What are the latest trends in ERP?

What are the latest trends in ERP? ERP calls for constant modifications and up gradations. ERP developers are facing tremendous pressure both from vendors and companies. In this context it becomes important to analyze the erp's trends and modalities.
Some of the relevant issues are as follows:
Need based applications - Organizations had to implement ERP throught their systems irrespective of the fact whether they help in all the functions or in one particular function. This was proving to be a big hurdle to the firms. In addition this remained as the main disadvantage or setback of ERP. They had to purchase the whole applications even if it meant that most of them would be idle except for the core function.The latest ERP software programs have overcome this menace. They offer need based applications. The firms need not be worried even if these Software Programs were not available. They were given the liberty to purchase and install Software Programs pertaining to that particular function. This advantage has helped to increase the scope of ERP not only among large firms but also small and medium business as well.
Expenditures - ERP was a very costly affair. Thanks to the intrusion of internet and open source applications. This has helped S.M.E.'S to enter the market of prospective buyers.This has not only widened the horizon of S.M.E.'s but also increased the usage among large firms.These large firms were not able to invest huge money in spite of adequate funds. Now that the spending on ERP gets reduced there are no hesitations to show the green signal for fear of heavy monetary outlay. It is encouraging to notice the improving IT ERP trends.
Reduction in implementation time - ERP was discouraged by companies because they took such a long time to get installed and set the whole process into action. Since this resource was spent excessively there were chances for reduction in potential business and losing man-hours.The current day ERP applications are less complex to install and train. This has reduced the amount of time spent on ERP.Companies are thereby assured of spending lesser time for ERP.
Open Source, Web enabled and wireless technologies - These are three important elements that have rejuvenated the functioning of ERP.Open Source ERP has done away with the hassles of paying license fees not only during installation but also whenever a modification is made. The company is relieved from depending even for mince matters.Web enabled ERP helps in making the enterprise operations go online. Any stakeholder or third party can access the required information very easily and that too by sitting anywhere in the world. This proves to be of great help especially during emergencies when the details are to be sourced with immediate effect.Wireless ERP has helped organizations to make use of the communication channels effectively and efficiently. It has made it possible for many elements to operate in ERP which were otherwise not possible. Wireless ERP is nothing but sharing enterprise information through devices like internet and other devices making it possible for outsiders to access the same.
Conclusion - ERP trends reflect positive signals for the ERP vendors and companies availing their service. It is important to remember the fact that both the vendor and the company will be able to make use of any advantage (including the modern facilities) only through proper coordination, teamwork and nurturing a cordial atmosphere. Mere IT ERP trends will not help in this aspect.

Source: http://www.erpwire.com/erp-articles/erp-trends.htm