What you Should Look for When Searching for ERP Providers

The need for ERP started long ago when companies first began growing. With larger companies looking for ways to streamline their businesses, ERP was born. ERP providers today are marketing their product with that exact thought in mind. Knowing that they need to meet the needs of their customers, they will do what they can to keep their product fresh and current. There are however, a few things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect ERP provider.

The ERP Providers Design

Look at how the ERP providers package their features. Not all companies are alike which means that a standard package that fits one company may not fit your company at all. Companies vary in size and product so your ERP providers should have varying packages as well to ensure that they meet the exact needs you want met.

Search the ERP Providers Pros

There are a few pros to look for when looking at ERP providers:

  • A unified tracking system that will track a product from creating to completion
  • Centralized databases that reduce the redundancy of current software
  • Ability to control who views what data so that data is not put into the wrong hands
  • Makes the best use of marketing campaigns, tracking customers and sales

Search the ERP Providers Cons as Well

Even though companies have a long list of pros, make sure you avoid some of the cons:
High cost should be avoided by everyone; subscription packages are available to eliminate the overhead cost
Lengthy training can reduce your resources greatly and turn your employees off on the decision to switch
Length of deployment should be within your time frame and not something that takes years to complete

A Current List of the Top ERP Providers

Although there are hundreds of providers to choose from when searching ERP providers, the current list of the top providers may give you a place to start:

These companies are all great ERP providers who offer top of the line products. Some companies such as Infor Global Solutions, The Sage Group, Microsoft, SAP and others have multiple ERP products to choose from. No matter which vendor you choose to go with, make sure the ERP provider has everything you want in their software package.

There is never any harm in having too much software but not getting enough will only cause headaches in the long run. Give your company room to grow when making your selection as well; never limit yourself by what you do today.