The Important Connection between ERP Systems and In-memory Computing

The era of big data and analytics is upon us. Not only does this mean that extensive amounts of data will be coming in, it also means that all of it must be dealt with in a way that best fits with company needs. One such approach is through the use of in-memory computing and its speed allowance. Now what happens when you combine it with the ever popular ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system?

Why is in-memory computing such a big deal?

Let's take a step back and explore what in-memory computing encompasses. Most data is usually shipped off to storage on a server for future use. Unfortunately, processing all that data can prove to be both challenging and cumbersome given that it's easy for bottlenecking to occur anywhere between access, memory transfer, return to storage and access of the next data set. Needless to say, you could potentially end up waiting for long periods of time. Who wants to do that? This is where in-memory computing comes into play. Since the data is stored in the RAM,  faster process and access becomes possible. As a result, you can can get results in near real-time. For the busy person, such speeds are exponentially beneficial especially in terms of improved application performance.

What about ERP systems?

Given its history as an organizational tool used for tracking and managing data from business activities, most people should already know about ERPs. Basically, you have a set of integrated applications that enable you to keep track of all business activities across departments and allows you to plan for future activities through management of resources and identifying tactics and strategies. Sounds pretty handy doesn't it? Who wouldn't want a single system of customer engagement and business activities? And while it’s been around and in use for years, even deeper ERP penetration has been predicted as we move forward. How so? It’s all about versatility and deeper integration of analytics and data.

So, what happens when you combine the two?

Obviously, both ERP systems and in-memory computing are good on their own. However, combining the two makes things even better. A proliferating idea is that in-memory computing is a key to unlocking business value via ERP and CPM (Corporate Performance Management). Essentially, in-memory computing aids in amplifying ERP capabilities through its near real-time feature as it applies to constantly incoming analytics. Keep in mind that in a time where ERP reporting is becoming a necessity, especially in terms of operational complexity, in-memory computing enables the ability to identify any number of things, including any shortcomings. Furthermore, the ability to run transactions at the same time as analytics and even to handle complicated operations in the same time period as less complicated operations, is definitely a bonus.

Conclusion

In their separate entities, ERP and in-memory computing have been used multiple times over and they have proven their worth. As such, it makes sense to put the two together. Each heightens the ability of the other to make the best use of their capabilities. Still, full adoption of the combined system hasn't happened quite yet due to the disruption of “normal” operations. However, that doesn't mean that it's not in the adoption process. ERP coupled with in-memory computing is definitely something worthy pursuing for your business as it will aid in your operations and perhaps your overall company gains.