Small businesses can certainly benefit from finding a partner that will help with the early stages of software implementation and remain invested in the company's success. Not only is it important for the ERP partner to help the company select the right product for the particular organization, but also to make sure the choice pays off down the road.

That's why we're offering 5 simple tips to selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning consultant that will act like a partner:

1) Experience or Knowledge of the industry

If a small business decides to search for an Enterprise Resource Planning provider, they certainly will not suffer from a lack of options. There are numerous products and businesses available to modern companies and organizations should be sure to take advantage of the variety to hone in on the right partner.

When a company's implementation team begins listing out possible options, research should be done in order to find a company with the products and knowledge necessary for a successful project.  Educational materials should be readily available and demonstrate a history of excellence. 

2) Effective communication skills

When a company makes contact with a potential ERP partner, the business's decision-makers need to observe how strong the providers communication skills are. Relevant data on business software features should be readily available and relatable.

The materials provided by an ERP partner should be easy to understand and demonstrate why they are the best selection. The Office of Finance blog shared Gartner reports stating a lack of comprehension about ERP software products as a primary source of implementation failure. This is why companies need to know the ins and outs of possible purchases and why the final choice is the best possible option.

3) Long term plans

Any sort of partner needs to offer more than just a product. Businesses want a partner that will help with training, which means providers should definitely have an implementation strategy. Each organization is unique, however, and it's important that potential schedules match up to individual expectations.

As a company works with their selected ERP solution, they will be introduced to new versions and functionality.  It's important that your partner offers webinars and conferences that keep clients up-to-date on these updates.

4) Be clear and honest

Just as it's important that ERP providers are upfront and honest about their software functionality, companies should be truthful about what they don't understand and where they need help.

A company should have a complete understanding of its own business and industry, however, ERP partners can provide an outside perspective and understanding of best practices.  This means both communicating where the company is completely on top of its operational systems and where it needs help.

5) Trust your gut

Once a company selects an ERP partner, they should work with the provider to implement the solution, train employees, integrate systems and upgrade technology. This requires a lot of time and back-and-forth communication, so decision-makers need to find a partner that will work well with their business.

Businesses should always take personal preferences into account when considering any sort of alliance.  That's why finding an ERP partner that shares strategies, goals and values will allow you to be more comfortable with your provider, making it easier to be open and ready to reach out.

We would love to speak with you about how Klear Systems can benefit your organization.

Give us a call at (949) 681-8135,
email us at info@klearsystems.com
or complete the form below and we’ll reach out to you.