Breaking Free from Vendor Lock-In with a Reliable, On-Premise ERP System
Overview
Industry: Retail (Bookshop)
Client Type: Small Business
Location: Ghana
Solution: On-Premise ERPNext Deployment
The Challenge
The client, a local bookshop in Ghana, had been operating on a proprietary inventory and sales system developed by an external vendor. While the initial solution promised customization, it soon became a burden: minimal support, lack of updates, and total dependence on the original developer.
To make matters worse, they had already invested in a dedicated server for that system and couldn’t afford to discard it. They needed an ERP solution that offered better support, ownership, and long-term flexibility—without the risk of being locked in again.
Our Solution
The InfoSec Lab Consult recommended ERPNext, a robust, open-source ERP system that matched the bookshop’s operational needs. Since the client had an existing server, we implemented ERPNext on-premise, using Docker Compose to manage containers for reliability and maintainability.
Our implementation included:
- Installation of ERPNext using Docker Compose on the client’s local server
- Migration of relevant data from the previous system
- Configuration of inventory, point-of-sale, and purchasing modules
- Setup of backup automation and update procedures
- On-site training for staff to ensure smooth transition and adoption
This setup empowered the client with full control over their system—no subscriptions, no external dependencies.
Results
- Seamless transition from the proprietary platform
- Full ownership of ERP infrastructure and data
- Improved inventory tracking and real-time reporting
- Reliable performance without cloud reliance
- Significant cost savings compared to SaaS or commercial ERP options
Why Choose The InfoSec Lab Consult?
We help small businesses in Ghana make smart, sustainable IT choices—whether in the cloud or on-premise. With a focus on open-source systems and long-term autonomy, we design solutions that give you control without sacrificing quality.
Whether you’re starting fresh or breaking free from a locked-in vendor, we’re ready to help you take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ERPNext suitable for small retail businesses like bookshops?
Yes. ERPNext is modular and highly customizable, making it a perfect fit for small to medium-sized retail businesses. It includes inventory, sales, POS, and purchasing features right out of the box.
Why did you deploy it on-premise instead of the cloud?
The client already had an existing server from a previous vendor-dependent system. To reduce cost and maximize the investment, we deployed ERPNext on that server using Docker Compose.
Can ERPNext work offline or without a full-time internet connection?
Yes. An on-premise deployment allows the business to continue operations even during internet outages, as long as the local network remains active.
Is ERPNext open source and free to use?
Yes. ERPNext is open-source software, which means there are no licensing fees. You retain full control over your data and the system.
Do you offer ongoing support or training for ERPNext?
Absolutely. We offer onboarding, training, system updates, and ongoing support plans tailored to your business needs.
