What is ERP Consulting?
What is ERP Consulting?
Let’s start at the beginning. Most people coming across this blog already have a Microsoft Dynamics system in place, but a lot of companies are doing research out there to find what the right ERP software is for their business. They are going to come across the ERP software blog because it’s such a reputable source for information, so let’s help out and start with the basics.
ERP consulting consists of the service provided for selection, implementation, training, support and guidance of an Enterprise Resource Planning system. A fully integrated ERP system, in turn, will consist of integrated business applications that include: human resources, finance, order processing, shipping and receiving and a sales and service function.
Understanding your needs is the first component of picking an ERP consultant, but beyond that what is ERP consulting exactly? Here are a few things to consider:
Need
You may be asking why do I need a consultant and that is a very valid question. Before you begin to pick one, the question you should focus on is, why would I try to implement an ERP without one? You are already busy with, well, business; and to take on the task of properly purchasing and executing an implementation is no easy matter. This is one area that you do not want buyer’s remorse setting in 6 months after implementation. Bring in the expert and save the headache for something else. In fact, the primary function of the ERP consultant is to assist with the complete transition from old ERP to the new. From understanding your business requirements, to evaluating proper solutions, to installing, training and fine tuning the product to fit your needs. All, or any single part of this process, can be handled by the consulting team
Type
Which brings up the question of type, which type of consultant do I need? Consultants assist with all stages of ERP implementation, so you will need to determine which need do you most need help with? In most cases, all stages are foreign to the organization, because it is not the organization’s job to implement ERP software or hardware. However, some stages might be easier for you to complete prior to bringing in the consultant. For instance, maybe your company is in tune with all the needs it has and you have already identified what you need to do the work you do. Make your lists, check them twice, and call the consultant. Or maybe you do not want to replace your shipping and receiving software or sales software, but need a better order entry and finance component, then the consultant can address that specific need for you.
Knowledge
As with any decision, knowledge is power. Understand, a consultant is there as an advisor and a good consultant will give good advice. You need a consultant with years of industry knowledge and implementation capabilities that will listen to your needs and provide proper support. Go with a partner that has many years of experience, a large in-house consulting team, in-house development team, and a proven track record with many similar clients in your same industry.
Posted on Friday, March 18, 2016
