Many businesses assume that integrating an ERP system with their website or other software is a straightforward process. However, ERP integration involves deep technical expertise, strategic planning, and often custom development to ensure seamless connectivity between systems.
In this article, we break down the complexities of ERP integration, highlight key challenges businesses face, and explore available solutions — including plugins, automation tools, and custom integrations. We’ll also explain how HARMONiQ’s flexibility and Logiq’s expertise simplify this process.
ERP integration is a powerful way to streamline business processes but it can be a complex task with significant challenges. From data inconsistencies to system compatibility, here are six common challenges faced during the integration process.
ERP systems are designed to connect with other software solutions, including CRMs, inventory management systems, and websites. However, compatibility is a common hurdle.
Every system has unique capabilities and limitations, some legacy systems use outdated authentication methods that don’t support modern API-based integrations, and middleware solutions are sometimes required to bridge compatibility gaps.
At Logiq Group, we leverage HARMONiQ’s extensive integration capabilities to ensure smooth connectivity with HubSpot and other platforms.
Businesses have vast amounts of data, often stored in various formats and systems. Determining the "single source of truth" is critical to maintaining data integrity when integrating multiple business systems together.
Each system can have different names and data types for what is essentially the same data - one of the key challenges in any integration is mapping data between systems to avoid any data loss or corruption.
Another key challenge is managing data update frequency. Some systems update data in real-time, ensuring instant synchronisation across platforms, while others refresh information at scheduled intervals - daily, hourly, or on demand. The chosen frequency impacts operational efficiency, reporting accuracy, and system performance. If an ERP system integrates with platforms that operate on different update schedules, discrepancies can arise, leading to outdated or conflicting data. This can also make it more difficult to manage any duplicate records that might be created between systems.
As businesses grow, ERP integrations must handle increasing data volumes, users, and transactions. Poorly designed integrations can lead to performance issues, system slowdowns, and costly infrastructure upgrades. Ensuring integrations can scale alongside business needs is critical for long-term efficiency.
ERP systems handle sensitive data, including financial records and customer information. Integrating multiple platforms increases security risks such as data breaches and unauthorised access. Businesses must implement:
ERP integrations often require custom features to align with unique business needs. However, custom-built integrations can be difficult to troubleshoot and maintain.
In some cases, integrating an ERP system with a website, for example, requires a complete website overhaul. This is particularly true when the website is outdated and lacks the necessary API endpoints for ERP communication.
Customisation also requires in-depth knowledge of both the ERP system and the business processes. This necessitates a close relationship between the business and the ERP provider.
ERP integrations involve multiple systems interacting in real time. This makes testing critical to ensure:
Debugging issues can be complex since errors often originate from multiple sources, requiring deep technical expertise to diagnose and resolve.
Modern ERP systems like HARMONiQ use various integration methods to connect with other platforms. The most common methods include:
ERP systems integrate with a wide range of business tools and platforms, including:
By leveraging the right integration method, businesses can streamline operations, reduce manual effort, and enhance data accuracy across all critical systems.
At Logiq Group, we specialise in end-to-end ERP implementation. From the initial discovery phase to ongoing training and support, we’ll make sure your new system is seamless, easy to use, and optimised for your operations.
Choosing the right ERP system is a big decision, and understanding the investment is key. Our Cost Calculator helps us to understand your needs, accounting for your company structure and scale, operations and warehouse management, implementation resources, and integration requirements.
In a few minutes of completing the quiz, you’ll get a personalised cost estimate tailored to your needs. Try it now by clicking below: