating inventory or invoicing data, generating reports, and so on.

ERP integration frees up your staff to perform more productive tasks that cannot be automated: building relationships, solving customer issues, and offering personalized support.

It also greatly lessens the chances of productivity losses and errors, which can add up to substantial savings over time.

2. Provide accurate pricing

It’s not unusual for B2Bs to rely on complex pricing structures. Some sellers generate pricing dynamically based on changing inventory data.

Others might want discounts applied according to customer or order value. Then there are tiered prices, new products, and pre-negotiated prices to deal with. As B2Bs grow, their product catalogues, product types, factors affecting prices grow, too.

Since B2Bs rely on their ERP system to centralize contracts, pricing and invoicing, it makes sense to pass on that information to the B2B eCommerce system via integration.

3.Increase inventory visibility

During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone from hospitals, institutions, businesses, and individuals sought out hand sanitizer and face masks.

While many B2B sellers met out-of-stocks, customers faced frustration since product availability on eCommerce websites wasn’t accurate – or not there at all.

Without an ERP integration with your eCommerce software, keeping accurate, real-time inventory information on your eCommerce website becomes near impossible. Since the ERP software keeps an accurate inventory record, customers can stay updated on stock levels as they place their order.

4. Eliminate errors during ordering

Most B2Bs utilize intricate ordering workflows based on quotes, contracts, and approval processes. Some customers may only have access to certain products, others may require order limits or specific shipping options.

Since order data is kept within the ERP, an eCommerce platform with an ERP integration streamlines and personalizes the ordering process according to every customer. Most importantly, all of this is done automatically, without the need for manual data transfer.

5. Offer omnichannel experiences

Omnichannel is defined as meeting shoppers at channels where they expect to purchase, whether it’s a physical store, website, social media, or even telephone. Many customers are taking it a step further, expecting to buy online and pick up in person.

An ERP integration is central in delivering these customers order, and fulfilment related data into the eCommerce system. Integrating with the ERP and CRM allows eCommerce brands to create everyday customer journeys regardless of their communication or purchasing channel.

6. Make better use of data

Most B2Bs keep the bulk of their data in the ERP, so integrating it with the eCommerce system can create better reports for sales and marketing teams. Data visibility and streamlined operations due to connecting disparate systems aren’t the only benefits.

With the right data at their fingertips, brands can make calculated and informed decisions to grow their business. ERP integration leads to customizable reporting that generates data from other solutions, delivering everything from better demand, inventory, and supplier projections.

7. Scalability and security

Most B2Bs have client, product, transactions, or user data centred in the ERP, and their volume grows over time. Thus, eCommerce brands require an efficient ERP integration that’s secure, scalable, and can accommodate their growth.

With a cloud-based ERP system, brands get a robust platform without substantial investment. That’s a crucial benefit since brands get since scalability and security afforded by the ERP without the expense and burden of hiring employees and setting up an IT department.

8. Future-proof your business

Aside from being easy to scale, an ERP-eCommerce integration unlocks many benefits associated with flexibility and customization. For example, you can streamline workflows as your business model changes or expand to new markets.

For B2B eCommerce businesses starting out with ERP integration, they have the freedom to integrate basic functionality, then tweak and build their ideal ERP system over time as their needs change.

This agile process is efficient, prepares you for unexpected situations, and allows you to act on opportunities faster.

9. Improve compliance

A connected ERP and B2B eCommerce system streamlines compliance by delivering customers their negotiated pricing and contracts. Integrations help tie tax or region-specific rules directly to purchases made by customers.

ERPs also keep accounting and tax data that are associated with inventory. Since invoicing and taxation activities are performed automatically, ERP integration gives you a central place to track and manage your contracts, invoices, tax, and other compliance requirements.

10. Boost the customer experience

It’s no secret that happy customers mean more sales. With better customer account tracking and personalization offered by an ERP integration, brands can create memorable service experiences for customers.

An eCommerce system integrated with the ERP can offer customers information about their products, fulfilment and shipping preferences, or order history. By enabling omnichannel self-service experiences, brands eliminate the need for customer calls about order confirmation and updates.

For B2B eCommerce, ERP Integration Is a Competitive Advantage

To meet increased B2B customer expectations, businesses are looking to add convenience, speed, and personalization when shopping and purchasing. Yet better customer experiences are just the start of a long list of benefits of an ERP integration.

With the wealth of data offered by the ERP system, businesses can optimize integrated systems for increased productivity. Team members must dedicate resources towards growth strategies and exploring new markets, rather than managing endless B2B eCommerce data.

Don’t stick with inefficient processes and clunky ERP systems that are constrained by outdated technology. Take control and learn how to master your B2B eCommerce and ERP integration today.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Share this:

  • Print
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • Tumblr
  • Pinterest
  • Skype
  • WhatsApp
  • Telegram
  • Pocket

You might also like…

Filed Under: Industry, Promoted Tagged With: customer, customers, data, ecommerce, erp, integration, system

Join the Robotics & Automation News community

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. shanze1316 says

    August 24, 2021 at 7:08 am

    ERP integration works wonders to automate your ecommerce business and help you compete in the market. A proper implementation with a NetSuite Alliance Partner like Folio3 helps make sure your business is at its full potential.

    Log in to Reply

You must log in to post a comment.

Primary Sidebar

Latest articles

  • Why is My Car Key Stuck in the Ignition?
  • Bachmann Engineering gains certification from Universal Robots for its robot module solution
  • Walmart and Symbotic expand partnership to implement automation system
  • Comau brings high-speed robotic precision to the cosmetics industry
  • EAVX unveils autonomous ‘walk-in van’ prototype
  • MassRobotics launches $50,000 robotics competition
  • Remy Robotics exits stealth mode with launch of third autonomous robotic kitchen
  • Radial expands relationship with Locus Robotics
  • Things to consider while choosing a 45ft flat rack container
  • Why Do Truck Drivers Need ELDs?

Most Read

  • Top 20 electric vehicle charging station companies
    Top 20 electric vehicle charging station companies
  • Track your lost Android
    Track your lost Android
  • Difference Between Three-Phase and Single-Phase Power
    Difference Between Three-Phase and Single-Phase Power
  • Remy Robotics exits stealth mode with launch of third autonomous robotic kitchen
    Remy Robotics exits stealth mode with launch of third autonomous robotic kitchen
  • Top 20 programmable logic controller manufacturers
    Top 20 programmable logic controller manufacturers
  • Top 25 vertical farming companies
    Top 25 vertical farming companies
  • Continental to unveil new autonomous mobile robots for first time at LogiMAT
    Continental to unveil new autonomous mobile robots for first time at LogiMAT
  • Festo unveils ‘the first pneumatic collaborative robot’
    Festo unveils ‘the first pneumatic collaborative robot’
  • The Best Mechanical Engineering Design Software in 2022
    The Best Mechanical Engineering Design Software in 2022
  • Scientists have found more water in space than they ever knew possible
    Scientists have found more water in space than they ever knew possible

Overused words

abb ai applications automated automation automotive autonomous business china companies company control customers data design development digital electric global industrial industry logistics machine manufacturing market mobile platform process production robot robotic robotics robots safety software solution solutions system systems technologies technology time vehicle vehicles warehouse

Secondary Sidebar

Latest news

  • Why is My Car Key Stuck in the Ignition?
  • Bachmann Engineering gains certification from Universal Robots for its robot module solution
  • Walmart and Symbotic expand partnership to implement automation system
  • Comau brings high-speed robotic precision to the cosmetics industry
  • EAVX unveils autonomous ‘walk-in van’ prototype
  • MassRobotics launches $50,000 robotics competition
  • Remy Robotics exits stealth mode with launch of third autonomous robotic kitchen
  • Radial expands relationship with Locus Robotics
  • Things to consider while choosing a 45ft flat rack container
  • Why Do Truck Drivers Need ELDs?

Footer

We are…

Robotics and Automation News was established in May, 2015, and is now one of the most widely-read websites in its category.

Please consider supporting us by becoming a paying subscriber, or through advertising and sponsorships, or by purchasing products and services through our shop – or a combination of all of the above.

Thank you.

Independent

Archivists

December 2020
M T W T F S S
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031  
« Nov   Jan »

Complex

Old-skool

This website and its associated magazine, and weekly newsletter, are all produced by a small team of experienced journalists and media professionals.

If you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to contact us at any of the email addresses on our contact page.

We’d be happy to hear from you, and will always reply as soon as possible.

Future-facing

Free, fair and legal

We support the principles of net neutrality and equal opportunities.

Member of The Internet Defense League

Copyright © 2022 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Do not sell my personal information.
Cookie SettingsAccept
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT