Running a small or medium-sized business isn’t a cakewalk. You’ve got to keep an eye on inventory, manage sales, process payments, handle your team, and maybe even do customer support yourself. And if you’re using a bunch of different tools – or worse, pen and paper – it gets chaotic pretty fast.
That’s where ERP software can genuinely change the game.
But here’s the deal: ERP systems aren’t all made equal. What works for a big corporate might totally flop for a small factory or local supplier. So if you’re an SME owner or manager, how do you make the right call?
This guide breaks it down simply and clearly, based on real-world insights not just technical jargon. At Bsquare Solutions, we’ve helped tons of small businesses implement ERP in a way that’s smooth, practical, and cost-efficient. Here’s everything you should know before choosing yours.
1. Don’t Jump In Without Knowing Why You Need ERP
This sounds obvious, but it’s the step many skip.
Start by asking:
- What are the bottlenecks in your current process?
- Are you losing track of stock?
- Spending too much time on manual billing?
- Making errors during data entry?
Unless you know why you need ERP, you’ll end up paying for features you’ll never use. That’s money down the drain.
Think of ERP like a custom suit. It should fit your business, not the other way around.
2. Go for Something Designed for Small Businesses
There’s a reason terms like “Manufacturing software for small business” exist. Because SMEs don’t need bulky, enterprise-grade software with 200 features they’ll never touch.
You need something clean, smart, and simple to use. Especially if you don’t have a full-time IT guy sitting in the office.
At Bsquare, we create ERP tools tailored for smaller teams. Whether you’re in trading, manufacturing, or services we build systems that work with you, not against you.
3. If You’re into Manufacturing, You Need Industry-Specific Features
If you’re making stuff anything from clothing to auto parts you need more than just billing and HR.
A proper manufacturing software for small business should help you:
- Track raw materials
- Monitor production timelines
- Manage machine loads
- Forecast inventory and orders
- Handle quality checks
This isn’t optional. Generic ERP tools won’t cut it. We’ve seen small factories struggle for months after buying something that didn’t support production needs.
The fix? Choose a provider that offers industry-specific ERP modules.
4. Customization Matters More Than You Think
Here’s a truth not many ERP vendors tell you: Every SME is unique.
Even two furniture makers won’t operate the same way. So don’t settle for a rigid, one-size-fits-all ERP.
Ask your vendor:
- Can I adjust workflows?
- Can I create user roles?
- Can it be tweaked to my approval process?
That’s where a reliable ERP development company makes all the difference. At Bsquare, customization is core to everything we do. You tell us how your business runs – we build ERP to match that.
5. Budget Smartly (But Don’t Be Cheap)
ERP is not an expense. It’s an investment. But yes, as an SME, you can’t afford to burn cash either.
So how do you balance it?
Look for ERP software that’s:
- Modular (pay only for what you need)
- Cloud-based (to reduce infrastructure costs)
- Easy to scale up (so you don’t outgrow it in 6 months)
Our advice? Don’t go for the cheapest ERP. Go for the right ERP that offers value for money. Bsquare’s small business ERP packages are priced in a way that fits tight budgets but still delivers power.
6. Choose Simplicity Over Fancy Features
Do you really need AI-powered analytics or blockchain integrations? Maybe not.
But you do need:
- Clean dashboards
- Easy navigation
- Quick training for your staff
- Mobile access (if your team is on the move)
A lot of ERP software out there tries to look flashy but ends up confusing your team. Keep it simple. If it takes more than a week to learn, it’s not worth it.
That’s why our clients love Bsquare’s ERP – zero tech background needed. Even your storekeeper or floor manager can use it confidently.
7. Always Test Before You Finalize
Never buy an ERP system without a proper demo. And if possible, get a free trial or sandbox access.
Use this trial to:
- Check how intuitive the system feels
- Test out the key modules you’ll use daily
- Get feedback from your staff who’ll be using it
This trial period is where you’ll spot red flags glitches, confusing menus, or slow performance.
At Bsquare Solutions – ERP software for manufacturing industry, we always offer a full walkthrough before any commitment is made. Transparency is key.
8. Support and Training: Ask About It Upfront
ERP is not a plug-and-play tool. You will have questions. You will need help, especially during setup.
Ask these questions:
- Is onboarding included in the price?
- Will someone train my staff?
- What’s the response time for support queries?
- Will I get local language support (if needed)?
We take pride in our client support. Our job doesn’t end with the sale it begins there.
9. Plan for the Future – Not Just the Present
Your ERP should grow as you grow.
Today, you may only need inventory + billing. Tomorrow, you may want payroll + CRM + production tracking.
Choose a vendor who gives you the flexibility to scale. At Bsquare, we build all ERP systems with future growth in mind. So you don’t have to start from scratch again next year.
ERP isn’t just software. It’s the digital backbone of your entire business. Choose wrong, and you’ll struggle. Choose right, and your business becomes faster, smarter, and way more efficient.
So take your time. Ask the right questions. Avoid shiny distractions. And partner with people who understand your business not just the tech.
At Bsquare Solutions, we’ve helped SMEs across India build and run ERP systems that actually work. Whether you’re looking for a basic small business software ERP, need full-blown manufacturing software for small business, or want to work with a custom ERP development company we’re here for it.
Let’s build something that fits your business like a glove.