Many companies also see the introduction of a new ERP system as the right moment to do another job: Optimising business processes seems obvious. However, the disappointment when the expected effect in improved processes fails to materialise is great. However, it is possible, with the right approach, ERP solution and Business process optimisation in one project.
Standard software: A good guide
Most companies can be categorised into sectors and processes. However, companies - especially those in the SME sector - are usually more than that these days. That is why it is also difficult for the SME business market a standard ERP system to generate. The variety of systems and developments that are now available as a result shows the wide range of possibilities processes and that there is always a newer, better way. This has led to the development of standard solutions that map the necessary processes on the one hand, but are flexible enough to be expanded and extended at any time.
Providers help to optimise business processes
A good provider also knows the software so well that they can determine during the consultation whether the company processes can be mapped in the software or whether functions need to be programmed. These "customisations" are of course time-consuming and costly. Another option is to rethink your company's work processes and perhaps adopt the approach suggested in the software. These "predefined" processes are often the result of long and costly software projects. They are therefore definitely worth a second look, as new processes often promise greater project success than a customised ERP system.
Nevertheless, it should be clear that (despite a good provider) process optimisation must come from the company. You know your processes best and are therefore the driving force behind process optimisation in the ERP project. You can find one way in which you can approach process optimisation in this way here.
Five good reasons where and why process optimisation pays off:
- Control and transparency of processes (Analysis of company data creates basis for decision-making)
- Automation of the processes (You reduce your workload and have capacity for other tasks)
- Acceleration of the processes (see 2.)
- Process safety (Reduction and elimination of error chains, process improvement, increased employee satisfaction)
- Standardisation of the processes in all parts of the company and branches (reduction: effort, time, costs, errors)
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