Large-scale, high-cost ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) failures make for compelling news, but project failures can easily be avoided by engaging with a third-party consulting firm. Experienced consultants reduce risk and guarantee that software projects are seamlessly integrated into each client’s specific business processes. However, in order to achieve ERP success, manufacturers and distributors must choose the right partner. Any company can sell software, but the real test is putting it into action according to your individual needs, budget, and timeframe. We’ve developed a list of the most critical factors to consider when hiring an ERP consultant.
1. Length of Time in Business
Their time in this business can help you identify the way they treat their customers and how they apply their market experience to offer you consultancy.
2. The Financial Strength of Consultant Business
For a large project, you’ll need to add consultants to your team. Ascertain if they are aware of their responsibility to safeguard your interests. Find assistance with the necessary knowledge and tried-and-true methods. Your ERP selection and implementation can be completed in a timely and cost-effective manner. This is the point where they need to prove their financial standing to you.
3. Recommendations From Credible Sources
Request that each member of your team submits their own rankings. Then, for each point, tally up the totals and take an average. Examine outlier scores: if four team members gave it a one and one gave it a five, the average is two, but it’s likely that the consultant isn’t a good fit.
4. Specialization in Your Chosen ERP System
Your consultants should recommend automated testing tools that they are familiar with. They should also assist in the setup of test processes, and they should be able to identify the source of test issues until your team becomes more familiar with the new ERP.
5. Specialization in Your Business Niche
Inquire about assistance in establishing the project management framework. They’ve done it previously and should be able to assist with measurement and communication.
Your IT department will require assistance with data conversion. They will need to learn the new system even though they are familiar with the legacy data format. To pass all system validations, your consultant should know the proper order in which to load data into various tables.
6. The Expertise of Specific Consultant Personnel in Specific Areas Such as Training, Testing, etc.
Your consultants may have a training expert on staff who can assist you in creating the training materials you’ll utilise. That expert can also prepare your super users, who are already skilled at their vocations but aren’t yet certified trainers. After the consultants are gone, those super users will be the core trainers, and fresh users will be hired in the future.
Your ideal scenario on go-live day is to manage the instant conversion and first use of your new ERP with your own staff.
7. Read Consultant Testimonials
Never forget to read testimonials. It is a way that can lead you to the right choice. You can also get it through your evaluation process, and your team members can help you do it.
Bottom Line
You’ve made your final decision, and your project has begun. However, the assessment must continue. Request that your team members keep a journal of their interactions with your consulting firm. Were they punctual? How well do they fit into your lifestyle? Have they supplied you with the guidance and support you require? Although the consulting parent group is unlikely to be fired, individual members may require a course correction. Allowing problems to fester will cause your project to progress more slowly. Your consultants want to make a good first impression and finish their assignments successfully.
However, keeping these factors in mind can help with a better choice.
