While the term may sound odd, thin client technology has a great deal of benefits that clients can potentially gain from utilizing a system. Generally thin client ERP systems support a multitude of items ranging from manufacturing, inventory, shipping, distribution, logistics, invoicing and accounting. Additionally many different areas such as sales, production, scheduling, delivery, billing, quality management and human resources can benefit from this system.

Thin client only means the software is browser based system which displays applications which are ran on a dedicated server. PC upgrades are eliminated and the there is a reduction in the amount of manpower required to implement changes. These changes can take place without disrupting the daily business upgrades. Hard drives are eliminated as the systems designed are placed on a central server where all of the data is stored.

The benefits start out by saving companies a great deal of time and money through a reduction in the amount of hardware, servers and software training which is required. Other benefits from thin client ERP are that the cost of ownership and maintenance are lowered along with a reduction in the cost per user price.

Businesses can increase the security on their systems since the applications and data are all centrally maintained at one central terminal. This gives the IT department the opportunity to monitor each computer remotely and prevent any files from being transferred to a local hard drive or disc. Additionally, the remote access allows employees the opportunity of accessing the information at any remote locations, the central location, via the internet or at home.

It is very important to shop around when looking for a thin client ERP vendor. Not all vendors have experience with these systems. Make sure the system can integrate with any additional modules already in place and has the ability to be upgraded easily.