Let’s
start at the beginning. Most people coming across this blog already have
a Microsoft Dynamics system in place, but a lot of companies are doing research
out there to find what the right ERP software is for their business. They are
going to come across the ERP software blog because it’s such a reputable source
for information, so let’s help out and start with the basics.
ERP consulting consists of the
service provided for selection, implementation, training, support and guidance
of an Enterprise Resource Planning system. A fully integrated ERP system, in
turn, will consist of integrated business applications that include: human resources,
finance, order processing, shipping and receiving and a sales and service
function.
Understanding
your needs is the first component of picking an ERP consultant, but beyond that
what is ERP consulting exactly? Here are a few things to consider:
Need
You
may be asking why do I need a consultant and that is a very valid question.
Before you begin to pick one, the question you should focus on is, why would I
try to implement an ERP without one? You are already busy with, well, business;
and to take on the task of properly purchasing and executing an implementation
is no easy matter. This is one area that you do not want buyer's remorse
setting in 6 months after implementation. Bring in the expert and save the
headache for something else. In fact, the primary function of the ERP
consultant is to assist with the complete transition from old ERP to the new.
From understanding your business requirements, to evaluating proper solutions,
to installing, training and fine tuning the product to fit your needs. All, or
any single part of this process, can be handled by the consulting team
Type
Which
brings up the question of type, which type of consultant do I need? Consultants
assist with all stages of ERP implementation, so you will need to determine
which need do you most need help with? In most cases, all stages are foreign to
the organization, because it is not the organization's job to implement ERP
software or hardware. However, some stages might be easier for you to complete
prior to bringing in the consultant. For instance, maybe your company is in
tune with all the needs it has and you have already identified what you need to
do the work you do. Make your lists, check them twice, and call the consultant.
Or maybe you do not want to replace your shipping and receiving software or
sales software, but need a better order entry and finance component, then the
consultant can address that specific need for you.
Knowledge
As
with any decision, knowledge is power. Understand, a consultant is there as an
advisor and a good consultant will give good advice. You need a consultant with
years of industry knowledge and implementation capabilities that will listen to
your needs and provide proper support. Go with a partner that has many years of
experience, a large in-house consulting team, in-house development team, and a
proven track record with many similar clients in your same industry.
to
see if TMC’s 30 plus years in the ERP industry, over 400 years of consulting
expertise within our in-house staff, and over 1,000 successful implementations
can help your company with your ERP project. We will provide the proper support
and services for your implementation, but most of all will be an advisor to
help your company continue to grow and prosper.
ERP Consultant
Skills
An ideal candidate for the ERP Consultant position
will be a technical-minded person who is able to understand complex system and
juggle multiple systems at the same time. They will be flexible and will need
to be able to incorporate multiple perspectives and needs into a cohesive
whole. A combination of people skills, technical ability and an eagerness to
learn are needed. As the field evolves fast, the job changes frequently and
requires a fast-thinking individual. In addition, some more specific skills are
needed, such as those below.
·
Technical/Coding
Skills – The job of an ERP Consultant is based around
troubleshooting and upgrading the ERP software. As such, the ideal candidate
will come in with extensive knowledge of software and coding, and a readiness
to learn new programs as they are introduced and incorporated.
·
Problem-Solving
Skills – An ERP Consultant will be on call to handle any
issues with the ERP Software. They will need to be able to think creatively and
resolve problems to ensure the smoothest possible experience for users of the
ERP software.
·
Teamwork and
Leadership – The ERP consultant is responsible for
coordinating the needs of each of the company’s divisions. They must be able to
lead meetings to collect information and then unite these disparate visions
into a cohesive whole for the entire company,
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