Do you even need to know that? Um, yes. It would be practical. Because if you know the difference, then you can explain both ERP and WWS better. You can also better choose which system might make more sense for your own company.

Half of it is already explained by the name: ERP systems are responsible for the management of all resources in a company. WWS or WaWI means “merchandise management system” and is exclusively concerned with goods.

Done. Short and sweet. Anyone interested in “long and broad” is welcome to read on.

Merchandise management systems map the flow of goods: procurement, determination of requirements, logistics and storage and finally production (determination of consumption, disposal, recycling). However, other systems (such as a warehouse management system) can also form the basis and take over certain tasks. This is why there are so-called closed, open and integrated ERP systems.

An ERP system (a more detailed explanation here in our blog article) contains the overall resource planning of a company. In addition to the functions of an ERP system, it also includes the following: Materials management, sales, human resources, finance and accounting, marketing and controlling. In short, everything that is needed in a company. As briefly mentioned in the previous paragraph about ERP systems, an ERP system can also have several interfaces to additional systems.

Merchandise management systems and ERP systems can be linked together. The different data from the two systems are processed further. In this way, one system supports the other. However, they are clearly not synonyms: they are two different systems with different end purposes. And each has its raison d’être. Just maybe not in your company.

Of course, you can’t say that across the board. It depends on what tasks you need a system for. Of course you can try to plow up the field with a crowbar or make mashed potatoes with a hammer. You can do that – but you don’t have to. And you shouldn’t. You waste time unnecessarily. And time is money, as everyone knows. If you do, then you can only answer the question “Which is better for my company – ERP or ERP or both?”. We are happy to help you answer that. You can simply fill out the contact form and make an appointment for a free initial consultation. It’s that simple.