How to select your ERP partner | Together in Tech

Choosing the right partner is serious business. That’s why this article helps you with the qualities of an ideal partner, how to assess whether a partner is a good fit for you and the sense (and nonsense) of third-party questionnaires.

Getting to know each other: what are the qualities of an ideal ERP partner?

When selecting an ERP partner you’ll want their technical skills to be up to standard, and ideally for them to have experience in your line of business as well. Below you can find some things that are indispensable:

• knowledge of your area of business
• product and IT architecture knowledge
• experience with your type of implementation
• flexibility and hunger
• availability
• financial stability

What should you ask your prospective ERP partner to make sure they have the right skills? We've got you covered with this checklist.

Besides these basics, you’ll also want some insight into their character: how does your prospective ERP partner handle challenges? When pitching to you, it's all sunshine and rainbows – but what happens when things get complicated? You’ll need a partner you can count on. 

But how can you know what they’ll be like before they’ve even started on your ERP project? Simple: you can’t. But others do know! Ask for references and actually give them a call. Other companies have first-hand experience with your prospective partner. They can help you determine whether or not you’re in sync.

Is having all the right knowledge enough?

You want a partner who knows all about ERP systems. But is that all it takes? An ERP project is a commitment. Of time and resources, but mainly of people. You can’t boil down chemistry to an Excel list of demands – you need to get out there and see who your team prefers to work with. After all, they’ll be the ones working closely together for months. If they like each other, your ERP will probably be better than if the job is just rushed through, right? So, next time you’re looking for an ERP partner, don’t just ask them for their qualifications, invite them and the team out for a drink as well.

Getting the consultants and the in-house team together is the fastest way to see if they’ll be able to work together. A personal match can’t be captured in percentages and endless questionnaires. Once you’ve compiled your ERP partner shortlist: get to know them.

Time to get down to business

So, you’ve compiled your shortlist and had some first ‘team dates’. What’s next? Time to get down to business!

One option is a (problem-solving) workshop. Not convinced after the initial Q&A? Give your prospective ERP partner a call, tell them what topics worry you, and see if they’re willing to show you how their solution can respond to your specific challenges. This will illustrate both their problem-solving skills and their expertise in your specific sector.

Solution assessments are also an excellent way to have a first test run together in the ERP world. You can dive right in and tackle the entire ERP project, determining scope and roadmap in line with the strategy and business objectives. The advantage? By getting stuck in, your partner will have a much more detailed and nuanced perspective on your ERP plans. Giving them real insight in your organization, beyond a list of requirements, allows them to set up a more realistic scope and budget. Overall, companies that take the time to assess their project up front with their prospective partner end up with the best and most cost-efficient solution.

What comes first: product or partner?

The ERP variant of the chicken and egg riddle, product and partner are difficult to separate. The combination of the right technology, best suited partner and strong knowledge of your own company will determine your ERP success.

Typically, most organizations will prefer one ERP product over another – because of previous investments and experiences, or because of specific requirements – and select a partner with expertise in that product.

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