Searching for the correct Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can be a difficult and time consuming task. Not to mention there are headaches associated with trying to find a vendor who can complete the task in a fashion that is both flexible, allows for easy instillation and is affordable. That gives me a headache and I know it is possible.

First let’s discuss the basics of an ERP system. There are no rules set in stone (except the ones implied by the large “box” software companies) that say you must have specific modules within your system. Most companies searching are looking for a system that will help them organize and streamline their daily procedures. Generally, note that I said generally, companies will utilize applications such as project management, scheduling, order entry/processing, preventative maintenance (PM), human resources (HR), customer relations management (CRM) and accounting. Which ever applications are implemented into an ERP system, they should have the capability of working together to help your business maintain the structure they are looking for.

It will be difficult to find an ERP system that will be made specifically for your needs. Most systems which are available are “pre-packaged” which means they are produced in large quantities and are not capable of being modified in any way. In the manufacturing environment this model will not work because manufactures require agility within their software systems. Another model some companies offer are custom systems which are great because they are designed for the company but are very difficult to upgrade, sometimes they are completely impossible to upgrade. This is discouraging considering the amount of money companies will spend to purchase a system of this size and not have the capability of changing it as their company changes.

Now sigh a breath of relief because there are flexible, affordable and easily installed systems available. These are known as tailored software systems. Tailored systems are made for the requirements of your organization without the lengthy development periods and difficulty of upgrading. Sometimes these systems are referred to as an agile software solution which means they are highly configurable and offer all of the advantages of a custom software solution along with the best characteristics of a canned software system.

Take a look at systems that are offered as tailored because you will have the most success with these systems additionally, they will have the capability of growing and changing as your organization continues to do so.