Business owners can reap great benefits by implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, but every technology system will grow outdated over time. This is also true with ERP systems, since a company’s needs change as the business keeps growing.

Sooner or later as your business expands you will need to assess whether your current ERP system is still up to the job. Implementing an improved system can be daunting, but it is simple enough if you follow these five steps to a better ERP system.

Step 1 – Identify the Limitations of Your Current ERP System

Before seeking out a new ERP system, you should understand exactly where your current system is limited. This information will inform your search for a new system and help you quickly identify new ERP systems that include elements that will immediately improve your business operations.

Step 2 – Understand What Your Business Needs from the New ERP System

Hand in hand with identifying the weaknesses of your current system is identifying exactly what you will need the new ERP system to be capable of. You will primarily need to think about which departments need to communicate with each other through the system and what information needs to be shared. Also consider how many automated reports you require the system to produce, and whether or not you need it to monitor the likes of employee attendance, holidays and payroll.

Step 3 – What Add-ons Might You Need in the Future

There are many ERP tools and add-ons available, but you may not need all of them at this moment, so consider what add-ons and enhancement tools you might want to integrate further down the line. As your business needs to grow and change, you will want your ERP system to be capable of the same. Instead of overhauling your system every time your company outgrows its current system, implement one now that can adapt and grow along with your company.

Step 4 – Budget for the New ERP System

Implementing a new system will incur an initial cost, so you will need to figure out your budget and see what options are available for you within that framework. As well as the initial cost, you will also need to incorporate how much the technical support and maintenance costs will be.

Step 5 – Choose a Good ERP System Implementation Expert

The final step is to find a technology implementation partner to bring your company up to date with the new ERP system. Once you are happy with the product they are offering, you will then want to know if they have implemented their software with any other businesses similar to yours, and what level of customer support they offer before, during and after it has been implemented.

To find out more about our Microsoft Dynamics and ERP services and to discuss your requirements, please contact our team on +1 800 974 7219 ext. 202. Alternatively, complete the online form here and one of our team will be in contact with you.