Why Use a Value Added Reseller? The Benefits to Your Enterprise Resource Planning Project.
Implementing a new ERP system can be a complex and challenging process. It requires careful planning, coordination, and expertise to ensure a smooth transition and successful deployment. This is where a Value Added Reseller (VAR) comes into play.
A VAR is an independent partner who specializes in a specific ERP product. VARs are experienced at integrating, implementing, and supporting ERP solutions for business. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why partnering with a VAR is so beneficial to your project and your organization.
An outside consultant (think local garage mechanic) may offer some benefit to your organization. But a VAR (think full-service auto dealer) has a deeper connection to your ERP solution. A quality VAR participates in annual ERP conferences, maintains formal certifications, has privileged access to technical resources at the ERP publisher, connects with other VARs and certified Software Solution Providers (SSPs). VARs invest in keeping up with product roadmaps, releases and new developments which are on-going and constant.
Most VARs are multi-person organizations. Many software companies (like SAP) understand the importance of VARs so well, that their products (SAP Business One) can only be purchased exclusively through VARs.
Outside Perspective and Expertise
One of the key advantages of using a VAR is their outside perspective applied to your organization. While your in-house folks likely have a deep understanding of your company's operations, a VAR brings fresh insights and experiences from working with multiple organizations. VARs will provide recommendations and best practices based on their experience and success with other deployments.
By leveraging their expertise, a VAR can help you identify potential pitfalls, streamline processes, and optimize the implementation of the new ERP. Their outside perspective can often uncover opportunities for improvement that have been overlooked internally. Best of all, the quality VAR will “teach you to fish” so when they leave your business operates on a new ERP and reaps the benefits.
Extensive Experience with System Changes
Companies typically undergo system changes every 10 or 15 years, depending on the industry and technological advancements. However, VARs work with organizations undergoing system transformations on a regular basis. They have hands-on experience with change management and are familiar with the challenges and nuances that arise during an ERP project.
This experience allows VARs to anticipate and address potential roadblocks. They understand the implementation lifecycle, enabling them to guide you through each phase. By leveraging their expertise, you can minimize risks, accelerate the deployment timeline, and ensure a successful go-live.
Continuous Training and Certifications
Technology is constantly evolving, and it's crucial to work with a VAR that stays up-to-date with the latest advancements. Reputable VARs invest in continuous training and certifications for their team members to maintain their expertise and keep pace with industry changes. This commitment to ongoing education ensures you’ll benefit from the knowledge and skills required to implement and support a new ERP effectively.
When selecting a VAR, it's essential to inquire about their certifications and partnerships with technology companies. These are additional indicators that the VAR is well-versed in the specific ERP system and features you plan to implement, giving you confidence in their ability to deliver a successful deployment.
Conclusion
Partnering with a Value-Added Reseller brings numerous benefits. Their outside perspective, extensive experience with deployments, and commitment to ongoing training make them valuable allies in achieving a smooth and efficient transition. By leveraging the expertise of a VAR, you can minimize risks, optimize processes, and ensure a successful go-live.
Remember to thoroughly evaluate potential VARs, ensuring they have a proven track record, relevant certifications, and a comprehensive understanding of your industry. With the right VAR, you can navigate the complexities of system changes with confidence and achieve the desired outcomes for your organization.
Acuity Consulting Group is based in Providence Rhode Island. We help our clients implement business software solutions, specifically Enterprise Resource planning. We have been in business for 20 years and have deep connections to Rhode Island and southern New England.
Fun Fact to go with his blog: Ann & Hope was the first discount department store in the United States and was based in Rhode Island. Sam Walton visited Rhode Island to tour Ann & Hope in 1961. He got the idea for his own store later to become Wal-Mart the largest department store chain (in fact the largest corporation) in the world. Rhode Island is home today to CVS the world’s largest healthcare provider. Such a small state with such a big impact!
