An ERP demo can be an important step in your evaluation of potential back office management tools and integrated business solution software. Many providers, consultants and resellers incorporate an easily-to-view ERP demo, or a sort of interactive video component, into their marketing strategy. The online ERP demo can be a vital informational tool for potential clients and can mean the difference between one multi-million dollar implementation and another.

ERP software

How an ERP Demo Can Help Focus Your Decision Making Process

If you manage technology for a growing business and are about to begin investigating integrated business solution options, make sure you view an ERP demo for as many products and product features as possible. If you find a way to incorporate an ERP demo viewing stage into your comparison process, you’ll be able to gain a hands-on sense of how your employees will interface with the system once it’s in place and how easily your employee training process will likely progress. To get the most out of each ERP demo, you may want to complete a few preliminary steps before you proceed with a more detailed comparison.

First, conduct some background research on the ERP marketplace in general. ERP products and solutions are changing rapidly, and many features and options that were once viewed as cutting edge are now considered standard. This applies to modules across a wide variety of back office management functions from inventory control and supply chain management to accounting and payroll. Get a general sense of the marketplace before you narrow your focus to specific options and providers.

Next, conduct a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation of your existing software system and back office management functions. Expose your current workflows and find out exactly how well your current software system handles these tasks. Gather reports from your employees to uncover your system’s strengths and weaknesses. When you begin viewing ERP demo presentations, you’ll be able to identify product features and directly relate them to your current procedures and methods.

After your evaluation is complete, use the information you’ve gathered to create a detailed needs assessment, or a checklist of features and products that your new system will require. Your needs assessment can function as a guide and can keep you on track as you consult with product representatives and view online ERP demo presentations. Each ERP demo will likely show you how a feature or product will play a vital role in your back office operations, and you’ll need to make sure this requirement appears on your assessment and can directly contribute to your ROI.

Finally, make sure you include as many decision makers as possible in the ERP demo viewing process. Some managers may observe features of the ERP demo that others might overlook, and you’ll want to make sure you have all necessary input before you make a commitment or invest in a system or service. Most providers now offer online ERP demo options on their company websites. Some more elaborate ERP demo presentations are available through company agents and representatives and may play a role in live meetings or scheduled promotional events. View as many as you can before making a final decision.

Written by :

Amy Cruz