ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are the backbone of many businesses, integrating core processes into a single, centralised system where all critical data and functions come together.
While customising your ERP might seem like a smart move, it comes with its own set of challenges. In this post, we’ll explore these challenges and highlight common mistakes businesses often make when enhancing their ERPs.
So, what’s an ERP system?
An ERP is a type of software that helps businesses manage and integrate important parts of their operations, like finance, human resources, and inventory. It brings together all the key data and processes of a business, making it easier to track, manage, and optimise everything from one place.
Common ERP mistakes
One of the biggest mistakes we see businesses make is trying to heavily customise their ERP system. While it might seem like a good idea at first, it can lead to issues down the line.
Here’s why heavily customising your ERP is a no-go:
- Custom tweaks can be pricey
- Too much customisation can turn your ERP into a complicated mess
- Customisation might not play nice with other systems
Smart moves for your ERP
Our advice? First, keep your ERP doing what it does best, and second, focus on what gives your business a competitive edge.
An ERP system’s strength lies in its ability to integrate and streamline processes. Let it do what it’s designed to do and focus on building interfaces that enhance its functionality. This way, everyone on your team (not just finance and tech) can access and interpret the data they need. Plus, you’ll avoid creating your very own ERP Frankenstein.
Before diving into customisation, identify the areas of your business where agility is crucial. Routine functions like finance, human resources, inventory, and sales should remain within the ERP. But for aspects that give you a unique advantage in your core operations, consider custom applications and reports that operate outside the ERP.
Need a hand?
Customising your ERP might sound tempting, but often, it’s more trouble than it’s worth. Let your ERP handle its core job and focus on adding smart integrations that enhance its power, without the tech mess.
About to go full customisation mode? First, chat to our team at hello@horizondigital.au to explore ways to get the most out of your ERP system.
