As more businesses plan and prepare for enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation, they need to ensure that they have made an detailed ERP assessment before deploying the software system. This is especially true for small businesses. ERP can be a powerful addition to any business, but it is important to know why you need it and how you plan to use it. When you know what you want and how you want to effect change, you will have a much better response from the enterprise software vendor. The vendor will see that you have done your homework and have a good idea of what you want the software system to do for you. In turn, the vendor can make suggestions to you based on the information provided. This works well for both the vendor and the business client, because they can better work together to find the most appropriate enterprise platform.

ERP Software

Making an ERP Assessment  

The business needs to prepare a checklist of objectives and questions to share with the vendor before settling upon any software set-up. This can take place before the client has seen a demo because the information provided can help in determining the type of demo that will be shown. You’ll want to know upfront, if the ERP system will be totally compatible with the software and printers you are currently using. You’ll want to discuss the software you are using now and how you feel it is holding you back, in terms of processing business tasks. Do you want ERP applied throughout the enterprise or, do you wish to have it applied only in certain areas, such as accounting or supply chain management?

Based on what you are currently working with, ask the erp vendor about the changes that can be expected when the enterprise software is implemented and how it will make a difference in comparison to what you are experiencing now. Let’s assume that this is a Web-based ERP application, one in which the business can be up and running much faster than with an on-site installation. Still, you will want to inquire about any necessary training required and how long it will take. What type of results can you be expected to receive once the software system is implemented, as opposed to what you had previously been experiencing? Be sure to ask the vendor about the relationship of the operating system you have been utilizing, to that of the new enterprise software. For example, will you need to discard anything from the old system, or can it be merged into the new one, when it is installed? Be sure to make this part of your ERP assessment.

Some enterprise software vendors will let you demo the software for a period of time before deciding if you want to implement it. This provides a good opportunity for you to see how efficient the ERP system is and how it feels to work with the software. Don’t forget to inquire about that. If necessary, you can hire an independent ERP consultant, but don’t let him influence your choice of vendor by steering you in any one direction.

It’s always wise to do your homework in advance, so be sure to do an ERP assessment.

Written by :

kristine H