You've requested...

Download this next:

Cloud ERP – a sleeping giant awakes?

Business applications software suppliers have, in recent years, been on a route march to the cloud. To what extent this has been driven by customer demand, and to what extent by investor demand is an open question.

A whole host of cloud-born applications vendors – such as Salesforce, Workday, Netsuite (part of Oracle since 2016), and SuccessFactors (part of SAP since 2011) – has arisen to challenge long-established firms, like SAP and Oracle. However, the pure-play cloud vendors have mostly specialised in specific functional areas, like HR, sales automation, and CRM – as opposed to the core business of planning an enterprise’s resources to carry out its central mission as efficiently as possible (ERP, to use the well-worn acronym).

For a long time now, (on-premises) ERP has been an important but sleepy aspect of enterprise IT. But is the time for cloud ERP now? Oracle, SAP, and smaller, more niche players, like Infor and Unit4 seem to be saying “yes”, but how is that in the interests of their large corporate customers, who have invested masses of capital in enterprise software since the 1990s? Perhaps it is more in the interest of SMEs, who can now, the argument runs, avail themselves of enterprise-grade IT, in ways hitherto impossible? Or is cloud ERP for all data-driven companies and organisations, who can now benefit from super-computer capacity, which can only be delivered over the cloud, not on-premise?

The lead article in this e-guide explores these issues. The others convey the theory and practice of cloud ERP, on both sides of the market, today.

These are also closely related to: "Mythbusting The Agile ERP"

  • CW ASEAN – January 2019: Dive into microservices

    Microservices has become a buzzword linked with digital transformation, but it is no magic bullet for development woes. In this edition of CW ASEAN, we uncover the state of adoption of microservices in ASEAN and what needs to be in place for enterprises to get the most out of the technology.

    Also in this issue:

    Singapore’s Redmart finds speed and agility with cloud-based financial ERP software

    Online grocer Redmart has slashed the time it takes to close the books from more than a week to just three days with Oracle’s cloud-based financial application

    Inside PropertyGuru’s DevOps journey

    The online property search firm is at ease with microservices, containers and serverless computing, even as it grapples with legacy applications that were developed earlier on in its history

    Analysts weigh in on IBM-Red Hat deal

    Mega-deal could accelerate open source adoption and extend the reach of OpenStack and OpenShift

  • A Computer Weekly buyer's guide to cloud enterprise applications

    Businesses require suitable cloud applications to manage their processes effectively. In this 17-page buyer’s guide, Computer Weekly looks at the advantages of best-of-breed SaaS products, explores the rise of industry cloud and assesses its value in the corporate IT sector.

    - Best-of-breed cloud ERP apps offer a modern strategy

    - Rise of the industry cloud

    - Does corporate IT want industry clouds?

Find more content like what you just read:

  • SaaS ERP mushrooms during Covid crisis, up to a point

    In this e-guide we look at the migration of business applications to the cloud, under the discipline of the Covid crisis; we examine the question of who is winning the cloud ERP wars; and offer a case study of one large, complex company, Vodafone, that gives a counter example of how cloud still has limits when it comes to ERP.

    Download

  • Top 10 business applications stories of 2019

    The steady incursion of artificial intelligence (AI) into enterprise software was a major theme behind Computer Weekly's indepth stories in this area in 2019. Human versus machine is the opposition that looms over much of the coverage here. Here are Computer Weekly's top 10 business applications stories of 2019.

    Download

  • CW Middle East Oct to Dec 2016

    In this quarter's CW Middle East ezine, we feature the IT journeys of three companies in the region with detailed analysis of recent IT projects that were designed to support business transformation in a changing world.

    Download

  • Top 10 business applications stories of 2018

    The steady modernisation of ERP systems, as they edge to the cloud and are complemented by new-generation customer software, was markedly evident this year. And blockchain and AI are making inroads. In this e-guide, Computer Weekly takes a look at the top 10 business applications of 2018.

    Download

  • CIO Trends #2: Nordics

    Computer Weekly talks to more IT leaders than any other publication, and our reporters gather in-depth insights into the challenges facing CIOs, CTOs and CDOs. This guide offers a collection of our most popular articles for IT leaders,

    Download

  • Oracle cloud applications exhibit pragmatic adoption curve

    Oracle prides itself on the full suite of the business applications it offers in the cloud, arguably ahead of its closest rival, SAP – which has prioritised building on its in-memory database Hana over the cloud per se, though its S/4 Hana ERP system is increasingly delivered over the cloud, too.

    Download

  • The reality of privileged access management (PAM)

    According to recent research, over 90% of Microsoft security vulnerabilities could be eliminated by turning off admin rights and using a privileged access management (PAM) tool. This e-book looks at 5 common myths about PAM, demonstrating why they are false, and shedding light on the reality of the situation. Read on to learn more.

    Download

  • Urban Myths About Secure Coding

    Urban myths, whether rooted in reality or fabricated entirely, have the power to change perception. Read this e-book which is designed to rectify these misconceptions by presenting six common urban myths about secure coding and giving practical guidance for how to overcome them.

    Download

  • Debunk Common Data Privacy Myths and Strengthen Trust

    Debunk common data privacy myths and learn to implement effective security measures beyond compliance. This white paper explores challenges in protecting personal data and offers solutions to build a culture of privacy awareness. Read the full white paper to safeguard your data and fortify customer trust.

    Download

  • CW Middle East – January 2017

    In this quarter's CW Middle East ezine, we look at how the Middle East, with the poorest road safety record in the world, could benefit most from self-driving cars.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 3 October 2017: Digitally preserving history

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we find out how cloud technologies are helping Gibraltar to digitally preserve historic documents and safeguard its cultural heritage. We examine progress on the roll-out of the new NHS national network. And our latest buyer's guide looks at cloud-based ERP software. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • SAP cloud ERP: Keys to unlocking advantages & more

    Explore the strategic benefits of transitioning to SAP Cloud ERP, including improved operational efficiency, enhanced agility, and reduced total cost of ownership. Learn how to build a scalable, future-ready ERP strategy and navigate the implementation process. Read the full e-book to discover how SAP Cloud ERP can future-proof your business.

    Download

  • Digital Transformation: Part I

    In this presentation from our CW500 event, director of digital architecture and transformation Chris Boyd explains how Telefonica tackled the challenges of delivering people, cultural and organisational change.

    Download

  • CW APAC: Trend watch: Enterprise resource planning

    In this handbook, focused on enterprise resource planning in the Asia-Pacific region, Computer Weekly looks at what's behind this renewed priority and why firms want cheaper software maintenance and the benefits of best-of-breed cloud apps.

    Download

  • Composable EPR: What it is & how it can be used for SAP

    Composable ERP can help SAP customers gain flexibility and agility to meet evolving business needs. This e-book explores the benefits of a composable approach and how it can accelerate innovation while maximizing your SAP investment. Read the full e-book to learn more.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 20 June 2017: Why did British Airways' datacentre crash?

    After the recent hastily held general election, the former Cabinet Office minster Ben Gummer lost his Ipswich seat to one of Theresa May's close allies, leaving many wondering if a digital future is still a top priority in the new government. Find the answer to this question, as well as information on the cause of the British Airways IT failure.

    Download

  • IT Project: DevOps

    2016 is widely tipped to be the year DevOps goes mainstream, with enterprise IT managers either looking to ramp up or kick-start their efforts in this area, and start realising the benefits it can bring.

    Download

  • Discover the power of CPQ for your manufacturing business

    CPQ software can help manufacturers streamline sales, increase revenue, and improve customer satisfaction. Learn how CPQ can elevate your digital buying experience and maximize growth in this in-depth eBook.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly - 27 July 2021: Are we getting cyber security skills all wrong?

    In this week's Computer Weekly, the chair of the new UK Cyber Security Council tells us how she plans to fundamentally reimagine what working in IT security means. Our latest buyer's guide examines ERP modernisation and its role in digital transformation. And we take an in-depth look at the first preview version of Windows 11. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • Debunking Security Myths: A Guide to Understanding Data Security Posture Management (DSPM)

    This white paper debunks common myths about data security posture management (DSPM) and explains how DSPM complements other security solutions to comprehensively protect sensitive data across cloud environments. Read the full white paper to learn how DSPM can enhance your overall data security strategy.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 10 December 2024: On the road to change at Aston Martin

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we talk to Aston Martin's CIO to find out how tech is helping tackle the challenges facing the automotive sector. The new National Cyber Security boss explains the need to be vigilant against growing online threats. We also examine the future of secure remote connectivity in the cloud era. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • Take control of your Oracle roadmap with 3rd-party support

    As IT leaders continue to leverage Oracle software, many have found that working with legacy solutions can be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to getting the support they need. Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 12 June 2018: How National Geographic uses tech to captivate its audience

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we find out how the world-famous National Geographic magazine is adapting to the digital age and using technology to better engage its audience. We ask what Microsoft's $7.6bn acquisition of GitHub means for the open source community. And our latest buyer's guide looks at developer tools. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • The costly composability myth: What’s the true total price of enterprise CMS?

    Explore the surprising cost advantages of composable CMS over monolithic systems. This in-depth white paper analyzes implementation, maintenance, and training costs across 43 enterprise organizations. Access the white paper to learn how composability can deliver significant savings.

    Download

  • 7 Steps to a Stress-Free ERP Roll-Out

    Ensure a smooth ERP roll-out with this 7-step guide. Learn how to plan, assemble a team, integrate systems, train users, and measure success. Download the e-book to discover expert tips for a stress-free ERP implementation.

    Download

  • Implementing cloud ERP As-a-Service vs. On-premise solutions

    Explore the shift from on-premise to cloud ERP implementations. Learn how a transformational strategy, standardization, and continuous innovation are key for successful cloud ERP-as-a-Service deployments. Listen to the podcast to discover more.

    Download

  • Expert insight for future-proofing your IT ecosystem: A guide

    As organizations continue to struggle to keep up with changes that generative AI, economic uncertainty, and global conflicts bring on, many CFOs and other leaders are looking for new ways that they can modernize their operations without forcing downtime or going over budget. Access this white paper to learn more.

    Download

  • Unlock the power of Generative AI with modern ERP solutions

    Legacy ERP systems struggle to support modern business demands, especially integrating with Generative AI. This white paper examines why legacy ERP falls short and how Dynamics 365 offers scalability, interoperability, and AI-enhanced features to future-proof your business. Read the full white paper to learn more.

    Download

  • Legacy ERP: Holding you back from Generative AI?

    Legacy ERP systems struggle to support modern business demands, especially integrating with Generative AI. This white paper examines why legacy ERP falls short and how Dynamics 365 offers scalability, interoperability, and AI-enhanced features to future-proof your business. Read the full white paper to learn more.

    Download

  • The long march of S/4 Hana

    S/4 Hana, the ERP system built on SAP's in-memory, columnar database Hana has been on a long march through the enterprise since its launch in February 2013. In this e-guide, we discuss the pros and cons of upgrading to S/4 Hana, what the future has in store for the system and how its users are feeling about C/4 Hana integration.

    Download

  • Why Your Digital Transformation Problem Is A Connection Problem In Disguise

    Digital transformation often fails due to a lack of connectivity between data, applications, and processes. This white paper explores how to build a truly connected enterprise with integrated applications, streamlined processes, and connected IoT devices to drive successful digital transformation. Read the white paper to access DX success.

    Download

  • A guide to S/Hana and options for ECC migration

    Organisations that have built their businesses around a particular ERP system, generally need to follow the upgrade roadmap of their ERP provider. For companies using SAP's software this means a migration from SAP Enterprise Core Components (ECC) to S/Hana. This e-guide looks at the SAP options organisations need to assess.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly - 3 August 2021: The fears and benefits of virtualising reality

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we examine the mingling of virtual and physical worlds and find positive applications and worrisome implications from augmented reality. We find out how to run a virtual hackathon during the pandemic – pizza still included. And we look at how to improve performance of your private cloud. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • The real cost of global payroll (And why it’s worth it)

    Global payroll solutions are too costly and don’t suit the needs of smaller organizations. This is something that many HR and finance leaders have believed for years, and have invested in in-country platforms because of it. But is it the truth? Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • The pros and cons of global payroll for smaller countries

    Global payroll solutions are too costly and don’t suit the needs of smaller organizations. This is something that many HR and finance leaders have believed for years, and have invested in in-country platforms because of it. But is it the truth? Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • Is global payroll too costly for smaller countries?

    Global payroll solutions are too costly and don’t suit the needs of smaller organizations. This is something that many HR and finance leaders have believed for years, and have invested in in-country platforms because of it. But is it the truth? Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • Global payroll: Why smaller countries need it too

    Global payroll solutions are too costly and don’t suit the needs of smaller organizations. This is something that many HR and finance leaders have believed for years, and have invested in in-country platforms because of it. But is it the truth? Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • HR leader’s guide to global payroll for smaller countries

    Global payroll solutions are too costly and don’t suit the needs of smaller organizations. This is something that many HR and finance leaders have believed for years, and have invested in in-country platforms because of it. But is it the truth? Browse this guide to learn more.

    Download

  • Keys for a smooth ERP transition: What to know

    Implementing a new ERP system can expose your organization to risks like errors, duplicate payments, and fraud. Learn how Oversight's AI-powered platform can provide proactive protection and ensure a smooth ERP transition. Read the full article to learn more.

    Download

  • How to modernize your legacy ERP system in 5 steps

    Staying with a legacy ERP system may be the right decision for a company, but many organizations must modernize their legacy ERP to stay competitive in their industry. Here's a look at the five "Rs" of modernizing a legacy ERP system and how to decide on the right approach.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 13 February 2024: Intelligent defence – the role of data in the military

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we examine the role of data in tying together military operations across ground, air, sea and cyber. Has SAP finally convinced customers to migrate to cloud ERP? We assess the trends. And we talk to the CIO helping to set up the UK's fastest supercomputer. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • How AI in the workplace is changing ERP systems

    As AI becomes more embedded in workplace processes and bots, it will learn on the job and eventually become more independent, leading to more autonomous ERP systems.

    Download

  • A Computer Weekly buyer's guide to modern enterprise resource planning

    The use of modern enterprise resource planning can make a business more agile. In this 14-page buyer's guide, Computer Weekly looks at how to best prepare for modernisation, the opportunity to build sustainably and how to unshackle your firm from unplanned upgrade needs.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly - 15 March 2022: How the tech sector is supporting Ukraine

    In this week's Computer Weekly, we examine the global tech sector response to the invasion of Ukraine, and how hackers are responding to calls for an IT army to target Russia. Our latest buyer's guide looks at cloud-based ERP and other business applications. And IBM's UK chief tells us how Big Blue is reinventing itself. Read the issue now.

    Download

  • Public vs. private vs. hybrid cloud S/4HANA and ERP deployments

    In this expert e-guide, we explore how to future-proof your ERP system and increase its flexibility. Learn about the migration to S/4HANA as well as the pros and cons of private vs. public vs. hybrid cloud-based ERP deployments.

    Download

  • ERP buyer's guide: What merchants & distributors should know

    This buyer's guide for merchants and distributors explains key features to look for in an industry-specific ERP system, including online integration, route optimization, EDI, warehouse management, and more. Learn how the right ERP can streamline your operations and drive growth. Read the full guide.

    Download

  • Computer Weekly – 23 May 2023: How to secure your software supply chain

    In this week's Computer Weekly, our latest buyer's guide looks at secure coding and examines the challenges of securing your software supply chain. Cyber law enforcement leaders are calling on firms to end the secrecy around ransomware attacks. And we find out how facial recognition technology is being adopted by retailers. Read the issue now.

    Download