The rise of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system deployment goes hand-in-hand with the increased interconnectivity of technology and business. Implementing a new system – or upgrading an existing setup – can be a daunting task, especially for small businesses that need to keep an eye on every dollar.
A new report from IBM details how small and midsized businesses (SMBs) can maximize their ERP return on investment. Many businesses rank ERP applications highly within their IT spending priorities and while demand continues to increase, there are a number of pitfalls that can derail a solution, before it even takes effect. In order to see the ROI, every business needs a real ERP plan.
Many companies believe an ERP implementation solely involves the IT department, an assumption which couldn't be further from the truth. Full business support is required because a new solution can create impacts across many different departments.
ERP solutions also offer a level of customization that can greatly increase the benefits of a system. However, just because a company can add some extra bells and whistles doesn't mean they should. Overcomplicating a process can make it difficult for employees to understand. Streamlining a solution to focus on their specific needs is a better practice.
"ERP software can be an expensive and time-consuming IT investment," concludes the report. "However, when a company selects an ERP that meets current and future requirements and it is implemented properly, it is well worth that investment."
There are a number of benefits to implementing an ERP system. Cost savings, improved operations and supporting organizational growth are just a few of the advantages available to businesses. Partnering with an ERP consulting firm can provide companies with a trusted ally when installing a new system.