Implementing an ERP system: Steps to a successful go-live in 30 days

Home Page Are you looking to introduce an Enterprise Resource Planning system (ERP system for short) to future-proof your e-commerce business? Most companies know from experience that an ERP implementation involves months of work for both management and the project team. After all, they have to set up a complex IT infrastructure. Or is there a quicker way? Spoiler: There is! We’ll reveal which new ERP systems make this possible. In the following sections, you’ll get an overview of the topic and learn, step by step, how to set up your ERP project. With the right approach and the right ERP provider, nothing stands in the way of going live with the system in just one month! Key points at a glance With a cloud-based ERP system, you avoid the hassle of setting up infrastructure, reduce the workload and can often go live within 30 days. The solution also offers further benefits such as flexibility and lower costs. To implement it, you’ll need to put together an interdisciplinary team and involve senior management. Carry out an analysis of the current situation, define your requirements, select a provider and train your staff. When selecting a provider, take particular care to ensure that they fully meet your requirements for an ERP system and provide you with transparent criteria for comparison. Key success factors for an ERP system implementation include, amongst others: effective change management, sufficient project resources (e.g. within the IT department), clean data and the involvement of all stakeholders. Can an ERP system really be implemented in just one month? Yes, the roll-out of an ERP system can indeed go through all phases, from planning to go-live, in just 30 days. This is made possible by digitalisation and the associated new cloud-based ERP solutions. Thanks to cloud migration, there is no need for time-consuming changes or adaptations to the IT infrastructure. Instead, the provider can roll out the system immediately after adapting it to the company’s requirements. However, there are various ERP systems from different providers to choose from, and with most of them, several months elapse between preparation and installation. The reason? These are often on-premises software solutions that require time-consuming adaptation to the company’s existing systems. This significantly delays the implementation process. So, are you looking to implement an ERP system quickly? Then, when selecting a system, pay attention to the deployment model and opt for a cloud ERP rather than an on-premises solution. Incidentally: according to the Digital Office Index 2024, 98 % of companies already rely on ERP solutions. However, it is often worth checking whether it might be time for a new system that better meets your requirements. The costs of implementing a new ERP system are often lower with a cloud ERP solution than with an on-premises solution. It also adapts better to a company’s growth. Companies should consider all these aspects when planning the project and making their selection. How do you go about implementing an ERP system? To ensure the project’s success, you should put together a project team. You must also assess the current state of your business processes, define functional requirements and secure support for the ERP roll-out. Take a look at the flowchart below, which illustrates the various phases of the project. Step 1: Who is driving the ERP project forward? In addition to management, a team comprising various employees from across the organisation is crucial to the project’s success. You should also involve a project manager and several key users in all aspects of the project. As a study has shown, even the best 30-day plan can fail without clear lines of responsibility. The authors Leyh & Faruga (2024) investigated „Critical success factors as the basis for successful ERP projects“. To this end, they scrutinised 65 specialist articles and identified 33 success factors. Their study revealed that team composition ranked ninth, accounting for 40 %. Consequently, the following roles and their responsibilities are a crucial part of planning and preparation: Management: Management secures the budget to cover costs. It also makes strategic decisions and removes obstacles or challenges that could limit the team’s productivity. This ensures the project remains business-critical and that approvals are granted swiftly, so that nothing stands in the way of the ERP system’s roll-out. Full-time project manager: This member of staff ensures that the project stays on track during the ERP implementation. They plan tasks, facilitate daily stand-ups and keep an eye on processes, costs, risks and all other aspects of the project. It is also important to identify risks and errors that could jeopardise the project’s success. Core team of key users: Secure the support of staff from different departments. After all, the implementation of an ERP system affects logistics, accounts and customer service in equal measure. This ensures that the requirements of different stakeholders are incorporated into the project plan, guaranteeing that the ERP system truly provides all the necessary functions. Step 2: How do you assess the current situation within the company? Before you decide on modules, licences or functions for the ERP system, you should first determine where your e-commerce operations really stand today. This analysis of the current situation forms the foundation for every subsequent project step. Ask yourself the following questions, amongst others: What software and systems are currently in use within the company? What interfaces exist? Where do data inconsistencies, duplicate records and other errors occur? What data do the various departments work with? How do you protect the data and ensure its quality? What end-to-end processes do orders and purchase orders go through? Which key performance indicators look good within the company, and which do you need to improve? These questions will help you find the best solution for the project during the next phases of planning and ERP implementation. Step 3: What requirements does your company have for the ERP solution? This point is particularly important. After all, how well you assess all aspects, processes and requirements determines how quickly the ERP implementation progresses. The Trovarit AG study „ERP in Practice“ from 2024/2025 confirms this. In practice, this leads to numerous system customisations in 20 % of cases. This is an issue that can often be avoided through careful planning prior to the ERP roll-out. Companies should therefore not underestimate the role of requirements specifications in ensuring smooth ERP implementations. These documents summarise, in a solution-neutral manner, everything your future ERP system is expected to deliver and why – in other words, they originate from your company. In them, you describe business objectives, target processes, ‘must-have’, ‘should-have’ and ‘could-have’ functions, as well as all relevant interfaces

Xentral alternative for e-commerce: a comparison of collana diva now

Home Xentral is one of the best-known cloud-based ERP systems for online retailers in the DACH region. Nevertheless, many e-commerce companies are exploring alternatives. The reasons for this come up time and again in our consultations: the need for native Microsoft integration; the question of an ERP backend capable of supporting international growth; and the desire for a dedicated point of contact rather than a ticket system. One such alternative is collana diva now, our compact ERP solution for start-ups and growing online shops. It is based on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. This article compares the two systems and shows which solution is best suited to which businesses. What is collana diva now? collana diva now combines inventory management, accounting, CRM and returns management in a single software package. It is built on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. This means the solution integrates natively with Microsoft 365 and can be expanded using Business Central extensions. The LabelPort dispatch module and the collana pay payment hub are already integrated. collana diva now is the compact version of our ERP solution, collana diva. Predefined industry-specific processes speed up implementation. If your business outgrows the scope of functions, you can upgrade within the same product family and on the same Microsoft platform. There is no need to change systems. Why online retailers should consider an alternative to Xentral Both Xentral and collana diva now cover the core processes of online retail: from goods receipt through order processing to dispatch. Four key points distinguish the systems. The platform. collana diva now is built on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. This opens up additional possibilities for scalability and integration, particularly when used in conjunction with Microsoft 365. Xentral uses its own cloud platform and integrates Microsoft 365 via connectors where necessary. Payment processing. With collana diva now, the multi-payment hub ‘collana pay’ is an integral part of the solution. Xentral integrates with common payment service providers via API. The pricing model. Since 2026, Xentral has been charging on a turnover-based basis. The price is determined by the annual turnover bracket in combination with the selected package. collana diva now operates on a licensing model based on modules and the number of users. Support. With collana, you are supported by a personal contact person and a dedicated team. Xentral offers a help centre, a community and individual consultancy packages. collana diva now versus Xentral: Which solution is a better fit depends on your requirements, your goals and your growth plans. The comparison table provides an overview of the differences. Comparison as at: November 2025 Category Xentral collana diva now Deployment Cloud Cloud Target audience E-commerce, start-ups, SMEs E-commerce, SMEs and start-ups focused on scaling Basis Xentral’s cloud platform Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Set-up A few days to weeks Typically 8 to 12 weeks (depending on the project) Support Help centre, community, consultancy packages Dedicated contact person and fixed team Updates Automatically via the provider Automatically via the provider Pricing model Revenue-based, package plus annual revenue bracket Licensing model based on modules and number of users Entry-level price according to provider Launch: €99 per month plus €0.30 per order (max. 1,200 orders, up to €500,000 annual turnover); Starter from €349 per month From €158 per month (incl. LabelPort and collana pay) Integrations and omnichannel Interfaces to online shops and marketplaces via Xentral Connect Integrated multichannel interfaces Extensibility Modules, middleware or Xentral Connect modules or Business Central extensions Microsoft 365 suite Via connectors where applicable; natively integrated via the Microsoft base LabelPort No Yes PSP integration Common payment service providers via API; integrated via multi-payment hub (collana pay) Automated returns management Part of the e-commerce processes (depending on the setup) Integrated Growth path Upgrade within the Xentral packages Upgrade to collana diva, same Microsoft foundation Note: All information regarding Xentral is derived from publicly available information provided by the supplier (as at August 2026). This comparison is for general guidance only and does not claim to be exhaustive. Prices are quoted net and are subject to change independently of this article. The key features of collana diva now 1. Inventory management collana diva now manages the flow of goods from goods receipt through to dispatch: Automated stock management with real-time stock levels Integration with online shops, logistics partners and manufacturers Clearly structured processes for purchasing and dispatch 2. Administration and Accounting Orders, documents and payments are centralised in a single system: Create and send invoices directly from the ERP system Integrated bookkeeping and dunning system to ensure stable cash flow Centralised management of all documents 3. Real-time data for decision-making All relevant data is stored in one place and is available at any time thanks to the cloud: Dashboards for turnover, stock, returns and other key metrics Customisable KPIs for managing business processes 4. Integrated CRM Customer and order data are stored in the same software as the inventory management system: Quick access to support cases and order histories Communication histories are centrally documented and accessible across teams Microsoft Business Central as the foundation for growth Fast-growing e-commerce businesses need an ERP backend that supports their shop platform, integrates with existing systems and maps all business processes. collana diva now uses Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, an internationally established system, for this purpose. This offers four key benefits: high adaptability, future-proofing thanks to the Microsoft platform, access to company data in the cloud, and native integration with Microsoft 365. Our projects with PureNature, Goldner Fashion and Berteks Tekstil demonstrate how this works in practice. Here’s how the implementation works With predefined industry processes and cloud-based deployment, the roll-out is faster than with traditional ERP projects. The exact timeline depends on the project’s complexity and your current situation. The process follows four steps: We get to know your business and its requirements. We plan the go-live and data migration. You’ll receive the appropriate modules and a transparent price for the desired number of users. We support you through the go-live until everything is running smoothly. After go-live, your personal contact will continue to support you: with day-to-day operations, updates and new features. If you’re still at the early stages of your selection process, our ERP orientation and selection workshop can help you make a decision. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about collana diva now as an alternative to Xentral Is collana diva now a cloud-based solution? Yes, collana diva now is delivered entirely in the cloud. We install updates automatically, and your business data is available at all times. What size of business is collana diva now suitable for? collana diva now is aimed at e-commerce businesses, start-ups and SMEs with a focus on scalability. Modules and the number of users grow alongside your business. How does the switch from Xentral to collana diva now work? The transition is structured and can be planned in advance. During a consultation, we analyse your requirements and identify the appropriate modules. Together, we plan the data migration and the go-live scenario so that you can get up and running quickly. What integration options does collana diva now offer? collana diva now features integrated multi-channel interfaces to online shops and marketplaces. The Microsoft 365 suite is natively integrated. Further extensions

Overheads – Everything you need to know

Home Cost control is a key factor in the success of any business. Overheads play a particularly important role in this regard – as they are incurred in almost every business but cannot be directly allocated to a specific product or service. These indirect costs not only influence pricing but also the overall profitability of businesses. In this article, you’ll find a concise overview of: the definition and distinction of overheads; the various types and characteristics; their calculation, allocation and control; and tools to support you in this – such as collana diva now from MAC IT-Solutions. What are overheads? Put simply, overheads are costs that are incurred by a company but cannot be directly allocated to a specific product or order. Typical examples include: energy costs in the production hall; rent for office or warehouse space; administrative costs; and IT or insurance expenses. These recurring costs account for a large proportion of total costs. In cost accounting, they are therefore allocated across different departments or areas of activity using methods such as cost centre accounting – before ultimately being apportioned to the products or services. Why are overheads so important? Because they have a direct impact on pricing and, consequently, on your company’s competitiveness. If they are allocated incorrectly or inaccurately, this can lead to incorrect pricing – and, in the worst case, to losses. Accurate recording and realistic allocation of overheads are therefore crucial to your company’s profitability. How can overheads be allocated effectively? Unlike direct costs, which can be directly allocated to a product or service, overheads require specialised allocation methods. And this is precisely where cost centre accounting comes into play. In this process, overheads are first allocated to various cost centres such as production, administration or logistics. Only in the next step are these costs allocated to the cost objects – that is, to specific products, orders or services. A key tool in this process is the operational cost allocation sheet (BAB). It helps you to allocate overheads systematically and transparently to the correct cost objects and departments. Example of overheads: Energy costs incurred in the production hall can thus be allocated directly to the corresponding cost centre „Production“. This ensures transparency – and ensures that, ultimately, overheads are allocated to products fairly and realistically. Cost centre accounting thus forms the basis for precise costing and fair pricing. How are overheads calculated? To allocate overheads sensibly to products or services, the so-called overheads surcharge rate is often used. This shows the ratio of overheads to direct costs – and helps to calculate prices fairly and realistically. The formula: Overhead surcharge rate = Overheads / Direct costs × 100 Example calculation for overheads Imagine your company has: Overhead costs of €50,000 Direct costs of €100,000 The overhead rate is then calculated as follows: €50,000 ÷ €100,000 × 100 = 50 % This means: For every euro of direct costs, 50 cents of overheads are added. This figure is factored into the pricing calculation to ensure that your products or services also cover the indirect costs. Why is the overheads surcharge so important? The overheads surcharge is a key tool in cost centre accounting. It ensures that total costs are allocated fairly across your products – and that you calculate your prices in such a way that they are economically viable and based on a realistic overheads surcharge. This is the only way to ensure that not only direct costs, but also the often invisible overheads are covered. Practical example of allocating overheads to different cost objects A furniture manufacturer produces two product lines – office chairs and conference tables. The rental costs for the production hall (as overheads) are allocated to the two areas based on the square metres used. With an appropriate overheads surcharge, the company can calculate prices realistically and remain competitive. An overview of types of overheads Overheads can be distinguished not only by their origin but also by their allocation and behaviour within the company. Here is a concise overview of the most important categories. Primary and secondary overheads Overheads can be divided into two main categories: primary and secondary overheads. Primary overheads arise from external expenditure that flows into your business from outside. These include, for example, rent, administrative salaries or energy costs – in other words, everything that comes directly from outside and affects the running of the business. Secondary overheads arise from internal services. For example, if the central IT team provides services to other departments, this usage is charged – and recorded as secondary overheads. True and false overheads True overheads cannot be directly allocated to a product or order – for example, executive salaries or office costs. They affect the entire business and are incurred regardless of individual projects. Pseudo-overheads could theoretically be allocated directly (e.g. small parts in production), but are treated as overheads on a flat-rate basis for practical reasons. This saves effort – particularly where the amounts involved are very small. Fixed and variable overheads Fixed overheads remain constant – regardless of how much you produce or sell. Classic examples include rent, insurance and fixed salaries. They provide planning certainty, but also result in rigid cost blocks when capacity utilisation is low. Variable overheads rise or fall in line with production volume. A typical example is electricity costs, which rise in line with the operating time of machinery. These costs are more flexible but also more heavily dependent on the order situation. Overheads vs. direct costs: the differences Direct costs are directly attributable – such as material costs for a product or service, or wages in manufacturing. Overheads relate to several products or services simultaneously and must be allocated using allocation keys or mark-ups. These distinctions are fundamental to cost accounting – and ultimately to fair, economically sound price calculation. Common mistakes in the allocation of overheads The allocation of overheads is often complex – and that is precisely where the risk lies. Errors in allocation or methodology have a direct impact on cost accounting and price calculation. The following points are among the most common pitfalls in practice: Flat-rate allocation keys: If overheads are allocated too broadly across all products or departments, distortions arise. A differentiated approach is important – for example, using different allocation keys for administration, production and logistics. Irregular updates: Overhead surcharges should be reviewed regularly and adjusted to reflect changes in cost structures. Otherwise, outdated figures will lead to unrealistic price calculations. Unclear distinction between fixed and variable components: Without distinguishing between these, it is virtually impossible to plan realistically

Why ERP systems make all the difference: 10 specific benefits for e-commerce businesses

Home Online retail is no longer just about selling good products. Anyone looking to scale up today must have a firm grasp of their processes – from purchasing and warehousing to customer service. But the larger the shop, the more complex the business processes become. Lack of transparency in stock management, manual errors or a lack of overview of sales figures? This is precisely where ERP systems make the difference. ERP solutions help businesses to integrate data, automate processes, tackle challenges and create clarity. In this article, you’ll find clear arguments in favour of implementing an ERP system. You’ll also learn how cloud-based ERP solutions support businesses in their day-to-day operations. Key points at a glance: Enterprise Resource Planning software integrates all areas of the business – from the warehouse through to accounts and customer service – into a single centralised system. The key benefits of ERP software include transparency, greater efficiency, automation, process optimisation, and savings in both time and costs. E-commerce businesses benefit in particular from improved data quality, flexibility and scalability thanks to ERP software. Possible drawbacks include the initial investment and the time required for training and implementing the ERP software. However, the benefits usually far outweigh the costs. Cloud-based ERP systems such as collana diva now are quick to deploy, often offer flexible modules and are an economically attractive solution even for small businesses. They help businesses position themselves for the future. What are the benefits of ERP solutions for e-commerce companies? An ERP system (short for „Enterprise Resource Planning“) is a software system that links all key areas of your business. These include, amongst others, the purchasing, finance, warehousing, sales, accounts and customer service departments. Rather than using individual solutions and separate databases, all business processes are therefore consolidated within a central system – with consistent data, clear procedures and automated workflows. Sectors such as e-commerce benefit particularly from implementing an ERP system. This is due to the helpful features and positive effects on day-to-day business operations. The following 10 benefits summarise the advantages for you. Benefit 1: Data management for all business areas in a centralised system In many companies, departments still use their own tools and systems. A possible consequence? Duplicate entries, conflicting information or even a lack of overview over products or customer orders. However, as all data converges in an ERP system, staff can carry out all stages of data maintenance from a single system and manage business processes. Complex system landscapes are thus finally a thing of the past. Benefit 2: Digitisation of information and greater transparency A little note about an order here, a marginal note there. ERP systems nowadays make it possible to store all information digitally, thereby creating a transparent database. You can automatically record and track every step – from ordering to returns. In the business world, this gives you a significant advantage through real-time data. For example, staff can see in real time how many items are in stock, who placed the most recent order, or what the current turnover is. Benefit 3: Integration of sales channels and interfaces ERP solutions are often flexible and can be integrated with other necessary business software, sales channels and interfaces. This means you can sell not only via your own shop but also, for example, via a marketplace – without causing data chaos within the company. Many systems on the market are also automatically linked to a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system or offer customisable modules. Taken together, this enables, for example, better insight into sales processes or the mapping of supply chains. You thus gain a platform tailored to your requirements. Benefit 4: Process automation and time savings Every minute counts in a business’s day-to-day operations. This is particularly true if you don’t have many staff and have to juggle numerous tasks from different areas of the business simultaneously. A cloud-based ERP system automates recurring processes and takes the pressure off you exactly where it matters most. It automatically posts orders, generates invoices, updates stock levels and sends dispatch orders directly to service providers. This not only saves valuable time but also reduces human error. Such errors can occur, for example, when manually entering customer data or when allocating payments. You can view the time saved by using ERP software as an investment in new developments or in your customers. Benefit 5: Optimised management of goods and stock Out-of-stock items, overselling or slow-moving stock? These not only cost your business money but can also have a negative impact on customer satisfaction. The ERP system therefore plays a particularly important role in e-commerce. After all, its functions support the management of stock, as well as customer and product data. For example, you can see in real time which items are available, where they are stored and when your staff need to reorder. ERP solutions can even handle the ordering process for you. The ERP system also identifies sales trends, generates automatic reorder recommendations and can even monitor minimum or safety stock levels. In this way, it provides effective support for your resource planning. You avoid out-of-stock situations, reduce storage costs and ensure seamless product availability. It doesn’t matter whether you have your own warehouse or use a dropshipping partner. Benefit 6: Reports and analyses as a solid basis for decision-making Reliable data forms the basis for sound business decisions. An ERP system provides you with up-to-date reports and analyses that you can incorporate directly into your decision-making. Among other things, you’ll find answers to the following questions: Which products are selling well? Where are sales stagnating? How are margins, returns or stock costs developing? What do you need more of, and what do you need less of? The German digital association Bitkom found that only 6 % of German companies fully exploit the potential of available data. With an ERP system, you can change that. You can identify problems and trends and see where your e-commerce business stands. The data provides the ideal foundation for process optimisation, automation or for developing the best solutions to challenges. You can also tailor the reports and analyses perfectly to your company’s requirements. Benefit 7: Flexibility and features to scale your business Is your business growing, or are you considering international expansion? Companies now need a flexible solution that grows with them. This is another advantage of ERP systems. You can flexibly add new functions, users or interfaces without turning your entire infrastructure on its head. This allows you to remain flexible, with the software adapting to your requirements – not the other way round. Benefit 8: Higher customer satisfaction Smooth processes can not only benefit employees and

Based on the bestseller: How to expand your product range cleverly

Following the bestseller: How to expand your product range cleverly Following the bestseller: How to expand your product range cleverly Following the bestseller: How to expand your product range smartly Home At last, your product or service is selling like hot cakes and is a real bestseller in your portfolio. Customers love it and your market share is growing. But what comes next? To further build on your company’s success and hold your own against the competition in the long term, you’ll need smart strategies. Whilst a single bestseller won’t secure your market position permanently, it does help you to further develop and expand your product portfolio. In this article, you’ll therefore find some tips to help you pave the way for brand growth and product innovation – through portfolio analysis and well-thought-out strategic decisions! The key points in a nutshell: Companies have a product portfolio comprising all their services and products. A bestseller helps in developing a product strategy to expand the portfolio. The greatest benefits of expanding the product range lie in revenue opportunities, market growth, higher customer satisfaction and risk diversification. Potential challenges include a lack of data for planning and insufficient resources. Companies must determine the right time to expand. They should only add products that fit the brand and ensure the right framework conditions are in place (e.g. logistics planning, ERP software). A portfolio analysis using the BCG Matrix helps with evaluating and managing the portfolio. Expanding the product range requires the right strategy, targeted marketing and end-to-end management based on real-time data. The product portfolio under the microscope: Over time, every company builds up a product portfolio consisting of various products and services. However, it is anything but a static offering. This is because it grows and changes with every new launch, shift in market position, or further development of the company and its requirements. A bestseller helps you to further build on your success in your sector and develop strategies for additional products, services and market growth. First, however, companies must consider how they can gain an overview. Among other things, a distinction can be made between products, product lines and variants: products each serve different purposes and applications. Whilst a product line serves the same purpose, it differs in terms of its functions. Variants offer customers more choice (e.g. colour, features). A company’s product range also varies in terms of depth and breadth. With a broad product range, a company carries numerous product groups side by side. A deep product range, on the other hand, refers to a situation where there are many variants within a single product group. The advantages and challenges of expanding the product portfolio A single bestseller is usually not enough for a company to remain a market leader in the long term. After all, products are subject to a life cycle. This ranges from market launch, through growth and the maturity phase, to the saturation phase and ultimately a decline in profits. Any company wishing to be successful in the long term must therefore, sooner or later, expand its product range. This offers many opportunities – such as new target groups, greater sales potential and a stronger market position. At the same time, however, expanding the product range also brings challenges: from increased coordination efforts to the risk of cannibalisation. Advantages of expanding the product range Challenges of expanding the product range Increased turnover: With more products on the market, you can boost your company’s turnover. Lack of resources: Start-ups, in particular, often lack the resources to develop further business units at the outset. Developing new products can entail high costs. Strengthening market position: Companies are given the opportunity to strengthen their position within their market segment or to enter new markets. Lack of data: Companies must carefully plan market growth and their expansion strategy. This requires data sets and analyses that are not always available. Customer satisfaction: By developing additional products or extensions, you can respond to customer requests and enhance your customers’ experience. Market dynamics: The market and customer requirements change rapidly, meaning market leaders must demonstrate a high degree of flexibility. Market growth: If your product range expands, your business and your brand can benefit from this and achieve greater brand awareness and a higher market share. Warehouse capacity: An e-commerce shop must keep an eye on its spatial constraints and, where necessary, utilise different types of warehousing. Risk diversification: Do not rely solely on a single best-seller; spread the risk across several products. This way, other products can offset any decline in market share or turnover of another.   Enhancing competitiveness: You can set yourself apart from the competition and increase your appeal to customers. However, the challenges and drawbacks are not reasons to avoid expanding your portfolio. You should, however, take these into account in your strategies to pave the way for your company’s market growth. Step-by-step guide: Expanding your product portfolio Before you rush straight into producing new products, you should plan and prepare thoroughly for the portfolio’s growth. You should therefore answer relevant questions about your company, your brand and market growth. You should also take a close look at key performance indicators and your target audience. A portfolio analysis will then help you define a strategy and position yourself. However, the marketing and management of your product range also contribute to future market success. How does this work in practice? We have put together a practical guide for you with some examples. Step 1: Key questions and strategic decisions Even market leaders started small. And right from the start, companies should address a number of crucial questions. When is the right time to expand the product range? Are you wondering when the time is right to increase your market share? This depends on several factors: Your company should be stable and able to mobilise the necessary resources. There is demand in the market, or your product meets a need. Expanding your product range strengthens your market share and has a positive impact on your market position. The competitive landscape is favourable, as your competitors have a gap in their offering. Your best-selling product should therefore, if possible, not be in a phase of decline, as fewer resources are available at such times. You should also ask yourself whether the expansion really makes sense and will contribute to long-term growth in the market, or whether you are only expanding because you have to. Which products are suitable for

Tips & Tools for Cash Flow Management

Home A company’s financial situation not only shows whether it is currently able to pay its bills – it also reflects its economic stability and long-term viability. This makes it all the more important to keep track of things. This is exactly where cash flow management comes into play. What exactly does the term mean? Why should both start-ups and established companies rely on professional cash flow management? In this article, we take a look at the benefits, tasks and tools that will help you actively manage your cash flows. We’ll also show you how to calculate cash flow – and provide you with practical tips for greater financial control. Cash flow management explained simply Cash flow is a key financial indicator. It shows the incoming and outgoing payments a business has made over a specific period. It therefore has a major impact on a business’s liquidity, profitability and performance. In contrast, cash management deals with the monitoring and control of financial resources (cash). It encompasses the planning, control and optimisation of cash flows. The aim of financial management is to avoid cash flow bottlenecks and ensure the company’s financial stability. In practice, four types of cash flow can be distinguished: The four types of cash flow Operating cash flow Cash flow from operating activities – also known as operating cash flow – comprises all liquid funds generated from a company’s core business. This includes, for example, revenue from the sale of goods or the provision of services. Investment cash flow This part of the cash flow shows you all cash flows relating to investments – e.g. in property, fixed assets, machinery or financial assets. This key figure enables you to assess whether investments were worthwhile and align with your business objectives. Financing cash flow This section records cash flows relating to the financing of your business. This includes, for example, capital inflows from loans or outflows from dividend payments. Total Cash Flow: When you add together the operating, investing and financing cash flows, you obtain the total cash flow. This overall view shows you how your financial flexibility has changed over the period under review. Why is cash flow management so important for businesses? With good financial planning, you can keep track of your bank accounts, know how much capital is available to you and settle outstanding receivables on time. But effective cash flow management can achieve much more than that. It brings numerous benefits – whilst at the same time protecting you from risks that could arise without targeted management. The benefits of cash flow management The following benefits illustrate why particular attention should be paid to cash flow management: Securing liquidity To cover all costs and meet financial obligations, there must always be sufficient liquid funds available within the business. Through structured cash flow management, you can keep track of income and expenditure, identify bottlenecks at an early stage and ensure your solvency in the long term. Informed decisions Based on your cash flow data and forecasts, you can make informed decisions for your business – for example, evaluating investments, calculating scenarios or simulating liquidity trends. Professional cash flow management is also advantageous when dealing with banks: the results enable banks to better assess liquidity and financial stability, which often has a positive impact on creditworthiness. Business growth A stable cash flow builds trust – both internally and externally. Businesses with sound liquidity planning have better access to equity or debt capital, can make investments more quickly and are therefore able to grow sustainably. Risk management A negative cash flow can quickly become a challenge: reduced operational flexibility, limited growth and, in times of crisis, even insolvency. Through continuous monitoring and management, you build financial resilience – and make your business crisis-proof. The consequences of a lack of, or poor, cash flow management Without effective cash flow management, you risk low liquidity, confusing financial flows and, in the worst case, payment defaults. There is often a lack of transparency – regarding costs, outstanding receivables, bank account balances or payment records. The problem is that a poor liquidity position also affects your company’s public image. Banks may question your creditworthiness and reject financing applications. With less capital, your opportunities for development and innovation are reduced – which slows down growth in the long term. This can have serious consequences, particularly during market changes or in times of crisis: companies without cash flow management quickly fall behind and lose their competitive edge. Cash flow management in practice: tasks and tips Cash flow management (also known as cash management) involves recording all income and expenditure, calculating key performance indicators, and planning, forecasting and optimising cash flows. Here you can find out how to go about this step by step. Recording income and expenditure The foundation of any cash management system is the comprehensive recording of all incoming and outgoing payments. You should therefore systematically record every invoice, liability and income – planned receipts and payments should also be included in your overview. This will provide the basis for forecasts and analyses. Cash flow calculation: an overview of the methods Before you can optimise your cash flow, you must calculate it. There are two common methods available for this: Indirect cash flow calculation This method is widely used in practice as it is quicker to carry out – particularly if you already have a profit and loss account. It is based on the net profit for the year, without the need to track individual cash flow movements. Using this method, companies can calculate the various types of cash flow using the following formula: Indirect cash flow = net profit for the year – non-cash income + non-cash expenses The following table shows examples of non-cash income and expenses: Non-cash income Non-cash expenses Revaluations Depreciation/amortisation Reduction in reserves Increases in provisions Increases in stock of finished goods Decreases in stock of finished goods Release of provisions Extraordinary expenses etc. etc. Direct cash flow calculation Although the direct method is significantly more transparent and detailed, it is very labour-intensive without software, as you must record all actual items. The calculation is based on specific income and expenditure. Direct cash flow = Cash-generating income – Cash-generating expenditure Amongst other things, the following items of income and expenditure for companies are considered cash-generating: Cash-generating income (inflows) Cash-generating expenses (outflows) Borrowing Investments Equity contributions Withdrawals from equity Customer payments Staff costs Divestments Rent Other inflows Repayment of loans, etc., etc. Planning cash flow & preparing forecasts Through cash flow planning, companies can develop and implement measures to ensure their liquidity in the future. This involves several tasks. Companies must make forecasts for future

The best e-commerce platforms for start-ups and SMEs in 2026

Home The e-commerce market has long since become a key economic factor. Accounting for around 20% of total retail sales and with a global volume exceeding 6 trillion US dollars, online retail offers enormous growth potential – particularly for start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises. This momentum makes entering the e-commerce sector a promising business strategy. However, digital commerce presents specific challenges, particularly for start-ups and SMEs: limited capital requires cost-effective solutions; a lack of specialist knowledge makes user-friendly systems essential; and competitive pressure demands rapid time-to-market. At the same time, growth-oriented companies must design their processes to be scalable from the outset to avoid operational bottlenecks as order volumes rise. Against this backdrop, choosing the right e-commerce system sets the course for your business success. A suitable platform not only simplifies market entry but also lays the foundations for long-term growth. Reaching your limits too soon or investing too much in unnecessary features – both can threaten the very survival of young businesses. In the following article, we’ll introduce you to the best e-commerce platforms and help you make the right decision for your business. What criteria should you consider when selecting the ideal e-commerce platform? The key to answering this question lies in which basic functions are already included as standard: product management, payment processing, delivery options and stock management are the bare minimum. Furthermore, you should analyse how flexibly the system can be adapted to your online business through plugins and extensions. The ideal e-commerce system should be a perfect fit for your specific business model. Do you sell physical or digital products? Do you need B2B features or subscription models? The more specific your requirements, the more important the system’s extensibility becomes. Cost-benefit analysis: initial investment vs. running costs The cost structure of different e-commerce solutions varies considerably. Whilst open-source systems such as WooCommerce are free to use, they do require expenditure on hosting, premium plugins and, where applicable, development costs. SaaS solutions such as Shopify, on the other hand, offer a subscription model with monthly fees ranging from 30 to 300 euros, often with additional transaction fees. When making your decision, you should not only consider the initial investment but also calculate the total costs over a medium-term period of 2–3 years. You should also take into account hidden costs such as payment fees, premium templates or necessary integrations. User-friendliness and technical support An intuitive system saves time and reduces the learning curve – particularly important for small teams without IT specialists. Look for a clear admin interface and modern e-commerce features such as drag-and-drop editors. The quality of technical support is equally crucial: Whilst paid platforms often offer 24/7 support, open-source solutions typically rely on community forums or paid support from experts. You should also assess the availability of documentation, video tutorials and training programmes that can help you get to grips with the system. Scalability for future growth in your online shop The biggest mistake when choosing online shop software is often failing to consider future requirements. A system that runs smoothly with 10 orders a day may quickly reach its limits at 500. You should therefore check how the platform handles rising visitor numbers, expanding product catalogues and higher transaction volumes. Cloud-based solutions often offer advantages here thanks to flexible resource allocation. Equally important: does the system support multiple languages, currencies and international payment methods, should you be planning to expand abroad? Striking the right balance between immediate benefits and long-term scalability is the key to a sustainable e-commerce strategy. Market overview: A comparison of the best e-commerce platforms The e-commerce market offers a wide range of solutions – from comprehensive enterprise platforms to free open-source shop systems. To help you find your way around, we have compared the most important systems based on key criteria. Price information as at: May 2025 Scale: Low – Limited – Medium – High – Very high – Excellent System Feature set Complexity Performance Scalability Pricing model Optimal business size WooCommerce High Low Medium Limited Free (+ hosting) Beginners to medium-sized (up to ~500 products) Shopify Medium Medium High High From €25/month Small to medium-sized shops Shopware Very high High High Very high From €600/month Medium to large Magento/Adobe Commerce Very high Very high High Excellent Open source or Enterprise Medium-sized to Enterprise PrestaShop High Medium High High Free (+ hosting) Small to medium-sized shops BigCommerce High Medium-high Very high Very high From €30/month Medium to large Oxid High Very high Very high Very high Licence model Medium to large WooCommerce: The flexible solution for beginners This comprehensive WordPress plugin is one of the most widely used e-commerce systems worldwide, accounting for an impressive 20% of all online shops. This success is no coincidence. As a plugin for the WordPress content management system (CMS), WooCommerce combines the power of a fully-fledged shop system with the user-friendliness of a familiar interface – a clear advantage for anyone already familiar with WordPress. Advantages: Cost-effectiveness and WordPress integration The most obvious benefit is the price: WooCommerce itself is completely free. You only pay for hosting (often just 2–3 euros a month) and, optionally, for premium extensions. This cost structure makes the e-commerce software particularly attractive for start-ups on a limited budget. Seamless integration with WordPress also opens up significant synergies: you can combine content marketing and sales on a single platform and benefit from the SEO advantages that WordPress offers. Even existing WordPress websites can be transformed into a fully functional online shop without the need for a complete overhaul. Even those with little technical experience can complete the installation and basic set-up in around five minutes – a key advantage over more complex systems. Mobile optimisation is also remarkably good, which is a key criterion given the share of mobile commerce. Extensive plugin library for customisation WooCommerce’s true strength lies in its ecosystem: thousands of plugins and themes offer virtually unlimited customisation options. From advanced product features to payment gateways and marketing tools – there’s an extension for practically every requirement. This flexibility allows you to tailor your online shop perfectly to your business model and expand it step by step as your business grows. This customisability also extends to the design: numerous free and paid themes guarantee a professional look and feel. As WooCommerce is entirely open source, you can modify every aspect of the shop through bespoke programming if required – an option that proprietary systems often do not offer. When WooCommerce is the right choice (and when it isn’t) WooCommerce is ideal for beginners and small to medium-sized shops with up to 500 products. Especially if you already use WordPress, engage in content marketing or are starting out on a limited budget, the platform offers excellent value for money.

The key e-commerce KPIs you should be tracking (with formulas and examples)

Home Every online shop measures the company’s success using specific key performance indicators (KPIs) such as turnover or profit. However, there are many more KPIs in e-commerce that online retailers need to keep an eye on. After all, by using the right KPIs, you can better understand where your business stands and which measures can actually help you achieve your goals. In this article, we’ll reveal which e-commerce metrics are particularly relevant, how to calculate them and how you can improve them. With the right figures, you’ll always have a firm grip on the helm of your business! Key points at a glance Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) help an e-commerce business gain an overview of its own operations and the entire customer journey. By analysing the data, businesses can make informed decisions and steer their progress towards achieving their goals. In the e-commerce sector, alongside turnover and profit, the following KPIs, amongst others, play a key role: customer lifetime value, ROI, conversion rate, return rate, average order value and bounce rate. You can calculate each metric and improve it through targeted measures. Modern software and ERP systems, such as those offered by collana diva now, provide you with all key metrics in real time, thereby simplifying day-to-day operations. What are the 10 most important e-commerce KPIs? The 10 most important KPIs you should track in your online shop are: conversion rate, click-through rate, average order value, return rate, customer lifetime value, customer acquisition costs, return on investment, customer retention rate, cart abandonment rate and bounce rate. These are KPIs that measure the success, performance and customer satisfaction of your shop. They can be broken down into sales KPIs, which relate to turnover and orders; marketing KPIs; customer KPIs; and performance metrics for your online shop. We’ll show you how to calculate and improve these metrics. 1. Conversion Rate (CR) For many businesses, the CR is the most important KPI in e-commerce. This metric shows you how many visitors to your online shop carry out a desired action – usually a purchase. It therefore measures how effectively your shop turns prospective customers into paying customers. A low conversion rate means that, although many people visit your shop, only a few actually buy something. A high conversion rate is a sign of your success as an online retailer. How do you calculate the conversion rate? Formula: CR = (number of conversions : number of visitors) x 100 Example: Your website had 4,000 visitors last month, 200 of whom made a purchase. CR = (200 : 4,000) x 100 = 5 % How can you improve your conversion rate in e-commerce? To optimise your conversion rate, you need to make the shopping process as simple and pleasant as possible for your customers. Ensure your website features clear and well-organised product displays with high-quality images. Make sure your shop has accurate descriptions and honest reviews. Optimise the checkout process and adapt it for mobile devices. Offer multiple payment methods so that customers can choose freely. Where available, use certificates and quality seals to build customer trust. Be transparent about shipping, returns and other details. Create incentives to buy through special offers and discount campaigns. Even small measures can improve this KPI. Incidentally, according to eCommerceDB, the conversion rate in Germany averaged 3.3 % in 2024. 2. Click-through rate (CTR) This KPI measures how many people click on a link or an advert after seeing it. It therefore measures how effectively your online marketing captures your customers„ attention and whether your message encourages them to take action. If an e-commerce business’s CTR is low, you’re attracting little attention. A high KPI, on the other hand, indicates that your campaign is achieving its goal and drawing visitors to the website. How do you calculate the click-through rate? Formula: CTR = (number of clicks : number of impressions) x 100 Example: Your advert was displayed 8,000 times and 200 people clicked on it. CTR = (200 : 8,000) x 100 = 2.5 % How can you improve the click-through rate in e-commerce? To improve this e-commerce KPI, you need to tailor your adverts more effectively to your target audience and make them more appealing. Use clear, compelling calls to action. Use high-quality images or videos that grab attention. Test different advert formats and messages (A/B testing). Analyse your target audience and find out what appeals to them. Incorporate social proof elements. A study by Wordstream shows that the industry average for this KPI is 2.69 % (Google Ads Search Network) and 0.51 % (Google Ads Display Network). A good figure lies between 2 and 3 %. The higher, the better. 3. Average Order Value (AOV) The AOV is a KPI that indicates the average value of the shopping basket in your online shop. In other words: how much do your customers spend on average? A high AOV indicates that shoppers are willing to spend more money per order, which has a positive impact on profitability. A low figure suggests multiple small purchases. How do you calculate the Average Order Value?     Formula: AOV = Total turnover : Number of orders Example: Your shop generates €50,000 in turnover from 800 orders. AOV = 50,000 : 800 = €62.5 How can you improve AOV in e-commerce? Improve this KPI by providing better incentives to encourage buyers to purchase more products. Suggest relevant additional products in the shopping basket (“Customers also bought…”). Showcase higher-value alternatives or premium versions. Deliberately set the threshold for free delivery slightly higher to encourage higher-value shopping baskets. Offer discounts for higher order values. Offer product bundles on your website. However, what constitutes a ‘good’ value depends on your objectives, products and target audience. 4. Return Rate (RR) Returns can lead to high costs for a business and are an indicator of customer satisfaction. The return rate (RQ) allows you to track how many orders are returned. A high RQ means that many buyers are dissatisfied – for example, with the fit or quality – or that their expectations have not been met. A low rate, on the other hand, means that your products meet the

ERP for the fashion industry: What fashion and textile retailers should look out for when choosing a system

Home Page For online shops specialising in fashion, clothing and textiles, the choice of ERP software is particularly important. From procurement to returns, business processes present challenges that are rarely found in such concentration in any other e-commerce sector.   A general-purpose system rarely supports these processes without costly customisation. An industry-specific solution such as collana diva now, on the other hand, incorporates them right from the start. This article outlines the requirements fashion companies should place on their ERP and how a specialised cloud-based ERP meets them. Four challenges characterise fashion e-commerce High returns rate. Fashion and accessories have the highest returns rates in online retail. According to the latest EHI survey, the rate for almost one in four fashion retailers is between 36 and 50 per cent, with some retailers exceeding this figure. Every return goes through goods receipt, inspection, restocking and credit note processing. Without end-to-end processes, this eats into margins and staff time. Complex inventory management. Collections change several times a year. Every item comes in different sizes, colours and styles. Without real-time data, excess stock builds up at the end of the season or stock shortages occur during the sales. Both cost money: excess stock ties up capital, whilst stock shortages cost revenue. Sensitive customer data. Data from sales, CRM and financial accounting converges in the ERP system. You must protect this data from unauthorised access. Role-based access control, encryption and reliable cloud operations are therefore key selection criteria. Order peaks. Black Friday, sales periods and collection launches generate order peaks. Systems not designed to handle this become sluggish or fail. This affects the shop precisely when turnover would be at its highest. Industry-specific or generalist: the comparison. Fashion companies benefit from a solution developed specifically for their sector. The comparison highlights the differences. Criterion collana diva now Cross-sector ERPs Industry focus Developed for e-commerce companies Generalist approach without sector-specific processes E-commerce modules Integrated, including Labelport and collana pay (multi-PSP hub) Rare Returns management Integrated processes for high return rates Standard processes that often require customisation Product variety Capable of handling variants Often only possible through customisation Implementation time 8 to 12 weeks (depending on the project) Varies by provider; 3 to 36 months are not uncommon Core ERP Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Often in-house development Deployment Cloud-native Varies by provider; often on-premises Multi-tenancy Yes Varies by provider Microsoft-365 integration Fully integrated Via apps and interfaces Business Intelligence Via Microsoft Power BI, directly from Business Central Via apps and interfaces Our comparisons with Xentral, weclapp, Odoo and SAP Business One show how collana diva now stacks up against individual competitors. As unique as your collection No two fashion businesses are alike. Do you sell exclusively online, run a physical shop as well, or are you expanding internationally? collana diva now grows alongside your business model. For you, this means you use exactly the features your business needs. Optional modules complement the standard package. The system is multi-tenant and suitable for multi-brand and multi-shop models. The workflows adapt to your processes, from purchasing to returns management.   Added to this is the cloud-based deployment. You can scale up at any time as your product range, sales channels or order volumes grow, without having to run your own servers. Peaks and returns under control Promotional days and collection launches generate order peaks and more returns at the same time. collana diva now is designed for this: you can view stock, orders and returns in real time. The system automatically manages stock levels, even during peak periods. Automated workflows speed up order processing. The cloud architecture maintains stable performance even during high order volumes. Our support team is on hand to assist you at short notice should you have any queries. Three steps to go-live The path to productive ERP software follows a tried-and-tested process: Consultation. We clarify your requirements, demonstrate a live demo and work with you to assess how collana diva now fits your business model. Implementation. The kick-off is followed by onboarding. We migrate your data and set up user profiles, documents, modules and interfaces. Implementation takes between 8 and 12 weeks, depending on the project. Go-live. We support you through the launch until all processes are running smoothly. Key features for fashion businesses collana diva now covers the core processes in fashion e-commerce: Customised customer campaigns based on CRM data; automated order processing and fulfilment; multi-channel management with online shop integration; cross-channel marketing with targeted pricing strategies; integrated returns management for high return rates. Fashion retailer Atelier Goldner Schnitt demonstrates how this works in practice: is demonstrated by the fashion retailer Atelier Goldner Schnitt: the company manages its omnichannel processes using collana diva, the solution for the upper mid-market from the same product family. Read the case study Frequently asked questions about collana diva now Which businesses is collana diva now suitable for? collana diva now is suitable for start-ups as well as small and medium-sized enterprises in e-commerce. These include fashion, clothing and textile retailers who sell via an online shop. Can PLM software be integrated? Yes, external systems such as PLM solutions can be integrated via the open interfaces of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. We’ll determine which integration is right for your setup during the consultation. Is collana diva now suitable for companies operating abroad? Yes, the system is multi-tenant and available in multiple languages. You can manage international shops, multiple brands and different currencies within a single environment. How does collana diva now help with high volumes of returns? Returns management is integrated into the inventory management system. Returns go through defined processes, from registration and inspection to restocking and issuing a credit note. You can view the status of each return in real time. How much does collana diva now cost? The cost depends on the number of users, modules and clients. We’ll work out the pricing model for your specific scenario during a no-obligation consultation.  How does collana diva now differ from Xentral? The main differences lie in its Microsoft-based architecture, the integrated payment hub collana pay, the integrated LabelPort, personalised support and the growth path offered by collana diva. Efficient workflows, full transparency and less manual effort: collana diva now provides the processes that fashion companies need to grow. Quick to set up, flexibly scalable and available in the cloud at any time. Share this article X LinkedIn Facebook WhatsApp Our latest news Get started with collana diva now Want to find out more? Book a free live demo and discuss your requirements with us.

A weclapp alternative for e-commerce: a comparison with collana diva now

Home: weclapp is one of the established cloud-based ERP systems for German SMEs and covers a wide range of sectors. For some online retailers, this is precisely where the limitations lie: a cross-sector system maps e-commerce processes universally, but rarely with the depth required by growing online shops when dealing with returns, multichannel operations and campaign peaks. A specialised alternative is collana diva now, our ERP solution for online retail based on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. The following comparison highlights the differences and explains which system is suitable for whom. When a cross-sector ERP system reaches its limits in e-commerce We encounter these situations time and again in consultations with online retailers: multiple sales channels plus returns require seamless synchronisation and rule-based workflows. Limited scope for customisation to suit their own sales processes holds the team back. A great deal of money is spent on in-house technical developments to adapt the ERP to the online shop. Enterprise-level features are lacking for more complex processes in sales and retail. During campaign peaks such as Black Friday, bottlenecks and manual rework occur. Each of these issues compromises control and efficiency. A cross-industry ERP system can thus hinder an online retailer’s international expansion or growth. This is where collana diva now comes in: the solution was developed specifically for online retail and consolidates orders, stock, dispatch and returns within a single system. A comparison of weclapp and collana diva now A direct look at the categories reveals where the systems differ. Comparison as at: December 2025 Feature weclapp collana diva now Add-ons Yes Yes Integrated CRM Yes Yes Project management Yes Yes E-commerce integration Yes Yes Power BI analytics Partially (via API or connectors) Yes Microsoft 365 suite Partially (via integrations) Yes, natively E-commerce specialisation Partially (industry-specific solution available, but universally designed) Yes LabelPort integrated No (not part of weclapp) Yes Multi-PSP hub integrated Partially (PSP integrations via interfaces) Yes (collana pay) AI features Partially Optional via Business Central Base ERP Proprietary platform Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Open APIs REST API / Business Central Service Layer REST/OData APIs All information regarding weclapp is based on publicly available details from the provider’s website (as at October 2025) and is provided for general guidance only. „weclapp“ is a registered trademark of weclapp SE. It is mentioned solely for comparison purposes. The advantage of the Microsoft foundation The foundation based on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central makes all the difference when it comes to scalability, integration and growth. Integration into day-to-day work: Edit Excel data directly, without the need for import and export Teams for real-time collaboration Outlook add-in for quotations and invoices, plus contact synchronisation Power Automate for complex workflows Scalability and security: Tried-and-tested ERP with integrated CRM High scalability thanks to cloud technology and add-ons Global availability, an advantage when expanding abroad Microsoft Azure security standards E-commerce features Online retailers need functions ranging from sales and marketing through to inventory management and financial accounting. collana diva now covers these workflows in a single system. An example from financial management: Flexibly add companies and clients International currencies, DATEV export and document printing as standard Reports by cost centres, cost objects, items and channels You can find an overview of all modules on the collana diva now product page. For businesses that outgrow the current feature set, collana diva offers the next level of functionality on the same Microsoft platform. Here’s how the switch from weclapp to collana diva now works: Our team will guide you through the process in a structured manner so that you can start working with the new ERP quickly: Assessment and consultation: At the first meeting, we’ll get to know each other and assess whether collana diva now is a good fit for your business model. Kick-off: We’ll define the scope, prioritise modules and add-ons, and agree on the effort required, investment and timeframe. Onboarding 1: We’ll set up financial accounting, data migration, users and roles. Documents, email templates and processes are prepared. Onboarding 2: Next come the e-commerce workflows, from purchasing and customer service to logistics. If required, we integrate Power BI or interfaces with online shops, payment providers and delivery service providers. Fine-tuning: Together, we test all processes and check that modules, workflows and integrations are functioning as planned. Go-live: collana diva now goes live. Our team supports the launch and monitors the processes until everything is running smoothly. In 8 to 12 weeks (depending on the project), you’ll be working with the complete solution, including shop integration and CRM. If you’re still at the early stages of selection, our ERP orientation and selection workshop will help you make a decision. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about switching Is collana diva now an alternative to weclapp for retailers? Yes, collana diva now is tailored to e-commerce processes. Even the basic package covers finance, customer service and dispatch. Add-ons can be used to expand the solution as required, whilst control remains within a central platform. What features does collana diva now offer for e-commerce? collana diva now combines stock management, order processing, dispatch, returns, CRM and financial accounting in a single system. The LabelPort dispatch module and the collana pay payment hub are integrated. Our workflows are tailored to weclapp. How do we go about the transition? As a first step, we analyse your existing processes and assess which ones can be mapped within the standard functionality of collana diva now. For the rest, we define the modules and add-ons during the kick-off meeting. We plan the data migration together during the onboarding phase. How complex is the switch to collana diva now? The switch follows a structured six-step process, from the initial consultation to go-live. Typically, the implementation takes 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project. Does collana diva now support international set-ups? Yes, international currencies are included as standard. Thanks to its Microsoft foundation, the solution is available worldwide, which is an advantage when expanding abroad. weclapp is a robust cloud-based ERP for businesses seeking a cross-sector solution with user-based licences. For those growing in e-commerce, managing multiple channels and seeking an ERP solution with native Microsoft integration, an integrated payment hub and a shipping module, collana diva now offers a strong alternative. Share this article X LinkedIn Facebook WhatsApp Our latest news Which solution is right for your business? Would you like to know which solution suits your processes? Arrange a no-obligation consultation with our ERP experts.