Choosing ERP software for your company is a stressful and daunting task. After working with companies of all sizes from across North America for the last 26 years, we’ve identified the number one decision that smart people make when choosing ERP software.
The number one thing to consider is the software partner you choose. The best Microsoft partner (VAR) will help you make the right choice for your individual needs and will support your implementation and on-going use of ERP software. Having a personal connection and someone to turn to when there’s an error or when a user needs additional training is vital to success across the organization.
Do your homework
Just because there’s a Microsoft partner in your backyard doesn’t mean they’re necessarily going to be the best fit for your organization. Do your research on the partner, read through their website and find out what industries they serve and if they specialize in any specific field or skill. Ask for white papers and case studies that apply to how your business plans on utilizing ERP software.
Customers are able to review Microsoft partners on the Pinpoint website. Read through those reviews to find out what actual customers say about your prospective software partner. (Read DFC's reviews here)
Interview potential software partners like you would an employee. Find out everything you can about them, but also find out how much they know about you. A good partner will have an understanding of your business prior to sitting down with you. Find out what other companies like yours they have worked with and get references from those businesses.
Don’t fall for the sales pitch
Be leery of any software sales professional who promises the moon. If you’re only hearing “yes, yes, yes”, you may want to reevaluate the partner you have chosen. The partner that you meet with should be an expert on Microsoft Dynamics GP and should offer you best practice scenarios to fit your company that you may not have previously considered.
Keep in mind that although Microsoft Dynamics GP fits many company’s needs right out of the box, you may have additional needs that require a more in-depth solution. A good partner will have relationships with Independent Software Vendors (ISV’s) that offer the add-on product that you need for a seamless and effective system. (If you’re wondering why Microsoft Dynamics GP needs add-on products read this post.)
ERP software is extremely complicated and will take time to implement and launch, not to mention the time it will take to train your team. Have realistic expectations of a time frame from purchase to go-live.
Go With Your Gut
The best software partner will look out for your company’s best interest, even if that means recommending that you reach out to a different software provider. Before you write that check make sure you’re feeling secure with your decision and you trust that the Microsoft partner you have chosen will do everything they can to make sure your business succeeds.
Interview DFC Consultants and find out if we will fit your needs.
By DFC Consultants