Integrated system is a type of software that creates an integrated work between departments of the company to generate mobility, productivity and precision in decision making.
Gone are the days when analogue products and manual processes were the entrepreneur's great allies.
All of this – worth mentioning – betting on cost reduction. It seems like a lie, right?
It turns out that good planning and alignment with the digital transformation make your enterprise more effective with a reduced use of resources.
Not to mention that it further qualifies the work of your team, making it increasingly analytical and less dependent on bureaucratic and repetitive tasks.
So, let's see what an integrated system is, its importance and the benefits obtained through this type of investment? Just continue reading this post!
What is an integrated system?
Integrated system can be defined as a type of software – or a set of them – that creates a more integrated work between the departments of a company. In other words: in a single solution, the sectors can monitor work processes and avoid a series of mistakes because of this.
Imagine how easy it is to know in advance how much the inventory sector has of a particular product before the sales sector commits itself to a large contract that it probably could not honor if it did not confirm such information?
In this case, therefore, we see the integrated system as a natural evolution of what we knew, exclusively, as a management system for a specific area.
Difference between integrated system and ERP
It is common to associate the two concepts as if they were the same thing, although there are many characteristics that help to differentiate the integrated system from the ERP – even though the objective and application of them is basically the same.
But it is easy to understand what sets them apart. For example: ERP (acronym for Enterprise Resource Planning or, in free translation, which can be something like Enterprise Resource Planning) is used for a specific type of tool, concentrating the information in a database.
Thus, wherever the employee is, it is possible to monitor each action performed in the tool that updates in real time.
The integrated system does not necessarily have to be this unique integration tool, but the means of connecting with different software.
As a result, the effort and investment is less because you find a solution capable of uniting the systems and optimizing the entire production flow of your company.
What are the benefits of investing in an integrated system?
Nowadays, companies are looking for efficient ways to add productivity and reduce costs. And this is not absurd, considering that a series of digital solutions provide this balance of expectations in one product.
However, it is worth understanding the impact that an integrated system can positively have on the routine of its employees.
From these explicit advantages, it is easier to stimulate transformations and engage in adopting the integrated system.
Let's see then what are the four main benefits of adopting this type of product in your corporate day-to-day?
1. Effective communication between different sectors
Communication problems in companies tend to be harmful in different ways. May occur:
- the idleness of departments waiting for the progress of previous stages of the process;
- financial waste and losses also as a result of all the situations mentioned above.
With the integrated system, everyone knows their responsibilities, deadlines and the impact of leaving tasks incomplete.
The exchange of information is also facilitated, ensuring that each department is organized to ensure a cohesive, harmonious and non-individualized workflow.
2. Productivity for the entire company
When the data collected favors the set, everyone has a way of working that is more immune to unforeseen events. And without rework and waste in the work process, it is logical to assume that productivity increases in all sectors.
Especially, because the data collected can say a lot, not only of the collective, but of each sector specifically.
The low productivity of a team can delay all the subsequent flow and, with that, the leadership has the necessary information for an agile and assertive decision making.
The result of this is simple: less unforeseen and a more and more efficient production chain.
3. Accurate monitoring of company actions
As we have seen, the integrated system is an excellent way to gain more control for the entire organization. This also means monitoring all the actions carried out, ensuring accuracy in the necessary adjustments and in the planning for short, medium and long-term objectives.
Through monitoring it is possible to quickly identify the sources of waste and, consequently, losses for the organization.
Then the mapping is done and all the work is more easily monitored. As we highlighted in the introduction, this integration of information helps everyone to know exactly what to do and when to do it.
It is worth reinforcing the example of the inventory sector that we mentioned earlier. An integrated system favors everyone's work and promotes multiple work improvements.
4. Cost reduction
You should have already calculated, based on the previous benefits, that the integrated system also becomes a comprehensive source of cost savings for the company.
After all, from more efficiency, productivity and control over operations, cost reduction is a logical and immediate consequence.
It is important to consider how much this type of solution adds to the company's routine to accurately calculate the benefits that will arise with the use of the integrated system.
More information – and the effective exchange of the same – between the teams and a greater deepening and synergy, which only have to value the company as a whole.
What are the costs of investing in an integrated system?
Although it is another benefit of the integrated system, its low investment can be analyzed in more detail.
And that, as a consequence, guarantees you more quality information to make sure that it is a good investment and a suitable solution for your business.
In general, it is worth mentioning that the integrated system is offered in multiple ways, such as:
- specific solutions;
- hiring plans;
- functionalities and resources;
- business models;
- values.
There are even free models of integrated system. However, it is important to know exactly what your company needs to carry out an accurate and focused search on the characteristics you are looking for for your business. And this all interferes with investment costs.
See then what are the factors that should be included in your planning in order to guarantee a fast and assertive investment in this type of solution!
Implementation
One would imagine that the integrated system is not a solution that is implemented overnight, right?
However, it is advisable to analyze the period stipulated by the company so that the action is carried out quickly, efficiently and that adds all the necessary support during the transition and use of the integrated system.
It is also worth noting that this type of investment (when done well) only adds value to its employees.
The work is lighter, more effective and they stop performing mechanical and repetitive tasks to take care of their activities in a more analytical and strategic way.
And that generates a series of advantages to enhance your brand, did you know? To learn more about the subject, take a look at our article that explores the advantages of working with talent retention within organizations!
Business model
Typically, integrated systems are offered in different business models, the most common of which are through a single payment (granting a lifetime license to the user) or from a subscription that generates monthly payments.
For your company, it is important to learn how much each of these models will positively impact the business, as well as what each of these models offers for your business. After all, these are issues that will add costs to your investment.
Training
In the same way that the implementation requires attention from the company, make sure that there will also be training to make the transition even more effective and free of unforeseen events.
This type of differential creates a more lasting relationship with the company, as it is a good indication that it understands their needs and offers the solution to ensure total convenience for customers.
Not to mention that the training is carried out by those who really understand the integrated system solution.
Thus, everyone learns easily, clears up doubts and can start work as soon as possible. It is much more beneficial to have someone who shares the knowledge.
Maintenance and support
These are issues as relevant as the training itself. The low investment in an integrated system is of no use if the company does not subsequently offer good technical support to customers.
It is not enough to sell the solution and move on to the next customer. Doubts arise, as well as problems. And it is important to have a company that guarantees all the care that you and your entire team want and need.
Customization
Through customization, digital solutions adapt even more to your needs, needs and objectives. So make sure that your favorite integrated system can be customized according to the characteristics of your business – not the other way around.
It is also worth highlighting another relevant point, which is the frequency of updates to the solution. Mainly, because a company that guarantees constant updates shows concern in ensuring that your business remains enjoying the best resources and benefits that the integrated system has to offer.
However, all of this must be thought out so that costs are within your budget and that the company's differentials, in fact, add to the development of your organization when investing in an integrated system.
Innovate not to lose talent
You are willing to innovate in the management of your company. In addition to the integrated system, you can add benefits that will keep your talent team increasingly united to the company.
Get to know the HR Consultants UKy tool and learn how the system that implements payment on demand works, that is, employees of a company can anticipate part of their salaries when they need it.
This tool is changing the way employees deal with their wages and generating more job satisfaction and motivation.
HR Consultants UKy can be one of the most valued benefits for those who work at your company. Talk to an expert and find out more!
How about you take it a step further now that you already know what the benefits of investing in this type of technology are? To do this, share the post on your social networks and mark colleagues who will also love to know the features and conveniences of the integrated system!
