// FEATURE // knowledge, scalability and best practices can be passed on to customers.

Potential users should always work through a list of questions to the provider. What’ s the quality of the cloud? How will migration work, and how best to handle the legacy systems? How do you transition from your old system to the new system? What data do you want to retrieve and for what purpose? The latter should always be the data that’ s absolutely core to the business – employees, means of production, IP( how products are made, who are your suppliers and customers) and all financial data.

Carrie Tallett, Senior Product Manager, Forterro’ s Orderwise

FURTHERMORE, IDENTIFYING AND CELEBRATING SMALL WINS EARLY IN THE PROCESS CAN BUILD MOMENTUM AND DEMONSTRATE THE NEW SYSTEM’ S BENEFITS.

solutions are made by some of the biggest companies in the world and have an undoubted appeal because of that. Yet, just because a provider is familiar does not mean it’ s the best choice for your business.

There is less value to be found in a general, one-size-fits-all option when compared to a platform that has been iteratively improved over decades, all by taking onboard feedback from customers from your sector and that are a similar size. In a wholesale business, for example, specialised software can focus on the unique challenges of managing the stock journey, amongst many other operational aspects. Furthermore, general ERP solutions can lack industryspecific functionality, highlighting the importance of a partner who operates within your industry.

Cloud ERP vs on-premises ERP

Then there’ s the question of cloud or onpremises ERP. Although strong on-prem solutions are still available, any forwardthinking organisation should select cloud ERP or at least a hybrid solution.

It’ s also important to avoid running before you can walk with this. If your business has been primarily analogue to this point, then a phased approach to ERP implementation is best. This allows gradual adaptation and integration, minimising disruption and allowing users to become accustomed to it.

Change is good – make that clear and tangible

For any SME to get the most from an ERP system, it must be fully integrated into their day-to-day operations and workflows. It must also connect with other technologies used in the business. This requires thorough planning and understanding of the business needs, with system integration carried out in partnership with the ERP provider.

From here, the focus should turn to change management. People can be nervous about new technologies, and ERP is no exception. Change management is, therefore, crucial for maximising the value of ERP. Engaging with employees, reassuring them and addressing their concerns helps gain their support. Providing initial and refresher training for users is also essential, ensuring they are ready from day one and can pave the way for success.

Anyone thinking about cloud ERP should focus on a provider that uses AWS. There are other options, of course, but using AWS means all the benefits of AWS innovation, infrastructure

30 Intelligent SME. tech