How to Optimise your ERP system for added flexibility and value

When was the last time you updated your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system? What about your business, has that changed since your ERP went live? If your company is evolving but not the software it depends upon, you may be storing up long-term problems. That’s why John Bell, Co-Founder of C&J ERP Consulting Limited, recommends clients plan for how to improve their ERP system with ongoing ERP optimisation.

Too many businesses assume that once they’ve implemented an ERP system, they’re stuck with it. Apparently, no one told them that ERP systems are highly adaptable. That means you can improve them over time as your business needs change or as new software functionalities come to market.

C&J advises clients to see ERP optimisation as a standard part of running an efficient business – much like servicing your boiler before winter. If you leave it too long, the job will likely only get bigger and more complex – and the system slower and less effective.

In fact, companies often turn to us for ERP ‘rescue and recovery’ missions because their initial implementation partner did not warn them that they might outgrow the initial setup or, sufficiently tailor it for their specific needs.

Has your business outgrown its ERP system?

There are several reasons why your ERP system might no longer fully support your business needs:

Your company has evolved. That’s not unusual – in fact it’s what you should expect if your ERP has been delivering efficiency gains. However, as markets and customers change, so do companies; and the ERP system you chose initially may no longer align with your current operational needs.

You only received a standardised vendor setup. Many ERP vendors focus on speed of delivery. As such, they tend to take a one-size-fits-all approach to implementation. That means leaving out bespoke configurations that might meet your specific industry needs.

You need new functionality. Sometimes clients come to us because the vendor setup did not deliver the functionality they were expecting. Other times it’s because they have heard about new functionality developed by the software supplier or partners but don’t know how to implement it. Either way, we can help them figure out what functionality upgrade they need – and do it for them.

Lack of user acceptance training (UAT).This is not so much a problem with the ERP system, as with the way the resulting process changes have (or have not) been communicated. Implementing a comprehensive training programme will enable your employees to use the system more effectively. This will make it more likely that the ERP will deliver the expect improvements to productivity.

Remember: What you go live with isn’t what you have to live with.

How can C&J’s optimisation service improve and add value to your ERP system?

Our process is designed to make your existing ERP system more effective and relevant. It covers several key steps:

Detailed assessment. We start by analysing your current ERP configuration and your existing and planned business model to understand how they fit together. Our aim is to identify gaps and inefficiencies. By finding what works – and what doesn’t – we can recommend targeted changes.

System reconfiguration and customisation. Sometimes, minor adjustments can make a big difference. It might involve configuring dashboards, customising workflows, or integrating specialised third-party tools. Whatever our diagnosis, we’ll focus on ensuring your ERP better serves your business.

Training and ongoing support. In many cases, upskilling your team is the fastest and most rewarding way of maximising the benefits of an ERP. We can tailor training to your employees’ different roles, ensuring they know how to make the most of the optimised system.

The benefits of ongoing ERP optimisation

An ERP is a complex system, not a static solution; it should evolve and grow with your business. By planning regular ERP assessments and updates, our experts can help you stay on top of technology advances and maximise the return on your investment.

How to improve your ERP system starts with a highly strategic approach. Our optimisation service will ensure your ERP remains a valuable tool for driving productivity improvements. Ongoing refinements to the ERP system will also deliver the efficient processes that enable your business to adapt to new challenges and changing objectives.

Need help optimising your ERP System?

Please contact us if you need help to improve your ERP system, whether you’re considering a new system or are looking to optimise an existing one.