Term · Custom software
ERP system
An ERP system is one package for your entire business operation: purchasing, stock, sales, finances and often staff too.
In short
ERP stands for enterprise resource planning. An ERP system brings a company's key processes together in one package with one database: from purchasing and stock to invoices and accounts. Accounting software and a CRM each do part of that.
What is an ERP system?
An ERP system is one software package in which you manage the key processes of your business, with all data in one database. ERP stands for enterprise resource planning.
In an ERP system, the parts are linked to each other. An order reduces the stock, becomes an invoice and ends up in the accounts. Examples are the ERP software from AFAS and Exact Online, which besides accounting also has ERP solutions, for example for trade and manufacturing.
ERP, accounting software or CRM?
| Type of package | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Accounting software | Invoices, payments, VAT and the annual figures. |
| CRM | Customers, contact moments, quotes and sales opportunities. |
| ERP | The entire business operation: purchasing, stock, sales, finances and often projects and staff too. |
So a CRM and accounting software each do part of what an ERP does.
How does an ERP system work?
An ERP consists of modules: for purchasing, stock, sales, finances and so on. You choose the modules you need. Because everything is in one database, you enter a piece of data once.
Example in an SME
Made-up example
A wholesaler works with accounting software, a stock list in a spreadsheet and a separate CRM. It can switch to an ERP system that brings this together. Or it keeps its packages and connects them with integrations. Either can fit.
What should you watch for?
- Switching is a big project. Transferring data, adapting ways of working and teaching people to work with the new package. Allow for time and support.
- You follow the package. An ERP has a fixed way of working. Whatever falls outside it requires settings, custom work or an integration.
- Integrating is also possible. If your current packages work well, system integration is an alternative to switching, for example with an accounting integration.
I do not sell ERP packages and receive no commission. In a business analysis, I first look at what is possible with your current systems. Read more about custom software.
Frequently asked questions
Is an ERP system only for large companies?
No. There are ERP packages for SMEs, often as a subscription in the cloud. Whether it fits depends on how complex your business operation is and how many separate systems you have now.
Can you connect an ERP to other software?
Usually yes, via an API or standard integrations. Check in advance which integrations the package has and what the API can do.
Sources: AFAS: ERP software (in Dutch) and Exact: Exact Online (in Dutch). Consulted on 7 October 2026.
Written by Bart van Engelenhoven Founder of Uniekaiconsultancy in Ede, the Netherlands. Bart analyses how SMEs work and builds software, integrations and AI applications himself. Last updated: 7 October 2026
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