ResourcesChoosing the best ERP system: Why it’s important to find the “best fit” for your business
Mar. 30, 2023
ERP

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

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Setting the foundation

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. 

Most business owners and managers spend several months (or longer) before deciding on which ERP vendor to go with, and if what they’re being pitched, is in fact, the “be all and end all” – no less than the perfect ERP for their organization. It can be a long, arduous, and even confusing process, and then some. According to analyst firm, Gartner, over 55% all ERP projects fail because the customer (and the vendor, too!) underestimated the time, resources, and budget required successfully implement and maintain an ERP.

Outline your business needs

Selecting not only the right ERP vendor, and the right ERP, depends a lot on your organization’s operational business needs.

While there is an endless list of critical factors you need to consider, we’ve shortened the list down to the top 6, to help make the decision process a little easier – to not only choose the right ERP vendor, but ultimately, the best ERP for your business.

What’s inside?

First, you want to be sure that your ERP has the modules, features and functionality that will optimize your operational business processes. In other words, your ERP should work for you. You do not want to change or adapt your business practices to suit your ERP. Comparing different ERP’s features is perhaps the best way to better understand the ROI, and what you can hope to achieve from each system you’re considering.

Can it integrate?

You will want your ERP to be able to integrate with other third-party software products and applications. This means that you want to look for an “open” ERP system. A high level of system openness enables you to send and receive business data to other software systems in your organization. Today’s advanced systems offer exceedingly high levels of interoperability between core business processes, with the ability to incorporate external data, for example, from AI and IoT-powered devices, opening up a whole new world of innovation for your business.

Flexibility and scalability

You’ll want to look for a flexible ERP to enable your business to adapt, change, and grow over time, and that you can easily add features and functionality as your business grows. You’ll also want a system that is scalable, so that you can penetrate into new markets, and expand your business, such as increased volumes, workloads, and amounts of data. As you grow, your ERP will also need to scale, to continue providing support.

On-premise, cloud or hybrid

On-premise ERP is installed in-house, while cloud ERP is delivered as a Software-as-a-Service solution. Hybrid ERP combines both, with certain features and functionality delivered via the cloud, while others are stored locally. Choosing the right model depends on how sensitive your business data is, and what your business and technological objectives are. Most businesses today, however, choose cloud ERP, as it’s easier to implement, more affordable, including various subscription models, and doesn’t require installing costly system hardware on site.

Cost

ERP is a considerably large investment. The total cost of the system is high, plus the cost of implementation and additional required resources required. But it’s not only about cost – it’s also about long-term value. Investing in an ERP system will, over time, yield results, by first and foremost, enabling your employees to do their jobs better, faster, and more efficiently. In turn, you will save time, valuable resources, and costs, where the right ERP can mean the difference between failure and success.

Training

When considering a new or replacement ERP, you’ll want to ensure that your vendor provides comprehensive user training, even if it’s at an additional cost. With many ERP systems, there’s a steep learning curve. You want your employees to optimize the reams of system features and functionality. This means not only understanding how the system works, but how it can best work for them.

One size cannot fit all.

The best ERP, and the best ERP for your business, is ultimately a system that will address your unique business needs.

You want an ERP that will seamlessly combine all of your operational business processes, automate your workflows, and enhance your overall performance, productivity, and efficiency. While some may think that this is a “tall order,” this is what an ERP is meticulously designed and developed to do.

With the right ERP in place, you will work smarter, work better – and work towards growing your business and your bottom line.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Product Information & Use Cases

What is Priority ERP and who is it for?

Priority ERP is a cloud-based business management solution designed for organizations seeking a reliable, scalable, and future-proof ERP system. It is ideal for CFOs, IT Directors, and Operations Leaders who want to streamline operations, avoid risks associated with end-of-life software, and improve efficiency without extensive customization. Learn more.

What industries does Priority support?

Priority offers tailored functionalities for industries including retail, manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, agriculture, construction, electronics, financial services, medical devices, municipalities, nonprofits, pharmaceutical, professional services, software & technology, wholesale & distribution, and food & beverage. See full industry list.

Who are some of Priority's customers?

Priority is trusted by leading companies such as Toyota, Flex, Teva, Ace Hardware, ALDO, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, and GSK. See more customers.

Features & Capabilities

What features does Priority ERP offer?

Priority ERP provides integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, industry-specific modules, automation, scalability, centralized data repositories, and end-to-end order fulfillment. These features enable seamless workflows, actionable insights, and adaptability for growing businesses. Learn more.

Does Priority ERP support integration with other software?

Yes, Priority ERP is designed as an open, modular system that enables high levels of interoperability with third-party software, including AI and IoT-powered devices. This allows businesses to send and receive data across platforms and innovate efficiently. Learn more.

How does Priority ERP handle customization?

Priority ERP offers no-code customizations, allowing businesses to adjust field names, screen layouts, and workflows without IT support. This flexibility enables rapid adaptation to changing business needs and reduces reliance on technical resources. Learn more.

What analytics and reporting capabilities are available?

Priority ERP includes hundreds of pre-defined reports and no-code reporting tools, providing actionable insights for better decision-making. These analytics help businesses optimize operations and forecast more accurately. Learn more.

How does Priority ERP support scalability and growth?

Priority ERP's cloud-based solutions are designed to grow with your business, supporting high-volume transactions and expansion into new markets without the need for costly on-premises infrastructure or complex upgrades. Learn more.

Pain Points & Business Impact

What problems does Priority ERP solve?

Priority ERP addresses poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, outdated or end-of-life ERP systems, excessive manual processes, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. It centralizes data, automates workflows, and provides real-time visibility to improve efficiency and decision-making. Learn more.

What business impact can customers expect from using Priority ERP?

Customers can expect enhanced operational efficiency, cost reduction, improved decision-making, long-term adaptability, and increased customer satisfaction. Priority ERP streamlines processes, reduces manual errors, and delivers actionable insights for strategic growth. Learn more.

Implementation & Ease of Use

How long does it take to implement Priority ERP?

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. Learn more.

How easy is it to get started with Priority ERP?

Priority ERP offers professional services for configuration, data migration, and training, as well as on-site and virtual training sessions. Customers also have access to Priority Xpert, a knowledge base with video tutorials and support tools, ensuring a smooth onboarding process. Learn more.

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

Customers consistently praise Priority for its flexibility, high customizability, and intuitive interface. Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) noted full automation and ease of use; Martyn Young (Cherwell Laboratories) found Priority matched their needs out of the box; Tomer Lebel (Cyberint) stated Priority is much easier to understand and operate than other leading ERP solutions. Read case studies.

Support & Maintenance

What support is available after purchasing Priority ERP?

Priority provides comprehensive post-purchase support, including troubleshooting, system optimization, software updates, customizations, and access to Priority Xpert (knowledge base, tutorials, self-service tools). Multilingual support resources and professional services are also available. Learn more.

How does Priority ERP handle maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting?

Priority aiERP provides automatic software updates and zero-downtime maintenance. SaaS customers receive updates outside work hours, with upgrades tested before deployment. On-premises customers install updates themselves. Experienced personnel resolve faults and offer remediation for supported versions. Extended support is available for an additional fee. Learn more.

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority ERP compare to other ERP solutions?

Priority ERP stands out for its integration simplicity, no-code customization, advanced analytics, industry-specific modules, automation, scalability, and affordability. It is recognized by Gartner and IDC and trusted by leading companies. Unlike competitors, Priority offers quarterly commitments with no lock-in contracts and supports true multi-company operations. Learn more.

Why should a customer choose Priority over alternatives?

Priority offers a modular, all-in-one solution with centralized data, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, and industry-specific features. It is recognized by leading analysts and trusted by notable companies, making it a preferred choice for efficiency, adaptability, and long-term value. Learn more.

How does Priority ERP address common pain points compared to competitors?

Priority ERP solves integration complexity, fragmented data, poor inventory management, manual processes, and operational inefficiencies through its all-in-one modular platform, centralized data repository, automation, and industry-specific features. Competitors often require multiple systems and complex integrations, leading to higher costs and operational risks. Learn more.