Aerospace Innovations Magazine

Story: “ERP Systems vs Integrated Best of Breed (Single) IT Systems”

Monica Badra, Founder of Aero NextGen.

Aero NextGen is a specialized aviation brokerage, we leverage deep industry expertise, a robust global network, and next-gen tools—like our ERP Finder platform—to match aviation companies with digital solutions that are purpose-built for their type of operations. Our mission it to advance aviation with smart solutions by matching MROs and aviation companies with the right technology and service partners to solve real operational pain points.

What is the difference between deploying a single integrated ERP software model versus adopting a ‘best of breed; approach?

The core difference comes down to philosophy and practicality. An integrated ERP system is a unified platform that covers a wide range of business processes—finance, maintenance, inventory, HR, compliance—in a “one-stop shop.” The expectations is seamless data flow, a single version of the truth, and (theoretically) simpler back-end management.

In contrast, a ‘best of breed’ approach selects specialized solutions for each function—think maintenance tracking, inventory management, procurement, document control, etc.—and stitches them together via integrations. The aim is to get the “best tool for the job” in every area, even if it means juggling multiple systems and interfaces.

In aviation MRO, integrated ERP systems can deliver end-to-end visibility and process automation but often require heavy customization to fit aviation’s unique workflows. They can be costly and time-consuming to implement—but, when done right, they can eliminate data silos and support regulatory compliance.

Best of breed lets you cherry-pick innovative, aviation-specific tools that may leapfrog legacy ERP features. The trade-off? Integration headaches, potential data fragmentation, and increased system management complexity.

At Aero NextGen, we see this debate play out daily. That’s why we built the ERP Finder—to help aviation leaders cut through the noise, benchmark options, and find fit-for-purpose solutions (whether that’s a single ERP, a hybrid stack, or a curated best of breed lineup). The right answer isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s about matching your operational realities and growth ambitions to the right digital backbone.

What are the pros and cons of using each model?

Integrated ERP Model — Pros:

·         Unified Data & Visibility: One system, one source of truth. Everyone—from finance to maintenance—works off the same real-time data, which is crucial for compliance and operational oversight in aviation MRO.

·         Streamlined Workflows: End-to-end automation reduces manual handoffs, paperwork, and duplicate data entry. This means fewer errors and less wasted time. Agentic layers and AI agents are becoming increasingly more popular and are starting to automate manual workflows in Finance, Procurement, Customer Service, and other indirect functions.

·         Simplified Back-End Management: One contract, one support team, one set of updates. Less finger-pointing when something breaks.

·         Regulatory Alignment: Leading ERPs are built with large enterprise’s strict regulatory needs in mind—making audits and reporting less painful.

Integrated ERP Model — Cons:

·         Cost & Complexity: Implementation is a major project—expensive, time-consuming, and often disruptive. Customization to fit aviation workflows can balloon timelines and budgets.

·         Rigidity: One-size-fits-all rarely fits aviation perfectly. You may have to compromise on niche needs or wait for the ERP provider’s roadmap to catch up (or miss the trend).

·         Change Management: Getting buy-in across all departments is tough. If adoption falters, the benefits evaporate.

Best of Breed Model — Pros:

·         Specialization: You get the best tool for each job—maintenance, inventory, procurement, analytics—often from vendors who live and breathe aviation or that specific business function and/or technology.

·         Innovation: Faster access to next-gen features, agile updates, and niche capabilities that legacy ERPs may lack.

·         Flexibility: Swap out underperforming tools as your needs evolve, without overhauling your entire tech stack.

Best of Breed Model — Cons:

·         Integration Headaches: Stitching multiple systems together is complex. Data silos, sync issues, and finger-pointing between systems and departments are real risks.

·         Fragmented User Experience: Teams juggle multiple logins and interfaces, which can hurt productivity and adoption.

System Management Overload: More contracts, more support tickets, more moving parts to manage

Aero NextGen’s Take:

In aviation MRO, there’s no universal “right” answer—only the right fit for your operation’s complexity, scale, and digital maturity. We see MROs succeed with both models, but the pitfalls are real. That’s why we built the ERP Finder platform: to help aviation leaders cut through the noise and get a shortlist of the solutions that are purpose-built for their type of operations—whether that’s a unified ERP, a curated best of breed stack, or a hybrid approach.

Bottom line:

If you crave simplicity, compliance, and holistic oversight, an integrated ERP is hard to beat—but be ready for a heavy lift.

If you value agility and want best-in-class solutions for each workflow (and have the IT muscle to integrate them), best of breed can deliver rapid wins.

Most importantly: Don’t let “shiny object syndrome” or tech FOMO drive your decision. Anchor your tech strategy to your biggest pain points and growth goals—and get independent advice before you sign anything (or talk to Aero NextGen).

Where does your company’s product(s) fit into this mix, and why did you choose the approach that you did?

Aero NextGen sits at the crossroads of this ERP vs. best of breed debate. Our flagship tool, the ERP Finder, is designed specifically for aviation and MRO leaders who are overwhelmed by the noise, complexity, and generic advice in the tech market. We didn’t pick a side—we built a platform that empowers organizations to make the right choice for their unique operational realities.

Why this approach?

The aviation sector is notorious for its complexity, legacy processes, and “square peg, round hole” software deployments. We saw too many MROs struggling with rigid ERPs that didn’t fit, or tangled in a patchwork of disconnected point solutions. The ERP Finder cuts through this by benchmarking 50+ aviation-specific solutions (ERPs and best-of-breed tools), mapping them to real-world workflows, and delivering tailored, unbiased recommendations. We’re independent, deeply specialized, and laser-focused on fit-for-purpose—not vendor hype.

What results are you delivering for your clients as a result, and what improvements do you have planned?

We have helped over 70+ Aviation and MRO companies shortlist the systems that matched their needs.

We’re broadening our database to include even more aviation software and service providers, making the tool smarter, faster, and even more personalized.

What is your final word on this subject?

Don’t let technology dictate your strategy—let your strategy dictate your technology. The “right” system is the one that solves your pain points, fits your workflows, and supports your growth ambitions. In aviation MRO, there’s no room for generic answers or costly missteps.

At Aero NextGen, we believe in empowering leaders with independent, data-driven guidance. Whether you’re all-in on ERP, building a best of breed stack, or somewhere in between, success starts with clarity, not compromise. If you’re ready to make your next system decision, start with ERP Finder —and get advice engineered for aviation, not just IT.