Sebastián Barbosa O./April 12, 2022 /Dynamics 365/Finance/ 4 min read

What to Consider in an ERP Consulting Partner?

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Companies often struggle with successfully implementing and identifying the best fit Microsoft consulting partner to execute new business applications that meet their requirements. This is due to a lack of ERP implementation experience as well as organizational push-back. 

7 things to consider when choosing your ERP consulting partner

This blog will present seven key factors to consider when looking for an ERP partner: 

1. Required skillset 

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The main factor to keep in mind is the consulting partners’ required skillset to modernize your business transitioning to the cloud. Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a significant investment that organizations should consider to revolutionize their operations (especially when working with on-premise solutions). Ensure your partner has proven qualifications that confirm their skills, personnel, and necessary resources to implement the proper ERP in your organization. 

2. Tech-savvy

Qualified Microsoft partners have software certifications that validate their knowledge of technology. Consider your partner’s ERP functional and tech expertise. It’s crucial to find a partner with ERP implementation experience associated with your required system. Choosing a tech-savvy ERP partner for your business will ensure a positive customer experience.

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3. Industry expertise

Contracting the right ERP consulting partner will give your business the strength to overcome future challenges. However, their expertise in deploying Dynamics 365 within your industry must be another characteristic to keep in mind. Many industries involve completely different ERP requirements depending on the sector’s demands.

4. Methodology to manage projects

It is also essential to ensure that the partner has a straightforward management process methodology to handle any project scope, timeline, or budget changes. Considering their experience and approach is also important, which should align with your project goals and expectations.

The methodology should be flexible enough to handle changes, prioritize transparent and effective communication with all stakeholders, have a well-defined approach to risk management, encourage collaboration, be adaptable to your specific needs, and offer ongoing support after project completion. Communication is also crucial, and the partner should have a comprehensive communication plan to keep stakeholders informed and involved throughout the project.

5. Types of solutions offered to your business challenges

When choosing an ERP consulting partner, it is vital to consider the solutions they offer to address business challenges. Firstly, look for a partner that provides relevant solutions that meet your specific business needs and requirements. It is also important to ensure that the solutions are customizable and can be tailored to your unique needs. Additionally, consider if the solutions can be integrated easily with your existing systems and processes and if they are scalable to grow with your business.

6. Resources and research

Another essential aspect to consider is the partner’s level of innovation and investment in researching new solutions. Evaluating their expertise in your industry and their ability to understand and address specific industry challenges is quite relevant. Furthermore, the provided resources should be user-friendly and easily adopted by your team. Consider the cost-effectiveness of the solutions and if they offer a good return on investment. Finally, check if the partner offers ongoing technical support and maintenance services for the solutions they provide.

7. Reputation and reviews in the market

Last but not least, you must consider the ERP consulting partner’s reputation and market reviews. Research their history, track record, and previous projects to gauge their level of expertise and success rate. Look for testimonials and reviews from past clients to understand their experience with the partner.

Additionally, reach out to current and former clients for referrals and ask questions about their experience working with the partner. Checking the partner’s online presence and industry recognition can also give you a sense of their reputation and standing in the market. Consider the partner’s reputation and market reviews to ensure they have a positive track record and can deliver quality work, ensuring a successful ERP project.

Essential questions to ask your ERP Consulting Partner:

Besides considering the previous seven factors, we want to provide some of the most crucial questions to ask your ERP partner before starting the implementation process to ensure an enhanced result for your business.

Migration capabilities

  • How many migrations have you performed?
  • What client references do you have?

Timing

  • What can you tell me about licensing?
  • Do you have available resources in your plan?

Post-live support

  • How knowledgeable are you with Dynamics 365 ERP solution?
  • What other capabilities can you provide us to support your roadmap?

After considering the given information above, you must also decide in time to reduce risks. An experienced partner will help you anticipate common pitfalls and make your career thrive with a successful ERP implementation. Besides, don’t overlook the consultant’s treatment. A great relationship is essential for a better understanding and to deliver excellent results.

At Pangea, our experts have guided various companies from different industries for over 15 years to run a smooth and effective Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation with first-rate support throughout the process. If you require this assistance to empower your digital transformation journey, please contact us here.

Thank you.

I hope this blog guided you on the essentials to find the right ERP consulting partner and what to consider before choosing the right one.

Sebastián Barbosa O.
Technical content writer

Read more blog entries by Sebastián Barbosa O.

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