Investing in an ERP solution is an expensive proposition. Therefore, it becomes mandatory for the organization to maximize their return on ERP investment. And, for this, they must choose and implement an ERP system that will help you run your business smoother and with increased profits.
Here’s a few tips that will help you select and deploy the best ERP software successfully.
Take a go-ahead from senior management:
ERP solutions require a lot of money not only in terms of licensing and deployment, but also the dedicated resources and time. This means any company that needs it should have a consent of upper management. It’s not like installing a google spreadsheet and you will be good to go without getting the top management’s support.
You simply cannot afford and manage, even if you are authorized personnel, to have an industry-specific ERP solution. You need senior level involvement. Well, it’s not necessary for your seniors to understand every single configuration, but they must be aware of the issues related to enterprise resource planning projects. The best is to engage all stakeholders of all levels – upper management, IT and end users.
Make a comprehensive list of requirements:
Before you start looking for an ERP vendor, you must have a clear understanding of the project scope. Create an extensive list of scalable modules and features you need in an ERP software. Clearly define the system requirements based on your specific business processes if you want your shortlisted vendors to be more detailed oriented while submitting the proposal.
Often manufacturers choose ERP software considering technology and price only. It’s not a good move because it could derail your budget, and leave you with costly customization. Always choose an industry-specific system featuring modules to solve your business requirements and that comes with long-term benefits.
Evaluate the available options watchfully:
Don’t finalize an ERP system unless you execute a well-defined evaluation process. For the reason that a poorly run evaluation project could lead to poor implementation. Assumptive or uncertain requirements and vague evaluation can result in a wrong vendor selection. Moreover, you must get the input from the key stakeholders to avoid the poor acceptance of the ERP solution and thereby, user adoption.
Also, during the evaluation stage, don’t overlook the importance of reporting and metrics; otherwise, you have to spend extra to get custom metrics to drive your business, resourcing, hiring and customer relationships, etc. Never sign a multi-year contract or purchase agreement with a vendor unless the provided system contains all these features. Plus, don’t forget about deployment, integration and training support. MIE Trak Pro ERP is dedicated to the manufacturing industry with all essential modules required therein. It also works great for other businesses like sheet metal fabrication, machine shops, high tech and electronics, to name a few.
Don’t forget to consider mobile users:
If you really want to improve your business and production processes, don’t overlook the importance of mobility. Yes, accessing and using an ERP software for desktops alone is no more an option. You must select an ERP solution that allows all users to access it through their smartphones and tablets. Allow the end users to be as productive as possible, even if they are not in the office – traveling or visiting the site.
All features should be tailored specifically for the mobile users provided your sensitive business information is secure. And, to ensure that you can ask your preferred vendor to provide you at least two or three references and inquire them about the system they have implemented and using both on desktop and mobile devices. If a vendor fails to fulfill this requirement, or you don’t get satisfactory answers from his recommended customers, then this ERP solution is not for you.
Last but not least is to consider the scope of customization you need to configure and deploy the selected ERP software for managing and monitoring your business operations. Moreover, make sure that your ERP vendor provides the necessary resources and time for implementing the system and giving training to your staff.
Bottom Line:
Select and implement an ERP software for manufacturing once the above-mentioned tips-sheet is justified.
Angelique Chrisafis is the Guardian’s Paris correspondent. She is responsible for churning out quality articles based on her research while keeping an eye on the tech world. She likes technology, gadgets, and food. Works as an individual contributor to the team.
