How to Choose the Best ERP Consulting Services for Your Enterprise

Introduction



Efficient business processes are the key to enterprise survival. Enterprises across the globe use Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) tools to hold enterprise applications together and manage their operations efficiently. Implementation of ERP solutions is done by ERP companies that use an integrated approach to align business processes to the solution. With experienced Project teams, strong Product knowledge and robust technology Practices, these companies are able to successfully deliver ERP implementation Projects, across Industry verticals.



Among the popular ERP suites are QAD's MFG/PRO, JD Edwards, Infor ERP Lx (BPCS), SAP, and Microsoft Dynamics NAVISION. Enterprise Service providers offer the 'best-of-breed' ERP application suites that would suit a particular Customer. Since each suite caters to different business processes, it would be ideal for companies to approach a vendor who offers a choice in the selection of a 'best-fit' ERP.



ERP Consulting Services



The success of an ERP Implementation largely depends on a good understanding of the business processes of the particular Industry vertical along with a clear definition of the Customer's business requirements. IT Service providers have Functional domain consultants (Manufacturing, Distribution, Retail, FMCG, Automotive, Pharma, etc.) who can study, analyze and recommend the most suitable solution that will aid enterprises to enhance their efficiency and align their process framework with the industry's best practices.



These consulting services offer functional & technical expert consultants who can ably and efficiently formulate an overall ERP strategy and develop a detailed road map for its implementation. This way, enterprises can tailor processes available within the ERP application to suit their own internal process requirements. They also cater to ERP support services such as SAP support, BPCS support etc.



Three Pointers to aid you in your choice of 'Implementation Partner':

Some of they key points to be verified while choosing your Implementation Partner are:



1. The consulting company should be a 'Distributor Partner / Reseller' for the respective ERP suite. For example, if QAD is offered to clients, then the provider must be a Distributor Partner for QAD Inc., USA.



2. The Implementation Partner should have successfully demonstrated previous experience in the particular Industry vertical (Case Studies), with good knowledge on Technology and processes, including international standards and compliance requirements.



3. The Implementation Partner must be able to deliver practical advice based on years of implementation experience, industry best practices, good understanding of business, and should have a proven track record of delivering results in a time-bound, cost-effective manner.



Benefits of Partnering with an Experienced ERP Provider



1. World-class Defect management, Configuration management and delivery processes means that Customers benefit from bug-free, on-time Project deliveries.



2. Client organizations can expect accurate estimates of size, schedule and effort using models developed with historical data. Since these providers are usually CMMi Level 5 companies, clients can expect quality processes across all domains.



3. Quality compliant providers ensure early detection of defects thereby preventing rework or wastage.



4. Clients can expect reliable processes for management of risk, resources and cost.



Conclusion



Using these key points, client organizations should be able to choose the best ERP consulting Company as their Partners. This first crucial step of selecting the best ERP consulting services for the company will go a long way in ensuring operational fitness and timely deliveries from business process.