ERP implementation guidance from industry experts
A common theme we hear when speaking with clients and prospective customers is that the ERP decision-making process can be stressful and complex. They also tell us that ERP implementation brings its own set of concerns and obstacles. To support businesses facing ERP implementation decisions we recently co-sponsored a guide detailing ERP essentials. Featuring useful research from Gartner, Inc., along with real-world guidance from industry experts.
Seven condensed excerpts from the guide are shown below.
1. Know what you need.
Make a clear and comprehensive list of your unique business needs. Then, match the system’s features and functions to your own minimal requirements.When you know exactly what you want to do, it’s easier to find a system that will meet your needs.
2. Think beyond the price tag.
Even a system that’s a great fit for your organization will most likely need further customization. You’ll also need help integrating and converting all your legacy data. And then there’s the cost of supporting and maintaining your system. That’s why you can’t go on the implementation sticker price alone.
3. Keep it open.
With an open source solution, such as Apache OFBiz, your ERP system can be infinitely customizable and affordable. In addition, an open source solution can be a great way to avoid vendor lock and skyrocketing licensing fees.
4. Choose a vendor you can trust.
Once you know what you need and want, find a vendor who will be forthright about what they can and can’t do. Invest the time required to check references–including relevant reviews–just as you would if hiring a new team member.
5. Turn business users into design partners.
Your technology can be the best on planet, but that doesn’t matter if no one uses it. For instance, if your business users were expecting a function to send emails to customers and you don’t deliver it, they won’t just complain. They’ll find another solution. Remember to design with the user in mind.
6. Understand every detail.
Take time to understand the details. Even when you have a whole army of IT experts to help you get the job done, you still have to understand what’s going on in every module of your ERP system.
7. Make ongoing support an essential priority.
Remember that you’ll need ongoing support and continuous improvements to keep your ERP system in top form. To ensure that you get the help you need when you need it, consider the size and scale of your ERP support partner. For example, larger IT companies may require more substantial fees or have longer wait times.
Would your business benefit from an ERP consultation before the holiday buying season? If so, please contact us to schedule a consultation or a demo. You’ll get honest, expert feedback, without any high-pressure sales tactics. We understand that ERP decisions can be difficult, and we’re here to help.
Not yet ready for a conversation? No problem. Please browse our blog for more helpful ERP information.
