Software is a tool, and tools make a difference.
ERP software unifies all of your functional business areas: Sales informs purchasing, inventory is controlled, work orders are managed, invoices link to accounting, and so much more.
Most small companies try to keep track of everything needed to run a business with spreadsheets. Spreadsheets do not cut it when a business is growing. It is too costly to maintain this complexity with spreadsheets. Software is more efficient.
Your employees may be used to spreadsheets; it is how they operate. Training them on new process can be expensive and annoying. But the results are rewarding.
The ideal time to adopt an ERP (in lieu of Quickbooks plus spreadsheets) is at the inflection point of a companys growth. In other words - it is earlier than you think! Adopting a full suite integrated system, and consistent, intelligent business processes across all functional areas of your business - these are key to growing your business.