ERP Trends in 2025: transforming business in the digital age

Rapid technological advances and changes in business practices have significantly changed the way Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, especially cloud-based solutions, have evolved. Industry research estimates that the global ERP market will nearly double over the next five years, from US$ 64.7 billion in 2022 to US$ 130 billion in 2027, driven by the increased scalability, flexibility and cost-effectiveness offered by the platform and to accommodate talent shortages, the Great Waiver and remote workforces.

The next decade promises a technological revolution in ERP. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) will be central, automating routine tasks, optimizing processes and predicting results with unprecedented precision. Blockchain technology, with its inherent security and transparency, will revolutionize supply chain management, ensuring end-to-end visibility and traceability.Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will transform remote training, maintenance and collaboration, increasing operational efficiency.

ERP systems will increasingly migrate to the cloud, offering scalability, flexibility and reducing IT overhead. This change will accelerate the adoption of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) models, empowering companies to focus on core competencies, leaving IT infrastructure management to experts.

Customized solutions

Industries from manufacturing to healthcare demand customized solutions that address their unique challenges.Customization will become paramount, with ERP systems evolving to incorporate industry-specific functionality and comply with stringent regulations.

For example, in manufacturing, ERP systems will seamlessly integrate with IoT devices to optimize production processes and predictive maintenance.In healthcare, ERP will play a key role in managing patient data, ensuring compliance with Privacy Rule and Safety Rule (HIPAA) regulations and simplifying revenue cycle management.

Dynamic scenario

The future of ERP is exciting but fraught with challenges. Companies must embrace change, invest in talent development and foster a culture of innovation. Collaboration between IT and business departments will be crucial for successful ERP implementations.

By staying up to date on emerging trends and harnessing the power of technology, it will enable organizations to discover new opportunities, increase operational efficiency and gain a competitive advantage.

Main opportunities in the sector

Based on the analysis of current trends and future projections, three main opportunities stand out as in this scenario for ERP companies:

^taken a decision based on data: harnessing the power of AI and ML to extract valuable insights from ERP data will enable data-driven decision making, leading to improved operational efficiency and strategic advantage.

Resilience of the supply chain: implementing blockchain technology and advanced analytics can improve supply chain visibility, mitigate risk, and build resilience against disruptions.

^customer experience: leveraging ERP data to better understand customer preferences and behavior will enable personalized experiences, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Trends that drive innovation

Looking ahead to the next few years, we can highlight 10 key trends that will shape global cloud ERP adoption across a range of industries:

1. ERP Component

The concept of componentable ERP has been gaining prominence, allowing companies to select and integrate components from different suppliers for greater flexibility.According to Gartner, this modular approach facilitates adaptation to changes and offers customization according to business needs.

2. Cloud Solutions

The adoption of cloud ERPs is on the rise due to their advantages such as scalability, accessibility, and lower operational cost.EY highlights that migration to the cloud will continue to grow as businesses look for automatic updates and increased security.

3. Integrated Artificial Intelligence

Incorporating AI into ERPs helps with process automation and strategic insight generation.Gartner reports indicate that AI will play a vital role in 2025, improving operational efficiency and decision making.

4. Total Experience (TX)

The total experience combines the customer experience with that of employees to improve the adoption of ERPs. According to Gartner, this approach seeks to create intuitive interfaces and more efficient processes, benefiting the entire user chain.

5. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Using RPA integrated with ERPs will be essential to automate repetitive tasks.Deloitte points out that this technology will reduce errors and increase productivity, helping companies optimize their operations.

6. Advanced Predictive Analysis

Predictive analytics, powered by AI, will enable these systems to offer detailed predictions about the market and internal operations.Gartner predicts that this capability will help companies better manage inventory and the supply chain.

7. Integration with IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) will be more integrated with ERPs, offering real-time data from connected devices for better decision-making.Mckinsey reports that IoT applied to ERPs will primarily benefit the manufacturing and logistics sectors.

8. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

With increasing pressure for more sustainable practices, in 2025 the technology should offer functionalities that allow monitoring and reporting environmental impacts.EY highlights that this will help companies adhere to regulations and adopt responsible practices.

9. Enhanced Data Governance and Security

With the increase in the volume of data processed, security will be a priority.Gartner points out that ERPs will need robust security policies, ensuring compliance with regulations such as LGPD and GDPR.

10. Customization Capabilities and Low-Code/No-Code

Using low-code/no-code platforms will allow companies to customize their ERPs more quickly, without the need for deep programming.Forrester indicates that this trend will facilitate internal innovation and rapid adaptation to change.

ERPs evolution

Accelerated adoption of cloud solutions, AI and ML integration, enhanced personalization, a focus on user experience, increased cybersecurity, growth of industry-specific solutions, and seamless integration with emerging technologies are set to transform the ERP landscape. 

The evolution of ERP systems reflects the dynamic changes in the global business landscape.As we approach a new decade, it is critical to look ahead and anticipate the ERP trends that will shape the coming years.