ERP system is developed to automate and streamline business processes no matter which industry it is (Manufacturing, Healthcare, Rental, Project-based, CRM, etc).
More often than not, there are differences between the ERP software’s functionality and the unique requirements of the end users as well as business requirements. Hence, customization is needed to allow the software to align with the organization’s existing processes, enabling not only a smooth shift from the old processes but also a better fit between the ERP system and the end users. In fact, according to an ERP report from Panorama Consulting in 2008, 77% of organizations need customization during their ERP system implementation, and amongst them, 34% saying that they need heavy customization.
There is a misunderstanding that ERP system customization costs a fortune, or might complicate the entire delivery of the software system, and would thus try to avoid it. Additionally, many have a concern that once a solution is tailored specifically to their requirements, the customized portions would be left aside, excluded from any upgrades. But are these issues really that big a concern, such that the reason why people opt for ERP system customization does not apply to ERP system packages?
Definitely not.
In fact, most companies require a certain level of alterations to cater to their workflow processes. Instead of changing the operational flow in the company to fit the software package, the ERP solution should complement and improve the productivity and efficiency of your company. Hence, ERP system customization is a choice for companies who understand the importance and benefits of implementing an organized workflow structure without having the end users to make major changes to adapt to the system.
So then, what makes ERP system customization work for you? Two key factors an ERP consultancy firm should possess:
Proper team structure that consists basically of a chief architecture, programmers, system analysts, QA/QC personnel, etc, to well manage the different aspects of the software development and implementation
Proper versioning tool to monitor the change requests and merge the program version files, to ensure the version is monitored well.
That being said, in order to determine the level of customization which your company might require, it really depends on your management’s/users’ needs and the key objectives which you want to achieve. With that, will you, together with your ERP consultants, be able to identify the optimal level of ERP system customization for the implementation of your ERP system package.
