Navigating the ERP Selection Process
Your roadmap to the right ERP, ask the right questions, avoid the traps, and choose with confidence.
Navigating the ERP Selection Process
Selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is one of the most important technology decisions your organisation will make. Unlike choosing off-the-shelf software, ERP selection involves complex considerations from aligning with business processes to supporting growth, compliance, and long-term scalability. It’s not just about features; it’s about finding a solution and a partner that truly fits your organisation.
The process can be challenging, especially with so many vendors competing for attention and making bold promises. It’s easy to get caught up in sales hype or miss critical questions that uncover how well a system will work for your specific needs. That’s why being prepared with the right insights and approach makes all the difference.
Our ERP Selection Guide was created to give you exactly that. Inside, you’ll find a practical checklist of questions to ask software vendors, guidance on what to look out for, and strategies to avoid common pitfalls. Use it to cut through the noise, approach ERP demonstrations with clarity, and make an informed decision that sets your business up for long-term success.
Top Tips for Choosing the Right ERP System and Implementation Partner
1. Prioritise the Human Element:
Embarking on the quest to find the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a challenging process. Unlike comparing features of a car, the complexity of selecting an ERP system demands more profound insights. If you’re eager to unveil the truth and avoid misleading sales pitches, we’ve prepared this guide to help you make the right decision.
This structure enables accurate, real-time visibility into how funds are being used, ensures compliance with donor and grant requirements, and supports better decision-making at every level of the organisation. Whether you’re managing multiple programs or reporting across several funding sources, Sage Intacct delivers the transparency, efficiency, and accountability NFPs need to operate with confidence.
2. Get Tailored Demonstrations:
Before getting a demo, ensure the vendor thoroughly understands your business requirements. Generic demonstrations won’t suffice; you need to see how the ERP solution works specifically for your organisation.
3. Avoid Overpromising
Beware of overly enthusiastic salespeople making grand promises. Request recordings of all the meetings and demonstrations that you attend with each vendor to ensure clarity on the functionality being offered. Insist on understanding exactly how the system works for your business needs, and don’t assume all ERP systems perform functions alike.
4. Verify Information:
Don’t fall victim to misinformation and exaggerations when researching ERP solutions online. Be a discerning detective and cross-check claims made by vendors, especially if they are about competitors. Ask specific questions to gain deeper insights into the functionality and capabilities of the ERP systems you’re considering.
5. Seek Uniqueness
Ask potential vendors what sets them apart and what their system excels at. If a vendor claims to be the best at everything, be cautious of misleading claims.
6. Ensure it’s a True Cloud ERP Solution
If you’re considering a cloud-based ERP, ascertain whether it is genuinely a cloud solution or merely an on-premises system hosted in the cloud. Understand the upgrade process, any implications on customization, and potential upgrade costs.
7. Check Scalability and Licensing
Select an ERP system that can scale alongside your business without unexpected cost increases. Be cautious of temporary discounts that might not be advantageous in the long term.
8. Avoid Unrealistic Implementation Deals
If a vendor offers an implementation deal that sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Ensure you have a detailed implementation plan aligning with your needs and ensure you understand the full cost and timeline.
9. Know the Implementation Strategy
Discuss the vendor’s transition plan for migrating your business to the new system. Ensure the plan addresses any potential issues and be sure to assess the vendor’s resolution strategies. Be aware of the most common implementation challenges and ensure you are prepared for them. Refer to our guide ‘Maximising the success of your ERP Implementation‘ to learn more.
10. Choose the Right Implementation Partner:
Your implementation partner is crucial for success. Conduct thorough research on their reputation and customer support. Read reviews, testimonials, and case studies to gauge their commitment to customer success. A reliable partner will offer ongoing support and be responsive to your needs throughout the implementation and beyond. Look for the following qualities:
- Expertise and Experience: They should have a significant proven track record with successful deployments of the specific ERP system you’re considering.
- Industry Knowledge: They must understand your industry and its unique requirements.
- Technical Proficiency: Ensure they have the right skill sets to configure, integrate, and customize your ERP system effectively.
- Change Management and Training: Ask about their strategies to guide your organization through the transition and empower your staff through training programs.
- Support and Maintenance: Ensure they provide ongoing support and prompt issue resolution post-implementation.
Remember, the implementation partner is just as critical as the ERP system itself, supporting you as you harness the benefits of your new solution. Your goal is to find a solution tailored to your business needs, fostering growth and success.
ERP Selection Checklist Guide
To assist you on your ERP journey, we’ve prepared a comprehensive checklist. It not only aids discussions with us but also guides your conversations with other software vendors. So, take it for a spin and make your ERP selection an impactful and informed decision!
Review our ‘ERP Selection Checklist Guide’.
Take the Next Step in Your ERP Journey
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your ERP needs and find the right solution for your business.