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For many growing businesses, manual processes, scattered spreadsheets, and disconnected systems can only take you so far.
This is when an ERP becomes essential. Choosing the right ERP is a pivotal decision. The right solution can drive long-term success, while the wrong one can lead to inefficiencies, frustration, and wasted resources. Despite their best efforts, many decision-makers find the process overwhelming and prone to costly mistakes.
At Uniware, we understand these challenges firsthand. We’ve stepped in to solve problems and guide countless businesses in manufacturing, distribution, and logistics through successful ERP selection and implementation.
Drawing on this expertise, we’ve identified nine common pitfalls to avoid when choosing an ERP for your business.
1. Overlooking scalability
Your business is growing – that’s why you’re investing in an ERP. But will your chosen system grow with you? Too often, businesses opt for solutions that meet their current needs but don’t consider long-term scalability. Don’t make this mistake. Choose an ERP that has the flexibility to upgrade and expand as your operations do, without causing major disruption or forcing you to start over.
2. Letting cost dictate your choice
Cost will always be a factor, but focussing solely on price can lead to big compromises. If you go straight for the cheapest ERP, you may end up with a solution that lacks the critical features your business needs. On the other hand, just because a solution is the most expensive option does not necessarily mean it’s the best – particularly if you are a growing business. A large enterprise scale solution may just overwhelm your team with undue complexities or offer features and functions you simply don’t need. The best approach? Prioritise value and industry relevance over price alone.
3. Neglecting industry-specific requirements
A one-size-fits-all ERP is unlikely to address the unique nuances of your sector. For example, a manufacturing-focussed ERP will likely offer specific production scheduling tools that a more generic system may lack. Look for an ERP built with your industry in mind to avoid costly workarounds later. This often means choosing a provider with industry expertise and a proven track record of solving sector-specific challenges.
4. Underestimating implementation complexities
ERP implementation isn’t a plug-and-play process. From data migration to training, it’s a complex journey and underestimating these complexities can lead to major issues, particularly if you don’t have the expertise or resources in-house to resolve issues quickly. Choose a provider with the expertise to guide you through each step of the implementation, integration and rollout process.
5. Support location and availability
Global ERP providers can often seem attractive – but they may lack the local understanding and support you need. Choosing a local provider who understands local regulations and can resolve issues in your time zone can prove a critical advantage for fast-growing businesses.
6. Lack of customisation
Choosing an out-of-the-box ERP might seem appealing because of its apparent simplicity, but it can limit your capabilities and hold you back from peak performance. Instead, choose an ERP that offers flexibility and can be tailored to your unique workflows, processes, and infrastructure. Every business is unique – your ERP should be too.
7. Not involving the team
Your ERP will only succeed if your team embraces it. A purely top-down implementation can lead to resistance and underutilisation. Instead, engage your team early – gather input, involve key stakeholders, and include those who will use the ERP daily, making everyone feel part of the journey. This collaborative approach will foster ownership and adoption. Additionally, invest in tailored, hands-on training to empower your team and encourage confidence in using the ERP. Make sure to ask your provider if they offer this support – it’s a key element to ensure your ERP’s success.
8. Overlooking regular updates, long-term support and maintenance
Choosing the right ERP provider isn’t just about software – it’s about finding a trusted partner dedicated to helping your business thrive. Look for a team that prioritises understanding your unique goals, offers hands-on support, and provides tailored solutions designed for your long-term success.
9. Underestimating the value of partnership
Choosing the right ERP provider isn’t just about software – it’s about finding a trusted partner dedicated to helping your business thrive. Look for a team that prioritises understanding your unique goals, offers hands-on support, and provides tailored solutions designed for your long-term success.
By taking the steps to be informed and avoid these pitfalls, you’ll be setting your business up for success with a solution that scales with you.
Ready to take the next step in your ERP journey?
Download our free ERP Evaluation Toolkit, a practical resource that will empower you to make the best ERP choice for your business.
