Almost every company is familiar with this: when it comes to managing orders, inventory, or finances, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) start with Microsoft Excel. At SYNERPY, we know the problem all too well – countless lists and tables, and over the years, despite good organization, you slowly but surely lose track and reach the limits of your business. This is precisely what then leads to problems within the company’s structure. In this article, we’ll show you why Excel cannot replace ERP software, what risks arise, and why a solution like AvERP is the better choice.
What is Excel – and what is an ERP system?
Excel is a spreadsheet program – ideal for flexible calculations, spreadsheets, lists, and simple analyses. An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is integrated business software that digitally maps all business processes: from accounting and inventory management to CRM, HR, and production. Everything is interconnected and interdependent. Therefore, there is a significant difference.
Why Excel reaches its limits
Excel is often a good starting point, but as companies grow and their data sets become larger, it becomes complicated to maintain an overview and structure. We have listed some essential points that particularly well illustrate Excel’s weaknesses:
1. No central database
Excel files are often stored in a decentralized manner, on multiple computers or servers. Maintaining a consistent and up-to-date data set is hardly possible – this increases the potential for errors and slows down decision-making.
2. No process automation
Using Excel requires processes to be initiated and maintained manually. This is time-consuming and prone to errors – especially as complexity increases.
3. Lack of scalability
Excel is suitable for smaller tasks, but not for growing companies with multiple departments, users, or even locations.
4. Lack of security & compliance
Excel offers no integrated user rights, logging, or legally compliant archiving – risks including those related to GDPR and GoBD.
5. No real-time analysis
Reports have to be created and maintained manually – which unfortunately is often not the case. An ERP system delivers up-to-date dashboards with just one click.
The solution: An ERP system like AvERP
The optimal and probably best solution is an ERP system that is maintained and kept up-to-date by individual users (employees). Data maintenance is still crucial here – but less prone to errors than in Excel.
With AvERP, we offer you professional, free, and open-source ERP software, specifically designed for medium-sized businesses – an ERP system made in Germany with over 25 years of experience. AvERP provides companies with a tool that grows with them, optimizes processes, and promotes digital transformation – all without license fees.
Conclusion: Excel is a tool – AvERP is a system
Excel is fine for calculations, but not for business management. Anyone who prioritizes sustainable growth, security, and efficiency cannot do without an ERP system like AvERP. It’s an investment in your company’s digital future. In a rapidly changing world, you should be ideally positioned to keep pace with change and remain competitive.
Would you like to learn more about AvERP? We would be happy to advise you on the many advantages of the system in a free initial consultation.
Your SYNERPY Team