Are you getting the most out of your ERP accounting software system? Is your ERP system delivering the expected return on investment? Is your company taking advantage of your ERP system’s capabilities? Are your employees struggling to adopt your new ERP system due to a lack of training or a lack of buy-in? If so, it may be time to consider finding a new Value-Added Reseller (VAR).
In our experience working with ERP software solutions over the past 20 years, the ability to successfully implement an ERP system largely depends on the VAR's ability to deliver an ERP solution that fits your business. Not all VAR organizations are alike. This being the case, it is important that when searching for a new VAR you understand what questions to ask. The following are five questions to ask when interviewing for a new VAR partner.
With more ERP systems on the market than ever, many VAR organizations sell and implement multiple systems. You need to ensure that your new VAR is keenly focused on the ERP system that you are using. So, find out how many clients they support, how many new implementations they have done in the past 12 – 24 months, and how many customers they have on the current version of the ERP system.
While size does not ensure quality, it does provide some insight into tenure, sustainability, and in-house expertise. If you have a large user group logging into an ERP system daily, it's likely that you'll have questions you'd like answered by an expert. You need to ensure that the VAR you work with has the necessary manpower to support you.
While many VARs claim that they provide support, the reality is that their consultants are out in the field working on new implementations. An existing customer that has a question is often left trying to connect with a consultant after hours and/or on weekends. So, find out if your VAR has a support desk and an established process for helping existing customers
It is not imperative that the VAR have dozens of clients in your sector, but they must have in-depth expertise with the modules that are central to your use of the software. Ask to speak with the experts so that you can get a feel as to their knowledge, communication styles, etc
All VAR organizations can provide support and assistance (some faster than others!). You should expect that, but what else will they do for you? Ask your new VAR candidate how and when they will communicate with you and what they will do to help you get more value from your ERP system proactively. Do they provide tutorial webinars? Do they notify their customers about exciting new add-on tools or third-party modules that might be of interest? Do they conduct semi-annual “state-of-affairs” meetings? Find out if they add value!
The goal of every organization is to increase productivity. The effective use of an ERP system can help a company to achieve this goal. If you are feeling underwhelmed with the results of your ERP system implementation, it might be the right time to seek out a new VAR partner. If you have questions about maximizing the value of your ERP software investment, our industry experts are available to assist you. Please feel free to contact the NexTec Group at 206-505-7980, visit our website at www.nextecgroup.com. We would be happy to discuss all your options in more detail. At NexTec Group, we’ve been implementing ERP software solutions and supporting businesses for more than 20 years. Our clients are primarily SMBs (small-to-midsized businesses) in industries such as food & beverage, manufacturing (process manufacturing), distribution, pharmaceuticals, chemical, energy (oil and gas), and related industries.
Another version of this blog was posted on NexTec’s Blog: "5 Must Ask Questions Before Signing A Partner Contract" by James Ritterbusch
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