System02
Cloud is a “given”, TO AVOID COMPLETELY MISSION CRITICAL ON-SITE HARDWARE. .
Integrations are a crucial part of the system design for more reasonably priced solutions, especially when considering cloud-based solutions. Cloud systems can often integrate with a wide range of third-party applications that can streamline processes and make the system more efficient.
The modern approach is for the core system to see itself as a “platform” to which many others can be added on (integrated). Older systems try to be all-in-one and can be (are!) very expensive to modify.
Here’s how one can approach it:
Key Integration Areas to Consider:
1. Accounting and Bookkeeping:
• Cloud accounting systems that can easily integrate with bank feeds (e.g., Sage Business Cloud, QuickBooks, Xero) - THIS THE MODERN "NORM". This saves time by automatically syncing transactions and analysing them and even allocating to ledgers.
• Ensure the system can sync with payroll software (like Gusto, Xero Payroll, or QuickBooks Payroll) for seamless wage calculations - they all do these days.
2. Inventory Management:
• For a business like WAL, which deals with stock and supplies, look for systems that integrate with inventory management software (e.g., TradeGecko or Zoho Inventory). This will allow for automatic stock tracking, invoicing, and reporting.
3. Point of Sale (POS):
• Ensure the cloud system can integrate with a POS system (e.g., Lightspeed, Vend, or Square POS). This will help synchronise sales data with inventory and accounting records, making everything more accurate and automated.
4. CRM Integration:
• If WAL interacts with customers on a regular basis (e.g., for orders, quotes, or customer support), a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool like HubSpot or Salesforce can be integrated. This can help keep track of customer interactions and improve sales workflows.
5. Supply Chain Management:
• If your business is managing suppliers or agricultural equipment, integrations with supply chain management tools like SAP Business One, Odoo, or TradeGecko can help manage orders and supplier relations efficiently.
6. Cloud Storage and Document Management:
• For document storage and sharing, ensure compatibility with Google Workspace, Microsoft OneDrive, or other cloud storage solutions. This allows easy access to important files and documents, ensuring all employees can access relevant data.
7. API Access for Custom Integrations:
• Make sure the system you choose has a well-documented API (Application Programming Interface). This will allow you to customise integrations if you need to connect with other tools in the future that are specific to WAL's unique needs (if any).
8. E-commerce (if applicable):
• If there’s any e-commerce aspect to WAL business (ebay?), make sure that the cloud system integrates smoothly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento. This would enable easy management of online orders and inventory synchronisation.Considerations for Choosing a System with Good Integrations:
• Check available integration apps or marketplaces that come with the accounting system (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage Business Cloud) to see what tools are already integrated or supported.
• Assess ease of integration: Some systems come with built-in integrations, while others may require a middleware solution like Zapier or Integromat to bridge systems.
• Consider data flow: How does the system you choose handle data? Make sure the integrations flow seamlessly so you avoid manual data entry and ensure accuracy across the various systems.Next Steps:
• Start by listing all the tools or services WAL currently uses or plans to use (e.g., accounting, POS, inventory management, CRM, etc.).
• Prioritise those integrations to make sure the cloud-based system you select can either natively integrate with them or easily connect using middleware.