ERP
(Enterprise Resource Planning) software, also known as Enterprise Resource
Planning, is a software that automates
business management processes and provides internal controls by using a central database that collects inputs from departments such as accounting, production, supply management, sales,
marketing and human resources. Trying to complete or try to complete the workthat brings together a large number of stakeholders in many
operations consisting of a combination of different departments with various
responsibilities can be quite risky in
the absence of ERP software . When the
information needed to manage the process and make important decisions is not
integrated, it can have an impact that hinders collaboration and efficiency
within the enterprise.
ERP systems have been developed tosolve this problem by providing managers and
employees with cross-departmental visibility, compiling information in a
central database. ERP systems can provide better productivity as well as cost
savings thanks to their advantages such as performing long-term analysis,
reporting output and process improvement.
Considering the scale of the benefit that
businesses provide to their operational processes, Enterprise Resource
Planning, that is, the process of integrating the ERP system into the company
for the first time, can be a complex process. As its application to businesses
requires time and attention, it is also complicated for employees and business
owners to adapt to the system and learn how to use it effectively. Once ERP
software is integrated into businesses, it not only changes the technology
used, but also significantly affects the company culture. Integrating ERP software correctly and ideally
provides businesses with benefits such as synchronizing all information and
facilitating business operations.
A well-implemented ERP system is a great
opportunity for companies to reduce costs. It can help improve productivity,
efficiency, and cross-departmental collaboration. This value that companies add
to their internal operations can give them the advantage of being one step
ahead of the competition.
There are many reasons why ERP software is used by
businesses. With some basic steps to be followed, it can be ensured that the
ERP software used is correct and applicable. There are important steps to be considered for
a successful ERP system.
1. Goals and objectives should be
determined. In order for the ERP system to be efficient in line with the goals and objectives of the
companies , the goals and objectives of
the enterprises must first be determined. Key Performance Indicators that serve
to measure the performance of
businesses, teams, individuals or a
project are the ability to measure success as well as a comprehensive overview of how they perform in designated areas and how
growth is achieved provides the angle. This broad perspective to
be used when setting goals provides insight into future projections. With the indicators,
businesses can be more easily adapted to change and facilitate the
implementation process of ERP systems.
2. Identifying an ERP consultant simplifies
the implementation process. Finding a competent and skilled ERP consultant
contributes to the smooth progress of the implementation process. A
professional with the right expertise and experience will guide employees
through the change process. it helps to convey the roles and responsibilities of
employees in an explanatory way, as well
as to fully explain the impact on the business.
Identifying the consultant will facilitate the communication and
management process while giving the
business an advantage to focus on all other tasks without spending time on ERP
implementation.
3. The choice of a suitable ERP softwareis
an important step. Determining an ERP software in line with your
needs is perhaps the most important step you will take. Not every ERP solution
can provide the same benefit to every company. The same ERP that's perfect for
one business may not be able to meet the specific needs of another business. A
single software logic that fits every business may not be a correct logic. Dynamics including business needs, the sector
in which it is located as well as future expectations require a smooth match
between the business and the ERP system. ERP consultants can help whether an
in-house harmonized ERP system or an ERP
system with a cloud solution will adapt to the business.
4. It is necessary to perform the data
transfer correctly. Data transfer is a very important step for a
successful ERP implementation. Getting the data flowing right allows operations
to move forward effectively, while correcting mistransfer requires extra time
and effort. Everything that is out of date needs to be filtered out of date so
that all data is clean and accurate before it is converted to the new ERP
system. The transfer of filtered and purged data enables efficiency and data
integrity to be achieved.
5. The system needs to be configured. Once the right ERP software for the needs has
been found and the data transfer has been carried out correctly, it is time to
start the system and implement the selected ERP solution. Once the
infrastructure is in place, business needs to be optimized and the ERP system
needs to be configured. Depending on the software and supplier chosen, the
length of the process varies. Some ERP software may take longer to install while it
is more robust, while some software may
be ready for implementation as soon as it is received. It can take time for a good supplier to do due
diligence and audit requirements. Suppliers who don't take the time to due
diligence may leave behind a problematic system that doesn't meet needs when
it's time to implement. Carrying out the whole process with the trainer will prevent
problems that may be encountered in the future.
6. Testing the system and training
employees is important for a seamless ERP experience. Once the ERP system is configured, the testing
phase is the only way to make sure everything is working . Testing is an important part of the ERP
implementation process because it provides a clear idea of the system's
performance. Going live without properly performing system and user testing can
cause some errors. On the other hand, the test phase can be used to train
employees. Knowing how the ERP software process works will be very useful for
the smooth operation of the system.
