Selecting the right ERP is critical – but it’s 50% (or less) of the project’s success. The other 50% (or more) is having the right team. That’s just one reason many businesses find enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems daunting.
Luckily, you can hire a consultant. With careers built around deploying and maintaining ERP software for clients, you can expect an ERP consultant to guide the implementation and increase the likelihood of success.
Make Sure Your Consultant Is Certified
While it’s impossible to have “seen it all,” your consultant should have a proven history of successful implementations. Experienced consultants have managed many similar projects and are experts at identifying your business’s needs, customizing solutions, project management, training, avoiding things that will derail your project, and ongoing support.
By the way, if your ERP publisher doesn't have a certification program – that’s a red flag. Companies like SAP certainly do!
Make Sure Your People Understand the System
Part of successfully implementing an ERP system is correctly diagnosing your business’s needs. One need every business must address is making sure your employees understand the system. If they don’t, you won’t succeed – no matter how good your consultant is.
Make Sure Consultants Bring the Right Stuff
Although your input is invaluable, your ERP consultant should provide:
- A project plan. You need a well-documented timeline outlining project tasks and milestones. This leads to the definition of responsibilities (yours and theirs), managing conversions, testing, what happens after you go live, and more.
- A product road map. This outlines planned enhancements, new functions, and investments the publisher is making and your maintenance dollars are funding. (And if your ERP publisher doesn't have a product roadmap – that’s a red flag.)
- Knowledge of third-party solutions. Third-party solutions are the case (not the exception) for small and midsized enterprises' ERP deployments. With good integration, solid APIs, and certifications, you can get needed functionality at low risk. (And if your ERP publisher doesn't have a certification program for third-party solutions – that’s a red flag too.)
- Training materials. The consultant must teach your employees how (“to fish”) to use the ERP most effectively.
Make Sure They’ll Help You Make It Happen
As mentioned, your employees can make or break an ERP project. Good ERP consultants have a plethora of resources that will help your employees excel at using the system.
Hiring the right ERP consultant will help you get the best ROI on your new system and make your job easier for years to come.
As you consider consultants, remember the Acuity team is here to support your ERP implementation, specifically of SAP Business One. Our satisfied customers are happy to serve as references, and we have many years of experience and proven results. Contact us to discuss your project today!
