Modern ERP systems, like Microsoft Dynamics 365, offer significant advantages over traditional ERP systems. Most next generation ERP systems are:
To maximize the value of your ERP technology investment, we recommend your organization takes the following 5 steps before your ERP implementation begins: 1. Take a Fresh Perspective.
Consider hiring outside business strategy consultants to guide the ERP software selection and optimize the business processes that add value to your organization. Your internal team is often too close to the problem, and traditional ERP consultants don’t re-engineer business processes, they only configure the software and train users. 2. Find Innovative Ways to Leverage the Cloud.A key advantage of modern ERP systems is their native ability to use the internet for both input and output.
3. Data Cleanse Your Current ERP SystemDon’t bring dirty data into a clean ERP system. Look for opportunities to simplify. One of our clients had 16-levels of SKU segments, creating nearly 100,000 unique SKUs, which had become nearly impossible to manage. Taking the time to rethink their SKU numbering convention has saved them significant time and money. Other clients have had their system cluttered with vast volumes of outdated records – past vendors and customers; obsolete BOMs; long-retired products and parts. You can use services to augment existing data with validated shipping addresses, credit rating scores, and other information that’s relevant to your business. Many business analytics tools make it possible to keep the historical database separate, but still accessible. 4. Prioritize Data SecurityMobility, remote connectivity and Internet-connected devices democratize data, but also create risk. Your data security model should include:
The weakest link in data security is human error. People often don’t realize they’re sharing confidential information. 5. Invest in Change ManagementThe success of all ERP projects depends on people embracing new procedures and new systems. If you have long-term employees who’ve been doing things the same way for years, even decades, they are going to be naturally resistant to change. Change management consultants can help your organization:
A Modern ERP System Should Go Beyond Finance and OperationsFinance and Operations are the backbone of an ERP system, but today, you have options to easily extend ERP functionality into every aspect of your business, from sales and marketing, to production scheduling and customer support. If you’d like help preparing for your ERP replacement project, contact us to get started. Author: Mark Lanoue, Solution Architect Other articles you might be interested in: |