Choosing the Right ERP Implementation Partner

29 Sep 2020 07:39 AM By Dan Telep

As you select the right ERP system for your organization, you need an implementation partner to get it up and running. However, many things can go wrong when incorporating a new technology to your business – this is especially true for ERPs, considering the complexity and scope of processes they automate. Poor implementation can have dire consequences – millions of dollars have gone down the drain on failed ERP implementations. So it is imperative to pick a strong implementation partner for a successful implementation.


1. Proven Success Stories & Resources

Proven success stories are an indication of a capable ERP implementation partner. Checking their company case studies is a good way to evaluate their success rate. You can also ask them for referrals to past clients and speak to them.  Prior clients will provide unbiased information and insights on your potential ERP implementation partner. This exploration of previous success stories will help you assess whether they are a reliable partner, which is absolutely crucial for a successful ERP implementation.


During this assessment, you can also check whether they have adequate resources for the size of your ERP implementation. If you are a global company, have they handled global ERP implementations successfully?


2. Experience in Your Industry

Aside from proven success stories, you must consider implementation partners with experience in your industry as ERP requirements vary across industries. An implementation partner who knows your industry will be familiar with adapting the ERP to your vertical’s unique requirements. In addition, they will be able to makes these modifications faster thanks to previous experience, which is more cost-effective than a longer implementation.


Another bonus when your implementation partner knows your industry is that they can recommend the features of the ERP software that would be most beneficial for you. Essentially a good ERP implementation partner can help you make the most of the product with training, and keep you updated with the latest changes in industry standards.  


3. Strong Communication with Transparency

Clear Communicating is crucial for any ERP implementation since these are complex projects that may take months or even years. You need a partner you can count on for clear communication during this time-consuming task.


Some questions to ask are:

·  Is your ERP implementation partner locally available?

·  Do they deliver prompt responses to your questions?

·  Do they listen to your requirements and concerns and provide appropriate solutions?


4. Agile Software Implementation Methodology

Ideas are often subject to change and this is no different when it comes to ERP implementations.  Changes might be required when new information impacts the project, or as initial ideas evolve. Your ERP partner must be able to cater to these changes in implementation with flexibility. A company that utilizes agile methodologies will be able to handle these changes and incorporate them quickly.


5. Strong Relationships with ERP provider

In some cases when the implementation partner is not the ERP software developer, you need to make sure that the ERP implementation partner has a good rapport with them. Since your ERP implementation partner is a liaison between you and the ERP developers, a strong relationship with good communication increases the likelihood of a successful implementation.

A simple way to gauge this is by checking if the company has been granted any awards from developers. Awards like these can give you some insight into whether they are a strong candidate for your ERP implementation.


6. Clear Picture of Your Requirements

Having a clear idea of your ERP requirements will help you identify the right implementation partner for the job. Consider questions such as:

·  What technical functions does this ERP implementation seek to accomplish?

·  Which machinery, systems or software need to be integrated into the new ERP?

·  Which systems need to be replaced by the new ERP?

·  What should the UX interface look like to suit your organization’s culture?


The answers to these questions can be conveyed to potential implementation partners, and based on their response you can assess whether they are right for your ERP implementation.



If you’d would like to realize the benefits of a successful ERP implementation in your organization, we can help.  Essential Software Solutions Inc. has Industry 4.0, ERP, Cloud expertise, and over 4 decades of experience helping businesses across Canada successfully implementing ERP systems. Reach out to our team at ESS to find out more.