YOUR GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING & CHOOSING AN ERP

While technological advancements are streamlining business workflows and day to day processes, you may find yourself asking “Can an ERP software really increase our business productivity?” and “If so, which ERP solution is going to be the right fit for my business?”

To truly appreciate the value of an ERP system, you need to understand not just what it does, but how to implement it and how to choose the right one for your business:

What is ERP?

According to Gartner, “Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is defined as the ability to deliver an integrated suite of business applications. ERP tools share a common process and data model, covering broad and deep operational end-to-end processes, such as those found in finance, HR, distribution, manufacturing, service and the supply chain.”

At its core, ERP applications automate and support a range of administrative and operational business processes across multiple industries, including line of business, customer-facing, administrative and the asset management aspects of an enterprise.

Who Uses ERP?

An ERP is suitable for businesses of all types and sizes because they are available with varying capabilities.

ERP systems streamline processes in all departments of a growing business. From marketing to sales to HR, the system’s functions improve work productivity in all of these departments, and, in turn, helps these departments work better together.

How to Choose Your ERP

Finding the right solution for your business can be complicated, there are so many different solutions outs there. But, before you begin your search, it’s important that you take the time to determine your primary needs and goals. Answer the following questions to help you get started:

• What functions are an absolute must?
• What additional functions would be a bonus?
• Are you looking for an on-premises or off-premises solution?
• What is your budget?
• Are there additional customizations that you will require?
• Are you looking for an industry specific solution?

After answering these questions you’ll be in a better position to start researching your ERP options. As you already know, ERPs typically include an assortment of functionalities, but consider these factors when comparing solutions:

• Most importantly, does the solution fit within the guidelines that you previously provided? i.e., functionality, on- or off-premises, budget, customizations, etc.
• Scalability and flexibility. An ERP system must be flexible enough to scale the needs as your business matures.
• Mobile-friendly. End-users should be able to tap into ERP dashboards to get what information they need, when they need it.
• Transparency is key. An ERP software vendor should be able to provide customer references that a company can reach out to — this will help provide an inside look into the implementation process.
• Ease of use. The system should function smoothly, addressing these needs easily. If a vendor is suggesting clunky workarounds to get a system to localize and contextualize, that’s a red flag.

Getting Started

ERPs are, without a doubt, a complex system. When you decide to purchase an ERP, it is essential to have a plan of attack for how you will choose the right solution. Here at ACC Software Solutions, we will walk you through every step of the way! Contact our support specialist to begin your ERP journey.