The right ERP solution for a company depends on its size and ambitions. But when it comes to renewing or upgrading such a system, some companies fall into the trap of wanting to adopt systems that are too complex for their needs.
Reasons for this are that they want to be ready for the future, or that a major competitor is also using it and thinks it will be successful. Or perhaps customers also use this system, and thus can be connected to this system.
But large ERP systems like SAP are often like a Space Shuttle, and systems like MS Dynamics and Infor like a Boeing 747. Beautiful technology, huge possibilities, but often too extensive.
Don’t get me wrong: I absolutely understand that if a company employs more than 100 people, multiple branches, etc., it needs a more complex solution. But most sheet metal shops of 10 to 100 people do not need such a thing.
Often they are better off with a more compact solution, a pickup truck or a truck at most.
More options is not always better. All possibilities take a lot of energy to explore. It is also forgotten that large, modern ERP systems require maintenance and management in addition to the purchase price.
Especially in the SaaS era, where monthly subscriptions reduce initial costs, there is a risk of forgetting how much total cost is out of control.
Therefore, we often have to first look at using the current or a simpler ERP. Ideally, it should be designed for the metal industry. If there are shortages, they should be filled with modern cloud apps.
If you are considering a new ERP and want to reduce project risk, schedule an introductory meeting. Together we can ensure that we can go live faster with the new solution with less cost and headaches.
