Whether you’re shopping for your first ERP (enterprise resource planning) software solution, or are looking to replace an outdated one, you’ve probably come to realize that the ERP buying process can be a long and sometimes confusing one. So, it's tempting to give into the notion that your ERP buying process is complete once you’ve decided which software package you’re going to purchase. But don’t be fooled! This isn’t the end.
Sure, give yourself a pat on the back for the monumental work you’ve done and how far you’ve come. But in truth, you’re only about halfway to beginning your successful ERP implementation project. The next decision you must make, choosing an ERP implementation partner, is just as important, if not more so. Why? Over 50% of ERP projects fail not because of the software’s features or functions but due to implementation issue.
So, to avoid your ERP project becoming another unfortunate statistic, once you find the ERP solution that best fits your needs, it’s time to find your ERP implementation partner. This is someone who knows your software inside and out, and who will work with you to get it set up so that it fits your businesses unique needs.
Think of selecting ERP partner like choosing someone to build your home. Unless you’re a general contractor, chances are you wouldn’t dream of building your home by yourself, with no training. Instead, you look for a skilled team of professionals to help you bring your blueprints to life.
But how do you find the right ERP partner? And how can you tell which one is the best fit for your business? These are both excellent questions, and their answers lie in taking the time to interview potential partners and getting to know them before making a final decision.
How to Interview ERP Partners
Interviewing potential ERP partners is like interviewing anyone else you would hire to work with your company. You’ll want to find out:
- Does the person have the expertise to make your ERP implementation project a success?
- Do your business cultures matchup, or does it feel like you’re speaking two different languages?
- Can the potential ERP partner deliver your project in a timeline and budget that is acceptable for your company?
- What is it you and the potential implementation partner expect from one another? Do you each have the skills and personnel to meet those expectations?
Want to dig deeper into specific questions you should ask when choosing an ERP implementation partner? . In it, you’ll find a complete list of questions covering each of the four categories I mentioned above. Also, if you note down the response a potential ERP partner gives to each question as you’re interviewing them, you can compare each candidate side-by-side and easily choose the one that is the best fit for your needs.
Want more great ERP buying resources like this partner interview checklist and comparison tool? . Our team of Microsoft Dynamics and Acumatica experts have 30 years’ experience helping businesses of all shapes and sizes find and implement the software they need to reach their goals.
