Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a significant investment for any business.
It’s important to ensure that it aligns with your unique business needs, and one of the most effective ways to do this is with a Proof of Concept (PoC).
A PoC is a series of workshops to test the system’s capabilities in real-world scenarios related to your business.
1. ERP System Flow Workshops
During the PoC, you will be guided through the standard flow of the ERP system through a series of workshops. These sessions demonstrate how the system handles core processes in areas such as manufacturing, inventory management, procurement and order fulfilment. By simulating these processes within the ERP, you can see firsthand how the system operates and how it could be adapted to fit your specific business requirements.
2. Mapping to Business Processes
Your input to the PoC is to explain your unique business processes as you progress through the workshops. The system’s native functionalities won’t exactly match with how you currently work, and in the PoC we will explore whether the ERP system can support your unique operations and ensure that any necessary adjustments or customisations are identified early in the process.
3. Gap Analysis
One output of the PoC is a thorough gap analysis, identifying discrepancies between your business requirements and the ERP system’s capabilities. This analysis helps pinpoint areas where additional customisations or third-party solutions may be needed to bridge the gaps.
4. Documentation and Reporting
It is strongly recommend that a Solution Summary Document is created to document the proposed system flow and configuration, which will help you to make informed decisions about the full ERP implementation.
5. Post-PoC Evaluation
Once the PoC is complete, a thorough evaluation is conducted to review the findings and help you make the final decision on whether to proceed with the ERP system and what adjustments or additional components may be needed.
Next steps:
If the gap analysis recommends third-party add-ons (especially Connectors) a more detailed evaluation may be required before the final decision is made.
Evaluating Third-Party Add-Ons and Integrations
Many ERP systems offer a range of add-ons to extend their functionality. These include connectors for integration with other applications, advanced reporting tools and industry-specific modules. During the PoC, you’ll assess these add-ons to determine if they meet your needs and integrate seamlessly with the core ERP system.
Third-Party Add-Ons:
Functionality Assessment: Evaluate whether third-party add-ons provide the additional features or capabilities your business requires. This includes checking if they enhance the system’s functionality without compromising performance.
Compatibility Check: Ensure that the add-ons are fully compatible with the ERP system and do not introduce conflicts or issues.
Integrations:
Integration Testing: Test integrations with other essential systems, such as CRM software, eCommerce platforms, or shipping providers. This helps confirm that data flows smoothly between systems and that there are no data silos.
Vendor Evaluation: Assess the reliability and support offered by third-party vendors. A reliable integration partner will ensure that the integration is smooth and that any issues are resolved promptly.
Conclusion
A well-executed PoC clearly explains how an ERP system will function within your business environment. By evaluating these components during the PoC, you ensure that the final ERP solution will meet your needs, streamline operations, and deliver a robust return on investment. This approach mitigates risks and sets the stage for a smoother, more successful ERP implementation.
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