#1 Authority for ERP software & Business Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning or ERP software applications are becoming a critical asset for organization of all sizes, particularly for manufacturing companies and job shops. Manufacturing operations are increasing in complexity in this global economy as customers have changing business requirements to adjust to the demands of the marketplace. The bottom line is manufacturers need to be more flexible and efficient than ever before and ERP applications are providing the tools to make this happen.
Many manufacturers have built on legacy ERP systems and are currently managing a hodgepodge of enterprise applications to integrate various business processes such as inventory, invoicing, accounting, sales and customer service. Manufacturers were able to get by managing multiple systems, but in today’s tough competitive environment every ounce of resources must be optimized and that mean business processes must be managed under one unified ERP software system. Companies looking for a new enterprise application to run their manufacturing operation should look for ERP solutions that ensure accurate cost estimates to customers, project management capabilities that maximize efficiency, help deliver products on time, and provide the best customer service possible.
A key component of finding a winning ERP solution and one that delivers the highest ROI to your organization is the ERP vendor providing and servicing your enterprise system. The features and functionality as previously described are critical, but if your ERP system needs to be deployed, utilized and serviced in order for the benefits can be realized- this is where your ERP vendor comes in.
When looking for an ERP vendor, you are in essence looking for a business partner that will enable you to compete in your industry. Industry experience and longevity is an important factor in a vendor as you want to partner with someone that has experience in what they are doing, and in your industry. Having a track record will also give you some assurance that they will be around in five years to service your business and provide technology investments and upgrades that will keep you current with the demands of the market.
Some other key traits your new ERP vendor should deliver are a culture receptive to flexibility and scalability. Even within the same industry, no two businesses are exactly the same and your system needs to fit your operations like a hand in glove, and that includes a foundation that can accommodate your growth plans as well.
Finally, customer service and training by your ERP vendor partner will ensure that your system will be utilized to its fullest potential. Statistics show that over 40 percent of ERP software system benefits are not used by employees due to lack of training and support by the ERP vendor. So the resources provided in these areas will not only increase your ability to produce better products with better service, it will improve the ROI on your ERP investment dramatically.
