The right business software provides a wide variety of advantages to companies that use it correctly. While many of the benefits are specific to a business's needs or the industry in which they operate, there are general, widespread and positive changes seen in general operations as well. Many of these relate to efficiency and effectiveness - whether it comes in backoffice practices or on the production floor. Eliminating or vastly reducing the use of paper forms, spreadsheets and other limited systems is just one such change that will span across an entire company. In short, enterprise resource planning systems can breathe new life into an organization.
However, selecting an ERP system isn't as simple as picking up a software box off the shelf or performing a do-it-yourself installation. While these solutions have intuitive user interfaces and are made with functionality in mind, the vast array of different potential configurations and components can easily overwhelm those who aren't particularly experienced. Businesses need to work with a trusted and experienced ERP partner to realize the largest possible gains in efficiency and production from their ERP software.
So what exactly should you be looking for in a partner during the very beginning stages of an ERP implementation project, at the point where you've realized you need a major upgrade or an entirely new system? Here are a few pieces of advice to help guide you:
The majority of businesses that specialize in helping others implement new ERP systems are legitimate companies doing their best to aid their clients. However, these good intentions won't trump a lack of experience with a particular industry or business structure. The best partner will be able to point to specific implementations performed in the past that tie into the current project. While you can't - and shouldn't - expect complete familiarity during day one of initial discussions, there should be some examples brought up and specific knowledge brought to the table to raise confidence and demonstrate expertise.
It's up to those involved in selecting a partner and a new system to ask about experience early on and understand the amount of previous work performed in similar situations. Don't hold potential partners to an irrationally high standard, but don't be afraid to ask for examples and evidence of familiarity and expertise as it specifically relates to your business. Ask about past experiences in related industries and with businesses that have similar structures.
Many software partners that help their client implement ERP software will have more than one system available as part of their overall offerings. ERP partners that have options to choose from and can demonstrate proficiency in implementing each one are especially valuable, because they aren't particularly bound to a specific, single program. A partner that offers a range will be better able to recommend a system that best fits the needs of a business, instead of only bringing a single type of ERP software to the table. More options means the potential for increased efficiency in the base functionality of a platform, along with a wider range of choices among modules and add-ons that are offered for each.
Flexibility is ultimately a major consideration for companies looking to implement a new ERP system. Finding a partner that has a range of experience and a good selection of different software types provides a strong base from which a successful installation is more likely to grow.
If you are looking for a partner to help your ERP evalulation and ERP implemention Microsoft Dynamics NAV, The TM Group of Michigan has years of experience working with organizations in many industries such as manufacturing and distribution.
Microsoft Dynamics NAV is available as a cloud or an on-premise solution, please feel free to contact The TM Group today at 888.482.2864 or visit our website at www.tmgroupinc.com. We would be happy to discuss all your options in more detail. We look forward to hearing from you and designing the perfect solution for your company.
Other ERP Implementation Related Articles by The TM Group:
How to Get Employees Onboard with a New ERP System
ERP Implementation: Managing Expectations with Your New ERP System
Your ERP Implementation Team: 4 Tips for Success
How to hit the ground running, ERP implementation tips