What are the most common ERP career development goals?

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, integrating new technologies like GenAI into ERP systems is becoming increasingly important: 1. Integration of GenAI:As AI and machine learning become more prevalent 2. Adopting Cloud-Based Platforms: Cloud platforms are revolutionizing ERP 3. Low-Code and No-Code Development: developing skill in low code / No code development processes. 4. IoT Integration: The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping ERP by connecting devices and systems. 5.Mobile ERP Applications: Developing technical skills to create or manage mobile ERP applications is vital. Incorporating these new technology angles into ERP skill development ensures that professionals are prepared to harness the latest advancements.

Advance to a more senior ERP role. Specialize in a particular ERP module or process. Become an ERP consultant. Start your own ERP consulting firm. Teach or train others on ERP systems. Write or speak about ERP systems.

An ERP is a great business support facilitator where every operational process component of an organisation gets interconnected and flows in a logical sequence of events, thereby achieving the Organisation’s operational goals and objectives with maximum benefits and providing error free data and information. The key features of an ERP is the combination of technical expertise and operational functionalities. Hence, as long as both these features are robust and closely addresses the user cum organisational requirements, it becomes successful. Also, an ERP’s success majorly depends on the ultimate Users’ cooperation especially at the conceptual and implementation stage.

In my experience, the most valuable skill to have is to understand the connectivity between the ERP modules. This is key for troubleshooting, system customization and optimization.

Continues learning is a key formula to become successful in ERP which is what I am doing in my past and present. Share your knowledge with peers and at the same time learn from them as well.

Let's start from the basics, ERP or any enterprise software exists to support the growth of business. No one does software for the sake of software. So understanding business objectives, outcomes and processes is an absolutely core skill. It's not just important to understand business but document it and translate it into consumable format for better driving design decisions.

With my core experience in ERP product development group, I would like to highlight that understanding the business problems holistically is vital for growth along with being empathetic to customers. If the solutions are delivered with the approach focused only on 'as reported/experienced' by customers, we might miss the big picture and deliver 'local efficiencies' only. In current competitive times, 'systems' approach i.e understanding the complete system holistically, its inter dependencies and avoiding fragmentation, would enable to deliver products that are 'differentiators'. Such mindset on 'problem definition' is essential for career growth in ERP.

One thing I have found really helpful is understanding a particular function and the process that enable that function at a great level of depth, while working to implement an ERP. While strategic goals, challenges and opportunities cannot be lost sight of, what helps one as an ERP professional is having a nuts and bolts understanding of specific functional areas, which are essential not only for continued success within the organisation, but also as someone who can quickly absorb context in a different organization.

1. Stakeholder Communication: Connect with key players to gather perspectives and insights for improvement/expansion strategies. 2. Cross-functional Collaboration: Work with teams across various functions for a comprehensive view. Plan continuous meetings with necessary teams to bridge gaps.

In a dynamic business environment, expanding one's business acumen is not just a goal; it's a necessity for staying relevant and effective. Developing a strong business acumen is essential for ERP professionals, as it empowers them to contribute significantly to the success of their organization. Understanding the strategic goals, challenges, and opportunities within the industry and their specific organization is crucial. This knowledge enables ERP professionals to align their solutions and skills with the business objectives effectively. They can achieve this by continuously seeking information through various means such as reading industry reports, engaging with stakeholders, and analyzing data.

In the dynamic world of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), soft skills are essential alongside technical expertise. Effective communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills are crucial. To nurture these skills, seek feedback, engage in mentoring and coaching, join professional networks, and use online courses. Soft skills impact ERP success in project management, user adoption, change management, career advancement, client relationships, and conflict resolution. Developing these skills is vital for thriving in the ERP field, where they complement technical knowledge and contribute to career success.

Soft skills are important, for Programme team members who face outward to the organisation. What we need are diverse inclusive teams who have skill experience behaviours & personality. Not everyone can have great soft skills & doesn't need to. We need the uniqueness of human beings to create open honest transparent teams that are communicative & collaborative. This how you get success, together, but it isn't driven by soft skills at all. The silent thinkers input, like everyone else's, is invaluable. I trust respect & value the teams I create, & start from that point with integrity & passion, but with compassion and kindness to others too. Don't feel you have to be "great" @ soft skills, personally I'd rather the authentic you.

Soft skills are usually brushed off as not a major skill to have from a technical perspective. However it is imperative that you are able to work outside your own silo to get the most out of interaction with business. ERP implementation has a lot more to do with change management (other than technical only) than given credit for.

ERP is a positioned as an answer to a problem. The first and most important step in ERP selling and implementation is to understand whether a valid business need / problem exists, and if so, to be able to articulate it in terms that the client / prospective user will understand, and to verify the correctness of the need / problem description. The next step is to develop the business case - that is if the business value to be derived is greater than the cost of the project as well as the ramifications of the potential resulting changes in organizational structure and processes. Only then can the question be answered about whether the ERP project is justifiable or not. Business analysis skills are extremely helpful in this regard.

Without behavioral management skills, the implementation project is going to have a very irrational response; for instance, the affected employees of an implementation termed the ERP as 'Early Retirement Plan' due to job security reasons. So constant communication and job rotation plans discussions are more than important for a successful implementation.

ERP career development goals is to be ERP solution architect, that to start your career with focusing in one area let’s say sourcing and procurement with inventory management, implementing projects, having experience, then involve to extend your vision and learn. implementing another related module like ERP warehouse Management, with the same process implementing projects in different areas until being ERP Solution Architect, which now u have solid experience and information in many areas like finance, supply chain and you can design, implement and support full integrated cycles like main corporate cycle (Procure to pay, then order to cash with its integration with finance) only in one main integrated business process full cycle.

Being in ERP, the professionals are flexible to choose their work functions. Some large assignments you can work as an consultant doing system hands on in your specific core module, while in some assignments you can lead or manage cross functional team. However this is possible only when you have assessed your skills, strengths and areas of interest. So research different roles, understand the responsibilities and skill requirements for each function.

Make sure to properly evaluate the roles and the work on providing these management techniques work on specific modules and define those tasks work with them in effective manner.

This versatility is advantageous because it allows you to continuously expand your skill set and adapt to evolving industry demands. To explore new roles or domains, you can seize opportunities like taking on fresh projects, volunteering for added responsibilities, or pursuing internal or external job openings. By embracing these possibilities, you enrich your professional background, broaden your outlook, and enhance your marketability in the dynamic world of ERP systems.

In my experience embracing different roles within the world of ERP systems not only broadens your horizons but also enriches your knowledge and expertise. By exploring various domains like implementation, customization, data analysis, or support, you gain a holistic understanding of how ERP operates in different contexts. This diverse experience not only makes you a versatile professional but also equips you with insights and skills that can be applied creatively to solve complex business challenges

You could, but who says you need to? ERP is an ecosystem and you need to immerse yourself in that. Take the accreditations in the pieces you deliver or want to for certain. If your path is technical, those exams help us to understand. If your path is delivery practical skill is more important, supported by exams if you want to. Everyone learns differently, some people can't take exams. Doesn't make them bad in this ecosystem. Bring your true self, that is way more important and relatable. But do come join the ecosystem it's a great place to be.

También le pueden ser de utilidad el participar en Diplomas, o cursos que posean algun tipo de certificación y que le permitan ir ganando reputación.

Crafting a well-defined career path is the ultimate goal for ERP professionals, and from my perspective, it is a strategic step toward long-term success. Regularly tracking progress and periodically reviewing and revising the career plan is essential as the ERP field is dynamic, and a flexible career plan ensures adaptability to evolving industry trends and personal growth. Researching market demands and opportunities enables ERP professionals to align their skill sets with industry needs, making them more marketable and positioning themselves for career advancement.

Make sure you align you goals continuously work on these goals and address these by planning them SMART goals and the review it accordingly.

I can't agree more that my learning journey depends upon my willingness to challenge myself with more complex tasks. The more uncomfortable i am with the challenges ,there is more possibility that I will burn and choose a path of continuous improvement and the potential for remarkable achievements.

Planning a successful ERP career path involves self-assessment, clear goal-setting, ongoing learning, networking, and adaptability. By breaking down long-term goals into achievable milestones, continuously improving your skills, and staying informed about industry trends, you can position yourself for a fulfilling and successful career in the ERP field.

Do not forget to have fun in what you do. If not.....quit and look for something you do like, since it is impossible to be good in things you don't realy like.

Clearly understanding the business objectives and being able to clearly communicate the response, impact and consequences of the erp response is IMHO the single most important skill. Success is often not driven by technical skills but on how engaged, committed and supportive the stakeholders (at all levels) are. Listen, understand, communicate and encourage understanding wherever possible. Be honest about the compromises in the context of the objectives.

A career in ERP is a wonderful thing - I'm 23± years in and everyday I learn something new or new capabilities are released - that never ends. Its a great space to thrive and be yourself too. We have diverse teams and need lots of different skill sets to deliver and implement ERP well. See the positive in this, there's a place for everyone in our teams, especially when they are collaborative and communicative. We share, grow and learn together. And hopefully led openly honestly and transparency from a point of trust respect and integrity. #diverse #inclusive #leaders exist and #thrive in ERP, come find us, we will #support you.

You learn a lot when and while you teach. Sharing experiences is extremely beneficial, so whenever possible, share your knowledge with your clients, counterparts, coworkers or any audience willing to listen to you. The effects of this on your growth will be remarkable.

No olvidar que la práctica hace al maestro, y que nadie nace sabiendo, por lo que tener una mente abierta y tener mente de aprendiz, hará que puedas utilizar el conocimiento que vas adquiriendo y perfeccionarlo hasta lograr incluso desarrollar tu propio modelo de gestión para administrar e integrar las distintas dimensiones del ERP.