How to use ERP project management tools to improve efficiency

Project management tools are built into many ERP systems today. While tools like Microsoft Project remain useful, many organizations benefit from using their existing ERP platforms to manage projects, ensuring seamless data integration across all business functions.

Let's explore how to utilize your ERP's project management features effectively:

Complex multi-project programs

Engineer-to-order businesses benefit greatly from project tracking. For example, if you're contracted to build an instrument for a satellite, you may coordinate with multiple subcontractors, some of whom are developing new technologies. Components arrive from several suppliers, and everything must meet strict mass and volume requirements to ensure compatibility with the satellite.

A centralized system helps you monitor dependencies, track budget performance, and align timelines from start to delivery without switching between platforms.

Supporting construction projects with integrated tools

Suppose you're a general contractor building a large hotel. Your project includes stages like pre-construction, groundwork, structural work, and tenant improvements. Subcontractors handle their own areas but must stay aligned for the project to move forward smoothly.

Project-based ERP software helps contractors post costs and billings directly to the general ledger, simultaneously updating the project and each phase. This integration improves consistency and removes the need to re-enter data across systems.

Recommended download: Looking for the best ERP for contractors? Download our comparison guide to find the right fit for your business, including project management, scheduling, job costing, and more!

Adapt ERP project management to your workflow

ERP project management tools aren’t just for large, complex projects. They also help organize smaller, related tasks. For instance, you might group production jobs for a specific customer or link the first manufacturing runs of a new product into a single project view.

Time and expenses from different departments can be charged to a common project, facilitating departmental analysis without altering expense postings. This approach enables project analysis without the need for duplicate entries. ERP systems continue to evolve with new features and functionality. Instead of relying on separate tools, take a closer look at what your system already offers.