Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is defined as the ability to deliver an integrated suite of business applications. ERP tools share a common process and data model, covering broad and deep operational end-to-end processes, such as those found in finance, HR, distribution, manufacturing, service and the supply chain.

ERP applications automate and support a range of administrative and operational business processes across multiple industries, including line of business, customer-facing, administrative and the asset management aspects of an enterprise. However, ERP deployments tend to come at a significant price, and the business benefits are difficult to justify and understand.

Look for business benefits in four areas: IT cost savings, business process efficiency, as a business process platform for process standardization and as a catalyst for business innovation. Most enterprises focus on the first two areas, because they are the easiest to quantify; however, the latter two areas often have the most significant impact on the enterprise.

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Read Gartner’s Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2014 SummaryArticle NameERP definitionGartner, Inc.Gartner, Inc.DescriptionThe definition of ERP (Enterprise resource planning) is defined as the ability to deliver an integrated suite of business applications.