What you need to know before buying an ERP solution

Acquiring an ERP system is a big step for any business. It is, therefore, very important to get some clear answers from your provider on certain issues before deciding to commit to a solution.

Cloud ERP or on-premise ERP?

Businesses worldwide use cloud-based solutions to speed up and transform their operations. Everything can now be done in the cloud. This also holds true in the case of ERP, which in its cloud version offers all the advantages of an on-premise solution, without its drawbacks. In a nutshell, cloud ERP means automation, customization, automatic updates, security, cost efficiency, and more, with just a simple subscription.

Do I need to customize my ERP solution?

If you make a proper assessment of your needs from the beginning, with the help of your provider, and choose the right package, everything will run smoothly. It is likely that you’ll need certain customizations, however, these will be mostly corrective. What is essential is having a consistent strategy with respect to your goals and resources.

Is mobile planning for ERP important?

Today, most employees take for granted the use of smartphones, tablets and generally mobile devices in their workplace. To that end, it would be a good idea to take a look at the available mobile ERP solutions with the help of your provider, as they will facilitate you in a number of ways: responsiveness, accessibility from everywhere, seamless collaboration, optimal user experience, increased productivity, and so on. The only point to which you should pay great attention is that of security, since the use of multiple, non-centrally controlled devices may lead to additional issues.

How important is training?

As your trusted provider will advise you, training is necessary during the implementation period before the system is put into operation. Consequently, you should find a way to include the people involved in the monitoring and assessment of the system during the initial phase, as well as in intermediate stages. In any case, training is a good start to ensure that the next stages of implementation and operation will be proceed as needed.

Which and how many features do I need?

The majority of ERP systems, even the most affordable ones, include certain standard modules. The question you need to answer in collaboration with your provider is which of these modules your business needs, as well as which ones you might need in the near future. With technology rapidly changing, you should consider a system that is built based on a strategic vision and includes all the features that will cover both your current and future needs.