There's no one set of rules for taking a business to the next level. That's because the game changes as a company grows. A start-up with $100,000 in revenue trying to get to $1 million has different operational, financial and human resources challenges than a $5 million outfit stretching to hit $20 million. Here are 3 tips to help you navigate growth by choosing the right ERP solution to take your company to the next level.
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are an essential aspect of any growing business. It involves integrating the various functions that are important to running a successful business into one complete and streamlined process. ERP software is crucial to ensuring that your information systems are able to support and enhance your business as you expand and requires choosing a system that will serve your business model today and in the future.
Navigator Business Solutions has helped over 500 customers achieve improved business performance and revenue growth. At Navigator, we are here to consult with you and help you make the right decision moving forward with a new ERP solution. Below are a few tips to get you started on the path to success with a new ERP solution.
Tip #1 - Why is your company in need of an ERP solution?
You might be running old siloed software systems and need an ERP system to knit together the business processes of your organization, so it can operate more efficiently. Or you might need an ERP that is tightly focused and addresses your immediate needs, Supply Chain Management, GAAP accounting, Inventory Management… but that has the ability to expand later should you need more modules.
In some cases, companies just want centralized finance systems. In other cases, companies are in unique industry verticals, so they want ERP systems that are tailored to these verticals. Still other companies want project- or service-oriented ERP. Many times, companies may need ERP to help them manage projects individually, or an ERP system that can be employed globally.
There are so many different ERP requirements. Regardless of which scenario you find yourself in, though, it is important to find an ERP system that can meet the performance expectations that you and your internal stakeholders have identified.
Tip #2 – Make a list of key requirements before searching for possible software suppliers
Before buying ERP software, you and your organization should nail down the business needs the system should address. Once you have confirmed your ERP requirements, you are ready to look for products and vendors that meet those needs. The next step in finding the right ERP system is assessing the product. As you speak with solution providers ask how they will work with your organization to help guide the identification of the key ERP requirements and making the best decision for your company.
Tip #3 – Ensure that the ERP vendor will make a strong business partner
How long has the vendor been implementing the selected ERP solution?
Has the vendor continued to develop with the changes in technology or are they holding onto the past, pushing you towards something that is just comfortable for them?
Does the vendor understand your industry, consultant expertise?
Navigator’s vision is to create a trusted relationship with each customer by delivering business solutions which create value and superior competitive advantage. Since 1994, Navigator has helped more than 500 companies like yours streamline operations and improve their business through the use SAP’s proven technology ideal for small-midsize businesses.
Now that you have a strategy in place, it's time to take the next step.
ERP software is powerful technology that can streamline processes, improve visibility, reduce costs, and completely change the way that your company does business—but it won't happen overnight. ERP solutions encompass many complex front- and back-office systems, from accounting and inventory management to ecommerce and CRM, which need to be integrated to create a seamless experience for end users.
Keeping these best practices in mind will help you launch your deployment on the right track and keep it there throughout the entire process. Researching the best ERP implementation option for your business, building consensus around the effort, setting realistic expectations, and giving your staff the support, they need—these steps take more time, but they result in a more effective ERP experience and a better-run business in the long term.
Navigator Business Solutions is here to take these steps with you.
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