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Home / Glossary / ERP
Glossary · Management

ERP

Enterprise Resource Planning

In plain language

One system that runs a business's accounting, inventory, orders and staff records together.

The metaphor

Like one central ledger that every department writes to, so nobody keeps their own separate notebook.

Going deeper

How it works

  • It replaces separate spreadsheets.
  • Bigger systems suit manufacturers and distributors.
  • Small businesses often use accounting software that grows to cover this.
  • Access control matters, as it holds everything.
In practice
  • A distributor tracks stock and invoices in one system.
  • A shop moves from spreadsheets to accounting software.
  • A firm limits who can see payroll.

A question owners ask

Does a small office need one?

Most start with accounting software and add pieces as they grow.

Related terms
ALEAnnualized Loss ExpectancyAROAnnualized Rate of OccurrenceAUPAcceptable Use PolicyBackupBCPBusiness Continuity PlanningBIABusiness Impact AnalysisBPABusiness Partners AgreementBYODBring Your Own Device

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