ERP software consulting has become a dedicated field, in, and of, it self. Subject matter experts in configuration, use and support of ERP (enterprise resource planning) software are in great demand. Levels of expertise vary as do hourly rates, services offered and the availability of various software specific consultants.

ERP Software Consulting

The Burgeoning Industry of ERP Software Consulting

ERP software consulting is driven by the laws of supply and demand and highly sensitive to the constraints of specificity. For ERP software that has a large market share, numerous consultants are available. That group contains industry or product specific consultants out of which another subset of even more specialized consultants spring forth, and so on. With each step down into specialties, the consultants become fewer and prices higher.

ERP software consultants are called upon from the very beginning. ERP software consultants who specialize in choosing ERP software are often brought in as project managers to guide the selection process. Often contracted to lead the team, ERP software consultants help with the formation of the team. Identification ERP software needs of a company is critical. This process can be quite formulaic and project management ERP software consultants bring expertise and objectivity to the table.

After the needs are identified, special ERP software consultants, work to match functionality needs with ERP system and provide recommendations with regard to which software packages are the best fit and assist the buyer in the RFQ (request for quotation) and bidding processes. The consultant is also there to assist in evaluating the proposal and provide feedback.

Once the ERP package is chosen, consultants are often brought in as a part of the implementation process. ERP software that provides end-to-end functionality also requires end-to-end subject matter experts (SME). Specialized consultants work to prepare existing data for transfer to the new system and configure the new system to meet the needs of the client company.

Some ERP software consultants specialize in SAP for all payroll and human resources related matters. Others are SMEs for production and materials management while others have a focus on things financial, intellectual property or compliance related. Interface writers, configuration specialists and programmers can be found amid the consultant fold.

Business analysis experts often work very closely with highly skilled consultants at cleaning up business practices and altering to fit the new functionality that ERP software brings to an organization. If business analysts are a part of the company staff, training consultants will bring analysts up to speed to become the power users within their particular area of expertise. Preparing business analyst staff to be company trainers for the rank and file post implementation is a commonly used strategy.

ERP software consultants have become commonplace in the implementation and future support of ERP software in every kind of industry. They represent a good percentage of IT budgets throughout all phases of ERP software adoption and conversion. Often support after implementation is delegated to ERP software consultants in order to save the additional costs of bringing on full time permanent employees, providing benefits and so on. Consultants are a good fit for the lean initiatives that currently rule the business world.

Written by :

Don Cooper