How to Select an ERP System
Digitally transforming your business and choosing a new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system can be exciting. Still, it can quickly become a complicated and taxing decision. On top of that, endless ERP vendors are available on the market, selling software they claim is the best fit for your business. Choosing the proper ERP can mean advancement for your organization, so consider all your factors when deciding on the right software. Here’s how to select an ERP system that is right for your company.
Why Would a Business Need an ERP System?
An ERP system manages all facets of a business with modules supporting areas such as accounting, sales, inventory, manufacturing, and customer service from one centralized, fully-integrated platform. This solution eliminates the need for separate, overlapping software for different business areas.
There is a misunderstanding that ERP systems are only for big corporations; however, small-to-medium businesses can benefit from having a fully integrated system.
An ERP system can help businesses:
- Improve communication between departments
- Increase productivity by automating manual business processes and eliminating lengthy workflows
- Gain easy visibility of all operations by monitoring and managing your business on any device with real-time updates
- Generate and analyze business intelligence.
- Store and organize all crucial data, records, and information on an accessible interface.
- Stay compliant by generating all necessary documents and reports.
- Reduce cost and improve operational efficiency by enhancing mobility and flexibility and cutting operating and administrative expenses.
- Improve Customer Relationships with faster response times by integrating existing financial and customer information software.
Tips on How to Select the Right ERP System
Here are some tips to ensure your digital transformation is a success. Consider all of the following to learn how to select an ERP system:
Determine specific ERP needs
Assess the greatest needs of the business and voice considerations for selecting an ERP system.
There are endless lists of ERP software available on the market. Still, we highly recommend researching before deciding on the right match. What are the issues that brought about the need for an ERP? What are the current pain points in your operation? There might be a long list of business requirements you’re looking for in an ERP. We suggest boiling them down to the most critical that will impact your business the most.
Vendors should be able to demonstrate their product’s capabilities in addressing your specific requirements, which is why it’s essential to prioritize the most business-differentiating concerns.
Create an ERP research team
Determining your company’s needs is the first step in choosing an ERP.
A great way to do this is by developing an ERP research team.
When assembling the team, we recommend gathering stakeholders and partners from various departments such as accounting, SAP inventory, human resources, sales, etc. Different members from each area of the business can provide unique insights into the department’s current needs while highlighting future needs. This team of individuals can be beneficial in choosing an ERP system that meets the requirements of multiple departments. Some organizations go a step further and involve end-users and customers in their research process to brainstorm new and innovative ways of improving the client experience.
Hire an ERP Implementation Consultant
It can be highly beneficial to hire an ERP consultant.
These individuals are knowledgeable in multiple ERP software. As a result, they can oversee the ERP deployment or migration process while offering fair and impartial advice.
Implementation consultants are profoundly helpful in determining the cost, time, complexity, and training requirements of integrating a new ERP. In addition, they can help you develop a realistic implementation plan. You can expect their support throughout workflow design, data migration, test periods, employee training, and management change activities.
Set an effective budget
Implementing ERP software might be one of the most significant business investments, so consider the risks and costs of purchasing software.
When determining a budget, remember to allocate hidden costs such as implementation costs, hardware upgrades, maintenance, etc. You’ll also want to consider factors such as deployment, training, ongoing support, and maintenance costs, so it’s crucial to make room in the budget for the potential future needs of your ERP software.
Opt for flexibility
Business needs will change as it grows, so it’s best to pick an ERP system that can adapt to new processes and advancing technology.
The chosen software must remain compatible with emerging devices and operating systems. When looking at different ERP options, keep your business growth and the continuity of new advancing technology. An ideal ERP system can constantly be improved and updated to support better the digital upkeep and ever-changing needs of your business.
Ensure compatibility with existing software
Chances are, your business already uses some software to help support everyday functions.
Understanding how the new software solution aligns with your current business infrastructure is essential. Suppose there are specific applications you’d like to keep. In that case, you should prioritize ERP systems that can easily integrate with your existing system. Once you choose the right software, stage integrations slowly to avoid system errors and crashes. Afterward, any new management processes must be created and enforced.
What Can SAP Business One Do For Your Business?
If you’re wondering about an ERP system or how to select an ERP system that’s right for your business, consider all departments and pain points.
SAP Business One easily integrates with existing software applications and is one of the most innovative ERP systems on the market. Our affordable business management tool can help you manage your entire business through a single, centralized application.
We offer specific business modules that support all areas of business, including:
- Accounting and finance
- Inventory and warehouse
- Customer relationship management (CRM)
- Sales and marketing
- Reporting and analytics
Our solution can easily be configured to streamline workflow best and get you a fast return on investment. SAP Business One is set on helping your business grow and is highly suitable for small-to-medium businesses.
Why Choose Support One?
At Support One, we are a highly-rated SAP B1 Gold Partner. We can help set your organization up for a smooth and easy transition. Our experts can work with your team to help get the most out of the SAP Business One software.
Contact us, and let’s get connected. Together, we can select an ERP system for your business and set it up for ultimate success.
