ERP systems Xero

The ERP systems Xero and Xentral have both recently undergone notable updates that enhance their functionality for businesses in various sectors. Here’s an overview of the latest developments for each platform, providing insights into how these systems continue to evolve in 2024.

Xero’s Latest Features and Enhancements

Xero, a leading cloud-based accounting software, has introduced a host of new features aimed at streamlining financial management for businesses. In 2024, key updates have focused on improving automation, inventory management, and payment solutions. Here are some of the highlights:

  1. Tap to Pay on Android & Payment Integrations: Xero has launched Tap to Pay on Android in Australia, making it easier for businesses to accept payments directly through their mobile devices. Additionally, they have partnered with Stripe to expand payment options, including Klarna for buy-now-pay-later options across regions such as the US, UK, and New Zealand, helping businesses manage cash flow more efficiently​(Xero Blog).
  2. Inventory Management with Xero Inventory Plus: Xero has introduced a robust solution for managing inventory, particularly beneficial for users connected to Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program. This integration allows users to manage inventory, fulfilment, and reordering all in one place, providing greater oversight of product availability and shipping​(Xero Blog)​(Xero Blog).
  3. AI-Powered Assistance & Automation: To simplify the user experience, Xero introduced AI-generated responses in the help menu, offering contextual answers based on the page the user is viewing. This ensures users receive the most relevant support quickly​(Xero Blog).
  4. Bulk Action Features: Time-saving updates like the ability to void multiple bills, credit notes, and payslips at once have been added, addressing long-standing user requests. These bulk action tools reduce manual input and improve workflow efficiency​(Xero Blog).
  5. Enhanced Payroll & Tax Features: Xero’s payroll features have seen improvements, particularly in markets like New Zealand, where the system now accommodates flexible work patterns, making it easier to calculate leave accruals accurately. In the US, Xero has improved sales tax management with state-based tax reports​(Xero Blog)​(Xero Blog).

Xentral’s Key Updates

Xentral, another popular ERP system, has also introduced critical updates designed to enhance usability and automation capabilities, particularly for small to mid-sized businesses. Here are some of the key updates from 2024:

  1. Automated System Updates: Xentral has rolled out a new automated system update mechanism, allowing users to set specific times for updates or choose automatic updates during off-peak hours. This minimizes downtime and ensures businesses always have access to the latest features without manual intervention​(Xentral Help Center).
  2. API and Integration Enhancements: For businesses using third-party platforms like Amazon, Xentral has introduced updates to its API integrations, improving the synchronization of data between Xentral and platforms like Amazon. This ensures better order tracking and inventory management for e-commerce businesses​(Xentral Help Center).
  3. Customization and Flexibility: Xentral’s update also allows users to configure their systems more flexibly, including custom settings for updates and system performance tweaks. This gives businesses more control over how their system operates, allowing for optimization based on individual needs​(Xentral Help Center).
  4. Improved Beta Program: Xentral has enhanced its beta program, allowing users to test new features before they are officially released. This provides early access to innovative tools, helping businesses stay ahead of the curve by adopting the latest ERP functionalities​(Xentral Help Center).

Comparative Insights

Both Xero and Xentral continue to innovate in 2024, focusing on automation, ease of use, and enhanced integrations. Xero’s advancements are particularly notable in areas like payment processing and tax compliance, making it a robust choice for businesses with complex financial management needs. Xentral, on the other hand, shines in areas like e-commerce integration and operational flexibility, making it an excellent ERP solution for businesses focused on logistics and order fulfilment.

Ultimately, the choice between Xero and Xentral depends on a business’s specific needs. Xero is a strong contender for financial management with a focus on automation and ease of use, while Xentral excels in providing comprehensive operational support for businesses, particularly those with e-commerce operations.

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