Guide to Finding the Right Enterprise Resource Planning System

The ideal Enterprise Resource Planning System is going to include modules that cover the data warehouse, customer relationships management, supply chain management, projects, human resources, financials and manufacturer. With that being said, the ideal ERP system for your company may not need all of these components, or you may need a different set of components. To help you figure out what type of system you need, follow the tips below

Tip One: Have an ERP Selection Project Manager

Having a project manager handle the process will make it a more cohesive process for all involved. A project manager can coordinate all of the internal assessments, as well as the vendor evaluations. The selection PM will also be the liaison between the company and the vendors.

The project manager will also be responsible for creating a selection team that will represent each section of the company, ie HR, manufacturing, customer service. If by chance you prefer to hire a consulting firm then the selection project manager will be responsible for coordinating interviews, setting up meetings with managers and key users, overseeing the firm's work and making sure that each department's needs are being taken care of.

Tip Two: Look at the Needs of the Company

If your company currently has a system that you are looking to replace spend some time looking at the system and compiling a list of what you want the new system to cover. These can include items that your current system does not address, or items that are addressed but not adequately.

Tip Three: Create a customized Request for Proposal

This is a request that you or your selection team can fill out and submit to any company that uses an online consultant to help with ERP selection. This will allow your company to send out a request that entails all of the functions you are looking for and it go to multiple vendors, instead of having to address each vendor individually.

Tip Four: Send out your Request for Proposal

Tip Five: Evaluate

This is when you or your selection project manager will go over the responses from the vendors. It is best if you run a number of analytical reports that will give you more concise view of what the vendors have to offer.

Tip Six: Request and Set Up Vendor Demos

You want to be able to see what each vendor has to offer. Talk is cheap, get the vendors in and have them show their software. Make a list of questions and make sure you get answers that satisfy your requirements.

Tip Seven: Visit Other Companies

The vendors should be able to provide you with names of other companies that use their software. Plan a visit to companies that you are not a competitor to. See how it is working for them. Ask if they have had any issues and how well those issues were handled.
If you take the time and follow these tips you will find the Enterprise Resource System that fits your company ideally.
 

 

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