How to Choose an ERP Consultant for Your Business?

Do you know that a study by Gartner has confirmed that about 55-75% of the ERP implementation falls short of meeting its objectives? There can be several reasons behind this; however, the most prominent one is choosing an inexperienced ERP consultant.

Acknowledging the need for an ERP system is just half the job done. To make sure the Dynamics ERP is in line with your business requirements and is successfully implemented, you need the guidance and support of an ERP consultant like Dynamics Square.

This post addresses the most frequently asked questions about an ERP consultant:

What is an ERP Consultant?

The term ‘ERP Consultant’ can be used for both—professionals and companies. An ERP software consultant helps businesses choose and implement the right ERP based on their specific business requirements and objectives.

What does an ERP Consultant Do?

An ERP consultant offers ERP consulting services that primarily include ERP implementation and maintenance support. Professionals, working with an ERP consultant company, audit business operations and gather in-depth information on different processes to configure the Microsoft Dynamics ERP so that it is in line with the requirements of the business.

What is ERP Consulting?

Seeking the help of professionals in determining and implementing the right ERP is known as ERP consulting. For instance, Dynamics Square, a Microsoft Dynamics Partner company, offers ERP consulting services.

How to Choose an ERP Implementation Consultant?

The market is full of ERP consultants offering ERP consulting services. However, the decision must be taken only after careful consideration. The final decision would be critical because it would have a direct impact on your business. You can always look for the following traits while shortlisting potential ERP consultants:

1. Industry Experience & Specialization

The ERP consulting firm must have a strong background in implementing ERP systems, especially in the industry your business belongs to. Get in touch with the experts at the firm to understand their expertise and ability to customize and deploy an ERP as per your business needs.

A credible ERP consultant will have a deep understanding of your business and its various key processes. They are more likely to keep up with the latest trends and provide solutions that are closely aligned with your business needs.

2. Proven Track Record

When interacting with a potential ERP consultant, do not go by their words alone. Make sure to ask for concrete evidence that may include references and case studies from previous projects, similar in scope to yours. It will provide you with valuable insights into their expertise in successful ERP implementation.

3. Clear Communication

To be able to communicate clearly, the ERP consultant must have the required technical expertise. Make sure to check if the ERP consultants is an authorized partner and has the required certification and resources to ensure successful ERP implementation.

Being a Microsoft Solutions Partner, Dynamics Square banks on a team of qualified professionals who have the expertise to comprehend, evaluate, and communicate the needs of the business clearly.

A good ERP consultant like Dynamics Square puts clients’ interests above all and goes the extra mile to work in tandem with your team to help you achieve the desired outcomes.

4. Pricing and Value Proposition

Price is a decisive factor when it comes to partnering with an ERP consultants. However, the focus should always be to ensure you get the best value for your investment.

While the price should not be the only deciding factor, it is always wise to thoroughly compare quotes from different ERP consultants and go with the one that has a proven track record and offers quality service at a competitive price.

5. Availability for Ongoing Support

Constant support during the ERP implementation process and even beyond is critical for businesses. Make sure to get all terms and conditions in writing before signing a contract with an ERP consultant. ERP implementation is a lengthy process and may take up to 6-12 months to complete.

During this phase, the consultant must be available at every step of the process, right from the selection of functionalities to the final deployment. It is their responsibility to ensure all business needs have been taken care of.

Other than managing technical requirements, they must have strategies to help the business undergo this transformation by means of proper training and change management.

Want to learn more about ERP implementation? Get in touch with your Dynamics 365 implementation partner for a detailed discussion. We are here to help you.