An ecommerce ERP integration connection connects an organization’s frontend eCommerce platform with its backend ERP. This allows customers, orders, products, and more to be synced across the two platforms. Automatic data synchronization maximizes productivity and maximizes revenue.
However, the data from both systems overlap. Different information on different platforms may lead to missed orders and incorrect shipping information. Incorrect pricing can also be an issue.
An ERP eCommerce integration solves these issues. It synchronizes these data and streamlines your workflow.
Let’s now look at how to make your ERP eCommerce integration work for you.
Data Sources
First, it is essential to know the types of data sources used. This is essential because it will help determine the best type and method of integration.
Cloud-Based: Most of today’s ERP and eCommerce platforms are based in the cloud and use a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. These platforms are the easiest to integrate, as they provide universal connectors that allow them to be integrated into any modern platform.
On-Premise: This is a back-office ERP platform that uses local hardware. While this system can integrate, it can present new challenges for legacy software.
Hybrid: Some businesses mix and match tools like an online eCommerce site and an ERP platform on-premise.
Methods
One of three options is available to create an ERP integration.
Points-to-point: These integrate applications using a custom connector. But they are fragile. Any application that changes must be replaced. They also expand exponentially. Two applications require only two connectors, while three require six, four need twelve, and so forth.
Enterprise services bus: It is a communication layer that moves data between different applications. It is faster than a direct-to-point system but can only process a limited amount of data and can become bottlenecked.
Third-Party Integrator: This integrates your ERP system and eCommerce platform seamlessly. It also handles the integration. This tool uses APIs to ensure smooth operation. This tool, also called integration platform as service (iPaaS), is a tool.
Frequency
Real-time: This frequency allows data to be synchronized immediately after it is available. Although it’s more convenient, this requires more infrastructure and can prove more difficult.
Batch: This model keeps all data up-to-date at regular intervals. Although the data is only sometimes current, it is easy to integrate this system with other platforms.
Types of Data You Can Send
Before you start with an eCommerce integration, you must decide what data and in which direction. You only want order information flowing from your nomad to your ERP.
Here are the most common data types to be transferred:
- Information about the product
- Customer data
- Pricing
- Shipping
- Stock levels
- Order/invoice information
- Taxes
- Returns
The Process of Setting up An ERP System Integration
Here are the steps to get your ERP integrated.
Now that you’re familiar with the key points let’s take a look at the steps necessary to achieve successful ERP eCommerce integration.
Set Clear Goals: The front and back end should know what they hope to achieve with the integration.
Create the Business Processes to Be Integrated: Verify that both ERP and eCommerce systems can do the job.
Diagram the Data Flow: This will allow data to be transferred accurately and efficiently between systems.