Tips For Avoiding Nasty Surprises In An ERP Selection And Implementation Process

By Michael Roman, Business Capabilities Architect, Manufacturing Practices, Inc.

The vital role that enterprise resource planning (ERP) software plays in a company makes its selection and implementation a source of risk but also a huge opportunity to gain advantages. ERP software performs many functions, but defined at a high level, ERP is a consistent way of managing a company to make money.

When one stops to think about this central purpose of ERP, then selection and implementation best practices gain importance. Ignore those best practices, and the company using ERP will fail to function smoothly and will lose money. Excel at those best practices, and the company will be in position to perform well and see its profits rise. In this white paper, we will examine the risks, identifying some of the unpleasant surprises that can manifest themselves in an ERP selection and implementation process, and offer advice for avoiding each one.