Q&A: The Right Time to Implement ERP

Top 3 Reasons to Purchase ERP Software

Updated: August 15, 2016

ERP ImplementationQ: I work at a large company that gathers and shares a lot of data across different departments. I am trying to convince my team that we would benefit enormously from an ERP system, but I haven't been able to. Can you help me convince my team that we need an ERP?

 

A: Thank you very much for your question! Selecting the perfect time to implement an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solution into your business operations can be somewhat elusive and difficult. If your company isn’t yet ready for an ERP solution, then implementing one too soon can actually create more work and confusion than streamlined efficiency. However, if you wait too long to integrate a needed ERP system, you can easily slip in efficiency and begin to miss out on growth opportunities.

 

Due to the complex balance involved in implementing an ERP at the right time, many managers will often face the idea with skepticism, as you’ve experienced in your efforts to convince your team to begin using an ERP solution. If you work for a large, established company that shares a lot of data between departments, and you see the benefits of using an ERP system, then it probably means the time is right to consider an ERP solution.


To ensure your team will be motivated and moved by your next ERP pitch, we suggest that you take some time to analyze your team’s responsibilities as well as your company’s overall goals and initiatives. Think about the pain points in daily operational tasks, the gaps in communication, and the lapses in efficiency. Next, put together a list of compelling solutions for these problems that would result from ERP implementation.


Every company is unique, so the reasons and business needs that will drive the decision of whether an ERP solution makes sense will vary. However, here are some of the most common reasons that companies choose to purchase and deploy and ERP system. You can use these ideas to begin thinking about your company’s needs, and shape your next ERP discussion with management.

  • Sales growth and your customer experiences are suffering due to miscommunication or lack of organization and structure in relationship management. 
  • You have cumbersome manual processes or use a variety of different software to accomplish various tasks within your company.
  • Your accounting procedures are becoming too complex to manage manually and are taking up more and more time each month to complete accurately.

We hope these ideas help, and you are able to convince your team to implement an ERP solution in your company. For more helpful ERP information tips and to compare top providers, check out our Enterprise Resource Planning page.
 

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