Replacing your legacy systems with a modern enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution can be incredibly exciting.
Your new ERP software will support your business as it continues to evolve and grow. However, if you want to ensure that your technology platform delivers a strong return on investment, it’s imperative that you adopt the right solution for your business. That’s where the process can get somewhat challenging.
Because there are so many solutions out there, it can be difficult to identify which ERP software best aligns with the goals, needs, and objectives of your business. Fortunately, you can cut through the noise using these five steps:
Put Together a Team
Choosing an ERP software solution shouldn’t be a unilateral decision. The software you implement will impact your entire team, from line-level employees to department managers and everyone in between. With that in mind, you should build a team of decision-makers to assist you in your search for an ERP solution.
When building your team, we suggest selecting key stakeholders from various departments within your business.
For instance, your team should include a member of your human resources, accounting, and warehouse management departments. Each member will be able to view business challenges from a unique perspective, helping you find a suitable platform for your company.
Identify Your Needs
Next, you and your team should create a comprehensive list of your organization’s needs. From there, the team can identify must-have features like mobile accessibility and automation tools.
When you start evaluating prospective ERP software solutions, you can compare the capabilities of each option with your needs and must-have feature list. If an ERP doesn’t offer everything you’re looking for, you can eliminate it from contention and shift your focus elsewhere.
Get Your Staff on Board
Getting everyone on board with a new piece of software can be a tough sell. Some employees, especially those who are less tech-savvy, may be resistant to the idea of sunsetting a system they’re comfortable with and adopting an entirely new platform.
With that in mind, you must take a proactive approach by keeping your entire team in the loop from the moment you start your ERP search. Consider sending out a company-wide email that outlines why you’re considering replacing your legacy system and encourage feedback from your staff.
Once you choose a platform, make sure you provide your staff with adequate training and support so they feel confident using the new software.
Evaluate Prospective Providers
If you search the phrase “ERP software,” you’ll quickly be overwhelmed with a profusion of results. Sorting through so many options can be difficult and time-consuming, but you can expedite the process by keeping a few key factors in mind.
During your preliminary evaluation, consider attributes such as:
- Whether the software has industry-specific solutions for your business
- The cost of the platform and services
- The reporting capabilities of the ERP software
- What degree of customization the solution provides
Evaluating these core attributes will help you quickly condense your list into a few key prospects. From there, you can dive deeper into each potential solution and begin reaching out to providers. Consider scheduling a demo of your front-runners to see them in action.
Find an ERP Implementation Partner
Most ERP providers work with authorized vendors to assist with deployment and implementation. Such a firm will plan your deployment, oversee your migration to the new software, and ensure that your ERP solution is customized to meet the specific demands of your business.
Any reputable vendor will streamline your deployment timetable. However, the best partners offer pre-launch and post-deployment support to help you maximize your return on investment.
Start Your Implementation Journey Today
If you want to accelerate your ERP software implementation, Advanced Solutions and Consulting can help. Our experts specialize in deploying and customizing Acumatica ERP software, a leading solution ideal for growing businesses.
Acumatica ERP software offers a scaling pricing model based on your usage. This ensures that you only pay for the resources you need, which keeps your total software expenses in check.
Additionally, the platform can be configured to meet your organization’s unique needs so you can get more done and set the stage for the continued growth of your business.
Schedule your consultation with Advanced Solutions and Consulting today to begin your implementation journey. You can also watch our Acumatica demo right now.
Additional ERP Resources
Upgrade or Replace Legacy ERP? Factors to Consider
ROI Analysis for an ERP Replacement or Upgrade
Getting the Most Out of ERP: Accessibility, Ease of Use, and Optimization