Every company has organizational challenges, record-keeping problems, and supply chain issues. Human resources and management may have trouble communicating and employees may be getting frustrated with multiple software programs for different company functions not integrating well. Choosing and purchasing a new improved ERP software system may be the answer. It is important to carefully select the right ERP system for the company’s needs and goals.
What is ERP?
ERP is a software system for enterprise resource planning that can be used for companies or organizations to manage their day-to-day business process and activities. This can include accounting, marketing, procurement, project management, risk management, record keeping, and compliance. This software integrates all the systems and procedures in the company’s computer and internet data systems. It helps a company or organization with budgeting, financial reporting, and future predictions.
The correct ERP software integrates multiple business processes to enable a better flow of data between departments and multiple data sources to eliminate duplication. Now all types of company data are found in one source.
But, the wrong ERP software can create new problems and frustrations, so choose carefully. Using an ERP requirements template and checklist tool furnished by the Technology Evaluation Center can avoid expensive mistakes.
What Does an ERP Requirements Template Do?
This is an ERP checklist of requirements that helps companies and organizations identify their ERP needs and goals. The resulting checklist is then used to evaluate the available ERP software systems. It can help the chosen supplier to build a better ERP software system for a company’s unique requirements. This checklist guides company or organizational leaders in identifying their ERP needs and goals and presenting the list to the company building the ERP software system for a better result.
How To Achieve Succesful ERP Implementation
Having success with ERP software systems is more complicated than simply installing software into the company computers. There are a number of recommended steps to follow for ERP implementation.
- Start by assessing the existing company systems and looking for ways to improve systems and processes.
- Decide on the goals and scope for the new ERP implementation process. This is where the ERP Requirements template and checklist are needed.
- Choose the new ERP software system by researching available options and choosing the one that best meets company goals and needs.
- Once the ERP software system is purchased, it must be configured to meet the individual needs of the company or organization. The software can be customized. User access must be determined. It must be integrated with other company systems.
- Now the company data from all systems must be migrated to the new ERP system. Clean and format the existing data so that it is compatible with the new system.
- Test the new system to be sure of its functionality and accuracy of data. Test all of the system processes and applications. All migrated data must be tested and verified.
- Now it is time to train all employees on the use of the new ERP system. A variety of training methods are useful including online training, classroom training, and one-to-one mentoring sessions. A combination of training methods can be used. A clear, easy-to-understand, step-by-step instruction on using all the functions and features is essential.
- Finally, launch the system company-wide with access for all employees. Activate all processes and reporting procedures.
- The system will need to be maintained and supported. Regular maintenance checks and troubleshooting keep the system in good order. There may be software upgrades as needed to perform.
Choose An ERP System For the Right Reasons
Choose a new ERP software system because the business needs it and be sure that the system meets the needs and goals identified by using a tool like the ERP Requirements template and checklist. Get a system that not only meets company needs but is easy to use. Make sure company employees are able to learn to use the system. And get a system that offers technical support and system security.
