CHOOSING AN ERP IMPLEMENTATION PARTNER

Posted by Fatima on December 3rd, 2020

When you’re ready to deploy a new ERP, selecting the right software is only one part of it. The success of your ERP implementation depends on finding the right ERP partner. ERP deployment is a complex undertaking. You need a trusted partner who can execute your requirements while offering guidance and leadership throughout the process. The ideal ERP partner will work with you from deployment plan to support.

So how do you know if a partner is right for you or not? The high-level criteria outlined below will help you evaluate vendors and ensure the success of your deployment.

(Download research paper : “Top 5 Reasons ERP Implementations Fail and what you can do about it!)

Technical Expertise. Knowledge of the software is more important to your success. ERP functionality needs integration with multiple operational systems. Your partner must understand not only your chosen ERP but also your line-of-business systems. Look for a partner that substantiates their expertise with certifications, awards, and other recognition. Toady all major ERP companies certify and rank their partners. Is your partner recognized by the software vendor as a Certified Partner for ERP? Do individual consultants have their certifications and credentials? Does the partner work closely with the software vendor to stay updated on technology? Do they have access to the development team to resolve technical challenges? Do they have good relationships with your other vendors to resolve the integration issues? Insist that your partner demonstrates their technical expertise to avoid challenging technical pitfalls that can compromise your deployment.

Choosing an ERP Implementation partner. Industry Expertise. Many of your processes and business requirements are specific to your industry. Your ERP must have these processes and need  third-party add-on’s or bundles developed specifically for your industry. Look for a partner who has knowledge and experience in your particular vertical. Do they speak the same industry language as your employees? Do they understand industry best practices? Are they familiar with industry regulations and compliance requirements?  Don’t settle for an ERP generalist. Look for a partner with a track record of successful deployments with other companies in your market.

Understanding your unique processes and operating culture that define your business define your brand and your competitive advantage. You don’t want to be treated like every other organization, and you don’t want to be forced to adapt your processes and best practices to the software or vendor’s methodology. Your ERP partner should respect your business model not force you to change. How well do they grasp the workloads and operational considerations that make your company unique? Can they demonstrate the software using your data and processes? Do they listen and truly understand your business? Finding a vendor that respects the qualities that have made your company successful is crucial to implementing a system that will support continued success.

A good fit. An ERP deployment can last months, requiring hundreds of decisions and many late nights. To be successful, you must be able to work closely with your implementation partner throughout the deployment and beyond. You need to be at ease with the people and the organization. The partner must earn your trust during the proposal process. You must be comfortable with their communication, their project management methodology, and their team structure. Do they demonstrate the professionalism and customer-service mentality your organization demands? Can they provide references from other satisfied customers? Are you confident they’ll provide consistent, reliable service over the life of your system?

Pay special attention to the potential partner’s operating procedures for communication. A good partner will have established mechanisms for frequent communication between their implementation team and your internal team, as well as their project managers and your decision-makers for the project. If the need arises, they should also be able to facilitate communication between the two parties’ top management.

Remember, the selection of partner can make the difference in success and failure of your ERP software implementation or upgrade.