A Checklist To Choose An ERP Software For Your Retail And Wholesale Business

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Struggling to manage work during pandemic? Are the social distancing norms making it difficult for your employees to work within office premises? Skip this down fall in your business.

Instead, switch to an advanced cloud ERP software for small business. This solution helps you to manage business from your home and make timely deliverables.

The best retail ERP software can help overcome roadblocks in your business. It can help you foresee and adapt changes in the business.

Discussed below is a concise checklist that you must consider while choosing the ERP software-

  • Determine your needs

Regardless of whether you are a wholesale or retail enterprise, it is important to have clarity of your business needs. Some enterprises prefer inventory management while others would like to work on CRM modules and sales.

It is important to narrow down key business areas that you would like to work on with the help of the ERP system. This will help eliminate all the unwanted options.

You can then focus and add features in the system that improves your business efficiency.

  • Shortlist vendors

Although selecting a software can be a daunting process but taking each step at a time can simplify your task. Once you have narrowed down your features, the next step is to create a concise list of reliable vendors that can provide you with this solution.

Make sure that you shortlist only 4-5 vendors so that it isn’t difficult for you to pick one. Approach these vendors and inquire about their process, modules, functionalities, cost, usability, etc.

All these parameters will guide you to weigh your options accurately and make the right decision.

  • Team’s perspective

As a manager or top-level management your goal is to simplify the business process. You may evaluate options based on those criteria. However, it is important to cross-check whether they blend with your team as well.

It is essential to understand and consider your team’s concerns as well. Ideally, they are the ones who are likely to use the system the most. Enquire about troubles that they currently face and then choose a solution that can help resolve them.

This way, you will be able to implement a solution that is suitable for your team as well as the business.

  • Don’t go merely by the word

A lot of vendors may promise you about excellent and full-proof services. Although, they may appear reliable but it is necessary to skimp through their completed projects and ensure that they provide good end-to-end services.

Ask the concerned vendor for client reviews or if you could get a small tour through the entire project. If possible, make notes of significant points and analyze them so that you get a better idea about their services.

Word of mouth also plays a significant role in this case. You can always ask your business associates to check what people have to say about your shortlisted vendor.

  • Test the system

Once you have decided the vendor, then it is time to install and test it. During this testing process you have to note whether the system is helpful for internal and external activities. Is the system enough for the long run? Does the system possess the potential to add more features in the future?

These are some questions that you must find answers to during the testing.

  • Training your team

Before you kick-start using the system, it is important to train your team. The team should be well-aware about all the features, their use, and effect on the business. This information will help them to make optimal use of the system.

In case, the team lacks understanding of the software, they can make the right use of it for your business.

You can ask the vendor’s team to provide comprehensive training to your team for the same.

Also inquire whether you can approach them in the future or not for further assistance. Ask the vendor if they can provide additional IT and technical support.

Wrapping Up

All these parameters can help you to simplify the complex process of choosing an ERP software for retail business. The key is to find the right blend that satisfies your current and future business requirements.

Spend adequate time to measure each parameter. Some parameters may consume more time than the others so plan your process accordingly.

This guide will help you make the right decision.


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Alfred Williams, a distinguished business writer, navigates the corporate landscape with finesse. His articles offer invaluable insights into the dynamic world of business. Alfred's expertise shines, providing readers with a trustworthy guide through the complexities of modern commerce.