The AI Leap in the World of ERP Solutions
Source: Äri-IT Kevad 2025
Author: Erko Tamuri, Member of the Board, BCS Itera
In 2025, we’re facing a new reality: artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer an experimental tool. It’s a strategic partner for managing business processes.
One area where AI’s impact is especially significant is in the implementation and daily use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions. For decades, ERP has been the backbone of business management, but AI is fundamentally changing its role. So, what does this AI leap mean for ERP solutions? What are the main trends on the horizon, and how can we all prepare for them?
AI-Powered Predictions and Decision-Making
Traditionally, ERP solutions have focused on collecting and processing data, while decision-making was left to managers. The AI leap takes this to the next level by offering proactive analysis and recommendations based on real-time data and historical trends. In the near future, AI-powered ERP solutions will be able to not only analyze past data but also predict future scenarios, helping managers make faster, more accurate decisions.
Increased Efficiency
The AI leap can automate routine and labor-intensive processes that previously required manual entry and intervention. For example, in procurement, AI engines can predict inventory needs and automate purchasing procedures. Soon, this will become even more precise, with AI predicting supply chain disruptions and making real-time adjustments to reduce costs and minimize risks.
Dynamic ERP Solutions
ERP solutions are becoming increasingly self-adapting. Previously, companies needed significant development work to customize their ERP solutions to changing needs. The AI leap will allow these solutions to learn and adapt on their own without continuous human intervention. For instance, businesses can use AI to optimize business rules, identify process bottlenecks, and adjust solutions based on changing conditions.
AI-Powered User Support and Conversational Interfaces
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants may become a standard part of ERP solutions. They won’t just offer simple customer support but will actively participate in managing workflows. A great example is an employee asking an AI assistant for reports, making inquiries, or initiating processes without navigating complex menus. This will reduce the need for traditional training and make ERP solutions more user-friendly.
Data Protection and Cybersecurity
AI is helping to enhance cybersecurity by analyzing ERP solution logs and detecting unusual activity that could signal a cyberattack or data breach. In the near future, AI-powered security measures will become more intelligent, allowing for automated threat responses, access restrictions, and even recommending preventative actions before breaches occur.
What We Need to Prepare For
While the AI leap offers significant opportunities, it also brings new challenges:
- Upskilling Employees – Integrating AI into ERP solutions requires employees to learn how to use new tools and interpret AI-generated recommendations.
- Improving Data Quality – The effectiveness of the AI leap depends on data quality. Businesses must invest in managing accurate and structured data.
- Change Management – Implementing AI-powered ERP solutions means changes to workplace culture and processes. Leaders must focus on managing these changes smoothly and engaging employees.
- Regulatory Compliance – Using AI brings new regulatory requirements for data protection and transparency. Companies must stay current with new regulations and ensure compliance.
Today, the question is no longer whether we should use AI in our ERP solutions, but how we can do it most intelligently. AI allows companies to make faster, more accurate decisions, increase efficiency, and improve security. At the same time, it requires us—as leaders and decision-makers—to be aware of and ready to invest in both technology and people to achieve maximum benefit.
Companies that can successfully apply AI in their ERP solutions will gain a strong competitive advantage and be better prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing business environment.
Our goal is to remain a sustainable partner for your investments in ERP, HRM, CRM, and BI solutions in the years to come. I wish you the courage and success in making your AI leap in business software!