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.
