What to Do When All of Your Legacy Systems Are Outdated

We occasionally encounter brands that have old systems. They're running on a legacy ERP. Their EDI platform is on-site instead of cloud-based. They do their accounting in spreadsheets. 

These old systems persist for a variety of reasons. Some will tell us that’s just how they’ve always done things. Others are hesitant to invest in upgrades even though they know they should. 

But the reality is this:

If you’re running a legacy system – be it your ERP, your EDI, your accounting, your inventory management – you’re falling behind. You’re spending too much time on manual data entry. Your systems aren’t integrated. You’re making errors. 

You’re losing money. 

So where do you start? 

No two companies will upgrade their systems the same or in the same order, but if efficiency, accuracy and cost savings are the names of the game, here’s what you should prioritize for your ERP, your accounting system and your EDI setup…  

Upgrading Your EDI

If manual data entry, errors and chargebacks has your trading partner relationships on the rocks, here’s what to look for in a new EDI system: 

1. Experience and support. You could have the best EDI software in the world (our top-ranked platform, Lingo, makes a strong case!), but going with a provider that has dedicated, accessible support specialists makes the difference. They can troubleshoot issues, help with integrations and make strategic recommendations that can save you time and money. 
   
   P.S. - eZCom’s been around for 20-plus years. Our collective EDI knowledge is not small.
   
   
2. Global Compatibility. If you sell globally or ever anticipate doing so, you want your EDI software to comply with X12 and EDIFACT standards. X12 is the North American standard. EDIFACT is used throughout Europe and Asia. 
   
   
3. Retailer Mapping. You want your EDI software to map not just with your current trading partners but also those you’d like to have a relationship with one day. You also want an EDI provider that updates mapping when trading partners make changes. This ensures compliance, prevents errors and reduces the likelihood of chargebacks. 

Read more about key features and benefits to look for in an EDI platform.

Upgrading Your ERP

If it’s been a minute since you upgraded your ERP, here’s what to look for and why:

1. Robust integration capabilities. This is how your ERP will communicate with your other systems, like your EDI platform.
   
   
2. Scalability. You want an ERP system that can grow with your business. A cloud-based system makes that almost effortless.
   
   
3. Security. Internal and external threats to your data – and your business – are more real than ever. Make sure that your ERP meets industry security standards. 

Upgrading Your Accounting System

Leveling up your accounting system can seem daunting – especially if you’ve been doing things one way for a loooooonnng time. When making a move, look for: 

1. Migration procedures. If you’re moving years worth of data, you need to know that the migration process between your legacy system and your new system is doable. Ask your prospective new provider how they’re going to help you get mountains of data into a new system without error or major disruption.
   
   
2. Integration. As with your ERP, ensuring that your accounting system can talk to your other systems and tools is non-negotiable.
   
   
3. Timing. Switching accounting systems doesn’t happen with a flip of a switch so figure out when it makes the most sense to migrate. You probably don’t want to do it during busy season or headed into tax prep season. 

It’s Time to Move on from your Legacy Systems

Migrating to new systems is like going to the dentist. You don’t love it, but you know how beneficial it is for your health. Invest in the future health of your business. 

Still have questions? We’re always available to help. Give us a shout.