Selection of An ERP Consultant :
Selection and implementation of an ERP software is a challenging task. No doubt, this system caters most of the activities of your organizational dimensions. It includes supply chain, human resources, accounting & finance, and sales & marketing, etc. Having advice to select the best ERP software is essential as you have to manage the crucial business processes through this system.
With this goal in hand, we get to know the significance of an ERP consultant. He is the one who can guide you and make you select an ERP software which is adequate for your business. Now, the question arises, what do you have to consider while selecting an ERP consultant?
Want to know then go through this article till the end.
Industry-Specific Knowledge :
Primarily, you have to observe that an ERP consultant is having experience of the sector for which you need software. That niche could be academic, manufacturing or apparel, etc. If the consultant is having a skill set of the specific domain then you can consider him.
For example, if you are looking for ERP software for manufacturing then a consultant must be having professional experience in the manufacturing sector. Only then, you can achieve your purpose of finding the right ERP solution. A consultant in the relevant field can identify which tools and features are required in ERP for managing your business activities.
Well-Reputed Professional :
There are many professionals who offer ERP consultancy services. But you have to look for the ones who are renowned, trustworthy and well reputed. You can coordinate with any ERP consultant, but those who are eminent and distinguished in their accomplishments can make your tasks seamless. They will keep their word in harvesting useful benefits for your organization.For this, look at their profiles and undertaken projects. Before contracting with an ERP consultant, you have to see which organizations they have worked with. Their job profile and completed projects. Last but not the least, also sum up ERP consultancy experience they have.
Value-Added Services :
Before making a choice of an ERP consultant, you have to ask him about the value-added services. It is quite evident that he is an expert in ERP selection. But you have to make sure about the other benefits he could provide to you. This is not just about ERP evaluation and configuration. He has to ensure that he will support through thick and thin and that’s also with timely planning according to budget.Apart from this, he should signify his contribution in decision making to improve the organizational functioning with the incorporation of ERP software. Make him your ERP consultant when you observe his commitment and worthy gains for the organization.
ERP Implementation Strategy :
An ERP consultant is your companion in providing an insight about the selection and deployment of an ERP solution. Apart from the selection criteria information, he must be having its implementation knowledge as well. While liaising with an ERP consultant, you have to inquire about his good strategies and methodologies to run ERP successfully.This will provide you a clear picture of whether to collaborate with him or not. He needs to have a detailed plan of how to make an ERP a part of the organization. Along with this, he should know the challenges associated with it and the ways to overcome them.
Software Customization & Integration :
You cannot go for more than one consultant for a single project. What it means that you have to discuss with the consultant about his know how in integrating ERP with other systems. Remember, no software is complete. You have to make it customized to get the most out of it. That’s where the role of ERP consultant comes in.You have to take his expert opinion in connecting the ERP software with other plugins. He should have an idea about the other tools to enhance the functionality of ERP software.
Extensive Support :
An ERP consultant is there to help you out in crafting a plan for smooth ERP execution. You also have the option of direct coordination with ERP vendors without a consultant. But in that case, you might not acquire the maximum ROI from the ERP solution. A consultant will extend its support throughout the ERP administration process.You can consult with him regarding the adaptation of the ERP software in your organization. How can employees use it proficiently? So, select an ERP consultant when he is ready to offer his support continuously in ERP implementation management. This extensive support from him in personnel training & change management of the organization will be fruitful in handling the software like a pro.
Bottom Line :
An ERP consultancy will be useful only if you pay attention to the above-mentioned guidelines. Finding a best ERP expert who fulfills this criteria and other mandatory parameters should be your final choice.
