One Source of Truth: The ERP Episode

Welcome to Season 2 of The Digital Roast, the podcast where we explore how technology helps businesses do more with less. In this season opener, Brendon McDermott, Chief Executive of Focus Technology Group, chats with Ranae Dodds, Christchurch Branch Manager and Business Software Consultant, about the evolving role of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems in New Zealand businesses.

From outdated spreadsheets to intelligent automation, Ranae unpacks what ERP really means in 2024, how to know if your business is ready, and why success often comes down to choosing the right partner.

Watch the latest episode on YouTube: 

or listen on Spotify: 

Introduction

ERP is no longer just for big corporations — it’s about simplifying complexity, centralising information, and enabling growth for any business with moving parts. Whether you’re juggling multi-warehouses, currencies, or processes, ERP platforms like Acumatica are helping Kiwi businesses operate with greater visibility, accuracy, and confidence.

From common mistakes to watch out for, to the power of real-time dashboards, and the exciting future of AI in ERP, this episode is packed with practical insights for business leaders, IT managers, and anyone exploring smarter systems.

What Is ERP, really?

ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning, but Ranae cuts through the jargon: it’s centralised business software that brings together your systems, data, and processes in one place. Whether it’s managing multiple warehouses, currencies, or complex sales processes, ERP platforms like Acumatica offer the scalability and visibility today’s businesses need.

When Do You Need ERP? 

Size doesn’t matter as much as complexity. Ranae explains how businesses with “multi-anything” – multi-company, multi-currency, multi-location – benefit from ERP. And it’s not just about tech; it’s about process improvement, cost savings, and smart decision-making.

Add-Ons That Matter

What Makes ERP Projects Succeed?

It’s not just about software – it’s about partnership. Ranae shares how businesses can avoid common mistakes (like going live before you’re ready) and how stakeholder engagement from day one leads to better outcomes.

Our most successful projects are the ones where the C-Suite is involved from the start. ERP isn’t just a system — it’s your business processes, people, and workflows.

Key Takeaways:

• ERP is for more than just enterprise-sized businesses

• Complexity, not size, determines readiness

• One source of truth improves accuracy and decision-making

• Tools like Power BI and AP automation amplify ERP’s value

• Partnership and preparation are essential for ERP success

Whether you’re scaling up, wrangling spreadsheets, or planning for growth, this episode offers insights into making ERP work for your business.

References:

Services for everybody – Focus Technology

ERP Systems – Focus Technology

MYOB – Dashboard and Navigation

Interested in exploring ERP for your business?

Talk to our team today and discover how we can help simplify your systems and drive smarter growth.