Most businesses in search of a new ERP system start the process the exact same way: they put out a Request For Information (RFI), Proposal (RFP), Quotation (RFQ), etc. with a list of software features that must be included before that vendor will even be considered. And who’s in charge of the RFI/RFP/RFQ process? The purchasing agent. Say what???
Wouldn’t it make more sense to interview the people who are going to implement the software to find out what experiences they have and what challenges they have worked through with their clients before narrowing down your vendor selection? And wouldn’t those interviews be most effective with the department heads, business managers or executives on the interview panel?
Forget about the software, you need to know who has the ability to help you solve your most critical business issues. The software is simply a tool to help do the work. I’ll admit that in the end the software must be a good fit, but don’t start the process looking at software. You need to find someone who understands your issues, can get to the root cause of those issues, help you define a plan that will positively impact your entire business and then help you execute those plans.
Share your experiences with ERP selection below. Who was in charge of your company’s selection process? Did you select the right people to implement your ERP system? If not, what would you have done differently?
ASI is a Sage 100 ERP reseller who is committed to your business success. We will not only provide you with Sage 100 ERP software, but we evaluate your business processes and help you define and execute a plan that will positively affect your business. If you’d like to know more about our company and the services we provide, contact us today.
Discover why choosing the right ERP vendor is more critical than the software itself by downloading our whitepaper, “Solving Real Business Issues During the ERP Selection Process”. Simply fill out the form below to begin the process to finding your ERP system.