Pronto Xi to add IBM watsonx AI tools for smarter ERP insights
Pronto Software has signed an agreement with IBM Australia to integrate agentic AI capabilities into its Pronto Xi enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform through IBM's watsonx suite.
Under the new partnership, Pronto Software's AI infrastructure will be enhanced with tools from IBM that facilitate autonomous decision-making, predictive analytics, and workflow automation within the ERP environment. The intent is to offer businesses practical tools that support day-to-day operations and strategic decision-making.
Integration of watsonx.ai
The integration will see Pronto Software utilise IBM watsonx.ai to build, deploy, and manage AI-driven automation for business processes. Watsonx.ai is designed to connect with existing business software and accommodate various AI models or automation tools, allowing AI agents and assistants to collaborate within a single platform. This is expected to reduce manual processes, deliver faster decision-making, and enable greater business efficiency at scale.
Through this collaboration, Pronto Xi users - ranging from those managing warehouse operations to staff in front office roles - will gain the capability to generate inventory and sales forecasts using natural language queries, a function traditionally unavailable to many professionals without advanced technical skills.
Focus on worker empowerment
Chad Gates, Managing Director of Pronto Software, said the initiative is focused on giving more people within organisations the ability to access and act on business intelligence.
"We are using AI to elevate workers, not replace them," said Mr Gates. "Our customers, many of them family-run, mid-sized businesses, can enable staff to act strategically. Pronto Software can work with customers to build and deploy agentic AI that not only informs, but acts on the information, unlocking real business value without compromising security.
"With the new integration between IBM watsonx and Pronto Xi, workers can ask a question in plain English and instantly receive forward-looking insights that support smarter decisions."
This approach is exemplified by the recent release of the Pronto Software Virtual Assistant, which offers instant, natural language responses about Pronto Xi, supporting users in resolving issues while maintaining privacy and data protection, and operating within Pronto Cloud's secure environment.
Steven Windsor of Southern Cross Transport Equipment Group, a customer of Pronto Software, remarked on the potential benefits for staff education and productivity:
"We see it as a fantastic tool for educating our staff on how to use the system more effectively," said Pronto Software customer Steven Windsor, Southern Cross Transport Equipment Group.
"It will also empower them to troubleshoot and resolve issues independently as they arise, reducing reliance on support and enhancing overall productivity," Mr Windsor said.
Capabilities in agentic AI
Agentic AI technology allows systems to interpret data, autonomously take actions, and optimise workflows. Pronto Software's aim is to make these capabilities available within the core ERP platform so they are accessible in operational settings where they are most needed.
Nick Flood, Managing Director of IBM Australia, highlighted the strategic intent behind the alliance.
"Our agreement with Pronto Software goes beyond technical integration. It reflects a shared commitment to client value, security and continuous innovation," Mr Flood said.
"With watsonx.ai at the core of their AI offering, Pronto Software is now positioned to deliver a new generation of AI-powered ERP services driving business insights, operational efficiency and differentiated client experiences."
Security and enterprise focus
Security, governance, and trust are described as central components of the new capabilities. The integration of IBM's technology brings with it enterprise-grade protective measures for AI-driven systems, aiming to align with both partners' approaches to robust and practical innovation.
Chad Gates reiterated the goal of making AI accessible and user-friendly for businesses:
"AI doesn't have to be overwhelming or intimidating," Mr Gates added. "It should feel like a natural part of your workflow, and that's exactly what we are delivering. With this new capability, Pronto Xi becomes not just a system of record, but a system of insight and empowerment."
Pronto Software maintains that the adoption of these AI-driven enhancements supports its long-term strategy to help customers optimise performance and operational outcomes while focusing on the importance of people in business processes.
