5 ERP Implementation Myths – Busted! (Part 2)

In Part I, we busted the first 2 ERP implementation myths about being complicated and disruptive to business. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of the top 5 myths from our previous post:

Here’s the TOP 5 ERP Implementation Myths:
  1. It is complicated! – BUSTED IN PART I
  2. It will disrupt my business! – BUSTED IN PART I
  3. Upfront costs are absurd!
  4. Hardware and tech costs will burn through our finances!
  5. My employees will resist!

Read on as we continue busting these common misconceptions that stand in your way of the undeniable benefits of implementing an ERP system.

ERP Implementation Myths 3 - Expensive

ERP IMPLEMENTATION MYTH 3: UPFRONT COSTS ARE ABSURD!

It is an unavoidable misconception that ERP implementation requires a significant initial investment, and even more for customization.

This is highly outdated info. In the old legacy ERP systems, this was true. In those days, you had to install your own servers, machines. Then buy licenses of a particular solution from the tech companies. Everything had to be done on-premise, even the codes were raw.

Things have changed with the advent of software as a service (SaaS), hosted, and cloud computing, you no longer need to buy a whole setup for your company. Instead, you can pay on-demand or as you go.

Coding has become much more comfortable now with modern programming languages, drag & drop, frameworks, etc. If your ERP solution is based on the cloud, you can order customization and receive it on the same day.

Fortunately, today ERP systems have grown highly intuitive. ERP solutions providers have also honed years of experience and industry knowledge to know what is needed in a robust system. Not only has this brought down the cost of ownership considerably, these solutions now come packed with advanced all-in software that you typically don’t even need additional customization.

Expensive upfront costs – BUSTED!

ERP Implementation Myths 4 - High Maintenance

ERP IMPLEMENTATION MYTH 4: HARDWARE AND TECH COSTS WILL BURN THROUGH OUR FINANCES!

Now that we’ve busted the myth of ERP requiring high initial investment and customization, you probably have figured it out that ERP requiring high hardware and tech investment is also a myth. You are absolutely right!

The internet has become so fast that you no longer need to buy the hardware and have it close to you to ensure efficiency or fear disruption to the workflow. Modern ERP solutions mean that companies do not even need to own neither hardware nor software, save for their computers with an internet connection. They can pay only for SaaS or on-demand services.

If you want to own the software and have one made just for you, you can do that too. There is the hosted or Infrastructure as a Service option. Here, you rent server spaces from providers like Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, and others while installing your own software in them.

The best option, however, is the Cloud ERP system. There is little to no fixed cost or even an initial investment. The software vendor manages everything from their own end, charges you only as you subscribe for their solution—no need to buy or install any hardware or technology whatsoever. No need for a techie just to maintain the systems in-house, either!

Expensive hardware & tech costs – BUSTED!

ERP Implementation Myths 5 - Employee Resistance

ERP IMPLEMENTATION MYTH 5: MY EMPLOYEES WILL RESIST!

Talk about La Résistance! Resistance to change is an innate human nature. This same quality makes a human and a company vulnerable. Since the dawn of ERP implementation worldwide, employee buy-in has been one of the biggest challenges.

Back in the day, there were even cases of mass boycotting of work while demanding to move away from ERP systems. Some employees might have even felt betrayed for not being involved in the implementation process.

Now, as millennials are the increasing workforce in companies, situations have changed – and largely for the better! Modern employees understand the benefits and need for technologies like ERP. They buy-in easily with such initiatives and in fact, embrace technological change. These days, issues may arise as some employees might not be familiar with the UX or workflow. But these are teething problems that will all too soon smooth over.

And if you have a slightly older workforce who may not be as tech-inclined, it doesn’t hurt to select a experienced ERP implementation partner that understands the need to involve company employees in their implementation process.

Employee resistance – BUSTED!

THE NEW NORMAL IS NOT TO BE NORMAL

Running a successful business no longer relies on pure hard work alone. Today’s everchanging landscape means having to adopt fast to the latest technologies, innovations and sometimes even unorthodox ideas.

It’s time to find courage even when it’s difficult and adapt to the new normal of embracing change. Remember not to let some myths stand in your way of becoming a successful business owner. Here’s to the growth & success of your business!

Want to know what ERP can do for your company?

CRT Insights Technologies not only provides world-class ERP solutions but also expert advice from experienced regional consultants. Contact us and quote “Live-in-5” for a free 1-hour consultation on your ERP needs today!

This article is part of a campaign for CRT Insights Technologies’ Live-in-5 Rapid ERP Implementation programme. 5 Easy steps to get you future-ready!