Many organizations opt for a custom Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to expand their business ahead of their competitors. Implementation of ERP software comes with its own advantages and disadvantages as it is based on the aspects related to several business verticals. But, most of the companies understand that customized ERP software can streamline their processes, systems, and procedures with robust functionality and productivity.
Deciding to move to an integrated ERP system can be an enormous step for both small businesses and established ones. Therefore, it’s important to look for certain factors when developing custom ERP software for your business.
1. Know your Core Business Requirements
Developing custom ERP software requires robust research in understanding the core requirements of the business. Before implementing an ERP system, check for the total solutions offered by it. Single end-to-end software works better than buying additional point solutions. Build a list of the company’s key objectives and goals before buying an ERP system. Key Performance Indicators (KPI) will help develop a cost-efficient and functional customized ERP system for your company.
2. Better Scalability
Scalability acts as the most important factor in creating custom software for any enterprise. The key objective of any business is growth, which necessitates the option of developing software with greater adaptability. Custom software can give businesses the exact functionality as their software can be reconfigured to the company’s needs.
3. Built-in Analytics and Reporting System
A custom ERP software with built-in business intelligence, analytics, and reporting is crucial for boosting business trends and performance. It is a waste of money to buy a separate reporting system when you can customize the ERP system with the same built-in functionality.
4. Affordable Budget
Businesses must know that the total cost of an ERP system comes the custom software along with its implementation services. Companies can choose on-premise ERP solutions which may include additional costs for servers, IT maintenance, perpetual license fees. While the latest technology of cloud-based ERP solutions will include the option of paying in installments based on the company-specific features and functions.
5. Integration with Social Media
Social media marketing has become a key aspect of next-generation ERP systems. Ensure to choose ERP software with the ability to share information on social media sites. This will help members of the industry to stay connected through their social media accounts.
6. Flexibility and Functionality
A custom ERP solution needs to be a flexible and comprehensive solution that delivers greater productivity and functionality. The greater the functionality; the greater the productivity gains for your enterprise. Custom ERP solutions with modules for inventory management, planning, forecasting, data warehousing, security, finance, sales, and risk management promote better functionality.
7. Industry-Specific Features and Functions
An ERP system must be customized with industry-specific features to make it modern and user-friendly to the employees. A consistent User Interface (UI) will help access each module easily and reduce time to learn unfamiliar parts of the software. With integrated software, you can communicate better with other members of the team while company-specific features will improve productivity.
8. Choose the Right Implementation Partner
One of the crucial decisions to make when building custom ERP software for your business is choosing the perfect implementation partner. Go for companies that create their own cloud-based custom ERP software as they help in configuring the system as per your business requirements. These companies will be better trusted options as their team will be available for repairs and bug fixes at all times.
9. Proper Testing
It is best for businesses to schedule thorough testing after developing their ERP system. This will help understand whether the software is tailored-made to suit your business needs and functions. Proper testing will help fix errors and reduce unnecessary surprises after years of implementation. Even during the implementation process, it is very important to monitor the developments and key performance of the ERP system.
10. Build a Stable Team
A powerful team can help in achieving the stable success of the ERP system as they will be responsible for help desks, testing, training, documentation, and other operational issues and details. Implementing a custom ERP software is a team project involving the software partner, executives, and representatives from the varied business departments. Make sure that roles and responsibilities are made clear within the executive body and to the employees.