Today, a significant number of B2B companies are recognizing the urgent need to upgrade their back-office technology, particularly by transitioning their enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms to scalable cloud systems. This shift is not merely a matter of keeping up with technological advancements; it is also a response to changing customer expectations and competitive pressures. Research conducted by Deloitte reveals that customers increasingly prioritize sellers who offer robust front-office digital tools, leading to greater spending with these vendors. This trend underscores the importance of transforming both the front and back offices simultaneously, reinforcing the business case for such integrated initiatives.
As of 2023, nearly half of the B2B companies surveyed have either integrated or plan to integrate their B2B commerce operations with cloud-based ERPs. This integration is becoming a crucial step in optimizing business processes and enhancing customer experiences. Industry leaders, often referred to as “front-runners,” are nearly three times more likely than their less effective counterparts to have achieved this integration. These front-runners are setting themselves apart by leveraging technology not only to streamline their operations but also to create a more cohesive customer journey.
By enhancing both front and back-office systems concurrently, B2B sellers can unlock the added benefits of integrated customer and operational data. This holistic approach enables them to make faster, more informed decisions that drive business success. As do Forno points out, the synergy between front and back-office improvements can lead to greater efficiencies, enhanced customer satisfaction, and increased revenue growth.
“It’s tempting to look at IT projects in isolation,” Creviston remarked, highlighting a common pitfall. “However, every time we upgrade a system, we must ask ourselves if it’s used by an external customer. If so, we need to consider how we can integrate and streamline the end-user experience.” This mindset fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that technology upgrades are not only functional but also enhance the overall customer experience. By prioritizing the needs of external users, B2B companies can create a more agile and responsive business environment that meets the evolving demands of their customers.