Your Journey as an ERP Software Buyer

Getting new software isn’t always easy. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software proves especially difficult, as it is an application that can take a long time to implement, has a learning curve, and is a significant change not only for the information technology (IT) staff but also for the rest of the workforce.

Therefore, it’s not uncommon for your employees to resist such a change.

That’s why planning and preparation for getting an ERP system is such an important part of the process. Everyone needs to be on board – not just the IT team or the mid-level managers, but the CEO, the stake-holders, and all the employees.

The CIO online magazine, which serves information technology leaders, offers nine tips for choosing and implementing ERP systems. Here is a sampling of their advice:

Get Upper Management Support

A lack of upper management support is a big reason for implementation failure. Without the support from above, task forces won’t be approved, time for training won’t be granted, and an adequate budget will be denied. The implementation of an ERP system changes the dynamic and the way the company runs things, so the higher-ups need to be prepared to accept some bumps along the way. This is especially crucial for the deployment stage, when the learning curve is extremely high.

In addition, when upper management shows interest in and support for a project, along with learning how to use it, other employees are more likely to embrace the change.

Know What You Want Before You Buy a System

To speed up the decision-making process of which brand of software to purchase, it’s not uncommon for businesses to rely totally on recommendations from business associates, advertisements, and catchy sales pitches – or to purchase the least expensive option there is. The article puts it well: “Too often, people select an ERP system based on factors such as price, current technology buzz or the system that is the flashiest.”

What decision-makers need to do instead is work through a list of very specific requirements before approaching vendors. Look for a system that is industry-specific with tools made for your business requirements but also with customizable modules. In addition, remember that your business will be growing in the future – can the software grow with you?

Don’t Forget Mobile Users

The idea of using only personal computers to access software is a legacy notion. So many mobile devices are in use today – laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc. – and it is important to factor that new reality in when choosing an enterprise resource planning system. Anyone with a mobile device should have access to the system’s information from wherever they are.

For the other six tips, you can read CIO’s article here.

If you’re looking for a specific solution to your business management needs, contact us at Mantralogix and discover how our team of professional Sage consultants can help move your company to its next level of success with an ERP system designed for your business.