What are the benefits of cloud ERP?

As the cloud matures, CIOs and other business leaders are considering cloud ERP in addition to, and sometimes instead of, on-premises software.

Here are six benefits of cloud ERP that help explain its popularity.

Data is available anywhere, on any device. Users are able to access cloud ERP via a web browser and can log in remotely from anywhere. Cloud ERP supports today's remote workforce, whether a salesperson is checking on an order or the CFO is running a report from a home office.

Upgrades are automatic. On-premises software needs to be installed on multiple computers, and IT administrators need to install upgrades on each individual machine. The costs can really add up. In addition, every computer in the average workplace probably contains a unique mix of software, which can sometimes lead to technical issues and difficulties. Cloud software eliminates those particular problems.

Professionals manage your IT infrastructure. Every ERP system is susceptible to security breaches. With cloud ERP, professionals watch over your IT environment and install the latest patches. Because an external team of IT professionals is monitoring and maintaining your cloud ERP system, your own IT team can focus on other tasks.

Scalability is instant. If your database server needs more memory, additional capacity is available via the cloud in a matter of hours instead of days or weeks.

CIOs and other business leaders are considering cloud ERP in addition to -- and sometimes instead of -- on-premises software.

Built-in disaster recovery. If an external force -- such as fire, flooding or extreme weather -- disrupts your business, cloud ERP enables you to access your system from anywhere. With cloud ERP, you can restore data from a backup or relocate much more quickly as compared with on-premises systems.

Opex instead of Capex. You may be able to treat your ERP costs as operating expenses, because cloud ERP is often sold as a subscription.