INSIGHTS
ERP Evaluation & Selection
Making the Right Decision the First Time
One of the most critical elements of any ERP system is the selection process. This can be a daunting task, and unfortunately businesses underestimate the importance of this. Furthermore, the selection process actually has a heavy impact on the success or failure of the implementation, as this is where user acceptance and managing the change begins.
ERP Challenges - Why Selection is Critical?
In most instances where companies have had a negative experience with implementing an ERP system, you will hear the following challenges and pitfalls:
• The project cost more than was budgeted
• The project took longer than was expected
• There was a high level of user dissatisfaction and a lack of buy-in
• The business had to change to fit the system
• The defined benefits were not realized
• Capabilities/functionalities that were sold were not delivered
ERP Selection - Lessons Learned
• Ensure a corporate wide understanding of the need for ERP
• Focus on business requirements and processes first
• Involve all areas of the business in the selection/planning process
• Be sure it’s the right time for ERP
• Develop a business case that will measure business improvements
• Ensure executive commitment throughout
• Focus on increasing knowledge not information
• Don’t rush the ERP selection process
ERP Optimization
No matter what stage of its life-cycle a business is in, it can always continue to improve. Many times these improvements come from optimizing processes and technology. We have a unique methodology to identify opportunities for improvement and the benefits these will deliver.