Choosing The Right ERP Implementation Partner

Choosing the right technology partner is key to determining ERP implementation success. With various partners offering the same services, it can be difficult for businesses to determine the best partner. In today’s article, ERP Team Lead, Conor Flanagan provides a guide to the top things to consider when choosing your ERP implementation partner.

The author of this page: Conor Flanagan
Conor Flanagan, ERP Team Lead Aug 01, 2024

When implementing an ERP system, identifying the right software is only half the challenge. To ensure project success, you will need a trusted ERP implementation partner. One who can deliver on your technical requirements and provide valuable guidance and leadership throughout the project. Often, narrowing down the software can be an easier task. Businesses typically consider things like the technical requirements, desired functionality and overall cost.

ERP deployments can be complex and your business will have to rely on your chosen partner for every stage of the implementation journey. They will typically be the ones to support your business after the ERP solution has been deployed. Therefore, the success of an ERP implementation largely depends on selecting the right partner.

With a variety of partners offering the same services, it can be difficult to know which partner is the best fit for your business. To help with this, we have compiled some of the top considerations for your business to remember when comparing ERP implementation partners.

1. Technical Expertise

Your ERP implementation partner should have in-depth knowledge of the chosen ERP software, including its technical capabilities, customisation options, relevant third-party integrations and limitations. This ensures that they can give the best recommendations on how the ERP system can integrate with your current business processes and existing business systems. Ensure your partner possesses the necessary certifications and training from the ERP software vendor. Review relevant case studies, references and award wins to help verify the ERP expertise of your chosen partner.

2. Industry Experience

Another top consideration is industry experience.  Does your chosen partner have a track record of delivering successful ERP implementations within your industry? Have they won any awards relevant to your industry? Having a partner who is familiar with your industry means they can understand the unique challenges, opportunities and regulations within your sector.  They can also provide valuable insights and best practices for your industry along with information on any industry-specific add-ons. A partner with industry experience can help ensure a smooth transition to the new ERP software while making sure your business receives maximum value from the solution.

3. Trust and Stability

Building trust with any technology partner takes time. However, there are ways to help your business determine if the implementation partner would be a good fit. Does the partner’s organisational values align with those in your business? Do you have similar expectations for the projects? Do you have direct access to key people within the partner’s organisation? Other ways to help build trust in the new partner is to look at their track record and review references or case studies. Take some time to assess the partner’s stability from a financial standpoint and find out how long they have been in business or how many members of staff they have. Research their credibility and reputation within the market. Taking the time to understand this can help your business determine whether the partner will be a reliable long-term partner.

4. Project Management Approach  

Businesses should consider each ERP implementation partner's project management approach and methodology. Understanding how the implementation will be managed is critical. Does your partner have a proven project methodology or framework that they follow? What is the communication style – are there clear communication channels and an open dialogue of communication to ensure you can address any concerns or issues? Many businesses value an open communication style and working closely with the partner throughout the implementation. Taking the time to understand each partner’s approach can help your business determine which partner is the best fit.

5. Training and Support

The success of your ERP software implementation does not end with the system going live. Ongoing support, optimisation, training and maintenance are essential to ensure that your business receives maximum value from your technology investment. Take some time to consider the level of training and support offered by each ERP partner and assess their post-implementation plan. What is their approach to training, and how much is provided? Is it offered in person or online? What type of support is offered – is there a support desk with a ticketing system? What is the average response time and how do clients rate them on their support levels? High levels of support post-project go-live will increase your chances of a successful implementation.

6. Relationship with Vendor

Any potential implementation partner should have a strong relationship with the solution vendor that they represent. When the partner has good communication with the vendor, it makes it easier to manage any issues that may need vendor input and will ensure your partner is up to date with any changes that may impact your software. Aside from software vendors, many ERP implementation partners have a strong and complementary network of technology partners that can offer additional functionality and value to your ERP solutions. This is a sign of a good ERP implementation partner, one that can not only maintain strong business relationships but also, strategically partner with other technology partners to deliver even more value to the customer.

If you would like to learn more about ERP implementation, get in touch today to speak with one of our specialists.

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