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10 Points to Consider when Selecting a Business Automation Platform

Digital transformation is the need of the hour for businesses to thrive in today’s highly competitive market scenario. Companies are constantly working on improving their efficiency and productivity. A business automation platform helps companies achieve this.

What is a business automation platform?

A business automation platform is a business-wide solution, adopted by companies to streamline their business processes. Such a platform enables companies to react quickly to market demands thus helping them deliver a good customer experience.
A business automation platform can be very advantageous to a company. Let us look at the top 10 points a business should consider when selectinga business automation platform.

1. Automation helps improve productivity

A business automation platform, as the name suggests, helps companies automate various routine activities. It frees up employee time spent on performing mundane tasks. Employees can then utilise the available time to focus on other, more essential tasks.
Automation allows employees to increase efficiency, focus on innovation and contribute towards the overall growth of the company.

2. Centralized System increases ability to identify and respond to problems

A business needs to get information from all its departments to function effectively. A business automation platform can make this process easier and more efficient. It is implemented company-wide and ensures integration across all the business functions.
A centralised system provides stakeholders with a complete view of what is happening within their company. It helps them identify any challenges/concerns quickly. Stakeholders can therefore address these concerns on a priority basis and make swift decisions to rectify them.

3. Real-time data provides a key to real-time insights and analytics

Most companies today are currently using or are planning to shift to cloud-based business automation platforms. The most important advantage of these cloud-based applications is ability to capture, track, monitor, and provide access to data in real-time.
In a digitally-driven business scenario, data is the key. A cloud-based ERP that is used as a business automation platform provides decision-makers access to company-wide data with just a couple of clicks. These platforms allow users to create/generate reports for data analysis. It provides them with real-time insights and helps them stay on top of things.
Having said that, business automation platforms are highly secure. A user can access the system only if she/he has appropriate access rights as authorized by the company. Users can be assured that their data is safe and cannot be accessed by anyone who is not authorized to do so.

4. Business systems with anytime-anywhere access are essential

Acritical aspect of cloud-based software is its ability to provide employees data access through a browser usingthe internet. As everything is hosted on a cloud, users can work from anywhere. This is essential in current times as more and more businesses have a distributed workforce operating from multiple locations.
Solutions built for the cloud provide almost 100% uptime and round-the-clock support services which enable users to work at any time from wherever they are. It makes sure that the work is not affected even if the employees are spread across different geographies and are operating in different time zones.

5. Better accuracy and less scope for human error

Many companies use spreadsheets for capturing and maintaining data. Since multiple people enter data on these sheets, there might be confusion about the latest version. Manual data entry increases the chances of human error. A zero missed in financial data or an order placed late might have a negative impact on the bottom line of the company. Tracking these mistakes in multiple spreadsheets wastes time and resources.
Business automation helps minimize delays caused due to human error, eliminates need of multiple encoding steps, and removes worker fatigue associated with spreadsheet workflows.
For example, let us consider a retail business that has already implemented enterprise/automation software. A business automation solution takes care of multiple aspects of inventory management, vendor management, supply chain, financials, etc. It helps the company understand market trends, forecast demand and manage supply accordingly. With everyone logging into a single system, it becomes easier to review data and view updated information in real time.

6. Reduce overhead going forward

For a cloud solution, the service provider is in charge of maintaining and securing the system implemented. They have dedicated teams of experts who manage the solution 24*7. If companies had to have an inhouse team for this kind of work, they would have to recruit staff with specific skillsets, give them the necessary resources and support, and manage server back-ups and other infrastructure costs. This can be very expensive for individual businesses.Moreover, in case of a technology change, all these systems would have to be replaced/updated to ensure optimal functioning with the resulting investments required for infrastructure upgrades.In time, certain employee skills will also become obsolete. It is easier for any company to use cloud software and outsource toimplement business automation through a specialized service provider (whose core function is to help companies with automation), thus reducing added costs and efforts. Once implemented, a good implementation partner will see to it that the customer is trained and develops expertise to do more and more on their own.

7. Support multi-location operations

Today’s best automation platforms help businesses manage data, information and communications for multi-location set-ups with ease.Integrated cloud solutions enable each location to manage their processes and data while providing visibility of these to the head office.
Relevant stakeholders can have a complete overview of each of these locations in real-time. Changes in compliance and regulations per location can be handled in a smooth, hassle-free manner. This feature can help companies manage their finances, keeping in mind the foreign currencies, exchange rates, corresponding location-based taxes, and other location-specific regulations.

8. Personalization

Each business or industry has certain specifications which are unique and native to it. It should be possible to personalize the business application software, as per a company’s needs and challenges. This flexibility is critical as it will have an overall impact on the usability of the solution.
Even if the software used by itself does not provide all the functionalities required by the company, it should have integration capabilities with other software that can provide these features or functionalities. Today’s software must have easy-to-understand and easy-to-use functionalities.
Ease of use, on the integration front, is key when evaluating a new business automation platform because almost every company will need more than one solution to run their business. Make sure that what you are considering has well-defined APIs and multiple integration methods, native to the application.These features can be used with other systems to minimize costly and difficult-to-find professional services that are in short supply.

9. Scalability

Another critical reason to choose a business automation platform is that it can scale as businesses grow. Scaling the solution as the business evolves should be hassle-free and quick. Today’s solutions are comparatively less costly to scale according to company requirements as compared to legacy systems (older on-premise or supplier-cloud driven computing software and/or hardware that is still in use). Make sure that the solution you invest in, is able to move from shared to dedicated infrastructure in case the business grows a lot.

10. Complete customer profiling is a must for today’s sellers

A lot of Software as a Service (SAAS) solutions come with an integrated CRM, i.e.,a rich customer relationship management functionality. Not only do all companies need to store customer data in a single system, they also need to be able to slice and dice this data to know everything about each customer.

A CRM oriented solution allows companies to understand purchase trends, create multiple promotional campaigns customer by customer,and produce personalized offers. It can assist sales and customer service personnel to serve customers better. They can access historical data in just a couple of clicks. It can also help them resolve any customer queries or grievances efficiently. Make sure that the automation solution platform you choose has good CRM for your type of business.

Implementing a business automation platform is an important decision for a company. If you are considering going for a business automation platform or wish to switch from the current one, you can speak to the experts at Softype.

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Softype is a global provider of cloud business automation solutions and an experienced enterprise consulting provider to medium and large enterprises. We have more than 15 years of successful experience with ERP system implementations, business process consulting, and integration. We have offices in the US, Philippines, India and Kenya.

We have been a Solution Partner for Oracle NetSuite, the original and leader cloud ERP, since 2004. We have successfully assisted more than 400 clients across 25 countries and four continents over the past 17 years. Besides NetSuite, our company has expertise in workflow automation and integration for the WD, Retail, Education and Light Manufacturing industries. We are partners of StoreHub Cloud POS and Workato for integration and automation for different enterprises.

We do not just build things/spaces or create software. Our focus is practical solutioning coupled with expert service delivery of software projects to maximize our clients’ investments in business automation solutions that they undertake. We partner with them to deliver the promise of success.

For further information, please contact us here. You can also reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at +1 650 488 4412 (Global), +63 967 429 9575 (Philippines), +91 22 4616 3839 (India), +254 720 940 174 (Africa), and +61 452 183 613 (Australia).

About the Author
Hugh Klesch-Sawyer
Hugh Klesch-Sawyer

Hugh Klesch-Sawyer, Digital Marketing Specialist

Hugh graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Old Dominion University. Discovering through a desire to help his church, that digital marketing skills were in short supply, he began to immerse himself in this knowledge.

In 2021, he completed a 6-month Digital Marketing certification course through the Digital Marketing Institute and was certified in that specialty after 4 months in the program.

In January of 2022, Hugh accepted a position as Digital Marketing Specialist with Softype. Since then, Hugh has completed 2 additional marketing certifications in search engine optimization and content marketing through HubSpot Academy.

About Author

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Mr. Shreyansh Patil (Shrey)

Group CEO

Shrey holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Australian Graduate School of Management, University of New South Wales, specializing in consulting.

With extensive experience in Enterprise Cloud Solutions (ERP) and Management Consulting spanning four continents, Shrey is equipped with the ability to bridge gaps between technology and business outcomes that will enhance customer experience. Having held leadership roles in consulting, advisory, and technology organizations across various geographies, Shrey brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in general management, leadership, and business development. With excellent people management skills and a strong consulting background, Shrey is extremely passionate about adding value through technology and process re-engineering.

Shrey’s unwavering dedication to cultivate a high-performing, customer-centric culture at Softype will empower our team to reach new heights and become the best version of ourselves.

Ms. Juliana Luz

Co-Chairman and Co-Founder

Juliana (Nana) holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Stanford University.

The first development of cloud computing found Nana working in this area with her own start-up. Understanding the benefit of consolidating data and systems into a single version of the truth, she then partnered with NetLedger (now Oracle NetSuite) to offer a fully functional Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system built exclusively on the cloud.

Nana’s expertise includes envisioning change and delivering value to growth-oriented businesses. Utilizing ERP technology and her advanced skills in process optimization, she streamlines processes, eliminates redundancies and manual processes, and facilitates digital transformations for Softype clients.

A ‘hands-on expert, Nana has, since founding Softype, participated in dozens of projects across 26 countries in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and all over Asia. Nana serves on the board of La Proteccion de la Infancia (Gota de Leche) and United Success Global.

Mr. Hugh Klesch-Sawyer

Digital Marketing Specialist

Hugh holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Management from Old Dominion University.

As the son of a grocery store owner’s parents, Hugh started his marketing education early, beginning at around 10 years old. After beginning his Softype career in Sales, he discovered that additional marketing knowledge would be beneficial. He began to immerse himself in marketing education and in 2021, Hugh started a 6-month Digital Marketing certification course through the Digital Marketing Institute and American Marketing Association. After 4 months in the program, Hugh earned his Digital Marketing Specialist and Professional Certified Marketer certifications. In January 2022, he accepted a position  change from Sales/Business Development to Digital Marketing Specialist.

Hugh’s mantra is: “If you think you can or you think you can’t, either way, you’re right.”

Mr. Terence Michael C. Rena

Customer Success Officer

Terence holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a major in Tourism Management.

Terence’s experience includes sales and marketing roles, particularly creating marketing strategies, promotions, and retention programs in the travel and tourism industry. Since joining Softype in 2021, Terence has been a prime driver of marketing insights and a facilitator of key marketing initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. Event management is his specialty, including both online and in-person events that attract potential Softype clients to engage with the brand. Additionally, Terence is the face of Softype to our clients in Asia and Africa, ensuring they receive optimal service.

Personally, Terence enjoys basketball, cycling, guitar playing, mecha (robot) modeling, and video games. His daily mantra is as follows: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Mr. Ebenezer (Ebe) Mutungwa

African Sales

Ebe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ebenezer (Ebe) Mutungwa earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Ebe combines outstanding communication skills with expert knowledge of NetSuite ERP (5 years in pre-sales for NetSuite Africa). Although, as Softype’s Sales officer for the African continent, Ebe works with organizations in various industries, he has a soft spot for nonprofit organizations. A previous
NGO manager, Ebe understands their challenges and demonstrates how they can leverage the Oracle NetSuite ERP and NetSuite’s Social Impact program to support their mission.

When not working, Ebe enjoys traveling, jogging, playing the guitar, and spending time with family and friends. His words to live by are “Through it all; all is well.”

Mr. Jack V. Lazo

North American Sales

Jack attended the University of the Philippines, majoring in Hospitality Management.

Jack’s experience includes 4 years in the broadcasting industry and more than 33 years in enterprise information technology solutions sales. In the broadcast industry, Jack learned to match his style to anyone’s; he uses this skill today to communicate in a manner his clients appreciate. Jack combines empathetic listening skills with IT solutions knowledge to understand the finer points of what his customers require, need, and want.

Jack prizes spending time with his family. When he has time, he enjoys listening to music and watching soccer and mixed martial arts.

Mr. Chris Beecroft CPA

Vice President of Sales

Chris holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Florida Atlantic University, an MBA from Florida State University, and is pursuing a DBA degree from AMA University.

Chris has more than 16 years of software sales experience, including 13 years in ERP sales with Oracle and SAP. Combining his ERP and accounting knowledge (CPA), Chris finds the right solution for our clients. He dives headfirst into the details of his team’s engagements, ensuring that Softype’s solutions are always the best fit. Others describe Chris as action-oriented, hands-on, and accountable.

Personally, Chris enjoys tennis, squash, badminton, biking, and reading. He also enjoys leading others to change their lives by providing personal guidance. His words to live by are “Who Dares Wins.”

Mr. Upendra Rabde

Business Architect

Upendra holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Indus Business Academy in Bengaluru, India. His credentials include the academic specialties of Information Technology and Marketing.

Upendra’s experience includes business consulting and business process re-engineering. He brings more than 17 years of technical solution development experience to Softype. He counts experience in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and Supply Chain Management (SCM) integration projects in the manufacturing, telecom, healthcare, retail, banking, and insurance industries. He is proficient in procurement solutions and complex regulatory and compliance areas. Upendra also counts additional product management experience in the health care industry.

Joining Softype in 2021, Upendra brings a capability for hyper learning and an outstanding attitude, two traits in the Softype DNA, and is always a pleasure to work with.

On a personal note, he enjoys HAM radio operations and watching cricket matches. Upendra’s philosophy of life is summarized in his daily mantra: Past is history, future is mystery but today is a gift; that’s why it’s called present.

Ms. Pooja Manudhane

Product Manager

Pooja holds a degree in Engineering from the University of Mumbai. She has also completed an MBA focusing on accounting and business processes.

Pooja’s association with Softype began in 2012. She joined Softype as a Junior Functional Consultant. From the beginning, she was engaged in working with clients, specializing in training clients to undergo digital transformations successfully. Pooja developed a knack for visualizing ERP solutions to inefficient processes and communicating her vision to clients.

Pooja automated manual processes using the NetSuite ERP solution, thereby improving worker productivity. As her experience grew, Pooja received promotions to Senior Functional Consultant and Product Manager. She mentors junior colleagues in technical and business processes and, in so doing, helps evolve and propagate the Softype company culture.

Pooja understands that NetSuite ERP is the cloud ERP provider of choice because of the ease with which it can be adapted to different industries, its intuitive User Interface (UI), and the speed with which Softype can successfully implement it (a few months).

Pooja delights in working with customers in different countries. Her patient approach to managing change and guiding subordinates has won her praise from clients and co-workers
alike.

Ms. Prachi Shende

Program Lead, Education Vertical

Prachi has a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics from the University of Mumbai and a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Texas.

Prachi began her working career in the US (California). Over the years, she has moved from a purely technical role to a techno-functional role. As a techno-functional consultant, she can work with business, functional, and technical teams. Her specialty is implementing and customizing systems aligned with industry best practices. During her tenure of service, Softype promoted her five times in five years, culminating with her current position. Versatile and dynamic, Prachi cherishes a fast-paced work environment that allows her professional skills to grow. Her work is in the K-12 and tertiary education domains. She oversees the Softype education ERP (edERP) product development and management. The edERP product continues to evolve and expand due to new requirements in an ever-changing education sector. This gives her a chance to grow by constantly reinventing herself.

Prachi’s passion is to help educational institutions grow by migrating their enterprise-wide resources to cloud based systems. She believes that “Given new situations, the market for edERP, i.e., education on the cloud service, is here to grow. It’s about how we best serve it.”

Ms. Manisha Hule

Chief Operating Officer

Manisha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the University of Mumbai.

Manisha is the delivery manager for Softype’s ERP services. Experienced in project planning and execution, she provides leadership for all Softype’s solution consulting and implementation activities. Manisha began her career at Softype, working in all of its various departments, culminating in her selection as a member of the Executive team. Manisha has experience in all aspects of project organization and delivery. An excellent team manager, Manisha ensures that customer projects get the optimum resources required, facilitating minimal risk implementations that meet delivery schedules. Manisha’s expertise and guidance are significant factors in ensuring, that, unlike many ERP vendors, Softype implementations are delivered successfully and on time.

Mr. Moses Rajan

Global Finance Officer

Moses holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Mumbai, specializing in Accounting and Economics.

Moses has more than 15 years of experience in ERP implementations and rollouts in a wide variety of industries across multiple geographies. He has engaged with clients across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Building on this experience, Moses helps Softype’s customers manage the financial complexities of multi-books, multi-currencies, multi-exchange rates, landed costs, and the myriads of tax regimes such as sales tax, VAT, GST, and others that impact businesses. Working with Softype’s customers, Moses brings his experience to bear on their challenges of dealing with budgets, cash flows, currency revaluations, and financial controls.

Shreyansh Patil (Shrey)

Group – CEO

Shrey holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Australian Graduate School of Management, University of New South Wales, specializing in consulting.

With extensive experience in Enterprise Cloud Solutions (ERP) and Management Consulting spanning four continents, Shrey is equipped with the ability to bridge gaps between technology and business outcomes that will enhance customer experience.

Having held leadership roles in consulting, advisory, and technology organizations across various geographies, Shrey brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in general management, leadership, and business development.

With excellent people management skills and a strong consulting background, Shrey is extremely passionate about adding value through technology and process re-engineering.

Shrey’s unwavering dedication to cultivate a high-performing, customer-centric culture at Softype will empower our team to reach new heights and become the best version of ourselves.

Dr. Arvind Khilnani

Chairman and Co-Founder

Dr. Arvind holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts), a Master’s degree in Management (MIT Sloan School) and a Ph.D. in Engineering Economic Systems (Stanford University).

A dedicated teacher and mentor, Arvind believes in Leadership through inspiration. Trained as a mathematical modeling and optimization analyst, Arvind focused his early career on developing tools to enable company growth. He worked with Fortune 500 companies to adapt their use of technology for growing new, evolving markets. Presently his efforts seek to expand these tools to small and medium enterprises.

Since co-founding Softype, he has channeled his energies to help international organizations grow by leveraging the benefits of technology, including process optimization and automation.