Why ERP processes often don’t reach daily operations
In many projects, we see that while ERP systems are implemented across the organisation, frontline and operational teams rarely use them directly. Instead, daily execution happens outside the ERP environment.
Several recurring factors explain this disconnect:
- Overly complex ERP interfaces: even simple tasks require navigating through multiple screens.
- Data silos: ERP often coexists with Excel files, specialised tools, and equipment that don’t communicate effectively, leaving information fragmented.
- Lack of real-time integration: many ERPs still rely on batch updates, so live operational data is missing.
- High customisation costs: extending ERP functionality is slow and expensive, which limits ROI.
- Limited end-user involvement: ERP rollouts are typically top-down initiatives without meaningful input from operational staff.
In these scenarios the ERP functions mainly as a planning and reporting tool, while actual execution takes place in separate systems, spreadsheets, or even on paper. This tends to lead to inefficiencies, errors, and a lack of visibility in day-to-day operations.
How Excel and paper hold you back
At first glance, Excel sheets and paper processes seem like quick, low-effort solutions. But over time, the hidden downsides become costly:
- Human errors: duplicate data entry or incorrect transcription.
- Delays: status updates arrive late or get lost.
- Lack of insight: managers can’t see what’s happening on the shop floor right now.
- No scalability: ad hoc solutions don’t grow with the business.
These inefficiencies can lead to loss in revenue and diminished customer satisfaction. Deliveries get delayed, production downtime goes unnoticed, and decisions are made on outdated data. The longer companies rely on these workarounds, the more disconnected daily operations become from the ERP at the centre of the business. What you need isn’t another spreadsheet or temporary fix, it’s a way to connect people and processes back to your ERP without the pain of a full system replacement.
Low-code ERP integration, the smart middle layer
Low-code platforms like Retool make it possible to build custom applications that integrate directly with your ERP without long, expensive development cycles. Instead of trying to fit in all functionality in your ERP, you create a middle layer: a user-friendly interface and toolset that makes ERP data instantly available to everyone who needs it.
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Practical applications:
- Automate order intake process: digital forms writing directly into your ERP.
- Digital job cards: frontline teams view tasks on a tablet, including work instructions and checklists.
- Digital material tracking: barcode or QR scans automatically update stock and location.
- Quality checks and audits: data recorded directly into the system.
- Digital status communication: updates to sales, customers, and management without manual steps.
With low-code ERP integration, your first applications can usually be up and running within 2–6 weeks. Teams work with up-to-date, reliable information, which makes everyday decision making easier and more accurate. On top of that, development is faster and less expensive, without the need for risky ERP customisations, so your core system stays stable.
Applicable across industries
For many SMEs, whether in production, logistics, retail, or services, the challenge is the same: critical processes still happen outside the ERP. Teams fall back on spreadsheets, emails, or manual workarounds to bridge gaps the ERP doesn’t cover. This creates inefficiencies, errors, and delays that limit growth and scalability. Low-code ERP integration addresses this universally by creating a smart middle layer that makes ERP data accessible and actionable in daily operations.
A few examples:
- Manufacturing: digitising order intake, job tracking, and material usage to ensure production flows smoothly.
- Logistics: tracking shipments and handling returns without duplicate data entry.
- Food industry: capturing traceability and quality reports directly into ERP.
- Retail: updating inventory and promotions in ERP in real time.
- Utilities: linking incident reports and maintenance planning directly to central systems.
- Services: lower administrative burdens by automating repetitive tasks.
Improve the way you work
In the end, ERP systems already sit at the centre of business operations, but low-code ERP integrations improve the way people interact with them.
By adding a smart middle layer, companies avoid the trap of endlessly customising their ERP while still making data and processes accessible in a practical way. This reduces reliance on spreadsheets and paper, ensures more reliable information, and gives teams tools that fit how they actually work.
