3 Questions Manufacturers Need to Ask Before Selecting a New ERP System

Posted on: January 16, 2020 | By: Guy Logan | Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central partner

Logan Consulting is a Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Partner based in Chicago and something we see regularly is manufacturers deciding to implement a new ERP system. Have you ever thought about what goes into selecting a new ERP system? Or, have you ever thought about the details of what goes behind an implementation and what your end goal is? Here are a few questions manufacturers need to think about before choosing a new ERP system like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central:

What are your true goals and objectives?

While it may seem obvious, it is crucial to define the goals and objectives for the project. For example, are reducing lead times or increasing inventory turns important? You may want to do a project in phases, so a simple goal like a defined go-live by a certain date with inventory, financials, and orders is reasonable. If you begin with a goal in mind, it will be much easier to achieve a fully implemented Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP system.

What type of manufacturer are you & should your ERP system be industry specific?

As a Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central partner, we believe you should ask yourself, “are your manufacturing processes discrete in nature? Or repetitive? Or more process/batch oriented? Mix?” You need to find a solution that will fit the way you manufacture. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central may or may not fit the specific way you manufacture. Certainly, we would suggest that finding a match is a key requirement in your decision-making process.

Many manufacturers think they are incredibly unique, but the reality is that their product or service offering is unique, but the way they process transactions is the same as millions of other manufacturers. That being said, you should seek a solution that has companies in your same industry with satisfied clients. Just don’t make that the sole decision criteria.

What benefits do you hope to gain from your ERP system?

The typical ERP selection cycle is long, and you will see many demos and hear from many salespeople.  Over time you may not even be able to remember which solution does what. So it is key to keep the end in mind. You have to always refer back to your critical requirements. If you are not sure which solution is right for your company, go back to your key requirements and see which solution meets those the best.  The solution that meets your key requirements the best is likely the best solution for your company.  And while this may sound obvious, I can assure you this approach is often not followed.

These are three questions Logan Consulting believes manufacturers need to ask before selecting an ERP system. If you want to learn more about selecting an ERP system for a manufacturing company download our whitepaper “24 Questions Manufacturers Need to Ask Before Selecting a New ERP System” or feel free to contact Logan Consulting, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central partner.



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