The Mumbai-based Progen ERP Systems has set a target of 200 pharma companies in the small and medium sector for its enterprise resource planning (ERP) software installation by 2005. Christened as PERP, this ERP application targeted primarily for the small and the medium size pharma companies, those are not being able to use or afford extensive ERP packages like SAP, BAAN or PeopleSoft, which are designed for large scale enterprises.

According to Manish Sharma, director, Progen ERP Systems, PERP, which is primarily targeted to SMEs, would only cost Rs. 30,000 to Rs 60,000 as against Rs. 1.5 to 2 crore for a SAP or BAAN package.

At present, Progen has about 60 clients, including Sigma Labs, Biochem Pharma, Flamingo Exports, and Vardhman Exports. The company also has foreign clients in Egypt and Africa, according to Sharma. The ERP package has six main modules like production planning, inventory control, marketing, exports, sales tax, HRD and many more as per the specific requirements of the clients.

PERP Financials is a comprehensive system covering all areas related to accounting including general ledger, budgeting, sales tax, and financial statement. PERP-Materials is a comprehensive Materials Management System designed specifically for enterprises including purchasing, inventory control, and quality control. PERP-Production is a production management system, which includes production planning, scheduling and operations management. PERP-Marketing & Sales covers all areas such as marketing, distribution, sales and excise, PERP-HR covers HR management.

According to the company officials, out of the 6,000 pharma SMEs in the country, only about 15 per cent is ERP compliant. "Therefore the market is tremendous," exclaimed Sharma. According to him, Progen is the only company in India offering sophisticated ERP solutions complying with the Indian conditions to SMEs. As a result, the market is competition free, the company sources said.