In today’s fast-paced business world, data is king. Companies are constantly collecting and
analyzing data, hoping to stay ahead of the competition. However, without the right tools and
support, this sheer volume of data can be overwhelming and difficult to manage. This is where
an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system comes in.
An ERP system is software that brings all parts of a business together, like finance, accounting,
inventory, and supply chain management. However, it is essential to note that merely
implementing an ERP system is only half the battle for achieving these objectives.
To truly harness the power of data the software holds, you need a strong ERP consulting team
who can help you get the reporting you need to make data-driven decisions.
In this article, we’ll explore your ERP consultant’s role in helping you get the reporting you need
and how it can benefit your business.
What is an ERP Partner and How Can They Help You?
Before we dive into the role of an ERP partner, let’s first define what an ERP partner is. An ERP
partner is a company that provides support and services for your ERP system. They are experts
in the software and can help you with everything from ERP implementation to ongoing support
and maintenance. An ERP partner can also provide additional services, such as training,
customization, and integration with other systems.
The Importance of ERP Support
Having a strong support system for your ERP system is crucial for its success. An ERP is a
complex piece of software that requires ongoing maintenance and updates to function properly.
Without proper support, you may encounter issues that can disrupt your business operations
and hinder your ability to make data-driven decisions.
The Role of an ERP Partner in Reporting
One of the key roles of an ERP partner is to help you get the reporting you need to make data-
driven decisions. This involves creating custom reports and dashboards that provide insights
into your business operations. An ERP partner can work with you to understand your business
goals and identify the key metrics that you need to track. Then they can create reports and
dashboards tailored to your specific needs.
Here are a few examples:
1. Sales Performance Dashboard: This dashboard can include key metrics, such as total sales, sales by region, sales by product, and sales by customer. By visualizing this data,
you can easily identify trends, spot opportunities for growth, and optimize your sales
strategy.
2. Inventory Management Report: This report can include information such as stock levels,
reorder points, and lead times. By having this data readily available, you can ensure that
you have the right amount of inventory on hand, avoid stockouts, and optimize your
supply chain.
3. Financial Analysis Report: This report can include metrics, such as revenue, expenses,
profit margins, and cash flow. By analyzing this data, you can identify areas where you
can reduce costs, improve profitability, and make informed financial decisions.
4. Customer Satisfaction Dashboard: This dashboard can include metrics, such as customer
feedback scores, customer retention rates, and customer lifetime value. By tracking these
metrics, you can identify areas where you can improve customer satisfaction, address
customer concerns, and build long-term customer relationships.
ERP Customization and Integration
Every business is unique, and your ERP system should reflect that. An ERP partner can help
you customize your system to fit your specific business processes and workflows. This can
include creating custom fields, workflows, and reports that are specific to your business.
You might also opt to get your ERP partner’s help with ERP integration, connecting other
software solutions, such as BI (Business Intelligence) tools, like Vivid Reports Once integrated,
these make it easy for anyone on your team to take the raw data in your ERP and use the
power of Microsoft Excel to turn it into impactful visuals that tell the story behind the numbers.
ERP Training and Education
To truly harness the power of your ERP system, your employees need to be trained in how to
use it effectively. An ERP partner can provide training and education for your employees,
ensuring that they have the skills to use the system to its full potential. This can include training
in how to run reports, interpret data, and use the system’s various features.
The Benefits of Having an ERP Partner
Having an ERP partner can provide many benefits for your business.
Expertise and Support
An ERP partner has a deep understanding of the system’s capabilities and can help you get the
most out of it. An ERP partner can provide ongoing support and maintenance, ensuring that
your system is always up to date and functioning properly.
Cost Savings
Partnering with an ERP provider can also result in cost savings for your business. By
outsourcing support and maintenance to an ERP partner, you can save on the costs of hiring
and training in-house IT staff. They can also help you build a sound ERP strategy, including
identifying areas where you can streamline processes and reduce costs, ultimately improving
your bottom line.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
With the right ERP partner, you can streamline your business processes and improve efficiency.
By automating manual tasks and providing real-time data, an ERP system can help your
employees work more efficiently. Thus, leading to increased productivity and ultimately growth.
Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows, your ERP system needs to keep up. An ERP partner can help you
scale your system as your business expands, ensuring that it continues to meet your needs.
They can help you customize your system to fit your changing business processes and
workflows, providing the flexibility you need to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
How to Choose the Right ERP Partner
Choosing the right ERP partner is crucial for the success of your ERP system. Here are some
key factors to consider when selecting an ERP partner.
Experience and Expertise
When choosing an ERP partner, it’s important to look for a company with a proven track record
of success. Look for partners with experience in your industry and with similar businesses.
Make sure they have a deep understanding of your ERP and can provide the support and
services your business needs.
Services Offered
Different ERP partners may offer different services. So, it’s important to understand what
services you need and make sure the partner can provide them. Some partners may only offer
implementation and support, while others may also provide training, customization, and
integration services. Consider your business needs and choose a partner that can provide
services to help you achieve your goals.
Communication and Support
Communication is key when working with an ERP partner. Make sure the partner has a clear
communication plan in place and responds to your needs. Consider the level of support they
provide and their response time for any issues that may arise.
Conclusion
To truly harness the power of the data hidden in your ERP system, you need a strong ERP
partner who can help you get the reporting you need to make informed decisions. By choosing
the right one, you can streamline your business processes, improve efficiency, and drive
business growth.
About Intelligent Technologies, Inc.
Founded in 1991, Intelligent Technologies, Inc. has evolved over three decades to become the
go-to destination for SMBs seeking a seamless blend of ERP software, networking tools, and
unparalleled support. Our journey began with a focus on Microsoft’s Dynamics GP, but we’ve
never rested on our laurels. Today, we stand as a leading North Carolina based Acumatica
Cloud ERP partner. With a team of experienced professionals and a commitment to
personalized service, we’re not just a vendor—we’re your strategic ally in selecting and making
the most of your business technology.
