Selecting an ERP can have challenges in finding the platform that is right for them. Many growing organizations have concerns with switching costs from downtime to missing data. These concerns are significant, yet, choosing the right software and implementation partner should alleviate these common concerns. Before starting an ERP implementation, a clear assessment is essential. Consider these 5 elements of a solid ERP assessment.
ERP Scalability
Continued growth is essential and having the right software to help sustain and foster your expansion is equally important. It is critical for choosing an ERP that can not only take care of your requirements for today but also can scale as you continue to grow. Time spent on assessing ERP systems will be beneficial when you can identify potential limitations and agility in introducing new features, integrations, or customizations. Insuring the growth of your company shouldn't be hindered by the systems you put in place.
Cloud-Based ERP
Connected systems are more valuable than ever. ERP systems can provide essential data from store information, customer stats, operating systems, and financial reports from anywhere and at any time. The benefit provides your entire organization with access to data based on roles no matter where they are at, at any given time. Access like this provides you with an agile and informed organization, no matter the size.
Usability and Contextualization
An ERP should be easy enough for your team to utilize based on their roles within your organization. The right ERP should provide functionality to departments such as accounting to ease job responsibilities and repetitive functions such as quarterly ends. Or dashboards created to leverage real-time data for executives to make significant and timely business decisions. Also, the need for training and support should be a part of your assessment. The right ERP should fit within your team and be accessible based on the needs of each person within every department.
Future Costs
ERP software can be expensive to implement at the start but shouldn't be a deterrent for your business future. In many cases, the real benefit to organizations can be in realized profits from a reduction in operating expenses, increases in productivity, and improvements in operation. In some cases, business realize savings through a unification of disparate software systems. Executives fears of business downtime are alleviated through a clear roadmap and clear objectives. If you plan to work with an ERP consultancy, then an organization can often provide you with an idea of what benefits you can realize by implementing an ERP.
Functionality & Upgrades
Understanding your needs can help you understand what an ERP can provide. Customization is important as not all companies are alike. A flexible platform can allow you to add as your needs change. Limitations or the lack of functionality can often hinder your organization for future growth. One of these issues can be upgrades that some antiquated ERP systems might prohibit future growth or create additional expenses. Assessing this before implementation can help prevent future issues.
Conclusion
Businesses considering an ERP software should take into account these five factors. An accessible software that meets your business financial goals while supporting your team is essential. Getting the right ERP for your organization is worth the time and effort and can have significant business implications. By assessing your needs, ahead of time, an ERP implementation is easier and more successful. If you need help in assessing software then contact us to get an ERP assessment for your business..
