Latest news with #Unit4
Techday NZ
2 days ago
- Business
- Techday NZ
Unit4 ERPx launches on Microsoft Azure Marketplace worldwide
Unit4 ERPx is now available in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, expanding access to the company's cloud-native enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform for organisations worldwide. Unit4 has made its ERPx solution accessible to Microsoft Azure customers, allowing them to deploy and manage the platform through the Azure cloud. Unit4 ERPx is positioned as a modular and flexible tool designed for service-based sectors, specifically Public Sector, Nonprofit, and Professional Services organisations. According to Unit4, ERPx delivers tailored solutions that integrate with existing organisational ecosystems to reduce disruptions during implementation. The platform operates as software as a service (SaaS) and incorporates artificial intelligence capabilities, including workflow automation and proactive alerts. By providing industry-specific models, ERPx aims to support rapid implementation and shorten the time to measurable benefits for organisations. The platform covers areas such as financial management, human resources, procurement, and project management, with an emphasis on streamlining operations and maintaining compliance requirements. The platform is described as fostering improved collaboration across HR, finance, and project teams, with a focus on delivering real-time insights to support informed decision-making. "Partnering with Microsoft represents an exciting step forward in our mission to empower organisations with tailored, industry-specific solutions. By combining the strengths of Unit4 ERPx with Microsoft's robust ecosystem, we're enabling businesses to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and adapt to evolving market demands with greater agility and precision," said Vera Batyalova, VP Partner Sales, Unit4. The Microsoft Azure Marketplace serves as an online market where companies can find, evaluate, and purchase a variety of certified solutions for use on the Azure cloud platform. The addition of Unit4 ERPx to the Marketplace provides Azure users with additional options for integrating cloud-based ERP systems into their technology stack. "Microsoft welcomes Unit4 ERPx to Azure Marketplace, where global customers can find, try, and buy from among thousands of partner solutions. Azure Marketplace and trusted partners like Unit4 help customers do more with less by increasing efficiency, buying confidently, and spending smarter," said Jake Zborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft. The Azure Marketplace aims to facilitate connections between organisations searching for cloud-based digital solutions and the partners who develop and deliver them. Unit4's inclusion in the Marketplace expands its potential reach among Microsoft's global customer base. Unit4 provides next-generation ERP solutions to more than 4,700 customers across various sectors, including professional services, nonprofits, and the public sector. Its platform focuses on integrating modules for financials, procurement, project management, and human resources management to enable customers to access real-time data and generate organisational insights. Among the organisations using Unit4 ERP solutions are Southampton City Council, Metro Vancouver, Buro Happold, Devoteam, Save the Children International, Global Green Growth Institute and Oxfam America.
Geek Vibes Nation
3 days ago
- Business
- Geek Vibes Nation
5 Best ERP Providers Reviewed 2025
ERP software, or Enterprise Resource Planning Software is a form of business management software that works to integrate and manage effectively a businesses core processes. It is mediated by the software that you choose, and generally managed by a company of your choosing, taking a weight off of your shoulders. But, how do you know which is going to be the best choice for you? You have to research. The good news for you is that you are going to come across a whole load of options as there are many businesses on the market that offer their own ERP software solutions. But, which is the best? That's what we're going to be taking a look at in this guide, so if you would like a little insight into the best of the best, read on. Unit 4 ERP – Best ERP For Focusing On Customer Experience Unit 4 has been operating on the market for many years, with a strong focus on people experience and industry specialization. They sit currently as one of the best ERP providers in 2025, and are only showing significant improvements every single year. Due to the constant improvements and their customer experience focus, they are taking the market by storm. Best suited to large enterprises, the software provided is fantastic for those who need to work with complex configurations, or who work with significantly varied transaction volumes. This includes but is not limited to those in the retail industry, manufacturing, and logistics. On top of that, the other services offered combine to create a fantastic experience for anyone who trusts what is provided. Pros Cons People centered experience A complex system to integrate Covers a broad range of services in the financial industry Difficulties with user adaptation in the past Fantastic value for money Industry experts who are on your side Acumatica – Fantastic Customer Collaboration One of the core foundations of Acumatica is that the company works to build the businesses of the future, combining their software with business owners' ideas to create the ultimate combination. Continuously seeking to improve and enhance the ERP offered, this company is more than just a singular product, but a team of individuals who want to help businesses succeed. In May 2025, Acumatica signed an agreement with Vista Equity Partners, which is a leading global investment firm with a strong emphasis on enterprise software, meaning that clients can ensure they are getting the very best. Through working with their new partners, Acumatica have now been able to develop their offerings further, with a fantastic ERP committed to innovation and collaboration, ultimately leading to growth for their clients. Pros Cons Unlimited user access without extra cost Limitations with specific specific functionalities Easy integration with AI and machine learning Slow customer service responsiveness Simple to use interface Real time insights coupled with a full suite of applications Epicor – A Global Sensation ERP Provider Epicor has a range of different ERP's on offer, designed specifically to help various industries improve their businesses. Epicor iScala specifically focuses on streamlining the financial side of business, as well as supply chain processes and operations, mostly for small to medium businesses. Developed specifically for those in finance, manufacturing, real estate and other similar industries, this ERP features embedded reporting, assisting in the streamlining of financial management. It was created with the idea of delivering business growth to these smaller companies, and has certainly succeeded in doing so over the years that it has been in operation. You can expect capabilities such as complete operational control, simplified financial and asset reporting, and running compliant operations as well as more. Pros Cons A simple to use software Difficulty with upgrades A customer-centric approach Complex implementation Improves visibility and productivity over all functions Limitations with reporting Mobile access from anywhere NetSuite – Trusted ERP Focusing On Customer Experience Potentially one of the most well-known names in the business technology world, NetSuite has taken the market by storm, coming leaps and bounds since the beginning. It has become the go-to ERP for many businesses of all sizes, making it a key player in the industry. Due to the cloud based nature of this ERP, NetSuite is available anywhere, at any time making it a convenient choice for those larger companies looking for a large-scale solution. On top of this, it is a comprehensive system that combines CRM, e-commerce, financial management and more into a single platform. It's a fantastic choice for those who are currently burdened with an on-site ERP and looking to get rid of that complication. NetSuite offers its customers better decision making, enhanced collaboration, improved efficiency, and more! Pros Cons Cloud based makes it accessible from anywhere Data migration is not simple to do Ideal for businesses of all sizes Common cost overruns Assists with enhanced collaboration across the business Constantly growing and evolving to improve Sage X3 ERP – Excellent Budget Friendly ERP Provider Proudly a budget friendly ERP, Sage X3 offers its customers everything they need, working with all industries to grow businesses. The focus is on providing a fast, reliable solution compared to other more traditional ERPs, and Sage certainly delivers that. Branding themselves as 'a new era of ERPs', Sage has committed to giving its customers all of the general services offered under this bracket, and then some. Pros Cons Value for money – generally cheaper than traditional ERPs Requires specialized expertise due to proprietary 4GL language used More flexible than other options Custom configurations can be tricky Fast loading and fast results Getting involved with an ERP provider is one of the best ways to streamline your business processes, and ensure that your business works better as a whole. While it might be tough to find the one that encompasses all that you are looking for, hopefully at least one of the options on this list has made the cut. All of them come with their own pros and cons, but so it's just going to be a case of shopping around and seeing what you come across.
The South African
09-06-2025
- Business
- The South African
Eskom expects to return units to grid as South Africa braves winter cold
Eskom is expected to return at least 2 550MW capacity to the grid by evening peak on Monday as South Africa braces for severe winter conditions throughout the country this week. The power utility said it is making 'steady progress' in tapering down maintenance season with the Energy Availability Factor 'fluctuating between 61% and 64%' last week. 'While system constraints are occasionally experienced, adequate emergency reserves are in place and are being strategically deployed to support demand during the morning and evening peak periods, particularly as the country prepares for a forecasted cold spell in the coming week. 'We plan to return a total of 2550MW of generation capacity to service ahead of the evening peak [today] to further stabilise the grid,' the power utility said. Eskom revealed that Medupi Unit 4 is in the last phases of recovery following damages sustained in 2021. 'Commissioning activities are currently underway and Grid Code compliance testing is expected to resume in the coming week. The unit is anticipated to return to service within June 2025. 'Diesel usage is expected to decline further as more units return from long-term repairs and maintenance activities are reduced, increasing available generation capacity. 'The Winter Outlook… covering the period ending 31 August 2025, remains valid. It indicates that load shedding will not be necessary if unplanned outages stay below 13 000MW. If outages rise to 15 000MW, load shedding would be limited to a maximum of 21 days out of 153 days and restricted to Stage 2,' Eskom said. The power utility has encouraged communities to 'avoid illegal connections and energy theft' even as the winter period rolls in. 'These activities often lead to transformer overloads, equipment failures, and in some cases, explosions and extended outages, prompting the need for load reduction to protect the network. 'To help maintain a stable electricity supply this winter, customers are encouraged to purchase electricity only from Eskom-accredited vendors and take responsibility by regularising their electricity usage. 'Eligible households are encouraged to register for free basic electricity with their local municipalities,' Eskom said. Furthermore, customers are encouraged to use electricity sparingly throughout winter. Use the Eskom Residential Calculator to track and optimise electricity usage. The tool can be accessed HERE Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Associated Press
05-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Finance Systems Slammed by Professional Services Firms for Wasting Time and Money
44 hours per week wasted on financial discrepancies and two days per week on year-end financials LONDON, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Unit4, a leader in enterprise cloud applications for people-centric organizations, has unveiled part two of its international research study, 'The Back Office in 2025.' Conducted by Vanson Bourne, it highlights major difficulties for professional services firms in managing key financial systems, such as cash flow management, year-end financials and project financials. 100% of senior finance and IT decision makers experience discrepancies in year-end financials, with the majority (77%) saying they occur often. Significant resources are being wasted in investigating errors, consolidating financial information and on manual processes. Data consolidation, back-office integration and automation are seen as key to improving performance. Year-end discrepancies affecting morale There is a clear human cost to financial errors, as 61% say year-end reporting negatively impacts the wellbeing of the finance team, while a further 73% say reducing workload at year-end would help prevent burnout. The top three challenges related to discrepancies are: 'At a time when productivity and efficiency are bywords for every Professional Services firm, these findings reveal concerning shortcomings for organizations that want to be more competitive,' said Bryce Wolf, Strategic Growth Director, Unit4. 'The firms that drive greater consolidation of financial information will be closer to gaining a single source of truth about their business performance. Combined with greater automation to aid faster decision-making, this will be critical to survival and growth in the years ahead.' Project financials are draining resources Project financials, as well as year-end reporting, are adding to the burden. When dealing with year-end preparations, senior finance decision makers are spending two full working days per week consolidating year-end financials, while respondents say they are wasting 25 hours a week investigating project financials and 19 hours per week on correcting or updating issues. The top three challenges for improving project financials are: Slow and risky manual processes are to blame A possible cause for discrepancies and wasted time could be that 84% of finance teams are spending too much time on manual processes that should be automated. In cash flow management the top three processes affected by this are payment reconciliation, approving workflows and data consolidation and integration. It is no surprise, then, that 88% say cashflow management is difficult, blaming inadequate financial reporting tools, complex approval processes and high operating costs. In turn, this is leading to increased processing times, operational costs and risk of errors. Globally respondents see real value in automating financial processes, saying the top three benefits will be: Today, though, only 46% of cash flow management processes are automated. Among the subsectors within Professional Services, Management consulting (49%) comes out top in wanting to increase automation, followed by IT and tech (48%) and Media and publishing (46%). Similarly, 92% of respondents agree that automating processes would speed up consolidation of year-end financials. Generally, there is agreement that consolidating data, greater integration of back-office systems and automating processes should be prioritized to overcome the challenges outlined in the research. Embracing AI and automating manual workflows can provide a single source of truth for financial data - something that is lacking for 73%. Globally, respondents also say that finance systems could be improved with: Respondents believe that adopting these recommendations will help to improve the accuracy of financial decision making, reduce workloads and ultimately free up teams to focus on strategic growth. Further Reading Read the eBook for more detailed information on the Professional Services research. Vanson Bourne Methodology The research covered the US, UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Nordics and DACH regions and took responses from a range sectors, including IT and technology, architecture and engineering, media and publishing and management consultancy. It was conducted between 11th February and 10th March 2025, and the findings were based on a total of 600 senior finance and IT respondents. About Unit4 Unit4's next-generation enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions power many of the world's mid-market organizations, bringing together the capabilities of Financials, Procurement, Project Management, HR, and FP&A to share real-time information, and deliver greater insights to help organizations become more effective. By combining our mid-market expertise with a relentless focus on people, we've built flexible solutions to meet customers' unique and changing needs. Unit4 serves more than 5,100 customers globally across a number of sectors including professional services, nonprofit and public sector, with customers including Southampton City Council, Metro Vancouver, Buro Happold, Devoteam, Save the Children International, Global Green Growth Institute and Oxfam America. For further information visit For more information, please visit follow us on, Facebook: Unit4 Business Software, Instagram: @unit4global or visit our YouTube: Unit4 and LinkedIn page Media Contact: Lisa Stassoulli Global Communications Manager, Unit4 Mobile: +44(0)7870 916827 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Unit4
Finextra
06-05-2025
- Business
- Finextra
Unit4 launhces AI agent for self-driving ERP
Unit4, a leader in enterprise cloud applications for people-centric organisations, today launched Advanced Virtual Agent (Ava), a proactive conversational agent that will act as a centralised artificial intelligence (AI) interface, orchestrating and automating ERP workflows. 0 Designed as an intelligent work companion seamlessly integrated with Unit4 ERPx and Microsoft Teams, Ava enables effortless collaboration and provides personalised recommendations as well as instant, contextual assistance. Ava builds on Unit4's decade of innovation in digital assistants and is a key milestone in the company's vision to deliver self-driving ERP. In line with Unit4's pragmatic approach to AI, Ava will reshape workflows into more intelligent, adaptive, and user-centric experiences. It will empower people by enabling them to focus on tasks only humans can do, as well as boosting productivity with less effort. Unlike other agentic AI approaches, Ava acts as the single, central access point to ERPx, providing unified assistance to foster consistency and clarity for users. Ultimately, it supports organisations in maintaining the single source of truth for business-critical information. 'It is clear AI is going to dramatically change how users interact with ERP systems, as it will enable people to focus on more meaningful and rewarding work,' said Claus Jepsen, Chief Technology Officer, Unit4. 'Ava isn't just smart – it's pragmatic, purposeful and deeply attuned to the real challenges people face. That's why we have built Ava as one interface and agent, as this will create an integrated platform making it easier to add functionality and avoid siloed AI Agents.' As Unit4 revealed last year in research commissioned from IDC, AI adoption is rapidly moving through three phases. It is already being used as an agent and Ava fulfils a variety of functions including task management, contextual help and data searches. The second phase in the maturing of AI technology sees it acting as an advisor which Ava does in areas such as anomaly detection in payroll and providing suggestions for invoice approval as well as project creation. Ultimately, Ava will act autonomously as an agent to: • Centralise orchestration by integrating and co-ordinating workflows within ERPx and Microsoft Teams • Deliver intelligent automation where routine tasks are autonomously managed to reduce manual workloads • Enhance augmentation with actionable insights and personalised recommendations to augment specialised tasks • Offer pro-active and predictive capabilities to identify issues, predict needs and dynamically adapt workflows to achieve business objectives efficiently Initially, Unit4 is integrating Ava with Microsoft Teams as it is so widely used by its customers, but the roadmap will see integrations with other collaboration tools added in the future. Ava understands natural language conversations in Microsoft Teams and translates them into specific tasks to be completed in ERP workflows. This is possible, because Ava is built on Unit4's microservices, Cloud native architecture which provides the interoperability and extensibility necessary for Ava to act as an interface to Unit4 ERPx. As a result, Unit4 can build out AI capabilities and connect them into Ava via open APIs giving the agent the ability to adapt quickly as AI functionality evolves. "The journey into the digital world is neither stale nor stagnant—AI has brought a greater urgency to modernise and transform quickly. IDC finds that 47% of organisations are creating an AI-ready workforce that uses AI assistants, advisors, and agents to boost business success. With AI coming to the forefront, organisations must understand where their journey is headed and the various pathways to success," said Mickey North Rizza, group vice president, Enterprise Software at IDC. " The journey is multidimensional, but the promise of a new digitally savvy enterprise is at the heart of modernisation and transformation."
