AppliCon IT helps companies select an ERP system in an independent and methodical manner, with a focus on the client’s actual needs. We do not represent any ERP vendor. We stand by the customer and help them navigate the selection process so that they can make decisions based on clear requirements, comparable information, and objectively assessed risks.
The goal is to select a solution that aligns with the company’s actual operations, its processes, and its long-term development.
The company is gradually reaching the limits of its current solution: data is entered manually, processes are circumvented using Excel, records are fragmented, reporting is unreliable, and integrating other systems is complicated or expensive.
Another common driver is company growth. The number of users, warehouses, production facilities, and sales channels increases, as do the requirements for order management and the need for more precise planning. A system that once suited the company may no longer align with its current management practices.
It is advisable to begin the ERP selection process before these limitations become an operational problem. A well-prepared selection process reduces the risk of making a poor decision, incurring additional costs, and encountering complications during subsequent implementation.
An ERP system must support the company’s key processes over the long term and meet the actual needs of individual departments.
Another common mistake is an unclear request for proposals. If suppliers receive requirements that are too general or not comparable, their bids cannot be objectively compared.
Another risk is underestimating the contractual aspects. An unclear scope of delivery, undefined liabilities, poorly defined acceptance criteria, or an inadequate change management process often only become apparent during ERP implementation, by which time it is difficult and costly to rectify the situation.
We conduct the ERP system selection as a structured process consisting of three sequential phases. Each phase has a clear purpose and specific deliverables, and helps to gradually narrow down the options until a final decision is reached.
In the first phase, we establish the basic framework for selecting an ERP system, define the project objectives, and identify the appropriate group of participants in the selection process.
This phase includes:
In the second phase, we work with a smaller group of suppliers, compare their proposals, verify their ability to meet the company’s requirements, and prepare the necessary information for the final decision.
This phase includes:
During the contracting phase, we help establish and evaluate the contractual framework for future cooperation with the supplier.
This phase includes:
We can help verify whether the proposal meets the company’s needs, whether truly comparable scopes are being compared, and whether there are any hidden risks in the project that aren’t immediately apparent.
Thanks to our experience with ERP projects, we can identify weaknesses in the project scope, unrealistic assumptions, underestimated costs, contractual risks, and issues that would otherwise only come to light during implementation.
This service is designed for manufacturing and trading companies that are in the process of selecting a new ERP system or want to determine whether switching systems is the right move. We help companies that want to maintain control over the selection process and make decisions based on objective information.
It makes sense to consider selecting a new ERP system when the existing system no longer supports the company’s growth and management. Typical signs include manually re-entering data, working in Excel, duplicate records, poor reporting, or the inability to integrate with other systems.
No, the decision always rests with the client. We will help you set up an objective selection process, compare bids, evaluate suppliers, and highlight the risks associated with each option.
No, AppliCon IT acts as an independent consultant, not as a sales representative for a specific vendor. This allows us to protect the client’s interests and evaluate proposals objectively, based on the company’s actual needs.
The selection of an ERP system typically involves setting project goals, defining requirements, creating a shortlist and longlist of vendors, issuing RFIs/RFPs, attending presentations, reviewing references, and evaluating proposals. It also includes support during contract negotiations and establishing the terms of cooperation with the vendor.
The output provides a clear basis for decision-making. Typically, this includes a request for proposals for suppliers, an evaluation matrix, a comparison of bids, recommendations for next steps, and a summary of key risks.
Yes, an in-house team is familiar with the company and its processes, which is essential for selecting an ERP system. However, an independent consultant brings experience from similar projects, market knowledge, and the ability to identify risks that are often overlooked during an in-house selection process.
Schedule a no-obligation consultation with us. We’ll help you determine what stage you’re at and what the next logical step is for your business.
