Managing imports is more complex, difficult, and error-prone than it initially appears. A manufacturer who imports items has three choices. They can:

• Perform the tasks manually (which can also include using spreadsheets),
• Try to stretch a typical ERP system which was not designed to support imports, or
• Implement an ERP system that was designed to fully support imports.

While the first two options might appear easy or cost-effective, their inherent weaknesses will reduce a manufacturer's efficiency, effectiveness, customer responsiveness, and profits. The best choice is to use the tool that was designed to do the job.