Business management software is no longer reserved for large companies. More and more medium-sized businesses are taking the plunge in order to benefit from the power of these tools, also known as ERP. As a result, publishers are developing more and more management software for this market.
The challenge is that this now gives you a lot of options, and it’s difficult to compare them. In this article, we’d like to offer you a checklist to help you determine which features you absolutely need to consider. Follow the guide....
Step 1 – Core features
You can expect different things from a business management software solution like Odoo. However, there are some features we’d call “core” that are, in short, essential. Here’s what the management software you choose absolutely needs to cover:
- CRM module: sales force management, marketing activities, after-sales service...
- Sales management module: quotes, invoices...
- Accounting module: customer accounts, fixed assets...
- Logistics module: inventory, transport... Purchasing module: supplier management...
- HR module: recruitment, vacation...
- Project management module: planning, resources....
- MRP (Manufacturing Resource Planning) module: capacity planning....
In any case, choosing an ERP is a strategic decision for your company. It’s really important to step back and think about your real needs. Consult your teams, get challenged by specialists in the field — it will only benefit you in the long run.
Step 2 – Modularity and scalability
In addition to the features mentioned above, your future business management software must be scalable. Your company is constantly evolving, and so is your industry. You need to be able to easily adapt your management software to the changes that are part of business life.
The idea is not to end up stuck with software that will be obsolete in 5 years. Choose an ERP solution where adding modules can be done easily. If you want to integrate HR management next year, that option has to be available.
Be careful as well when choosing the software publisher: it should be a dynamic, reliable, forward-looking company that can offer you the latest technological innovations to boost your performance.
Step 3 – Technical specifications on demand
Business management software is designed to introduce best practices within your company; it must adapt to your business, not the other way around. It can act as an organizational foundation, but it must be customizable so it aligns as closely as possible with your operations, your needs, and your day‑to‑day practices...
In addition, choose software that lets you choose between SaaS (online software) and On-Premise (installed software). Both have their pros and cons, so the choice is yours.
Also take your existing tools into account. It’s important that the connections between your ERP and your information system can be made smoothly. Make sure of this and consult a business management software integrator if you have any doubts.
Another important question: is the technology used open or based on standards? Can you have custom modules developed if you need them?
Step 4 – A crucial partner: the integrator
As you’ve seen, there are many questions to ask yourself when choosing your business management software. To ensure the success of your ERP project, it’s best to work with a specialized integrator well in advance.
They will guide and challenge you so you can clearly express your needs. They can help remove obstacles related to change management through internal education and training, for example. In short, your integrator will be a very valuable partner in carrying out this project and meeting its many challenges.
Simply put, your future integrator will bring you their expertise and methodology to lead your project to success. They will be there to support you, remove any potential obstacles, prepare specifications with you, and set out a clear preliminary schedule...
They are the key to the success of your ERP implementation. With them at your side, you’ll be able to embark with confidence on this exciting journey...
