Many companies today rely on their software, specifically ERP solutions, to run their business. It is also one of the biggest IT expenditures that you have, yet it seems most users only use a small portion of the software’s functionality. So how do you know and how can you ensure you are getting the most out of your ERP software? Here are some tactics to consider when it comes to maximizing the return on your ERP software investment:

Training

Training your users on a new ERP system is a critical step in successfully implementing the software. However, training should never be a onetime event, it should be a continuous occurrence for your business. Most people do not retain everything learned from the implementation trainings. Therefore you should consider offering “refresher” courses from time to time. Additionally, you should always have training sessions for new employees so that they can better understand how to use the ERP solution. Offering these trainings will greatly benefit your business in the long run.

Implement and Utilize the Updates

As technology changes and evolves so does your ERP software. As new features are added, you should take advantage of them as soon as possible. Most features are developed from user feedback. They consist of requests and recommendations to make the software easier and more effective to use. Keeping your system up to date and applying new features will go a long way in maintaining the longevity of success in the utilization of your ERP solution.

Utilize Application More

ERP software solutions are powerful tools that offer many features to help run your business efficiently and effectively. Many times companies are either not using or under-utilizing features that their ERP provides. The only way to expand the utilization of your ERP solution is to put a plan in place internally to review what you are using and create a project to use other parts of the software.

User Groups (Online Communities, Group Meet-Ups, etc.)

Software vendors sometimes offer user group meetings and/or online communities. Participating in user groups is a great way to stay connected with other users. It allows users another means to share and exchange ideas with each other.

Attend User Conferences

Majority of software vendors offer some sort of user conference at least once a year. These events are a great way to get additional training, network with other users and share best practices, and discover the latest features. In addition, user conferences provide an opportunity to connect with the vendor’s upper management, and support and product development teams to provide feedback for future developments in the software.

Integrations

Do you use outside tools to perform various jobs? See if there is a way you can integrate these systems with your ERP to reduce duplication of work and help improve overall efficiency.

Conclusion

You spend all this money and time investing in an ERP software solution to help your business succeed. Why not make sure that it does? Following these tactics above will ensure that you get the most out of your ERP software investment. Feel free to contact us at 973-822-1551 to discuss different ways you can get the most out of your ERP software investment.