Middle East Businesses urged to examine ERP investment

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Recently released figures suggest that the market for ERP solutions is growing steadily as IT decision-makers become aware of the real businesses advantages of deploying integrated systems. Middle East based Madar Research Group estimates that the GCC's ERP sector was worth US$134 million at the end of 2003, while global IT analysts IDC have predicted that the figure for 2004 will be markedly higher at US$158 million.

'These figures are encouraging, in that they indicate healthy growth for the ERP market, but the region's technology sector is one of the most dynamic in the world, and there is the potential for much more investment,' said Nizar Badwan, general manager, Exact Software Middle East.

IT decision makers need to assess whether the data management systems they have in place will sufficiently manage an upturn in company growth, Badwan added. 'Growing businesses need an effective and reliable IT solution in place in order to fully maximize their development potential. Preparation is key to ensuring business success,' he said.

'It is vital for organizations to examine their ERP systems ahead of time, and implement any necessary changes in readiness for an upturn. The business benefits are obvious - improved business continuity and greater profitability.'

Exact's Globe 2003 Enterprise software solution supports the organization's core processes. This includes human resources, customer relationship management, accounting, document management, workflow management and logistics. It is extremely effective for multi-site organisations. It is fully Arabized and localized for certain markets in the Middle East, reflecting legal and accounting practices in those countries.

In order to support the expected growth in ERP investment across the region, Exact, which has 45 offices worldwide, is pursuing an aggressive 18-month expansion plan, which will see it open satellite offices across the region. Its Kuwait office has opened, and plans are well underway for branches in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Operations in Egypt and the Levant will follow in 2005.

'To support the expected increase in demand for ERP software, Exact is developing a network of offices to fully meet the needs of our customers and develop new business opportunities,' said Badwan. 'We are well placed to support companies looking to implement, or upgrade an ERP solution across their subsidiary network.'