Choosing a modern ERP system does not have to be a long and arduous process. Nonetheless, it is a significant strategic decision for companies to make. Background research, mapping out processes and understanding the needs of your business will help in decision-making. Below is a list of the common phases in a typical ERP system decision-making process.

Where to begin?

Consider what are the key factors for your company’s success and focus on the future needs too, not just on the current ones. Make sure that you are aware of the strategic guidelines for your company's future.

At best, a modern ERP system can make current processes more efficient and help them to scale and grow globally. It is important to invest in a solution that will also serve your company’s needs in 3–5 years.

The phases of an efficient decision-making process:

  1. Determine your company's current demands and processes as well as its future goals
  2. Identify the primary internal stakeholder groups in your company and ensure that the project is supported by management.
  3. Determine the key reasons for the project, including the goals/KPI’s for determining success
  4. Prioritize the key assessment criteria from a business standpoint
  5. Arrange meetings with suitable suppliers
    • Challenge them to understand your business and to identify its key factors
    • Familiarize yourself with the suppliers’ expertise and explore the possibilities of the system pervasively
    • Look for a supplier who understands the principles of your business
    • Request initial solution proposals from the preferred suppliers
  6. Deepen the dialogue with 2–3 suppliers and explore the supplier’s references.
  7. Specify solution proposals together with the suppliers
  8. Familiarize yourself with the supplier’s project team
  9. Decision-making
    The decision should be based on:
    • The suitability of the solution to your business
    • The short and long-term benefits in comparison to the project goals
    • Implementation expenses
    • System investments
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