DUCKHAM MERIDIANGROUP
All comparisons

Orbis ERP vs Spreadsheets

Most growing distributors and manufacturers start with spreadsheets. They are flexible and familiar, but as orders, stock locations and people grow, keeping one version of the truth gets harder. Here is how the two approaches compare.

Side by side

Single source of truthSpreadsheets: Several files and copies, often out of step with each other.Orbis ERP: One shared database for stock, orders, purchasing and production.
Stock accuracySpreadsheets: Updated by hand, so it depends on someone remembering.Orbis ERP: Stock moves automatically as goods are received, picked and shipped.
Quotes and ordersSpreadsheets: Copied between templates and emails.Orbis ERP: Quote to order to invoice in one flow, with the history kept.
Access controlSpreadsheets: Anyone with the file can change anything.Orbis ERP: Role-based access and an audit trail of changes.
ReportingSpreadsheets: Built manually, often at month end.Orbis ERP: Live dashboards and reports available whenever you need them.
Cost to startSpreadsheets: Low, as you probably already have the software.Orbis ERP: A monthly subscription, with a 14-day free trial to try it first.

Signs it is time to switch

  • You regularly find stock figures that do not match the shelf.
  • More than one person edits the same spreadsheet each day.
  • Month-end reporting takes days rather than minutes.
  • You have missed or duplicated orders because of version confusion.

When you may not need to

If you are a very small team with a handful of products and orders, a well-kept spreadsheet may be all you need for now.

Learn more about Orbis ERP

Questions

Can I import my existing spreadsheets?

Yes. Products, customers and suppliers can be brought in from your existing files during set-up. We help you check the data before go-live.

Do I need IT staff to run Orbis ERP?

No. Orbis ERP is cloud software, so there are no servers to manage. You need a web browser and an internet connection.

Can I try it before committing?

Yes. Orbis ERP has a 14-day free trial.

Ready to see the difference?

Not sure which product fits? Try the free AI fit report or describe your process to the process analyser.