With many different Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions on the market, it’s important to make sure that the business software you select can accommodate the size of your organization and support your overall business goals.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the ERP selection process, and how to take the next steps in driving your business forward.
1. Understand Why You Need an ERP System
Do you need an ERP System? If you want to grow and stay competitive, the answer is YES. Running your business from multiple systems increases complications. Using only spreadsheets and an accounting package does not provide the functionality needed for growth.
Do you need a new ERP System? If you experience frustrated sales representatives and employees, no mobility, security issues, and/or upgrade constraints because of your ERP system, the answer is YES.
2. Build an ERP Selection Team
Start by selecting at least one team member from every department, business unit, and/or location. By building a selection team for your new ERP system, your business will have a 360-degree view of every aspect of your business and how it will be integrated with the new ERP system. Make sure to select one team member as the designated project manager to keep the process moving forward.
3. Determine Your Business Requirements
To determine your business requirements, focus on the “what” instead of the “how.” Business process mapping is a good idea to gather information on your operations. When determining which requirements are needed, ensure your selection team understands the mandatory needs of your business, versus the wants.
4. Research Different ERP Systems
It can be a good idea to start with a long, comprehensive list of all ERP system providers. Be sure to include cloud-based ERP systems, as they are future-proof, and can save you a headache down the road. Then, determine your selection criteria, such as price, values, industry focus, etc. Using the selection criteria, narrow down your list to a shortlist of providers that include all met criteria. Select 2-3 companies to start conversations with.
5. Schedule No-Commitment Demonstrations
After you have researched your top ERP solution companies, you may have access to view recorded webinars that will show you the basic ins and outs of the software. Ensure that the demonstrations don’t stop here, and request live demonstrations that are specific to your company’s wants and needs. Your business is unique, and so should the demonstration.
6. Calculate the ROI for your Business
A new ERP system can help reduce operating costs by increasing productivity, automating manual processes, and providing standard features that typically have to be purchased separately. The ROI of a new ERP includes both the savings acquired as well as the increased earning potential that a new ERP system can provide the organization.
Acumatica’s ERP ROI calculator can assist your organization in estimating this amount.
7. Talk to a Local Expert
Chances are, your current infrastructure has pain points and needs to change to support your business’s goals. By talking to a local expert, you are welcoming the opportunity for a consultant to come onsite and observe or address those pain points in person. Local experts are ready to discuss your specific business needs and how a new ERP solution can help remove roadblocks and grow your business.
HOOPS, Inc. is proud to be an Acumatica Cloud ERP partner for small and mid-sized organizations across Wisconsin and Minnesota. We encourage you to read more about what Acumatica is, the benefits of a cloud-based ERP, and the ROI of switching from a legacy ERP system.
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