What is the Best ERP for Large and Rapidly Growing Companies?
- alvis10
- Jan 24
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 3
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software has become a cornerstone for businesses across Singapore, providing a comprehensive solution to manage various aspects of their operations. It integrates different business functions, streamlines processes, and offers real-time insights, leading to increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and better decision-making.
Singapore has witnessed significant advancements in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, with increasing demand for new technologies, such as cloud-based ERP solutions and the integration of AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
In light of these developments, large or rapidly growing businesses must once again ask themselves: “Which ERP is the best for my company?”
This article reviews the solutions that have seen an increase in demand, as well as the essential pros and cons, by comparing the four most popular ERP solutions in Singapore: SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O, and Infor. We will cover an overview of each ERP, functionality and features, ease of use, AI integration, deployment options, and provide our recommendation.
An Overview Of The Big Four In Singapore
SAP S/4HANA is a premium ERP solution renowned for its real-time analytics, cloud-based flexibility, and intelligent capabilities. Its in-memory database technology enables rapid processing, while its strong integration with other SAP solutions provides a unified platform for managing various business processes.
SAP S/4HANA's depth and scale sets it apart from competitors, making it the most comprehensive choice for businesses seeking a powerful and scalable solution.
Oracle offers an in-depth suite of business applications, including ERP, CRM, and SCM solutions, with tailored features and capabilities for various sectors.
Its advanced analytics capabilities enable data-driven decision-making, and its unified platform offers seamless integration across different business processes.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (F&O) offers an ERP solution that integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem, providing users with a unified platform for managing finances and operations. Its integration with Microsoft Office 365 provides a familiar and intuitive user experience.
While it may not be as comprehensive as some other ERP solutions, especially for the largest organizations, Dynamics 365 F&O provides a flexible platform for businesses of all sizes.
Infor offers industry-specific ERP solutions, particularly for manufacturing and distribution, known for its deep domain expertise and focus on operational efficiency.
While it may not be as widely adopted as other ERP providers and can be limited in terms of features and functionality compared to more comprehensive solutions, Infor's specialised offerings may make it a strong choice for businesses in these sectors.
Functionality and Features - Who Wins?
Comprehensive Functionality:
SAP S/4HANA. As a premium ERP solution, SAP S/4HANA offers a wide range of in-depth features, including financial management, supply chain management, human capital management, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). Its real-time analytics and intelligent ERP capabilities provide valuable insights and automation, making it a strong choice for businesses seeking a robust and flexible solution.
Industry Specialization:
Infor. Renowned for its deep domain expertise and focus on industry-specific ERP solutions. This specialization provides several key advantages for businesses operating in specific sectors.
However, while SAP S/4HANA serves a broader suite overall, it is important to note SAP S/4HANA still offers essential industry-specific solutions and can be highly customizable to meet the needs of various sectors.
Which is easiest to use?
Many users find Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O much easier to use compared to other ERPs. This is because of its integration with Microsoft Office applications, as well as having more simplified functionalities. This makes Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O a favorable choice for small to medium-sized businesses that are willing to sacrifice comprehensiveness.
SAP S/4HANA was initially difficult to use due to its scope and depth of features. However, it has recently implemented its AI-powered copilot feature, which drastically simplifies the usage of the ERP for its users and provides intelligent recommendations to help users make full use of the ERP. SAP has also created several product variants tailored to smaller and medium-sized enterprises.
Who has the best AI Integration?
All four solutions leverage AI and machine learning for tasks like automation, predictive analytics, and intelligent recommendations. However, key considerations make SAP S/4HANA’s AI integration stand out amongst the competition.
SAP S/4HANA comes with intelligent and in-depth ERP features, applying the power of AI in the areas of finance, supply chain, procurement, human resources, sales and customer service, marketing and commerce, IT and platform, as well as industries.
While this wide array of AI implementations is impressive, what makes it truly shine is its comprehensiveness and relevance. For example, in the supply chain industry, SAP’s AI integration allows businesses to quickly evaluate risks and projected delays with real-time incident reports, track which specific products are affected, and determine the revenue impact for each customer.
Smart scenario planning presents alternate paths to ensure timely deliveries in the face of shipment issues. Businesses will also receive comprehensive information to help prioritize shipments, including cancellation risks, customer priority, projected profit, reliability, lead time, and even sustainability factors. These variables are immediately calculated, and the ideal option is recommended based on the overall analysis. Even if you are not looking for an ERP that focuses specifically on supply chain solutions, the AI implementation across SAP’s entire ERP suite offers comprehensive, meaningful features tailored to various industries.
As mentioned, SAP S/4HANA’s AI-powered copilot feature simplifies the ERP usage, while providing insightful recommendations on how to maximize its benefits.
Comparing SAP S/4HANA to the other ERPs
While Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O offers similar features, they are not as in-depth compared to SAP S/4HANA. However, its broader range of AI services via the Azure platform allows for flexible integration into various applications.
Oracle has been making significant strides in leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance its ERP capabilities. While it may not have the same level of AI integration as SAP S/4HANA in terms of depth and breadth, it can still provide value for organizations seeking to improve efficiency and decision-making through AI.
Infor CloudSuite also integrates AI features to enhance its capabilities. However, compared to SAP S/4HANA and Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O, Infor's AI integration may be less comprehensive and focused. Despite this, Infor CloudSuite’s AI integration can benefit organizations in various industries but may vary depending on specific industry modules and customizations.
Comparing Deployment Options
When implementing an ERP system, organizations have several deployment options to choose from. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on the organization's specific needs and priorities. Cloud ERP: Hosted and managed by a third-party provider. Offers scalability, cost-effectiveness, and rapid deployment, but lacks the same customization as On-Premises ERPs.
On-Premises ERP: Installed and managed on the organization's own hardware and infrastructure. Provides greater control and customization but requires higher upfront costs and ongoing maintenance.
Hybrid ERP: Combines elements of cloud and on-premises deployment, offering a balance of control, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, hybrid deployment can be more complex to manage and may require additional integration efforts.
Here’s a quick look at the deployment options for the ERP solutions we are reviewing:
SAP S/4HANA: Offers comprehensive on-premise and cloud-based deployment options.
Oracle: Provides flexibility with on-premise, cloud, and hybrid deployment models.
Microsoft Dynamics 365: Primarily cloud-based but also offers on-premise options.
Infor: Primarily cloud-based but also offers on-premise options.
So which ERP is Best for a Large or Rapidly Growing Business in Singapore?
As a leading ERP solution, SAP S/4HANA offers a comprehensive suite of premium features designed to streamline business operations and drive efficiency.
With its ability to handle high transaction volumes, adapt to specific business processes, integrate seamlessly with other tools, and provide real-time analytics, SAP S/4HANA empowers organizations to make meaningful, data-driven decisions to achieve solutions tailored to the unique needs of various sectors.
In summary, it is a valuable investment for organizations, thanks to its comprehensive features, scalability, customization options, analytics, industry-specific solutions, and integration capabilities.
What are SAP S/4 HANA users saying?
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