Tag: sales

How ERP and CRM Integration Drives Unified Business Processes
ERP and CRM integration allows departments and systems to talk with each other to increase profitability and sales. A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system provides transparency, better qualified leads and manages valuable customer interactions. It also stores valuable information from your marketing department. Marketing develops new customer relationships through content, digital marketing and management, sourcing and nurturing leads etc. This helps with brand awareness and increasing your market share.

On the other side, your ERP system manages the back-end processes from accounts, operation and human resources departments. These include order placement, tracking, billing, shipping, accounting and supply chain details. So why integrate these systems and departments together?

Benefits to your bottom line of an ERP and CRM integration
1. Reduction in data entry and improved efficiency – One centralised location for your data ensures any updating of information from accounts, operations, sales or marketing is only entered once. This saves you time and money as these mundane tasks are often labour-intensive. Combining your CRM and ERP automates and manages processes through workflows, which enhances your efficiency by simplifying them.
2. Stronger Visibility, Forecasting and Accuracy – Your sales reps need to be able to access on-the-go, real-time data. Errors are reduced when they can enter a quote or order in the one system. The ERP system allows the sales rep to look into current inventory and costings for these quotes. The CRM stores promotional and marketing activities which can be accessed whilst on the road to obtain true, accurate quotes. Customer interactions and sales documentation can be produced quickly increasing visibility and efficiency. By integrating both, staff gain access to the whole picture to assist with sales and forecasting.
3. Complete 360-degree view on your customers – A complete view of your customers provides better insights for building lasting relationships and determining where there is potential for future growth. Fast and consistent up-to-date data enables better analytics and reporting. This helps to effectively market and track changes in your customers preferences, profitability, and loyalty.
4. Cross-Departmental Collaboration – Departments have different functions within the business and can sometimes discourage collaboration and sharing of information. This ends up making data accessibility a challenge and duplication a problem. When departments talk to each staff are able to access real-time data, view all relevant key facts, so they can work towards achieving the company’s goals.
How They All Work Together

Both ERP and CRM systems improve efficiencies in business processes which in turn strengthens your business. A CRM system coupled with marketing drives sales; an ERP system manages customer information once the order has been placed to reduce overall costs.

With one source of truth, management has an overview in real-time of the business, what is happening in every department. This is extremely important for growing companies and companies who want to scale. A single source of all data and transactions contains contact details, shipments, credit history for quotes, orders and any other customer service interactions. This ensures anyone from sales, marketing, accounts or operations can access a complete history of the customer when required. Business workflows will be enhanced which ultimately improves revenue generation, reduces costs, and provides management with more insightful and useful reports.

Click for more information on ERP and CRM systems and the latest release of SapphireOne ERP, CRM, DMS and Business Accounting Software Application. Alternatively, contact our office on (02) 8362 4500 or request a demo.
July 26, 2019
Using ERP Software and Technology to Drive Sales Growth
Every business wants to increase sales without inflating budgets. One of the most cost-effective ways to achieve this is by fully understanding and utilising the functions and features already available within your ERP software and supporting technology.

Before investing in new systems, take a close look at what you already have. Once you have maximised your existing capabilities, avoid the trap of becoming complacent. While technology is a powerful enabler, building and maintaining strong client relationships through personal interaction remains fundamental to the sales process.

Seven Practical Ways to Increase Sales Using ERP Technology
1. Your Website – Review your SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) strategy to improve visibility, increase search rankings, and attract new customers. Many website platforms include built-in SEO tools, plugins, or apps designed to drive traffic. Ensure your website is mobile-ready and fully responsive, as mobile usage continues to grow. Regularly review performance and apply optimisation techniques to stay competitive.
2. Stocktake Your Hardware – Confirm that desktops, laptops, and mobile devices are up to date and performing efficiently. Outdated or slow hardware can negatively impact productivity and staff effectiveness. Replacing ageing equipment can deliver immediate performance gains.
3. Eliminate Paperwork – Manual paperwork slows operations and increases the risk of errors. ERP software supports Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), allowing trading documents such as orders, invoices, and advanced shipping notices to be exchanged electronically without manual data entry. Check whether your ERP includes a Document Management System (DMS) to attach, store, and manage documents digitally. Files of any type can be stored directly against transactions, client records, or vendor records, improving accessibility and control.
4. Improve Customer Relationships with CRM – CRM functionality goes beyond recording customer interactions. It provides a clear, consistent view of customer needs across the entire sales cycle. Ensure sales staff record contacts, opportunities, activities, and schedules within the system. Mobile access allows teams to retrieve real-time information from anywhere. Use CRM insights to personalise marketing efforts, build trust, and improve the overall customer experience with SapphireOne ERP and CRM.
5. Payment Options – E-invoicing and “pay now” options can significantly reduce payment delays. ERP systems can integrate with multiple online payment gateways, allowing customers to choose their preferred payment method and making the purchasing experience as frictionless as possible.
6. Automation – Review existing automation processes and identify areas causing delays or manual rework. Prioritise workflows where automation will increase productivity and reduce errors. ERP software should be flexible. If a new workflow would benefit your business, investigate customisation options. Repetitive transactions can often be completed with a single action through effective automation.
7. Reporting – Ensure reports are accessible to the people who need them, both internally and externally. Reporting should provide accurate trend analysis, highlight variances, and support forecasting. Automated reports save time and improve consistency. Speak with your ERP provider about custom reports tailored to your business requirements.
When fully utilised, ERP software and supporting technology become powerful tools for driving sales growth. By improving efficiency, visibility, and customer engagement, businesses can scale confidently while maintaining control over operations and costs.

Click for more information on SapphireOne ERP, CRM, DMS and Accounting Software and features. Alternatively, contact our office on (02) 8362 4500 or request a demo.
May 14, 2019
Maximising Profit on Sales Orders Through Pricing and Costs

Enterprise Resource Planning, ERP software, is an integral component of business today. SapphireOne ERP application manages and streamlines overall business operations by integrating and coordinating various workflows and processes. These are from production management and order intakes, to sales and customer service. This will inevitably give your company increased sales, orders and profit. With shorter lead times, improved quality, reduced costs, increased profit, improved productivity and enhanced customer service, your company will gain that competitive edge.

Our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is embedded and inclusive in our ERP application. This gives you with the tools to focus on providing high-quality service to clients and targeted marketing opportunities.

SapphireOne ERP application helps to plan and efficiently utilise your resources to increase Sales, Orders and Profit

Best practices are by definition profit builders. SapphireOne ERP has these built in so you can take advantage of other companies’ experiences and learn how to perform these practices the best and hence most profitable way.

Our ERP application will simplify and utilise your resources wisely by tying together nearly every aspect of your business. Streamlining your business creates efficiency, helps you achieve greater control and gives management more accurate reporting to make informed decisions.

Increase revenue with an ERP system

An ERP system will improve your sales process, increase customer satisfaction and employee productivity. SapphireOne ERP streamlines, automates and integrates internal workflows giving you time to concentrate on developing your business, keeping up with industry trends and increasing your income. With revenue a major goal, ERP systems are becoming more and more crucial in gaining that competitive edge.

Optimise retail sales activity

ERP software helps you drive business regardless of where the transaction is taking place. SapphireOne Web Pack and POS capabilities ensures you have access to real-time data and can timely respond to customers’ demands remotely on your mobile or in-store.

Our SapphireOne ERP application provides managers a consistent information flow with enterprise-wide visibility so they can track all business transactions. With this data they have the power to optimise inventory levels, purchasing and production for enhanced performance.

Increase quality of order fulfillment and delivery services

Inaccuracies in order fulfilment caused by human error are mitigated by an intelligent ERP system. SapphireOne ERP application automates time-consuming tasks like inventory management, processing and order picking, and produces real-time, on-demand reports to view progress in the supply chain. The easy to navigate, clear and concise interface ensures even new employees are able to find the right goods and access pertinent information.

Manage sales and customer relationships

SapphireOne ERP application with the integrated CRM software allows you to manage relationships with customers before, during and after the sale. Easy access to customer information and history details helps the sales and customer support teams create better experiences. Our CRM can be utilised to build stronger relationships, encourage conversations and increase sales based on multiple interaction channels ie Softphone, Document Management System. All data gathered is shared with other departments and in turn will assist marketing to improve products and services.

Analyse and continuously adjust results to enhance the sales process

Management reporting utilising real-time data in SapphireOne ERP application give you the flexibility to continuously adjust to current trends in the supply chain and selling process. Our BI (Business Intelligence) Dashboards enables you to find patterns and use the data to further improve your company’s offering.
October 22, 2018
Start-Up Business — Go Hard or Go Home
Managing a start-up business has become very difficult in the present day market conditions. Buying a successful business is easy, buying an unsuccessful or budding business is challenging but to build a company from the scratch is one of the most difficult things. People dream about a ‘start-up’ because they have that business idea which is designed to their terms and plans.

Managing a start-up business has become very difficult in the present day market conditions because of the competition and technology advancement. The company has to take care of the revenues, expenditures, customer satisfaction as well as keep an eye on the competitors and the technology. Entrepreneurs to succeed in their start-up business should take of some important functions that will shape their business.
- Corporate strategy – Do your market research and come up with new strategies everytime there is a need. Follow your competitors and their prices, research about the new products and market size for your product. Stick to the strategy and focus on acquiring new customers making sure you satisfy the existing customers.
- Financial Growth – In today’s terms business growth means financial growth. So, set financial goals for your start-up business and evaluate the business regularly. Come up with new ideas on improving the financial growth and keep an account on your expenses. Manage your accounts using a software as it minimizes your costs and keeps your records upto date.
- Stick to your profile – You have your basic idea about your product and how people should know your product or company, just stick to it in the beginning and develop that product. Don’t venture into unknown areas or don’t do it because your competitor is doing it. Venture into new areas only after getting success in your existing area as people will perceive a successful/failed business differently. Be specific about what you want to provide and follow the innovative ways in providing it. Look for gaps in the market and make your investment in those areas.
- Business Cash flow – Tracking your sales and purchases is very important as it will decide the assets and liabilities of your company in the end. Generating revenue should be your top priority and for that you have to track every payment and you should be prepared to recover them. Keep some cash reserves as emergency to face the tough situations.
Effective management of resources and efficient handling the day-to-day business aspects inspires the success of your start-up business and for that you have to employ management systems like ERP and CRM.

For a sneak peek at the full capabilities ERP, CRM, Accounting Software, Human Resources, Payroll, Assets and Document Management, check out SapphireOne and request a live demo, it is everything you’ll ever need to make your company management a success.
March 19, 2018
The Future of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Technological changes are growing at a rapid pace and the minute we buy a new software there comes a more sophisticated one. It’s a challenging situation both for the employees and employers and the companies are realising the importance of staying updated with the latest trends.

Enterprise Resource Planning helps the companies to make effective and real-time decisions thereby strengthening the organisation’s profit. There are many factors that can influence the future of ERP. A leader in providing Accounting Software, Payroll Software, CRM Software, ERP software.

SapphireOne believes that the following factors will play an important role in the future of ERP.
- User-friendly Enterprise Resource Planning System – Employees are looking for a more user-friendly Enterprise Resource Planning system that will solve their practical problems. Companies are developing Enterprise Resource Planning software with superior architecture and slick designs. The demand for a pro-active and next-gen Enterprise Resource Planning system is never-ending. This puts a lot of pressure on the ERP suppliers to give the customer the swiftest and most attractive Enterprise Resource Planning software. Today’s workers are better equipped to face the technological changes and they should be supplied with the best Enterprise Resource Planning.
- Mid-market ERP – It’s the era of ‘Smart’ products and today’s employees want to use their Enterprise Resource Planning technology anytime, anywhere. Nowadays companies are opting for accessories that they can use on the go, like opting for mobiles over desktops. Mid-market ERP solution gives you uninterrupted access to your data and in turn influences the decision makers. For Example, business people need an Accounting software that helps them save time by making invoices on the move.
- Customisation – Mid-size organisations are in need of a customised ERP software that will easily help them in managing operations, sales, accounts, inventory etc. The mid-size companies are looking for a cost-effective Enterprise Resource Planning that is user-friendly and that will help them to compete with the bigger organisations. For example, many businesses need a Document Management System to maintain their records easily and keep them updated.
A challenge for the suppliers is to come up with a flawless Enterprise Resource Planning software that can be easily integrated and easily implemented. SapphireOne provides the clients with most savvy and smooth ERP, CRM & Business Accounting Software. Seize the benefits of SapphireOne ERP software.
February 23, 2018
How to enter a Vendor Purchase
In any business, operations typically involve either the sale of goods or the provision of services. Where goods are sold, the purchasing process plays a critical role in sourcing suppliers, managing inventory, and ensuring that raw materials and finished products are available when required.

The Vendor Purchase function in SapphireOne was designed to streamline the entry of stock purchases within the Inventory module. It provided a structured and efficient method for recording inventory purchases directly against vendors, ensuring accurate stock control and financial reporting.

Vendor Purchase in SapphireOne

The Vendor Purchase screen created a Purchase Vendor Invoice (PVI) and was accessed from the Purchases menu within Inventory Mode. This transaction allowed users to select the appropriate Inventory ID and purchase specific stock items required by the business.

Stock items could be entered manually or, where available, scanned via barcode to speed up data entry and reduce errors. Once created, Vendor Purchase transactions were immediately visible in the Transaction Inquiry screen within the Purchases section of the Inventory module.

Additional Purchasing Features

SapphireOne provided a range of tools to support efficient purchasing workflows. Multiple invoices from the same vendor could be combined into a single invoice using the Merge Invoices function available from the Tools menu. This was particularly useful for consolidating supplier billing and reducing administrative overhead.

Additional information could also be recorded against the purchase, including:
- Linking the Vendor Purchase to a specific project
- Copying details from a previously completed purchase invoice
- Attaching supporting documents, such as supplier invoices, in PDF or other formats
The More Details section of the Vendor Purchase screen included supplementary pages for shipping information, foreign exchange details, layout settings and other purchasing-related data.

The accompanying video demonstrated how to enter a Vendor Purchase transaction. Vendor Purchase was the fifth data entry option located in the Purchases menu within Inventory Mode of the SapphireOne ERP, CRM and Accounting Software solution.
December 19, 2011
How to enter a Client Order

Entering a Client Order is a core part of the sales workflow within SapphireOne and sits at the centre of how an integrated ERP system manages customer demand, inventory flow, and downstream financial processing.

One of the key strengths of an ERP system lies in its ability to connect business processes from the very first point of customer contact. Client Orders form the foundation of this process, capturing order and delivery requirements while integrating directly with inventory control, materials management, and cash flow. This integrated approach allows businesses to measure profitability accurately, plan production effectively, and ensure an efficient flow of goods from inventory to clients.

Client Order Management in SapphireOne

The process of entering a Client Order in SapphireOne begins in the Sales menu within the Inventory mode. From the Client Order screen, the user selects the relevant client by entering their Client ID. SapphireOne automatically populates delivery details, mailing address, and contact information from the client’s master record. These details can be adjusted on the fly for a specific order without affecting the underlying client record.

Once the client details are confirmed, the user enters the requested delivery date and the client’s purchase order number in the Tracking section. Line items are then added in the transaction area, where specific pricing structures, rates, and discounts may be applied for individual customers. On the Custom screen, SapphireOne also allows different delivery dates to be assigned to individual line items, supporting more complex fulfilment requirements.

After the Client Order has been entered, a picking slip may be printed or emailed to support warehouse and dispatch operations.

Converting Client Orders to Sales Invoices

When a Client Order is ready to be fulfilled, it can be converted directly into a Sales Invoice. This is achieved by updating quantities if required and selecting the Convert option on the second screen. Once converted, SapphireOne enables the user to print or email the final invoice, packing slip, or delivery docket as required.

This seamless transition from Client Order to Sales Invoice ensures accuracy across sales, inventory, and accounting, while reducing duplication of data entry and improving overall operational efficiency.

All Client Order functionality is accessed from the Sales menu in the Inventory module. The accompanying video demonstrates the full process of entering and managing a Client Order within the SapphireOne ERP, CRM, and Accounting Software solution. The Client Order is the second data entry item located in the Sales menu.

September 27, 2011
Vendor Inquiry in SapphireOne
Mountains of paper invoices, manual lookups, and fragmented vendor records can significantly slow productivity in an Accounts Payable department. This is precisely the problem the Vendor Inquiry functionality in SapphireOne is designed to solve.

This video demonstration provides a detailed walkthrough of how Vendor Inquiry works in SapphireOne, showing how users can instantly access vendor records, review financial and transactional history, and manage vendor relationships from a single, centralised interface.

A Centralised View of Vendor Information

SapphireOne Vendor Inquiry provides real-time visibility into every aspect of a vendor relationship. From invoices and payments to contact details, documents, and historical activity, all information is stored in one place and remains accessible for the life of the data file.

By removing the need for manual searching and paper-based processes, Vendor Inquiry helps organisations improve productivity, reduce processing time, and gain tighter control over cash flow.

Multiple Ways to Access Vendor Inquiry

The video highlights the flexibility of SapphireOne by demonstrating that Vendor Inquiry can be accessed from several areas of the application, depending on how users work day to day.

Vendor Inquiry is available from:
- Accounts Mode, via the Payables menu
- Inventory Mode, from the Purchases section
- Job Projects Mode, through Inventory and Costs
For fast navigation, SapphireOne also supports function keys to move instantly between modes, as well as vendor selection directly from the main palette in Accounts Mode. This allows users in finance, purchasing, or project teams to access the same vendor information without switching systems.

Navigating the Vendor Record

Once a vendor is selected, the inquiry screen becomes an interactive workspace. The toolbar adapts to allow users to view or modify vendor details based on their permissions. Double-click behaviour can be configured to suit individual preferences, making navigation faster for frequent users.

Vendor information is organised across multiple pages, each accessible via function keys. This structure allows users to move quickly between high-level details and more granular financial or transactional data without losing context.

Vendor Details Beyond the Basics

The Vendor Inquiry screen displays far more than just name and address details. The demonstration shows how SapphireOne supports extensive vendor profiling, including categorisation by area, city, class, department, and company. Vendors can also be linked to specific job projects or assigned internal risk ratings, which is particularly useful for governance and ISO-aligned processes.

Financial information is equally comprehensive. Users can view current balances, outstanding invoices, historical transactions, and foreign currency exposure in real time. Credit limits and credit stops can be monitored and enforced directly from the vendor record, giving finance teams immediate control.

Document Management Built In

A key strength highlighted in the video is SapphireOne’s integrated document management. Unlimited documents can be attached directly to a vendor record, such as contracts, insurance certificates, compliance documents, or correspondence.

The paperclip icon provides instant visual confirmation of attached documents, while the dedicated document page supports version control. These documents remain permanently linked and accessible through inquiry screens, ensuring nothing is lost or duplicated.

Communication and Contact Tracking

Vendor Inquiry also acts as a communication hub. Phone numbers, email addresses, and websites are clickable, allowing users to initiate contact instantly. Physical addresses can be opened directly in mapping services, making logistics coordination simpler.

The demonstration also shows how SapphireOne logs communication automatically. Emails sent to vendors are recorded, marketing activity can be tracked through Mailchimp integration, and softphone functionality enables direct calls that are logged against the vendor record.

Transaction History and Drill-Down Capability

Every transaction associated with a vendor can be reviewed from the inquiry screen. Users can drill down from summary balances into individual invoices, payments, journals, and source documents. Purchase history can also be reviewed over defined periods, including visibility of items purchased, last purchase dates, and current stock levels.

For organisations managing projects, Vendor Inquiry also shows job project history, providing a complete picture of where and how a vendor has been utilised across the business.

Actions, Notes, and Ongoing Follow-Up

Vendor Inquiry supports rich-text notes, allowing users to maintain detailed commentary with highlighting and formatting. These notes are searchable and persist over time, making them valuable for long-term vendor management.

Unlimited actions can also be created, such as follow-ups or reviews. These actions integrate with the SapphireOne calendar, can notify specific users, and support attendee tracking, ensuring accountability across teams.

Customised for Every User

The video concludes by demonstrating how Vendor Inquiry screens can be customised at the user level. Columns can be rearranged, swapped, sorted, or resized, and views are saved automatically for each user. This means every team member can tailor the inquiry screen to match their role, without affecting anyone else’s layout.

Designed to Improve Productivity and Control

Vendor Inquiry in SapphireOne replaces fragmented processes with a single, real-time source of truth. By unifying vendor data, documents, transactions, and communication into one interface, it empowers Accounts Payable teams to work faster, reduce errors, and make informed decisions with confidence.

For more information on Vendor Inquiry or other Accounts Payable workflows in SapphireOne, please contact our team — we’re always here to help.
September 14, 2011
How to Enter a Vendor Invoice

A Vendor Invoice in SapphireOne is entered through Accounts Mode and allows you to record an invoice directly against a vendor’s account while bypassing Inventory Purchases.

This transaction type is commonly used for expenses that do not impact inventory stock levels, such as utilities, rent, freight charges, stationery, professional services, and other general operating costs. By posting directly to the General Ledger, Vendor Invoices provide a streamlined way to capture non-stock expenses while maintaining full accounting accuracy.

During data entry, users may record the supplier’s purchase order number and add descriptive notes in the memo field to clearly document the nature of the expense. One or more supporting documents can be attached to the transaction using the paperclip icon, with all attachments automatically time- and date-stamped. These documents remain accessible from the transaction history for the life of the data file, supporting audit and compliance requirements.

Vendor Invoices can be managed through Workflow, providing a structured approach to authorisation and approval. Workflows may be configured to notify one or more users when an invoice is entered, trigger approvals based on invoice value, or enforce multi-level authorisation before the transaction can be finalised.

To support task management and follow-ups, Actions may also be added to a Vendor Invoice. These allow reminders to be emailed or messaged to nominated users and are automatically recorded in the SapphireOne calendar.

For recurring expenses, Vendor Invoices may be set up as standing transactions. These can be scheduled to recur weekly, fortnightly, monthly, yearly, or at a defined interval, and are automatically generated without further user input. Standing transactions are ideal for predictable costs such as lease repayments, telecommunications, electricity, and gas bills.

With integrated accounting, workflow control, and document management, SapphireOne ensures Vendor Invoices are efficiently processed, fully traceable, and aligned with internal governance requirements.

SapphireOne ERP, CRM and DMS — we have the power to back you.

February 11, 2011