Using an ERP is within an organization is just like a blessing as it not only helps you to track major things in one place but also eases the process of defining and assigning tasks.

But there are various complexities that are linked to the creation of any ERP software.

So, here we will tell you how you can easily create and ERP software at easily from scratch. We will also mention the various types of ERP software that you can easily make along with the things that are needed to create such programs.

Understand ERP Software Requirements

The first step is gathering requirements from various business departments to understand their pain points and needs. Conduct interviews and gather inputs on their processes, data, reporting needs etc. This will help you design a system that serves all stakeholders.

Plan the Architecture

With the requirements in hand, you can start planning the overall architecture. Decide on components like database, middleware, front-end, integrations etc. Outline how data will flow between components. Choose appropriate technology stacks.

Design the Database Schema

Database is at the core of an ERP software. Design a robust normalized database schema that can store all business data efficiently. Properly structure tables and relationships between them.

Build APIs and Integrations

APIs will enable integration between the ERP system and other applications like CRM, eCommerce etc. Design flexible and scalable APIs for effective integrations.

Create the User Interface

The user interface enables employees to interact with the ERP in a simple way. Design clean, intuitive UIs with responsive design for use on any device. Follow usability best practices.

Develop Key Modules

ERP software consists of many business modules like finance, inventory, HR, manufacturing etc. Develop the core modules one by one based on the initial requirements.

Testing and Iteration

Conduct rigorous testing during the development process. Fix bugs and errors. Iterate continuously to refine the system until it meets all requirements.

What Kind Of ERP Software Can You Create?

There are various types of ERP programs that you can create by yourself from scratch. The major ones out of them are:

Industry-Specific ERP

Industry-specific ERP is designed for a particular industry like manufacturing, construction, retail etc. It incorporates industry best practices.

School ERP Programs

Creating a good cloud based school management software is also possible. With the help of such software, schools and institutions can management their admission, students profiles, and many other things online.

Open-Source ERP

Open-source ERP provides source code access so companies can customize it. Examples are Odoo, ERPNext, Dolibarr.

On-Premise ERP

On-premise ERP is installed and run on company’s own servers. It provides full control of systems.

Cloud ERP

Cloud ERP is hosted on vendor’s servers and accessed via web. It reduces hardware costs. Popular ones are SAP S4/HANA, Oracle NetSuite.

Small Business ERP

Made for SMEs, small business ERPs provide core functionality like accounting, inventory at an affordable price. E.g. Zoho Inventory, AccountEdge.

Custom ERP Software

Fully customized ERP can be built from ground up for businesses with very specific needs. Allows complete flexibility.

So in summary, you can create ERP software tailored to any industry, deployment model, business size or custom needs.

Things Required To Create An ERP Software

There are lots of things that you might require to create a good ERP program from scratch. These are:

Requirements Gathering Checklist

Create a comprehensive checklist to gather functional/technical requirements from all departments.

Server Infrastructure

Servers will be needed to host the ERP either on-premise or on cloud.

Development Team

Assemble a team of business analysts, project managers, software developers, QA experts, database admin etc.

Programming Languages

Choose languages like Java, .NET, PHP etc. based on technology stack.

ERP Development Framework

Frameworks like Spring, Laravel, Django can speed up application development.

Database Software

Database software like MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server to store and manage data.

Testing Tools

Tools like Selenium, JMeter for functionality testing, load testing, performance testing.

Documentation Tools

Tools like Confluence to document requirements, specifications, processes etc.

Project Management Tools

Tools like Jira to manage requirements, tasks, defects and track progress.

Cloud Infrastructure

For cloud-based ERP, cloud infrastructure like AWS, Azure or Google Cloud.

So, these are the major things that you might required to create an ERP program at your own. It is important to have right people, processes, and infrastructure to develop such type of software.

Is It Hard To Create An ERP Software?

Above we provided you with the instructions for creating an ERP program. However, creating ERP software is not that easy and you might face several issues while creating it, like:

• Integrating Complex Systems: ERP consolidates and integrates many complex business systems like finance, inventory, HR, CRM etc. Interfacing them is challenging.
• Customization: Each business has unique processes and requirements. Customizing the software to fit their needs requires effort.
• Managing Scale: ERP systems manage huge data volumes, transactions and users. Scaling up can be difficult.
• Testing: Validating end-to-end business scenarios and integration requires thorough testing. Test coverage is challenging.
• Data Migration: Migrating data from legacy systems into the new ERP requires data mapping and ETL processes.
• Change Management: Adoption across organizations requires change management and user training on the new system.
• Ongoing Enhancements: Business needs to evolve over time. Continually enhancing the ERP with new capabilities is required.

However, with a phased rollout approach, strong project management disciplines, and an experienced implementation team, the challenges can be overcome to create a successful ERP system that delivers value.

What is the typical timeline for building an ERP software?

For a medium-complexity ERP system, the typical timeline is about 12-18 months from requirements gathering to rollout. However, in some cases, you can even create in within a year.

What is the average cost to build an ERP software?

The average cost can range from $100,000 for a simple cloud-based system to over $1 million for a complex on-premise enterprise ERP.

Should you build or buy an ERP software?

Building an ERP only makes sense if you have very specific custom needs. Otherwise, buying is recommended to leverage existing solutions.

What are some top ERP development platforms?

Some popular platforms are SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Infor, Workday, etc.

Can ERP software be built using low-code platforms?

Yes, low-code platforms like Appian, Mendix, OutSystems etc. can be used to faster build certain ERP modules.

Conclusion

Creating an ERP software from the ground up is complex but doable with careful planning and execution. The key steps involve gathering requirements, designing architecture, developing modules, rigorous testing, and change management during rollout.

While challenging, building a custom ERP ultimately allows for a system tailored to your unique business needs. Leveraging frameworks, integrations, and low-code platforms can help accelerate development. With the right expertise and disciplined approach, you can successfully build and deploy your own ERP software.

Author Bio:

I am Ava Davis, and am create compelling content across platforms. With 3+ years of experience, I leverage my content marketing and SEO skills to engage audiences and deliver results for brands. My passion drives me to craft content that resonates. I enjoy reading, hiking, and spending time with loved ones. Every content project allows me to strategize innovatively.