Businesses exploring options for business software systems face several hurdles during the selection process. However, following a list of criteria will reduce stress levels. Here are a few elements to consider when choosing an ERP system for your organization.
Account Management
Every company encounters issues with customer relations, but a quality ERP platform allows employees to access information and deal with issues quickly. That flexibility goes a long way toward retaining current clients and ensuring that new ones are interacted with appropriately. Look for software options that include sophisticated accounting abilities when evaluating ERP systems.
Logistics Management
At one point, this element might have appeared lower on the list, but recent developments boost the importance of logistics management. The number of supply issues exploded during the pandemic, and new problems continue to develop as the fallout spreads. The perfect business platform must include functions to track shipments from start to finish.
Capacity Requirements Planning
Capacity requirements planning, or CRP, is crucial for many companies. Inventory control is the heart of manufacturing, which means companies must know when to expect material shipments to avoid costly downtime and the inability to ship products on time. Look for a platform that includes modules dedicated to CPR.
Business Intelligence
Business intelligence (BI) uses software to analyze data and use that data to transform the way companies make complex operational decisions. When shopping for an ERP platform, insist on one that includes modules dedicated to data analysis and decision-making.
Credit Management
Selling products requires initiating customer accounts, billing, and crediting payments. However, the ERP software also sheds light on payment histories and trends that could impact a client’s creditworthiness in the future. Ensure the software platform selected includes comprehensive credit management capabilities.
Material Requirements Planning
Production planning is a necessity to ensure quotas and shipping deadlines are met. This function includes inventory control, which ensures clients get the goods they need as promised. Insist on robust inventory control tools so productivity isn’t threatened.
Communication Tools
Some organizations don’t include separate CRM systems. If that’s true of your company, the ERP software should be capable of handling communications, especially email functions. Top platforms provide this module, so check it off your list if communications are currently an issue.
Payroll and Tax Filing Options
While stand-alone accounting software can handle these chores, they’re better handled using an ERP system, as the data will be centralized and protected. Regulatory compliance issues are also routinely handled by an ERP platform.
B2B and B2C Commerce
Again, a stand-alone software solution would work, but an ERP system ensures company-wide access to client information that enables quality customer service. That quality is crucial when issues arise, so look for a program dedicated to enhancing your B2B and B2C customer relations.
Lean Manufacturing Modules
Wasted materials and labor reduce profits, so selecting an ERP platform with the tools needed to maximize productivity by cutting waste at all levels is a big plus for most companies.
Moving Forward in a Competitive Business Environment
Assessing and choosing a perfect business software platform isn’t always easy, so take the time to contact an expert if you’re unsure which solution would best meet your organization’s requirements. Acting now makes staying ahead of the competition in the future easier.
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