HEIDI’S BUSINESS MINUTE: 6/27/2012

Trend On Co-Host Heidi Feemster

For the last several weeks we have talked about ERP, that is Enterprise Resource Planning and the how to’s of implementing a system.
This week we focus more on how to choose a specific ERP system.
This week we focus more on how to choose a specific ERP system Buying decision.

Chosing a Specific ERP System:  The COST of the DEAL

The cost of the software or the monthly SaaS subscription, ~ SaaS being Software as a Solution, is just the first item on your list.

In preparing your Shopping List for what to buy included in your ERP Solution — make sure you look at the Price Column Side as well.  What will the Wish List Cost?  What Do You Need… Want? LISTS are our Friends! The LIST will help you make a better ERP buying decision.

THE COSTS:  The true total cost, in addition to SaaS,  of any ERP solution also includes:

+Implementation
+Customization
+Management Services
+Training
+Additional Hardware — for On-site Solution or
More Bandwidth for a Web-based Product
+Additional IT Staff

TAKE THE DEMO OUT FOR A TEST DRIVE

Many companies offer online demos of their products but they don’t go in depth. Meet in Person with the Vendor — Go through each Module in Depth — Experience the ERP System before Implementing — Before You Buy… Take a Test Drive.

Put different Drivers from the various Departments into the Driver Seat of their respective Modules.  Include employees from different departments who will use ERP to evaluate how well the solution would support your business.

Then, Step Away from the ERP System Before  you Sign on the Dotted Line. Evaluate how well the proposed ERP system will be the Right Solution for your Business. If the Bells & Whistles need to be tweaked — the time to do that is before you buy.

Next week more on how to choose a specific ERP vendor.

Heidi’s Business Minute as heard on TREND ON with Tamara Leigh and Heidi Feemster on Wed.,  June 27, 2012. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/linkedlocalnetwork/2012/06/27/trend-on-with-danielle-johnson-and-belinda-jo-sain-cronin

Trend On Co-Host Tamara Leigh