ResourcesGuide to ERP implementation 
Aug. 21, 2025
ERP

Guide to ERP implementation 

Subscribe to the newsletter

See how Priority works for you

Summarize with AI:

What is an ERP implementation?

An ERP implementation is the process of installing, configuring, and deploying an Enterprise Resource Planning system across a business. It includes data migration, user training, process redesign, and system testing. A successful ERP implementation aligns software with business goals to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Although it may appear to be pretty straightforward, ERP implementation can take months or even years to complete. During an ERP implementation, an organization goes through radical changes in terms of changes to current software usage and organizational culture. The process includes:

Planning your ERP implementation.
Configuring or customizing your ERP depending on A/B testing.
Deploying your brand new ERP across your business.

Most businesses find it hard to implement ERP successfully, so it's no surprise that nearly 50% of ERP implementations fail around the first time. Avoid being a part of the statistics by following our 9-step ERP implementation planning guide for successful ERP implementation:

9-Step ERP implementation planning guide

Step 1: Identify your goals

ERP is a complex software program that requires much forethought before the implementation begins. It is a costly affair, but it is also a long-term investment. As such, it is vital to identify your technological goals and expectations. It is important to note that operational requirements vary across different organizations.

Step 2: Set realistic expectations

Set realistic expectations and define your Implementation project. An ERP will not magically transform your organization. It cannot fix underlying organizational issues, financial mismanagement, and lack of goals or purpose. An ERP helps you automate your business processes and enhances communication between various departments while creating a single copy of data that is verifiable and synced automatically.

Step 3: Find an ERP vendor who understands your industry

Every business has unique requirements that change over time. The reasons you need an ERP today won't be the same tomorrow. Most buyers understand this dilemma and often find it challenging to decide. Make sure your vendor understands the origins of your hesitation and provides you with the necessary tools to lower the risk of making seemingly irreversible decisions when implementing an ERP system.

Step 4: Conduct a thorough audit

Once you have chosen your vendor and the ERP product you seek to implement, conduct a complete audit of all technology-related items. This includes the hardware, software, and peripheral infrastructure necessary to run your business.

Step 5:  Prioritize tasks

For your ERP to function the way it should, you should identify things that need to be done on a priority basis, even before you install the software program.

Step 6: Appoint an internal ERP implementation team

It's easy to make mistakes when implementing ERP, simply because there isn't a hands-on team to oversee the entire project. As ERP implementation affects every aspect of your business, from customer service to production, finances, Human Resources, and inventory management, it is necessary to put a team that liaises with everyone involved. Identify key stakeholders who understand their domain best.

Step 7: Conduct testing and configuration during deployment

ERP implementation is a process during which you discover your organizational shortcomings. It is a time of revelation that will leave you vulnerable and exposed to technical loopholes. However, it also allows you to test which processes work better when certain ERP functions are tweaked, configured, and reconfigured.

Step 8: Prepare your staff for a change in work culture

Any ERP implementation brings about a change to your organizational culture. In the best scenario – It results in a dramatic shift in how things get done.

Step 9: Deploy ERP organization-wide after successful staff training

Staff training is an integral part of ERP implementation. However, many companies assume that users will learn to use the ERP along the way. This is primarily untrue and can lead to disastrous consequences.

Schedule today!

Schedule a no-obligation call with one of our experts to get expert advice on how Priority can help streamline your operations.

Continue to seek support from your ERP vendor

Technology changes rapidly, and it is essential to keep your ERP updated and customized to reflect these changes. Maintaining an ongoing relationship with your vendor, who can advise you regarding critical updates, is vital. Your business processes are not stagnant, either. They often change dramatically within a short period.

Your ERP will have to play catch up to reflect these changes to your business processes. An empathetic ERP vendor will factor in these transformations and help you attune your new ERP on an ongoing basis.

Dunlop systems and components

Dunlop wanted a more flexible ERP system to replace their legacy system as the legacy system was overly expensive to maintain.

Priority provided an overall standard system with pertinent modifications to suit the business processes at DSC.

We put together processes & data flow solutions that provided smooth & efficient work flows in the challenging environment of a manufacturing platform in a multi-company setup.

A conscious decision was made before migrating to the new system. This ensured the ease of use of the various data analyzers to get accurate results every time with the press of a button in every area of Priority ERP.

Results:

  • Enhanced Project Management
  • Improved Executive Reporting
  • Improved Production Efficiency
  • Improved Operations
  • Improved Inventory Management
Dunlop Systems and Components ERP case study
Read now

Smart energy

As one of Florida's leading solar panel and renewable energy product and service providers, Smart Energy knew it had to up its game to remain competitive. That meant enhancing their product offering, but more importantly, gaining tighter control of their operations.
After working with Samrt Energy on their ERP implementation, Priority's cloud ERP now fully manages and controls all of Smart Energy's operational business processes, including finance, logistics, sales, project management, and a robust built-in CRM, to handle customer service and technical support.

Results:

  • Fast Implementation Process: Priority's local project team was not only fast, but they were on time and within budget. Their employees were well trained by Priority, so there wasn't anything they couldn't handle.
  • Customized User Experience: User interface, reports, and even the look and feel of purchase orders and customer invoices are all aligned with Smart Energy's logo and graphics. Access Real-Time Data: Smart Energy can work at customer sites and on the go. Project managers, surveyors, and technicians can work onsite with 100% system functionality from their tablets or mobile devices.
  • Quantify Results: Operating costs have decreased by nearly 20%, with a significant boost in system performance. On-Premise ERP: Fully manages and controls all of Smart Energy's operational business processes, including financial management, logistics, sales, project management, and a robust built-in CRM, to handle customer service and technical support.
Smart energy ERP case study
Read now

Boddingtons electrical

Boddingtons looked for a reliable, long-term solution with a quick onboarding and implementation process and one that could reliably and securely transfer data from their old ERP system to a new one with minimal system downtime.
With a dedicated data migration plan in place, project implementation time was drastically reduced to six weeks and two days of staff training.

Results:

  • Automated Systems: Priority's built-in BPM efficiently handles the same manual tasks with notifications forwarded automatically to all departments.
  • Reduced Order Processing Time: Order to shipment in just three days, when previous processes could take weeks.
  • Business Process Management: Boddingtons no longer uses any programming to control their business. It's automatic – and the entire order management process is optimized and efficient.
  • Streamline Overall Operations: Boddingtons automated their entire sales process. When a report needs to be created, the sales team uses the system's Report Generator, an easy-to-use tool that anyone in the company can access and deploy.

How Priority Software Can Help?

At Priority Software, we specialize in providing cloud-based ERP solutions tailored to your business needs. Our platform offers modular functionality, rapid implementation, and AI-driven insights to enhance productivity and streamline operations. If you're ready to transform your business with an effective ERP solution, see how Priority Software can help.

Discover more success stories

Resources

Webinar

3 ISV solutions for the construction industry

The construction process is a complex process consisting of several layers. Watch the webinar for best practices!

Article

ERP benefits for businesses

One of the primary ERP benefits is the ability to streamline business operations by automating tasks and workflows.

Article

Choosing the best ERP system: Why it's important to find the “best fit” for your business

If your company is searching for a new or replacement ERP system, it’s safe to assume that you’ve either outgrown your legacy software, or that your current ERP system can no longer keep pace with your growing business, and your growing business needs. 

See how Priority works for you


Frequently Asked Questions

ERP Implementation & Process

What is an ERP implementation?

An ERP implementation is the process of installing, configuring, and deploying an Enterprise Resource Planning system across a business. It includes data migration, user training, process redesign, and system testing. A successful ERP implementation aligns software with business goals to streamline operations and improve efficiency. (Source)

What are the main steps in a successful ERP implementation?

The main steps include: identifying goals, setting realistic expectations, choosing an industry-savvy vendor, conducting a thorough audit, prioritizing tasks, appointing an internal team, testing and configuring during deployment, preparing staff for cultural change, and deploying ERP organization-wide after staff training. (Source)

Why do nearly 50% of ERP implementations fail the first time?

ERP implementations often fail due to lack of planning, unrealistic expectations, poor vendor selection, insufficient audits, inadequate prioritization, absence of a dedicated team, lack of testing, and insufficient staff training. (Source)

How does Priority Software support ongoing ERP updates and customization?

Priority Software maintains an ongoing relationship with customers, advising on critical updates and customizations to ensure the ERP reflects changes in business processes and technology. (Source)

What is the recommended approach to staff training during ERP implementation?

Staff training should be an integral part of ERP implementation, not assumed to happen organically. Proper training ensures users can fully utilize the system and avoid costly mistakes. (Source)

How long does a typical Priority ERP implementation take?

Implementation timeframes vary, but case studies show Priority ERP can be implemented in as little as six weeks, with staff training completed in two days (Boddingtons Electrical). (Source)

What are the benefits of appointing an internal ERP implementation team?

An internal team ensures oversight, cross-departmental communication, and domain expertise, reducing mistakes and improving project outcomes. (Source)

How does Priority Software handle data migration during ERP implementation?

Priority Software provides dedicated data migration plans to securely transfer data from legacy systems to new ERP platforms, minimizing downtime and ensuring data integrity. (Source)

What results can businesses expect from a successful Priority ERP implementation?

Businesses can expect enhanced project management, improved executive reporting, production efficiency, operations, and inventory management, as demonstrated by Dunlop Systems and Components. (Source)

How does Priority ERP help businesses reduce operational costs?

Priority ERP has helped companies like Smart Energy decrease operating costs by nearly 20%, while boosting system performance and enabling real-time data access. (Source)

Features & Capabilities

What core products and solutions does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software offers cloud-based ERP systems, retail management solutions, hospitality management platforms, and school management systems. These solutions are tailored for various industries and business sizes. (ERP, Retail Management, Hospitality Management, School Management)

What are the key features of Priority ERP?

Key features include modular functionality, rapid implementation, AI-driven insights, advanced analytics, automation, no-code customizations, centralized data, and industry-specific modules for manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and hospitality. (Source)

Does Priority Software offer integrations with other platforms?

Yes, Priority Software offers over 150 plug & play connectors, unlimited API connectivity, embedded integrations, and supports RESTful API, ODBC drivers, and SFTP file integration. Integrations include SAP, Webhotelier, Ving Card, Verifone, TrustYou, SiteMinder, and more. (Source)

Does Priority Software provide an open API?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API for seamless integration with third-party applications, enabling custom workflows and tailored solutions. (Source)

Is technical documentation available for Priority ERP?

Yes, Priority Software provides comprehensive technical documentation covering features, industries, and supported products. (Source)

What makes Priority ERP user-friendly?

Priority ERP features an intuitive interface, user-configurability for fields, logic, reports, and workflows, and is praised for ease of use by customers. It enables employees to manage tasks efficiently without heavy reliance on IT teams. (Source)

What industry-specific modules does Priority ERP offer?

Priority ERP offers modules for manufacturing, retail, healthcare, hospitality, automotive, construction, electronics, financial services, and more. (Source)

How does Priority ERP support automation?

Priority ERP includes built-in workflows, AI recommendations, and business process management tools to automate repetitive tasks and improve operational efficiency. (Source)

What analytics and reporting capabilities does Priority ERP provide?

Priority ERP offers hundreds of pre-defined reports, no-code reporting tools, and advanced analytics for actionable business insights. (Source)

Use Cases & Benefits

Who can benefit from Priority Software solutions?

Priority Software serves global enterprises, SMBs, retail chains, manufacturers, healthcare organizations, hospitality businesses, and educational institutions. Over 75,000 companies in 70 countries use Priority. (Source)

What problems does Priority ERP solve for retail businesses?

Priority ERP addresses lack of real-time insights, operational inefficiencies, inventory inaccuracies, disconnected customer experiences, and high IT costs. It centralizes management, automates workflows, and supports omnichannel operations. (Source)

How does Priority ERP help manufacturing companies?

Priority ERP improves quality control, production efficiency, data accuracy, and inventory management. It provides real-time traceability and centralized data for better forecasting and reporting. (Source)

How does Priority ERP benefit hospitality businesses?

Priority's hospitality management solutions offer guest-centric property management, streamlined operations, real-time data access, and integration with leading hospitality platforms. (Source)

What are some real-world success stories of Priority ERP implementation?

Case studies include Dunlop Systems (improved operations), Smart Energy (20% cost reduction), Boddingtons Electrical (six-week implementation), Solara Adjustable Patio Covers (accelerated workflows), and Nautilus Designs (30% order volume growth). (Source)

How does Priority ERP improve order processing time?

Boddingtons Electrical reduced order processing time from weeks to just three days using Priority's automated business process management and reporting tools. (Source)

How does Priority ERP support mobile and remote work?

Priority ERP enables real-time access from tablets and mobile devices, allowing project managers, surveyors, and technicians to work onsite with full system functionality. (Source)

What feedback have customers given about Priority ERP's ease of use?

Customers praise Priority ERP for its intuitive interface, efficiency, quick learning curve, and user-configurability. It has a 4.1/5 rating on G2, with testimonials highlighting its simplicity and effectiveness. (Source)

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Navision?

Microsoft Navision has reached end of life, forcing businesses to migrate. Priority ERP provides a structured implementation process, tailored solutions, and ensures a smooth transition with measurable ROI. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to Acumatica?

Acumatica focuses on cloud ERP but lacks industry-specific features, has limited WMS, a steep learning curve, and unpredictable pricing. Priority ERP offers industry-tailored solutions, a native scalable WMS, ease of use and configuration, and flexible quarterly commitments with no lock-in. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Dynamics 365?

Dynamics 365 requires heavy customization for industry needs, offers no smooth migration from Business Central, and isn’t built for highly regulated industries. Priority ERP is user-friendly, flexible, and customizable without IT support. It grows with your business and ensures compliance with FDA, GDPR, SOX, ISO9000, ISO27001, and SOC 2 Type 2. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to SAP Business One?

SAP Business One is powerful but complex, expensive, and lacks multi-company capabilities. Its Version 10 will also reach end-of-support in 2026. Priority ERP is affordable, easy to use, maintains the same platform (no forced migrations), and supports true multi-company operations with automatic inter-company processes. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to Sage X3?

Sage focuses on accounting, not full ERP. Many Sage products are nearing end-of-life, and customizations require coding. Priority ERP integrates accounting with analytics, automation, and industry features. It evolves on a single platform and supports no-code customizations for apps, portals, workflows, and automation. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to NetSuite?

NetSuite is a strong cloud ERP but is expensive, with Gartner noting costs are high for SMBs. It also enforces contract lock-in. Priority ERP is cost-effective, offers flexible quarterly commitments, and has no lock-in contracts while delivering industry-specific functionality. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to Microsoft Business Central?

Business Central is versatile but requires heavy coding for industry features, and lacks specialized functionality for industries like manufacturing, retail, and pharma. Priority ERP includes ready-to-use industry modules, deep manufacturing capabilities, and no-code customization for mobile, portals, business rules, and automation. (Source)

How does Priority ERP compare to Odoo?

Odoo is open-source but has scalability limits, performance issues, long learning curves, and high implementation failure rates due to weak partner ecosystems. Priority ERP provides structured implementation, scalability, proven methodologies, experienced partners, and quick user adoption. (Source)

Support & Implementation

What professional and implementation services does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software provides onboarding, training, data migration, process mapping, and ongoing support to ensure optimal utilization of its solutions. (Source)

How does Priority Software ensure a smooth onboarding process?

Priority Software uses dedicated project teams, structured implementation methodologies, and tailored training to ensure fast, efficient onboarding with minimal disruption. (Source)

What ongoing support does Priority Software provide?

Priority Software offers ongoing support, system updates, and customization advice to keep ERP solutions aligned with evolving business needs and technology changes. (Source)

How does Priority Software help businesses avoid common ERP implementation pitfalls?

Priority Software provides a 9-step implementation guide, dedicated teams, thorough audits, and tailored solutions to address common pitfalls such as poor planning, lack of training, and integration challenges. (Source)

Where can I find more resources and case studies about Priority ERP?

Resources and case studies are available on the Priority Software website, including detailed success stories and implementation guides. (Source)

Product Information & Recognition

How many companies use Priority Software worldwide?

Over 75,000 companies across 70 countries rely on Priority Software to manage and grow their businesses. (Source)

Which notable companies use Priority Software?

Notable customers include Toyota, Flex, Teva, Ace Hardware, ALDO, Adidas, Dunlop, Outbrain, GSK, and more. (Source)

Has Priority Software received industry recognition?

Yes, Priority Software has been recognized by Gartner and IDC, and ranked #1 by TEC in 2025. (Source)

What customer satisfaction ratings has Priority ERP received?

Priority ERP has received a rating of approximately 4.1/5 on G2, with users highlighting its simplicity and effectiveness. (Source)

Where can I find pricing information for Priority Software?

Pricing information is available on the Priority Software website. Visit the Pricing page for details. (Source)