"Consult an ERP consultant" is a recommendation that we often make here when it comes to software projects. And we (as consultants) are fully convinced of this. But what exactly does an ERP consultant actually do (and how can you become one)?
The tasks of an ERP consultant
As a consultant for ERP software analysing business processes and developing suitable "system constellations" are among the most important tasks. In addition to the introduction of new systems, existing Software solutions be "extended" by the consultant. It is not uncommon for the ERP consultant to act as a direct intermediary between the management, individual departments and sometimes even customers. Depending on their size, they are involved in the analysis and selection process. Ultimately, the consultant has the task of finding a suitable ERP system to find and develop new solutions for the company. Accordingly, he also accompanies the introduction, test runs and is often available afterwards to provide support, e.g. for employee training.
The knowledge of an ERP consultant
Although there are ERP consultants who have specialized in industries, you can imagine that they have broad know-how in matters Business processes needs. In addition to business training, a certain empathy for operational processes does not hurt in this case. An ERP consultant must also be able to work well with project management be - that is perhaps the most important thing. After all, the success of an ERP system often depends on how the project runs. A broad knowledge of ERP systems, interfaces, databases and software technology can also be an advantage - but due to the constant changes in the industry, a constant interest in the topic is required above all. More importantly, an ERP consultant must be able to work well with individuals as well as entire departments. The level of personal responsibility in the job is also not small and you should also like dealing with customers.
The path to becoming an ERP consultant
As with so many professions, there is no classic training path for starting a career as an ERP consultant. Degree programmes such as computer science, business informatics or information technology are definitely a very good basis. Communications engineering, communications technology or application development also offer a good basis. For more specific training, there are numerous further training programmes in various areas.
We can recommend training as an assistant for IT and software technology as an initial or further training programme. Depending on the company, in addition to the technical basics, the focus is on business processes and the mapping of these in ERP systems. Training in a provider or consulting company is therefore an obvious choice.
There is another special case: specialising as an SAP ERP consultant. For many companies, SAP is still the leader in ERP software, but the system can become a special case due to its complexity. An ERP consultant may therefore need separate qualifications. However, this does not necessarily apply to the entire SAP offering. SAP Business One, for example, is far less complex as a solution for SMEs.
Depending on whether you want it to be large or small, you can work as an ERP consultant in a company or go into service with a consulting firm.
Are you considering a career as a consultant yourself?
More about that here.
Are you looking for a suitable ERP consultant? Then you could this post interested.
We are always available for questions.
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