For an ERP solution to do you the most good, it has to be tailored to the specific needs of your industry—and your company. Your current software—or some of the software that you're considering—might need to be modified to align with your company's processes. Here are examples of instances in which a system may need modifications so that it work the way your people do: | • | System forms for invoices, pick lists and packing slips because don't match you company or customer needs | | • | Data-entry screens don't correspond to your shipping methods, product categories, and currency codes | | • | Financial reports may not reflect the categories and measures that may be uniquely important to you |
Customizing your ERP software can maximize its benefits to you—but, sometimes, at the cost of locking you into software and vendor relationships that don't meet your long-term needs. So, how can you get a solution that can deliver superb value and is flexible enough to grow with you over time? Consider the three important questions outlined in this article to help ensure that you invest in a system that will meet your ongoing business needs. In these pages, you'll find articles by independent experts, case studies on companies that have met these challenges successfully, as well as demos and specific examples of how the design of one of Microsoft's solutions—Microsoft Dynamics NAV—achieves the balance between customization and flexibility. | • | Is the software customizable?
When your evaluating your current software or a prospective solution, make sure it's easy to make minor modifications to match the way your employees work. | | • | Will it integrate with your system?
You should be able to integrate your ERP solution easily with other software and technologies that your company uses, so you can take advantage of the IT investments you've already made. | | • | Do you have an experienced technology partner?
A technology partner who understands your industry, company, and local business requirements can be invaluable in helping you select and tailor an ERP solution to fit your specific needs. |
Mark Levenson is a New York-based writer whose work has appeared in New York Magazine, Wharton Magazine, Dun’s Review, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Miami Herald, and other publications.
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