It is not uncommon to have buyer’s remorse. Anytime you purchase a large ticket item and something goes wrong, you start to wonder if you selected the wrong item. Did you do enough research? Were there better options you passed up? Trust me, this is normal. Especially for a purchase as large as an ERP system. Many factors can cause you to question the quality or usability of the ERP you choose for your organization. It could be that there are processes that just don’t work or are too slow, or maybe you are using a workaround that is just too complicated or too time consuming. Before you do something rash, you need to consider: If you are still having issues with the processes you thought the ERP would improve, maybe the issue is NOT the ERP system.
We discuss with our clients the importance of having a project management plan, including training and check-ins on how to get your staff up-to-speed on how to use they system the way you need it to function for you. Business Process Management(BPM) is the practice of evaluating, reviewing, and changing the business processes that make up your organizations daily workflow. ERP systems are installed to tie all your systems and business practices together in one system. But, this system can’t work without cooperation from a fully-functioning BPM. It is a myth that ERP and BPM accomplish the same thing and having both systems creates redundancy. It is true that you can run both systems independent of each other, but why would you want to. Your BPM system adds a level of control and process management across your organization. It can help tie all your systems and applications that your ERP system might not be connected to. Using a BPM system in conjunction with your ERP system can give you the clearest, most accurate view of your organization. BPM can even help detect any broken or insufficient processes that may be slowing the ERP down.
I am not saying that your business processes are indeed the issue you are experiencing with your ERP system, but I am suggesting you take a hard look at your business processes and how you are using them. If your ERP system isn’t getting your desired outcome, you need to take a look at how you are using the system. You may a big decision when you selected your ERP system, you owe yourself and your business the same due diligence when it comes to making the system implementation successful and the system up and running effectively. 2W not only performs Epicor ERP installations, but we offer training and troubleshooting on systems to help you maximize your ERP investment. Don’t let another day go by questioning if you selected the right system. Seek help and get the answers you need.
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