In today’s fast paced technology, data security & IT governance are key concerns and top priorities of companies. The pace of threats is more than the preventive processes & checks that are being built. In such a scenario an enterprise must adopt a robust security policy. Also, the staff must continuesly be made aware of such eminent threats, by conducting workshops and using multimediacommunication tools.

Prevention is always better than cure. If one can establish a pattern of such preventive checks then the same can be used to avoid unwanted circumstances. Data analytics is one such powerful tool. In current context of digital transformation, virtually every little action produces data. This data can be harnessed and can be turned into intelligence. For example: in case of a car, the onboard chip is capable of sensing an engine failure or any such trouble based on past performance readings. Similar application of data usage can be cited in the medical industry, where the data of vital signs of a person can be used to predict any anticipated health issues. Aggregation and Normalization of all such data is the key for success.

Cloud infrastructure today is a reality. However, when it comes to the core ERP application, one must consider the following points before deciding against on-premise option:

1. How established and reliable is the telecom connectivity from premises to the cloud?
2. How open is the organization to adapt to business process changes and re-engineering (which is always needed for any ERP)?
3. How geared up is the organization to embrace periodic software updates and changes?
4. What is the rollback option and mechanism from cloud to on premise?

From personal experience, I would opt for an on premise ERP solution.

No ERP can function on its own on a standalone basis. There will always be need to integrate with some existing industry or niche application. In case the integration is not seamless or is ineffective, then the direct impact is on the related business process, which will be either incomplete or irrelevant. Further, it may also impact any upstream and/or downstream business processes. Hence I am in complete agreement that for an ERP to succeed, one of the key elements is capability to integrate with existing peripheral application(s).

In comparison to the developed nations, India is not as fast as them, to catch on to emerging technological trends. One of the main reasons for this lagging behind syndrome is insufficient support systems and/or development to embrace the emerging trend. For example, WiMax as a technology has been around for more than a decade, but lagging in India. 4G has been around for a long time, but in India it is still in its infancy.

Never compromise on integrity and values for achieving success. A customer will be more responsive only when a tangible value addition is seen along with a true problem solving solution.