Does You Business Need ERP Software?
Blue Link ERP
All-in-one inventory management and accounting ERP software for wholesale and distribution businesses.
Every now and again it’s a good idea to review your business processes and company growth.?Ask yourself these questions:
If the answer is yes to one or more of these questions, it’s time to consider ERP software.
Long story short, ERP software is an All-in-One Accounting & Inventory management solution that can be the answer to solving the deficiencies you discovered when asking yourself the questions above.
If you want an in-depth understanding of what ERP is, check out this webpage:
Software shopping requires research, multiple discussions, an extensive overview of your company’s processes and a look at the state of your current data.
Before you buy the first ad you see or the cheapest ERP you can find, you must understand that all solutions are not created equal with varying levels of functionality and price points. Take the time to understand your vendors processes (i.e. What does their support look like, understanding their implementation process etc.)
Many small businesses start off with introductory software which is great if that’s all they need. But if your business is growing and you plan to continue its growth, the right ERP software can actually grow with your business, without the need of having to switch over again.
Here are a few reasons that might’ve triggered your search for ERP Software:
1.??????Your Current Software is No Longer Supported
Out with the old and in with the new! If the software system you are currently using is no longer supported, consider switching over. The lack of maintenance and support means you’re risking security issues, IT Issues and missed opportunities that are associated with new technology.
2.??????You Want to Move Your Business to the Cloud
Moving your business to the Cloud can open opportunities and especially sets your company up for success in future years to come. Cloud-Based software is accessed via RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) that allows you to connect from your device, to a different computer, over the internet. Cloud-Based software includes added security because the servers are located off-site in a secure data center and are the responsibility of the vendor. This is opposed to On-Premise software where the servers are your responsibility and may be more receptive to a ransomware attack.
According to the Flexera 2022 State of the Cloud Report, Cloud spend by SMBs reflects a massive uptake with 53% of SMBs spending more than $1.2 million. This is up from 38%, last year. Key Takeaway: The Cloud is a vital piece of technology used around the world.
3.??????Poor Technical Support
Technical support is an overlooked aspect of software shopping. Good support is crucial to lasting success. Access to a good support team allows you to ask specific questions to the software experts. Support teams can provide a range of assistance from technical issues with the software to general questions on how features of the software work. ?
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Big ERP vendors likely have 24/7 support which is great, but also means you probably won’t talk to the same person twice.
Small ERP Vendors have specialized support that (they may not be available 24/7) will know exactly who you are and what your company does. This way, the solution to the issue is reached much quicker because the knowledgeable Help Desk Agent will know exactly how to help you fix the issue at hand.
Is Now the Right Time?
“Now is a bad time.”
"I'm too busy right now"
“I don’t have time”
Do you find time slipping away? Most small business owners do!
The reality is; things won’t be completed unless they are STARTED. It’s not that you don’t have the time, it’s that you just haven’t made the time. Make your software search and implementation a priority and dedicate time on your calendar to either discuss with your team what you need or discuss with vendors on whether their solution is a good fit. It’s never a good idea to rush an implementation, so give yourself (and team) time!
A few things to think about when determining timing:
1.???????Determining the Best Season for Your Business
The truth is, there is never going to be a “perfect time” to buy software. Take your time researching for the best fit and once you find it, schedule you implementation during a slow period for your business. This may sound counter intuitive as a new software implementation would be perfect to have during the busiest time of the year, however, in practice software must be implemented after it is purchased.
An implementation is a lot of work and depending on the type of software, can take a large amount of time. Putting your business in a position that rushes an implementation process can cripple the value that the software provides and can lead to issues down the road when the software is at the core of your business. You want to make sure that this process is done correctly the first time.?
2.??????Think About Your People
For your new software to be effective and worthwhile, your employees will need comprehensive training. Often new software systems are complex and contain features that will be completely new to employees. Depending on the software you decide to purchase, training times and complexity will vary.
Make sure to speak with you vendor on the kind of training they will provide, if it will be in one session or if they can break it up into small groups.
3.??????Your Organizational Structure
The current state of your organization and your organizational structure will also help you determine if you’re ready for new software. If your organization is going through any kind of change such as a hiring period of new employees or losing an upper-level manger to maternity leave, make sure you are prepared. Software implementations go smoothly when employees have a good understanding of their roles and how an implementation will affect them and their job directly. If there are key pieces to the organization missing, it may negatively affect an implementation. It is a good idea to have all hands-on deck.
If you enjoyed this article and are looking for more insight into your ERP Software search, our Blog has a lot of great content!
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