Enhancing Business Efficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Greg Williams has seen it all—startups bolting together random tools, manufacturers stuck on outdated software, and growing companies unsure when to upgrade. In this episode, Greg shares how ERP systems streamline businesses, why vendor risk matters, and what to watch for when picking tech partners.
Key Takeaways
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is the backbone of business, handling accounting, inventory, sales, and operations.
Small businesses often outgrow QuickBooks and need a real ERP system to scale smart.
Hidden spreadsheets across departments are a sign it's time for ERP.
Notable Quotes
"ERP stands for enterprise resource planning. It's really the backbone to a business. It's the system that does everything.”
"One thing that we run into quite often in our world is vendors advertising integrations that don't exist."
"What we've seen is everyone doubling down on their supply chain expertise... the COO or the chief of supply chain are the guys that are going to be the next CEOs in some cases, because everyone realized how important they were during this."
Real-World Applications
Audit Internal Processes
Example: Greg’s team starts ERP conversations by asking for every spreadsheet a company uses—showing where a system could save time and reduce errors.Invest Early if You Plan Big
Example: Serial entrepreneurs often skip QuickBooks and start with Microsoft Business Central, knowing they'll grow fast and avoid messy transitions later.Choose Vendors by Stability, Not Just Features
Example: Greg steers clients toward apps with strong US-based support, even if they're not the flashiest, ensuring better service long-term.
ERP isn't just software—it's your company's nervous system. Greg Williams shows that getting it right early means fewer headaches later. Whether you're scaling, buying companies, or just trying to sleep better at night, a strong ERP system is key.
Time Stamps:
00:25 Meet Greg Williams: Supply Chain Expert
01:57 Partnership with Microsoft
03:25 Understanding ERP Systems
04:15 Choosing the Right ERP Solution
07:16 Benefits of ERP Systems
12:27 Vendor Selection and Risk Mitigation
18:37 Supply Chain Challenges and Future Trends
28:42 Connecting with Greg and Western Computer
Links Mentioned:
Western Computer's Website: https://www.westerncomputer.com/
Connect with Greg Williams on LinkedIn: / gwill
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.