What is the main purpose of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system?

The main purpose of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is to manage core business processes across departments in real-time. ERP systems integrate various functions into one complete system to streamline processes and information across the organization. This integration allows for improved efficiency, accuracy, and visibility into business operations. By enabling different departments—such as finance, sales, human resources, and supply chain—to share information and coordinate activities, an ERP system supports better decision-making and resource management.

Managing employee schedules, conducting market research, or focusing solely on customer service operations are tasks that could be part of an ERP but do not encapsulate the main purpose of the system. An ERP's broader goal is to provide a unified system that enhances overall business performance, making option C the most accurate representation of its purpose.