There are several factors to consider when evaluating Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Some of the most important ones include:
Industry experience
Each industry has specific requirements that they need from their ERP. Look for software that addresses the specific needs of your business and an implementation partner that is an expert in your industry – with best practices and a long history of working with other companies in your industry.
Cost
It's important to consider the total cost of ownership for an ERP system, including the initial purchase price, customization costs, deployment costs, and ongoing maintenance and support fees.
Customization options
The ability to customize an ERP system to meet the specific needs of your business is important. Look for a system that offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add new modules or integrations as needed.
Deployment options
ERP systems can be deployed on-premises, hosted in the cloud, or as a hybrid solution. Consider which deployment option is the best fit for your business, taking into account factors such as the size of your organization, your IT infrastructure, and your budget.
Vendor support
It's important to work with a vendor that provides comprehensive support and training to help you get the most out of your ERP system. Look for a vendor that offers a range of support options, including online resources, phone support, and on-site training.
Integration with other systems
An ERP system should be able to seamlessly integrate with other systems and applications that your business uses. Look for a system that offers a range of integrations and has a strong track record of successful integrations with other systems.
Scalability
Your ERP system should be able to grow and evolve with your business. Look for a system that is flexible and scalable, so you can add new users and functionality as needed.
Data security
An ERP system stores and processes a lot of sensitive business data, so it's important to ensure that it has robust security measures in place to protect that data. Look for a system that has strong data encryption, user authentication, and access controls.
The decision on which ERP and which partner to install and support you can be a long and lengthy process. However, the many benefits of an ERP with Industry specific experience outweigh the cost and time it takes replace a legacy system.