Study: Use of CRM, ERP software by mobile workers will increase significantly by 2017
In today's manufacturing and distribution industries, customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software are vital tools for managing people, resources and production. While these types of software are already used widely in the business world, their utilization will only increase in the years ahead, according to a research study.
Strategy Analytics released a report in April that described the increasing desire for mobility among today's workers. These professionals desire constant access to critical business information, but the nature of technology needs that this information often has to be delivered through new channels, including mobile devices.
As a result, the number of mobile workers making use of CRM and ERP software will grow significantly in the next five years, according to a press release on the report. Though Strategy Analytics did not offer a specific number, it did estimate that "tens of millions" more users should be using CRM and ERP software by 2017.
"With an eye toward becoming mobile businesses, today’s organizations are committed to mobilizing critical applications by ensuring that workers have access anywhere, including at home, at remote work and customer sites, and while traveling," said Gina Luk, a senior analyst at the firm and author of the study.
While mobile capabilities are increasingly important for individuals who use ERP software, manufacturers and distributors considering an upgrade should also gauge if a potential new piece of software satisfies the key requirements as defined by their particular business.
