When explaining why most ERP projects fail, we touched on must-haves. What do we mean by that? ERP must-haves encompass vital features.
Sadly, finding them can be hard. For instance, you need to identify what’s “life or death.” That’s different from efficient features. Often, clients identify good additions as fundamental.
What are must-haves?
Effective Database Management has a great explanation. Must-haves are primary features in ERP software. Without them, your ERP system will be incomplete.
How are they special?
They’re different from other criteria. The MSCW selection method uses several categories:
- Must have.
- Should have.
- Could have.
- Won’t have.
“Must have” refers to a higher priority. For instance, “should have” are useful features. Yet, foregoing them won’t negate your returns.
What are crucial ERP must-haves?
Naturally, they’ll differ with your goals. For example, CRM functionality is critical for some companies. Yet, others might not deem it important. Below, you’ll find excellent insight from SelectHub.
Integrations
Integrations refer to cross-platform connectivity. For instance, many ERP systems integrate with CRM and marketing tools. ERP doesn’t need marketing functionality. But, connectivity can save time and resources. Likewise, automation is a must for most companies.
Data management
Data management and tracking is ERP’s foundation. Thus, most experts agree it’s most system’s backbone. As such, financial and resource management must be available.
Reports
Financial management means little if you can’t assess it. Thus, reports are crucial for ERP users. Essentially, it’s how you streamline ERP usage across departments. Moreover, reading ease is a huge advantage.
Accounting
As mentioned, financial management is fundamental. As such, most ERP software offers solid accounting features. Many of our clients move their accounting departments entirely to their ERP.
Asset management
Like accounting, managing resources is essential. Your ERP software must offer real-time insight into your assets. It allows inventory tracking, human resources, and more.
Supply chain management
Finally, identifying and monitoring supply chains is crucial. Naturally, that’s not true for every company. It depends on your industry and operations. Yet, the majority of firms use some form of supply chain.
How can you find the ERP must-haves?
Identifying must-haves requires self-assessment. Likewise, proper forecasting and budgeting shed more light. It can be difficult if you’re not used to doing so. Luckily, we’re here to help.
Assessing these needs is part of our service. Thus, our free consultation can prove vital for any ERP investment.