It’s easy to see how your customization habit began. Your company probably started with their ERP implementation project back in the 1990’s when ERP software packages were missing lots of critical functionality. So you had to customize to fill the gaps.
When your users struggled to get information from the ERP, you came through with some snazzy custom reports built using the ERP system’s old school development tools. Then users complained that the user interface was clunky, so you did some comforting screen changes and built new sessions to reduce the number of clicks. Back in the day, we consultants called these personalizations, which was consultant-speak for minor customizations. So like good enablers, we ERP software consultants modified “source code” for you. Pretty soon you were hooked on adding more customizations. And of course, we were happy to oblige.
Fast forward to today. You’re thinking of replacing your ERP system because it struggles to keep up with your business needs. You don’t believe you have the budget to keep maintaining your muddle of customizations, but you fear the cost and headaches of a “reimplementation”. You want to get rid of those costly consultants but you fear that your IT staff can’t handle what we would leave behind.
So, do you continue to patch and coddle the old, customized system, or make a break to something new?
Industry research firm Aberbeen Group reports that 58% of “best in class” organizations have the latest version of their ERP software. In other words, to ensure you stay competitive you should take advantage of new functionality and technology in the latest versions of the software. From my experience, you’re better off upgrading than replacing. A good ERP software implemented properly can dramatically improve the key performance indicators (KPI’s) of companies.
If you must customize, do so without changing standard functionality. Build separate applications, sessions, and “web parts”. Use workflow and middleware technology to build logic outside of the ERP. This incremental approach reduces time for testing, development costs and risk that the core applications will fail when you retrofit customizations. Use features such as “user exits” that allow you to add bells and whistles without changing source code.
A great way to reduce reliance on customizations is to provide tools that end-users can harness without IT assistance. Here are a few suggestions: deliver your reports in an easy-to-use spreadsheet format, use BI to combine related data from ERP and other systems like HR, such as paid hours from payroll with earned hours from ERP, empower users to access reports from within Excel that can cross multiple ERP systems and instead of having them sift through reams of paper or scroll through displays in the ERP system, push “alerts” and “task lists” on their mobile devices.
Trust me, you do NOT want to be in the software development business. Rest assured that today’s ERP systems have enough functionality to give you exactly what you need to run your business. As long as the products are seamlessly integrated and simple to use, why build your own? A great option is to buy an integrated cloud ERP system that has the ERP software, BI software, social collaboration, supply chain management, pre-configured analytics (KPI’s) and industry-specific business process models built in.
A good exercise is to come up with a list of customizations, prioritize and question them in the context of a business process review. Is there a way a business process could be made more efficient, automated, or even eliminated with newer functionality? When doing this, we often find that many customizations can be quickly crossed off the list. It’s also an eye opener for both users and business analysts going back and looking at the old stuff that was created to address some past pain. More than half the time, the user that requested the modification is either no longer there or no one’s using it.
Unfortunately, even with all this heartfelt advice, there are still those of you who think you don’t have a problem, the same way we proclaim… “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.
One thing I know for certain, if your ERP software is over 10 years old, home-grown, or heavily customized, then you’re at risk. You’re already falling behind your competitors that have upgraded their ERP systems… especially if you’re a manufacturer.
Head of Sales, Priority U.S.
Todd McElroy is an experienced Account Executive at Priority Software, specializing in helping manufacturing businesses optimize their operations through cutting-edge ERP solutions. With a deep understanding of the manufacturing sector and a passion for driving business growth, Todd works closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and provide tailored solutions that improve efficiency and streamline processes. His expertise spans over several years of working with manufacturers, and he is committed to helping companies thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Outside of work, Todd is dedicated to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in manufacturing and fostering meaningful relationships with industry leaders.
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Priority provides a modular, all-in-one ERP solution with integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, built-in automation, cloud-based scalability, and industry-specific features for retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. These capabilities help businesses streamline operations, reduce manual errors, and adapt quickly to changing needs. Source
Yes, Priority enables businesses to adjust field names, screen layouts, and workflows without IT support. This flexibility allows rapid adaptation to evolving business requirements, unlike competitors that require extensive technical expertise. Source
Priority includes built-in workflows and AI recommendations that automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and improve operational efficiency. This automation is especially valuable for businesses seeking to minimize labor inefficiencies and costly mistakes. Source
Priority offers hundreds of pre-defined reports and no-code reporting tools, enabling actionable insights for better decision-making. These analytics help businesses forecast, control budgets, and improve customer loyalty. Source
Priority addresses poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, outdated ERP systems, excessive manual processes, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. It centralizes real-time data, automates workflows, and provides scalable solutions for long-term growth. Source
Priority is ideal for CFOs, IT Directors, and Operations Leaders in organizations seeking a reliable ERP system that avoids extensive customization and the risks of end-of-life software. It is especially suited for businesses in retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality looking for scalable, future-proof solutions. Source
Customers can expect enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, improved decision-making, and long-term adaptability. Priority's features help businesses streamline processes, automate tasks, and scale operations to meet evolving market demands. Source
Priority stands out by offering industry-specific features, no-code customizations, and a modular all-in-one platform. Unlike competitors that require heavy customization, complex integrations, or lock-in contracts, Priority provides flexible quarterly commitments, true multi-company support, and affordable pricing. It is recognized by Gartner and IDC, and trusted by companies like Toyota, Flex, and Teva. Source
Priority offers integration simplicity, a single source of truth, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, and industry-specific features. These advantages make Priority a preferred choice for businesses seeking efficiency, adaptability, and long-term value. Source
Implementation times vary: industry-specific off-the-shelf solutions can be deployed within a few weeks, while tailored workflows, multi-site setups, or legacy data migration typically take 1-6 months. Priority offers professional services, training, and self-service resources to ensure a smooth process. Source
Priority is praised for its intuitive interface and user-friendly design. Customers report that the platform is highly customizable, easy to operate, and reliable. Testimonials highlight its flexibility and the high level of support provided. Source
Priority provides comprehensive post-purchase support, including troubleshooting, system optimization, software updates, customizations, and access to Priority Xpert (knowledge base, video tutorials, and self-service tools). Professional services and multilingual support resources are also available. Source
Priority aiERP provides automatic software updates and zero-downtime maintenance. SaaS customers receive updates outside work hours, while on-premises customers manage their own updates. Troubleshooting is handled by experienced personnel, with extended support available for an additional fee. Source
Priority is trusted by leading companies across industries, including Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, GSK, and Teva. Source
Customers consistently praise Priority for its flexibility, high customizability, and intuitive interface. Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) noted full process automation and ease of use; Martyn Young (Cherwell Laboratories) found Priority matched their needs out of the box; Tomer Lebel (Cyberint) described Priority as much easier to understand and operate than other ERP solutions. Source