Why Is ERP Integration Critical? A Microsoft Dynamics NAV Example

When systems such as a website, e-commerce, accounting and ERP work unaware of each other, the result is repeated data entry, inconsistent stock and wasted time. ERP integration removes exactly this disconnection and brings all systems into a single data flow. Below we explain both the problem and the solution we applied in a real project.

The Problem: Disconnected Systems

When the website and the ERP work separately, product and price information has to be updated by hand in two places. This repetition leads to both wasted time and inevitable errors. The stock shown on the web may differ from the real stock in the warehouse, turning into customer dissatisfaction. In short, disconnected systems slow the business down as it grows.

The Solution: Real-Time Integration via OData

We integrated a manufacturing company's web platform with Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision) ERP over OData web services. Thanks to this structure, product, price, stock and order data flows automatically and in real time between the two systems. A price defined in the ERP updates instantly on the web, while an order from the web drops directly into the ERP. This way the two systems work as if they were a single whole.

The Gain: Accurate Data, Fewer Errors

The most concrete gain of integration is the complete removal of double data entry. Because stock and price always stay current, the risk of giving customers wrong information drops. Human errors fall and the team is freed from repetitive work. In the end operations speed up and trust in the data increases.

What to Watch For in an Integration Project

• Define the master source: If it is not clear from the start which system is the master for products, prices and stock, the two systems may overwrite each other's data.
• Write mapping rules: Product codes, units, tax rates and customer records must be mapped so that they mean the same on both sides.
• Plan for failures: When the connection drops, pending records must not be lost and must be resent later.
• Keep a log: Being able to trace which data was transferred when and in which direction makes it easier to find the cause of a problem.

Which Systems Can Be Integrated?

ERP, accounting, e-commerce, shipping and e-document systems that offer a web service or API can be connected. Integration is built to need, from one-way data transfer to two-way synchronisation.

We apply the same enterprise integration approach, led by Microsoft Dynamics/Navision, to your different ERP and accounting systems as well. For details, visit our Custom Integrations page or get a quote.