As we see a shift in the technology market, the demand for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is growing year on year. The question is no longer whether to invest in an ERP system, but when to...

When selecting an ERP solution, it's important to take into account various factors such as the size, requirements, and processes of your organisation. Each business is unique, so there is no universal solution that fits all, regardless of the enticing sales pitches you may come across.

When it comes to your organisation, one thing is clear - implementing an ERP system is a substantial investment in terms of time, money, and dedication.

Ensuring its success and maximising return on investment (ROI) right from the start is paramount. Here are the key factors to consider when deciding on the best ERP fit for your business:

 

1. Understand your business processes
Understanding your organisation and processes is essential to maximise the benefits of an ERP system. Taking a comprehensive approach that encompasses all aspects of your business is key.

Our team have refined methodologies to assist clients in mapping their internal and external processes, to gain a comprehensive view of their business landscape.

 

2. Focus on the value

It is crucial to clearly identify the primary challenges that you aim to solve with an ERP system and focus on the value it will bring to your business when starting your ERP journey. Understanding your business challenges will help define your organisation's specific requirements from an ERP system.

 

3. Understand the deployment types

Cost ownership, system upgrades, performance, and accessibility are just a few of the key areas where cloud-based ERP, on-premise ERP and hybrid ERP systems differ. To understand how each deployment type differs, click here.

 

4. Know whether to adopt or adapt

Does the system offer out-of-the-box functionality tailored to your industry, yet customisable to meet your unique needs? By leveraging this ready-made functionality, you can reduce the need for costly custom development and configuration.

In some cases, there is a need to adopt a new ERP system. Like when the existing system is too far gone or not fit-for-purpose. Whereas, if you choose to adapt rather than adopt, no specialised coding is required which enables a quick deployment process.

So before you decide to splurge on a new ERP system, find out whether you need to, or whether you can simply adapt what you already own.

 

5. Ensure buy-in from your people

People are a crucial factor in every implementation project. Resistance to change is a common challenge, so getting your onboard with the decision to adopt or adapt an ERP system is paramount. 

Upper management support goes beyond just approving a budget to spend in a new system; having true advocates of the investment can be really influential to all staff.

 

Takeaway

Given the unique nature of every organisation, it is essential to carefully assess the key factors within your organisation that will influence your selection of an ERP system.