The beginning of business computerization is a period that revolutionized the way organizations conduct their operations. One of the key milestones of this transformation is the emergence of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems. From materials management to integrated enterprise asset management to today’s cloud, let’s follow this fascinating journey.

1960s: MRP is born

It all started in the 1960s, when companies started to implement MRP (Material Requirements Planning) systems. These systems, designed to manage materials and inventory, were a response to the growing need for automation and effective production planning.

1970s and 1980s: MRP II development and ERP shaping

In the 1970s and 1980s, MRP systems evolved into MRP II (Manufacturing Resource Planning). They have expanded their functions beyond mere inventory control to include other aspects of production such as planning, scheduling and control of production operations. It was then that the need to integrate various business functions into one system began to be noticed.

In the late 1980s, the image of today’s ERP systems began to take shape. Emerging from the evolution of MRP II, ERP systems began to integrate more and more business functions, such as finance, human resources, supply chain, and customer relationship management.

1990s: ERP boom

The decade of the 90s was a real boom for ERP systems. Enterprises around the world have begun to understand the value of integrated management systems and have begun their mass implementation. During this period, such giants as SAP, Oracle and Microsoft Dynamics began to dominate the market.

21st Century: Migrating to the Cloud

The next big leap in the evolution of ERP systems took place at the beginning of the 21st century, when cloud technology began to gain popularity. Cloud-based ERP systems, such as NetSuite or SAP S/4HANA, have become attractive to enterprises thanks to their scalability, availability and reduction of costs related to the maintenance of IT infrastructure.

The cloud and the future of ERP

The cloud is now the standard in ERP systems, but the technology is still evolving. With the advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and Big Data, ERP systems are becoming more and more advanced, offering even greater automation, data analysis and personalization.

In conclusion, the history of ERP systems is a continuous evolution, guided by business needs and technological progress. Today’s ERP systems are unrecognizable compared to their original forms, but their basic purpose – integration and optimization of business processes – remains unchanged. What new opportunities will the future bring for ERP? Only time will show. But one thing is certain – ERP systems will continue to be a key element of business strategies around the world.

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