Data Security Risks during ERP Implementation : Playing Safe

ERP software is undoubtedly an integral tool for any business, since it helps to manage and regulate significant volumes of critical business data and operations. The very nature and purpose of ERP systems make them highly prone to security risks especially during implementation and/or migration stages. This is why it is important to stay extra cautious during the implementation process to alleviate some of the most common ERP data security risks such as pervious security barriers, goofed up communication and poor data.

Here’s how you can mitigate data security risks during your ERP implementation :

1. Irrespective of whether you opt for on-premise or cloud ERP software, the top concern has to be a secure host for all your business operations and data. For on-premise, it is all about having a dedicated technical crew to manage the system, whereas for cloud ERP solutions, the vendor takes care of the burden. Hosting your ERP system on a cloud platform might seem a bit counterintuitive in terms of data security, but it should not, because SaaS or cloud based ERP vendors are well-equipped when it comes to data security meaning they ensure dedicated resources and practices to keep the data secure. In case you are apprehensive about investing enough money and time to ERP data security, then a cloud based ERP software might be the best bet for you.

2. Your ERP solution ought to be an all-inclusive enterprise suite and not just another system adding to the already dwelling list of enterprise solutions. If you are still dependant on a cluster of other systems or tools such as spreadsheets etc., even after implementing an ERP software, you are simply putting all your critical business data at risk. Thus, map all your archaic systems and processes onto the newly implemented ERP software. This will give you a centralised and secure hub for your data.

3. Just because the newly rolled-out ERP software will affect everyone in the organisation, it doesn’t mean that each employee should get full access to the system and controls. For instance, your sales crew will require access to inventory, but they won’t be needing any access to production data. Thus during ERP project implementation, it is advisable to allot a set of protocols limiting access to a specific set of employees to only the data that they need to view. Here, you can work with your ERP vendor or partner to create password protected sections or dashboards.

4. Using an older version of ERP solution can incur errors and vulnerabilities into your business data. Besides being inefficient, slow and prone to data mismanagement, an older version is highly prone to malware, hackers and viruses. The purpose of upgrading an ERP system is to fix the bugs and patch security loopholes. Long story short, upgrading an older version on your own can be a mess.

Click here to uncover five common questions to ask when upgrading your ERP solution.

Takeaway

Remember data security risks can always be mitigated if you choose to go with a SaaS cloud ERP software, because your vendor will install and roll-out system updates as and when available rather than making you rely on your in-house technical crew for the same saving you time and money .

If you intend to get aboard the ERP implementation journey or want to alleviate all those data security risks, feel free to get in touch with an expert at Sage today. We are ERP masters, and glad to assist you at any stage of your ERP software implementation journey. You can also drop us a mail at sales@sagesoftware.co.in for free demo and consultation.