If you operate a large company, investing in enterprise resource management (ERP) software can really pay off. With the right ERP, you can automate key business processes and gain valuable insight into your business as a whole. Selecting your ERP is not something to take lightly. Here are 10 selection criteria to help you choose.
1. Is Your ERP Software Scalable?
Your company size will help you determine the exact ERP system you need. Obviously, a Fortune 500 company has different needs from a local business. But if your company is projected to grow, it’s wise to choose a scalable ERP product that will grow with you. Otherwise, you may find yourself needing to upgrade soon.
2. Do You Need To Access It Remotely?
This software comes in three main deployment options. An on-premise ERP system can only be accessed locally on your company servers. A cloud ERP system can be accessed from anywhere via the internet. You can also choose a hybrid option that incorporates elements of both.
3. Is It Easy Enough For Employees To Use?
When choosing your ERP product, be sure to consider who will be using it. If your employees don’t need to be particularly tech-savvy, be sure to choose one with an intuitive user interface. After all, your employees need to be able to use an ERP product for it to work optimally!
4. Can It Automate The Processes You Want To Automate?
If you’re considering an ERP system, you probably already know where it needs to be implemented. Before making your choice, be sure a given ERP product has the technological capabilities to do what you need it to. This is especially important if you have unique business practices. Some ERP systems are customizable. Others are not.
5. Does It Come From A Reputable Vendor?
You want to make sure any ERP software you’re considering will work for your business. But it’s critically important to investigate the vendor. Ideally, the vendor will have a good reputation and a proven track record. The company should also be in good financial health. Having an ERP system often means establishing a long-term relationship with the vendor, so you’ll want to make sure the company is credible.
6. Will Your Purchase Include Updates?
Before choosing an ERP system, it’s a good idea to check with the vendor to see if they plan to improve the product and offer updates. Be sure to ask whether your purchase will include future updates, too. If it doesn’t, you may soon find yourself stuck with an obsolete ERP system.
7. Does It Offer A Good ROI?
Determining the cost of a potential ERP solution can be tricky. The initial purchase price is a consideration, but so is the cost to implement and use it. Ensure you get a good sense of the total cost of operation (TCO) and not just the purchase price! The right ERP system for you will have a return on investment (ROI) that is significantly higher than the TCO.
8. Does The Vendor Offer Support Or Training?
An ERP system is excellent for your business until it runs into a technical issue. Some ERP vendors will offer tech support and even training for users. Think about whether or not your company will need support and training and choose your ERP product accordingly.
9. Has The Program Been Successful In Your Industry?
Not every industry requires a specialized ERP platform. But if yours does, do your research to see if a potential ERP system has been successfully implemented in your industry. If you can, it’s also wise to choose a vendor with expertise in your industry, as they will be more attuned to your business’s needs.
10. Will You Be Able To Transfer Smoothly?
Before you choose your ERP product, make sure you have a plan to transfer your company’s existing data to the new program. Keep in mind that some vendors may be able to assist with this critical process, too.
Choosing and implementing ERP software can be costly in terms of money and time. But the right software effectively helps you run your business more efficiently. When you choose the right one, you’ll be glad you did!
Author’s Bio
Jenny Fries is a freelance writer who offers SEO Content writing and blogging services. She works closely in health, business, and technology niches. Apart from writing, she loves traveling and writing journey itineraries.
