4 Tips to Avoid Common ERP Software Implementation Mistakes

There are some common issues that businesses face after implementing accounting and ERP software systems.  As certified ERP software consultants, we have helped many businesses over the last 20 years successfully implement ERP systems.  Based on our experience, we wanted to share some great ways to overcome these ERP software mistakes.  Let's not cry over spilled milk and learn how to avoid future accidents in your business.

There has been some research on the topic of organizations using ERP software ineffectively.  The outcome of this research was not that most businesses are ineffectively using their ERP software system.  It was, however, that these businesses were receiving less than 50 percent of the ERP benefits promised to them prior to implementation.  The reason for this in almost 100 percent of these organizations was attributed to poor selection of the ERP software.  Here are 4 tips to overcome this ERP software implementation mistakes from happening in your organization.

DON’T SETTLE ON CHEAP ERP SOFTWARE

Do not try to squeeze the budget so much that you end up purchasing a less expensive solution that will not perform the functions that are required for your business.  While you might be trying to save money, this will always cost an organization much more in the long run. If you settle on a cheap solution, the cost of switching later after your business grows and becomes more complex will cost much more than selecting an ERP software option that will grow with your business over time.   

CREATE A LIST OF ERP SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS 

One important key to success in an ERP software system implementation is to work with an ERP consultant aka. ERP VAR (value added reseller).  ERP consultants help evaluate, implement, train and take the time to create a full wish list of your future ERP system requirements.  Consult with each department to build this wish list.  Consider instituting a business process assessment for your ongoing organizational improvement.  Make sure you provide your ERP VAR or ERP software consultant the FULL list of what you your requirements, even if it is something that you think CAN’T be done. You never know what solutions they might have implemented in the past that may solve your same problems.

CHOOSE YOUR ERP SOFTWARE CONSULTANT OR VAR WISELY

Make sure they are not only Certified in the ERP software products they sell but are also competent and experienced in other important areas.  Look for an ERP software consultant who will  not only help you  set up and implement the ERP software system  but also can deliver the modifications or 3rd party enhancements of this product to keep your organization on the leading edge. Your ideal ERP consultant is also experienced enough to be your trusted advisor to give you new insights into your business operation on an ongoing basis.

INVOLVE YOUR ERP SOFTWARE CONSULTANT AS YOUR TRUSTED ADVISOR

It is important to know the value an ERP solution can bring you. It is also important to know how your ERP software consultant can help you as a partner in your businesses’ growth.  If your ERP consultant is great, they will help you dig deep to reveal what is missing from your wish list or anticipate your business needs changing and help explore options in order to be more efficient and effective with your business operations model.

Written by Mike Renner, Partner WAC Consulting, Owner at Computer Accounting Services

Mike is an expert on Sage 100 ERP with over 25 years in the accounting software industry. Mike is also a Sage Certified Trainer and a recognized leader in the design, implementation and support of ERP systems, including Sage.

Computer Accounting Services Specialties Include:
Sage 100 ERP (formerly Sage MAS90/200), Sage 100 Fund Accounting (formerly MIP Non Profit Software), Sage Grant Management, Sage Online Fundraising, QuickBooks Enterprise and Point of Sale VAR.