Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Dynamics streamlines business processes such as sales, marketing, and finance by providing integrated solutions. It enhances productivity and efficiency through data-driven insights and automation of daily activities.
Custom ERP, built around your processes.
A custom ERP is an ERP system that is built entirely around your organization’s business processes, rather than a standard off-the-shelf package to which you have to adapt your processes. Custom solutions are the best choice when core processes are highly specific and no off-the-shelf package can cover them without extensive customization. Cube builds custom ERP systems by reusing components and developing them with AI support.
What exactly is an ERP integration?
ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning, the software that integrates your core processes and forms the backbone of your operations. An ERP integration is a technical connection between your ERP system (such as AFAS, Exact, or SAP) and the other applications in your system landscape. Once established, data flows automatically: orders from your online store to your accounting system, inventory from your warehouse to your product pages, and customer data from your CRM to your portal. The integration builds the bridge between that backbone and the rest of your systems, almost always via an API, so that everything works together as if it were a single entity while each system does what it does best. Standard integrations are far from always sufficient: if your process deviates from what a package expects, customization is needed to truly align the systems with your way of working.
Sound familiar?
Standard that still requires customization.
Mismatch
You choose a standard system, but still have to have all sorts of custom developments done to integrate your processes into it. Every update to AFAS, Exact, or SAP carries the risk that those customizations will break.
Integration
Expensive consultants figure out how the software fits into your organization. They base their reasoning on how the system works, not on how you work.
Ballast
You’re paying for a feature-packed system, but you’ll end up using only a small fraction of it. Meanwhile, Excel is doing the real work: production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
When custom ERP is the right choice.
A custom ERP system is the better choice in three situations. One: your core processes are highly specialized, such as a hybrid rental-sales model or industry-specific production logic that no off-the-shelf package can accommodate. Two: your organization is large enough to support annual further development. Three: the system will last seven years or longer, because then the higher development investment more than compensates for the lower licensing costs. Do fewer than two of these three apply to you? Then a standard package is often the wiser choice.
Three options if your processes no longer work.
When an ERP system no longer aligns with your processes, there are three options. Which one you choose depends on four factors: process fit, organization size, desired lifespan, and data architecture. Below are the three options listed one after another.
Option 1: Standard ERP with custom integrations.
With Option 1, you keep a standard software package (AFAS, Exact, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP) and connect it to your online store, CRM, customer portal, or WMS using custom integrations. Suitable when 80% or more of your processes overlap with what the standard package offers. By far the most popular route in the Dutch mid-market, and the right choice if your processes are fairly standard
Option 2: Have a fully customized ERP system developed.
With Option 2, the ERP system is built from the ground up around your processes. Suitable when core processes are truly specific and no off-the-shelf solution covers them without extensive customization. Think of hybrid business models, industry-specific production or service logic, or complex customer-supplier workflows. Cube builds faster than you might expect. This is due to AI-driven development, but also because we reuse components we’ve delivered before: user permissions, logging of system activity, integrations with other systems, and reports. What remains is the logic that’s truly yours.
Option 3: Custom software as an add-on to (or replacement for) your ERP.
In Route 3, the ERP system is no longer the central system and is replaced by a combination of standard accounting software and custom software (customer portal, B2B web store, data platform) that handles the business logic. Suitable when the real value lies in customer or partner interaction, and the accounting layer fits perfectly into a package. Important for this route: data ownership must be clearly established in advance, and integrations must work bidirectionally. Otherwise, a complex integration landscape will still arise.
Which route is right for you?
Route 1: Standard + links
- 80% or more overlap with a standard package
- 25 to 100 employees
- Limited annual development budget
- It is important to minimize reliance on a single contractor
Option 2: Developing custom ERP system
- Core processes specific to your organization
- 100 to 500 employees
- Expected service life: 7 to 10 years
- Annual budget for further development is available
- Centralized data architecture is important
Route 3: Customization as a layer
- Value lies in customer or partner interactions
- 100 to 500 employees
- Accounting is included in a standard package
- Quick results desired
- Be prepared to design data ownership effectively
How Cube builds a custom ERP system.
Create
We get to know your organization, map out your core processes, and work with you to determine exactly what an ERP system needs to accomplish for you.
Unite
We design the functional and technical architecture, determine which processes will be custom-built and which will use best-of-breed integrations, and build an initial clickable prototype.
Build
We are developing the system in sprints, reusing components from previous ERP and portal projects: authorization, audit logging, API integrations, and a reporting module. AI-assisted development significantly speeds up this process.
Evolve
Once the system goes live, we will monitor it and expand its functionality based on usage and feedback.
Ask yourself these four questions
Custom solutions vs. standard ERP
Complexity
Does your core process fit into a standard package?
Look at what truly sets you apart. A hybrid rental-sales model, industry-specific production logic, or a unique workflow between customers and suppliers. If something like that is at the core of your business, you can rarely support it without a significant layer of customization on top of a standard software package. And it is precisely that layer that becomes fragile: every update to AFAS, Exact, or SAP carries the risk that your customizations will break. The more specific your process, the more customization works to your advantage.
Adaption
Do you adapt your process to the software, or vice versa?
With a standard software package, expensive consultants are often brought in to figure out how the system fits into your organization. They approach the problem from the perspective of how the software works, not from the perspective of how you work. So you end up adapting your process to the software, when it should be the other way around. With custom solutions, we build around your way of working, not around it.
Utilization
How much of the system are you actually going to use?
A standard software package is packed with features, but in practice, you often only use a small fraction of them. You end up paying for modules that no one ever uses. And whatever the package doesn’t cover well, your team handles in Excel: production planning, inventory calculation, order processing. That manual back-and-forth between systems takes hours each week and occasionally goes wrong. Custom software does exactly what you need, and nothing more.
Costs
How much will it cost in the long run?
Consider an ERP system for product management and order fulfillment, including integration with your back-end systems. A SaaS platform costs an average of about 70,000 euros to set up and implement, plus approximately 5,000 euros per month. Custom development requires a higher upfront investment, around 110,000 euros, but the monthly costs are lower: about 3,000 euros. That’s a difference of 2,000 euros per month, meaning the extra investment pays for itself in about 20 months. After that, you only pay for maintenance and ongoing development, and the savings continue to grow. These figures are averages and serve as an indication: the actual costs depend on the exact scope and can therefore vary significantly.
Not sure?
Still not sure which route is right for you?
That makes sense, because this isn’t a cost decision but a decision about process fit.. The figures above are averages for an ERP for product management and order processing, meant to give you a feel for the proportions. How many processes you want to support, how specific your logic is and which systems need to connect all determine where the break-even point lies for you. Tell us how your processes work, and we'll calculate the payback period for your situation.tion.
Curious about the ROI for your situation? Feel free to contact us.
Jarno
Business Director
They went ahead
From a stalled process to working software. How does this work in practice?
InCorpe: How do you organize a process that doesn't fit into any off-the-shelf solution?
InCorpe assists entrepreneurs with acquisition processes: a multi-stage process involving the sharing of confidential documents with clients and investors. Previously, this was done using separate Excel and Word files and email exchanges. Cube built Transact, a portal tailored to InCorpe’s workflow rather than a standard solution. The entire acquisition process is now consolidated into a single environment, from the initial documentation to the signed NDA, featuring digital signatures and real-time visibility for all stakeholders.
BTR: How do you stay on top of things when everything is custom-made?
BTR Trainingen grew rapidly, and that growth created some chaos: everyone had their own way of working, with scattered documents and manual reporting. Cube didn’t build a traditional learning platform with courses, but a system that organizes the entire service offering. Intake forms, participant lists, trainer schedules, evaluations, and certificates are all brought together in a single central environment, featuring automated intakes and evaluations and five user groups, each with its own view. The result: room to grow without losing the personal touch.
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Nou: How do you link your sales directly to your ERP?
Following a merger of three organizations, Nou sought to transform the business printing market, with automated internal processes as its starting point. Cube built a single digital platform that integrates the website, customer portal, and online store, directly linked to the existing ERP system that manages all orders. Customers order products such as cartridges and toners directly through that link, without any manual steps in between. Within two months of launch, customer satisfaction increased and multiple sales processes were automated.
Over 15 years of experience: Cube as your digital partner.
Building an ERP system is one thing. Building a system that truly aligns with how you work requires more. Cube combines strategy, design, and technology to develop solutions that not only work but also drive growth. By first understanding what your processes are really about, we create a system that fits your organization—not the other way around. With over 15 years of experience in custom development and integrations, we know how to translate complex processes into workable software. Not by stacking standard modules on top of each other, but by building what’s necessary and leaving out what isn’t. The result is a system that accelerates processes, reduces manual work, and grows with your organization—for both your team and your customers.
AFAS software
AFAS offers a complete solution for automating business processes. It reduces manual tasks, increases efficiency, and provides real-time insights for strategic growth.
Exact Online
Exact Online is a versatile cloud-based ERP system that optimises financial administration, accounting and business processes, enabling organisations to work more efficiently and accurately.
Dation
Dation is an advanced software platform designed specifically for driving schools. It provides everything you need to efficiently manage driving lesson administration, track learners and optimise operations.
Wintree
WinTree is specialised business software for stock and sales administration that is widely used in the tree nursery and plant sector. WinTree CONNECT supports organisations in managing stocks, sales processes, deliveries and customer data.
LogicTrade
LogicTrade is een branchegerichte softwareoplossing die woonwinkels, meubelzaken en woninginrichters helpt om hun bedrijfsprocessen te stroomlijnen. Van offertecreatie tot levering en facturatie, LogicTrade ondersteunt organisaties met slimme dashboards, leverancierskoppelingen en realtime inzicht in orders en voorraad.
xPlan
xPlan optimizes the management of spa and wellness experiences by centralizing bookings, customer data, and administration. The system offers flexible solutions and improved customer satisfaction for efficient business operations.
Salesforce
Salesforce optimizes customer relationship management by efficiently managing customer data, personalizing marketing campaigns, improving sales processes, and providing customer service.
We help corporations operate like startups, and startups grow into corporations.
Custom or off-the-shelf ERP? Let us know.
Want to chat or brainstorm? Tell us how your processes work, and we’ll compare them to the three options and calculate the payback period for you.
Our team. Or well, actually, your team.
Amber Projectmanager
Good at padel, social and has a good dose of humor. As project manager at Cube, Amber brings technology and client together and ensures that projects run smoothly. Sporty and curious, always ready for a new challenge and to achieve great results together with the team.
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Bart Developer
Whether he's on the judo mat or in the office, Bart brings energy and humor wherever he goes. Always in good spirits, quick-witted, and a colleague you can truly count on.
Bernard Developer
Tukker, lover of squash, PSV, and photography during the golden hour. Bernard has been working with code for years, paying attention not only to functionality but also to readability and testability. Quiet, precise and always focused on beautiful and well-working solutions.
Bob Test Engineer | Security & Privacy
Of course, someone has to monitor AVG, quality & security. With conviction and punctuality, our Test Engineer and Security & Privacy Officer, Bob safeguards these facets.
Demi Officemanager
With a down-to-earth outlook and organisational talent, Demi is the go-to person who makes sure everything in the office runs smoothly. Her flexibility and people-oriented approach make her indispensable as office manager.
Dennis Full Stack Developer
With his vast knowledge and perseverance, he knows how to solve complex issues, while always being committed and pragmatic. We are happy to have someone like Dennis on our team.
Guus Full Stack Developer
Genuine Twente down-to-earthness, you're going to find that with Guus. An approachable and open person, a rock for our team.
Jarno Business Director
As fanatical as Jarno is in the gym and on the tennis court, he is also committed within Cube. His strength? Thinking along with clients' business and getting to the heart of business processes.
Jarno Back-end Developer
A true professional, Jarno keeps every appointment and delivers reliable results.
Jasper Developer
With his technical background, he is the perfect link between the developers and our clients. He is a true team player: sociable, structured and therefore a top Project Manager.
Jenne Digital Marketeer
With confidence and a sharp pen, Jenne powerfully conveys any message. She knows exactly how to make an impact.
Jeroen Back-end Developer
Just as in jujutsu, the sport Jeroen practices, the same applies at Cube: Jeroen thinks ahead and acts decisively.
Job CEO | Executive
As founder of the organisation, Job starts his working day full of pride. Proud of the Cube team, of what we have achieved together and full of energy to realise our ambitious goals.
Joost Tech Lead | Team Pentagon
An expert in app development, who loves to share his knowledge! With a keen interest in others and a determined attitude, Joost is an asset to any project.
Jordy Software Architect
With a good dose of (rubber duck) humour, Jordy oversees every situation perfectly. You don't have to chase anything because he always has everything under control.
Justin Tech Lead | Team Hexagon
If there is anyone you can count on within the team, it is definitely Justin! With his sense of responsibility, he radiates calmness to his colleagues.
Kees Projectmanager
Kees' positive vibe is contagious for the team. A real go-getter, he always makes sure everything is done in the right way - and that way he gets everyone on the same page.
Kevin Developer
With his cheerful attitude and fresh outlook, Kevin has become a valuable force. He possesses a lot of expert knowledge and puts it to effective use every day.
Laura Digital Designer
A creative and curious professional with a passion for design and FC Twente. Cheerful, enthusiastic and always up for a good conversation, she brings both atmosphere and quality to her work.
Maartje Content Marketeer
Whether it is a catchy image or a compelling video, Maartje combines creativity, openness and honesty to tell stories that connect.
Mans Operations Manager
With a good dose of enthusiasm, Mans focuses daily on optimising processes and working methods. Cooperation is key, with the aim of achieving great results together.
Marcus Projectmanager
Marcus brings a fine energy to the team with his social character and enthusiasm. A real matchwinner, not only within Cube but also on the tennis court!
Marleen Projectmanager | Team Lead Octagon
With her down-to-earth approach and a wealth of technical knowledge, Marleen makes every project a success. As a driven Project Manager, she continuously helps Team Octagon move forward.
Mart Front-end Developer
With genuine interest, Mart builds front-end experiences that stand out. A precise person with whom working together is always a pleasure.
Melanie Projectmanager | Team Lead Hexagon
Thanks to Melanie's process-oriented approach, nothing gets left behind and everything comes together within the projects. With her enthusiasm, she takes the team with her in this.
Mick Tech Lead | Team Nexus
Mick works as a Tech Lead and collaborates closely with colleagues and clients to develop practical and smart solutions. With a strong focus on communication and the use of AI, he contributes to increasingly efficient workflows.
Nicky Projectmanager
Nicky brings people together, keeps an overview and ensures that plans become reality. With her creative vision and down-to-earth approach, she steers projects smoothly to the desired result. Always eager to learn and keen on content.
Onno Business Controller
With an eye for detail and a talent for numbers, Onno makes sure every comma and decimal is correct. Structured and disciplined - both in the office and on the tennis court, where precision and strategy come together.
Remi Software Architect
With a passion for imparting his expertise to colleagues and clients, Remi is known within Cube as the team's mentor - or as many call him: 'the Padre'.
Rogier Business Consultant
Rogier speaks the language of both our clients and our developers. Understanding processes? He is an expert at that!
Rosan Manager People & Organization
Rosan is the connecting force within our team. Committed, sincere and punctual - the enquiry point that brings people together and keeps the organisation running smoothly.
Roy Full Stack Developer
Roy has made his hobby his profession, with a passion for programming and an eye for detail. A quiet, extremely thorough developer who has his work cut out perfectly.
Ruben Full Stack Developer
Enterprising and structured - Ruben is a developer with vision... and he is always up for a game of darts in the break!
Ruben Digital Designer
A Digital Designer who combines innovation and structure, where his work is not only beautiful, but above all functional and purposeful.
Sander Developer
With an impressive amount of knowledge for his age and an athletic attitude, Sander is a committed and energetic force within any project.
Stijn Front-end Developer
A social Front-end Developer who loves structure and always keeps an overview. A valuable colleague within our team - not only on the shop floor, but also at Friday afternoon drinks!
Tamara Business Consultant
Tamara knows how to turn any issue into new opportunities with her energy and creative thinking.
Thomas Back-end Developer
A skilled Back-end Developer with a social attitude. Whether it is getting to the bottom of an issue, playing ping-pong or a game of football on the square - he always plays at a high level.
Tom Tech Lead | Team Octagon
Think of speed? Then you think of Tom! Whether it's fast cars or racing on the go-kart track - as long as it goes fast. So the innovative technology in this industry suits him perfectly.
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Wesley Projectmanager
Met zijn IT-ervaring in ERP-software als consultant en projectmanager helpt Wesley klanten graag bij het realiseren van slimme automatisering en digitalisering als waardevolle aanvulling op hun ERP- en CRM-systeem.
Questions? No problem.
A custom ERP system is an Enterprise Resource Planning system that is built entirely around your organization’s processes, rather than a standard off-the-shelf package that you have to adapt to your processes. It’s worth it when your core processes are so specific that no off-the-shelf package can cover them without extensive customization.
An ERP integration is a technical connection between your ERP system, such as AFAS, Exact, SAP, or Microsoft Dynamics, and another application like an e-commerce platform, WMS, or CRM. Data is exchanged automatically, eliminating the need for manual input and making processes more efficient. The cost and implementation time of an ERP integration vary per situation. This depends on factors such as the complexity of your systems, the amount of data, and the desired functionalities. An initial estimate can be made during an introductory meeting, providing clarity on what is needed for a successful implementation.
Custom solutions are the way to go when three conditions are met: your core processes are highly specialized, your organization is large enough (50 or more employees) to support ongoing annual development, and the system will last seven years or longer. If fewer than two of these three apply to you, or if 80 percent or more of your processes overlap with a standard package, then that package is almost always the smarter choice.
There are three options. Option 1: Keep a standard package and connect it to your online store, CRM, or WMS using custom integrations. Option 2: Have a fully custom ERP system developed around your processes. Option 3: Replace the ERP as the central system with an accounting package plus custom software that handles the business logic. Which option is best depends on process fit, organization size, desired lifespan, and data architecture.
At Cube, a functional initial version is typically launched within four to nine months. This is faster than the market is accustomed to, because we reuse components from previous ERP and portal projects (authorization, audit logging, integrations, reporting) and utilize AI-assisted development. After going live, further development continues as usual.
That depends heavily on the scope and complexity. You pay more upfront than with a standard package, but you have no license fees and no obligation to keep up with a vendor’s updates. Over the entire lifecycle, you often end up paying a comparable amount or less than with a standard package that requires a lot of customization.