ERP or rather MRP systems for many years (in SYSPRO’s case, for 40 years!) have enabled Purchasing via requisitions through approval – then purchase orders with more approval – receiving via a GRN process – and finally payment of supplier invoices. This system still works fine and is best loved by administration and micro-managing Procurement Managers.

The availability of choice has seeped into every aspect of modern day life. From the cars we drive to the food we eat and the holidays we take, to the way we choose to spend our leisure time, the possibilities for consumers have become almost limitless.

Industry 4.0 (deemed the fourth industrial revolution) has brought about rapid change and digital transformation. It has also paved the way for businesses to reap the rewards of successful ERP implementations. With process and data automation, integration, increased efficiencies and many other business benefits, the question is no longer whether to invest in ERP but rather how best to go about it.

Imagine what it would mean for your business to have real-time actionable insights into key performance information, and the tools for your people to quickly, easily and proactively address them?

Driving performance management across an organization can prove extremely challenging, but this needn’t be the case. Historically, the Balance Scorecard has been a popular tool used by many companies seeking this kind of improvement. This system of measurement connects the dots between big picture strategy (mission, vision, core values, strategic focus) and more operational elements (objectives, measures, targets and initiatives).

My daughter is 8 years old and recently enthused about auditioning for the latest round of Idols but when I told her we would need to practice, so she could give an impressive and polished performance, she frowned. In her head, I think she thought she could just show up and do a song off-the-cuff and that was all there is to it.

The author, Edward Payson Powell, had a great way of saying farewell to the year: “The Old Year has gone. Let the dead past bury its own dead. The New Year has taken possession of the clock of time. All hail the duties and possibilities of the coming twelve months!”