Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a type of software used by organizations to manage and integrate the core aspects of their businesses, including finance, human resources, supply chain, procurement, manufacturing, and customer relationship management. ERP systems provide a centralized framework for managing all business processes and data, enabling seamless communication and data sharing across departments.

ERP systems operate on a shared database, allowing different parts of the business to access the same real-time information. This integration eliminates data silos and improves operational efficiency by automating routine tasks, improving reporting accuracy, and enabling better decision-making.

Popular ERP systems include SAP, Oracle ERP, and Microsoft Dynamics. These systems are customizable to fit the needs of various industries, from manufacturing and retail to healthcare and government.

Implementing an ERP system can be complex and costly, but the benefits include streamlined business processes, improved productivity, and a unified view of organizational data. Additionally, modern ERP solutions are cloud-based, providing scalability, accessibility, and reduced IT overhead compared to traditional on-premise systems.