Frequently Asked Questions
General ERP Questions
What is an ERP system?
An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is software that centralises your operational data and workflows into one platform. Instead of managing information in spreadsheets or separate tools, an ERP system connects processes such as production, stock, quality, purchasing, and reporting.
Why do companies replace spreadsheets with ERP systems?
Spreadsheets become unreliable as teams grow. They introduce errors, duplication, version issues, and slow manual administration. ERP systems provide structured, controlled, real-time data with far fewer mistakes and faster decision-making.
What’s the difference between off-the-shelf ERP and custom ERP?
Off-the-shelf ERPs come with fixed modules you must adapt your processes to. Custom ERP systems are built around your existing workflows, ensuring better adoption, higher efficiency, and long-term alignment with your operations.
Is ERP software only for large companies?
No. Many small and mid-sized organisations use ERP systems to remove operational bottlenecks, improve accuracy, and grow reliably. Custom ERP solutions are especially popular among SMEs because they scale gradually as the business evolves.
Custom ERP & ActOn Systems
What makes ActOn Systems different from other ERP providers?
We don’t sell generic modules. We build custom operational systems designed around your processes, not the other way around. This ensures stronger alignment, simpler adoption, and better long-term results.
Do you work with businesses across the UK?
Yes. We are based in Coventry, UK, but we support organisations across the entire country, regardless of location.
What industries do you work with?
We support a wide range of industries, including:
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Aerospace & Defence Suppliers
- Construction & Field Services
- Logistics, Warehousing & Distribution
- Healthcare Suppliers & Laboratories
- Energy & Environmental Services
- Growing manufacturers not ready for full ERP
- Many more
Can you integrate with our existing systems?
Yes. Where APIs or data access are available, we can integrate with existing tools such as CRM platforms, finance systems, production machinery, or data warehouses.
Implementation & Features
How long does it take to implement a custom system?
Timelines vary based on complexity, but typical projects range from 8–16 weeks. We build in structured phases so you see progress early, not months later.
Can our system grow over time?
Absolutely. All solutions are built with scalability in mind. You can start with essential workflows and expand into additional modules as your operations evolve.
What features can a custom ERP include?
Almost anything you need, such as:
- Production tracking
- Stock & inventory control
- Quality management & compliance
- Purchase requisitions
- Training & skills matrices
- Asset & maintenance management
- Job workflows
- Dashboards & reporting
- Document control
Cloud vs On-Premise
Do you support cloud, on-premise, or hybrid hosting?
All three. We help you choose the best hosting model depending on security requirements, infrastructure, and long-term IT strategy.
What’s the difference between cloud ERP and on-premise ERP?
- Cloud ERP: Hosted externally, accessible from anywhere, lower upfront cost, minimal maintenance.
- On-Premise ERP: Hosted on your own servers, fully controlled, ideal for security-sensitive industries.
Which hosting option is best for my organisation?
Cloud ERP suits most small-to-mid businesses. On-premise is preferred in aerospace, defence, and industries requiring strict data control. We help you decide based on your environment.
Costs & Budgeting
How much does a custom system cost?
Costs depend on the system’s scope. Unlike large ERP vendors, we offer modular, scalable pricing, allowing you to invest gradually instead of paying for features you don’t need.
Are there ongoing costs after implementation?
Yes – typically for hosting, maintenance, and ongoing support. These ensure your system stays secure, reliable, and up to date.
Does a custom software costs more than off-the-shelf ERP?
Not always. Off-the-shelf ERPs can become more expensive due to:
- Licensing fees
- Mandatory modules
- Costly customisation
- User-based pricing
A custom system avoids these issues and is often cheaper long-term.
Security & Compliance
Are your systems secure?
Yes. We provide:
- Role-based access control
- Secure authentication
- Data validation
- Audit trails
- Control of user actions
- Secure SQL databases
Do you support compliance frameworks like ISO 9001 or AS9100?
Absolutely. Many of our systems include built-in workflows for:
- Corrective actions
- Calibration tracking
- Document control
- Audit readiness
- Training compliance
Can I restrict what different users can see?
Yes. Every system includes role-based permissions so users only access information relevant to their responsibilities.
Using the System
Is a custom ERP difficult for staff to learn?
No. Because the system is built around your existing workflow, users generally find it intuitive and easy to adopt.
Will you train our team?
Yes. We provide clear training, guides, and ongoing support to ensure smooth adoption.
What happens if we need changes later?
We can extend or modify the system at any time. This is a major advantage of a custom-built platform.
Getting Started
How do we know what type of system we need?
We start with a discovery session where we review your processes, pain points, spreadsheets, and data. From there, we define a system that fits your exact needs.
Do you offer demos or walkthroughs?
Yes. We can show examples of similar systems we’ve built and walk you through how your solution would work.
How do we begin?
Simply contact us to book a call. We’ll review your challenges and explore how a custom ERP system can support your organisation.