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Need an ERP?

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I touch so many people that are in a quandary, they know they need a new system and just don’t know where to start the process.  Immediately they will get on Google and start the process we all use when we research.  Type in a few key words and see what happens…OMG. 

I just typed Software and behold I got 1,910,000 hits for software, even Google  has software to download.  I put in Business Software and I get 970,000 hits (now I am getting some where). Next step lets try Accounting Software 34,700,000…. No, this is not going to work.  Who has the time to shift through all this?

Next I call a friend, what are you using?  How do you like it?  What’s it cost?  Tell me the real story!  Who set it up?  Do you still need all the excel spread sheets?  After I get off the phone I realize they don’t have the same type of business and it just won’t work for me.  Now what, do I need a consultant.  How much is that?  Where do I find that?  Back to Google. 

I was a Controller and CFO for over 25 years and for some reason the IT stuff used to land in my plate because I was responsible for accounting and administration functions.   Looking for new software it was tough; you have so many things on your plate that looking, testing, and researching for the right software can be a real burden. 

I wish I had a consultant like me back in those days.  Strange statement but 6 years ago I started my second career with a Value Added Reseller (VAR); that’s what we used to call them.  Now we are called Partners, the channel and business partners but we are the people who sell it, install it and support those intimidating business and accounting solutions. There really are three types of software for business these days; the “Mom and Pop”, “Mid Market”, and the “Big Guy” solutions.  The “Mom and Pop” stuff you can buy off the shelf and some can install it and get it running properly. With some luck and real understanding of their business and accounting they can make it work.  I have seen that over the years, but at some point they outgrow their “Mom and Pop” solution and need something more robust.

  Next, the Mid Market ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Software with lots of bells and whistles.  This would be for the 10-150+ users with lots of requirements.  I never really understood the ERP tag, Enterprise was appropriate because it starts the all encompassing, Accounting, Inventory, Payroll, CRM, EDI, Web integration, Marketing, MRP, MSP and the rest.  All linked together and functioning as one system not fractured.  Wow this is good….

Then we have the Big Boys with huge price tags more than 90% of the companies in America can’t afford.  Give me a fortune 500 and I will show you the heavy weights.  That is a whole different story. 

I play in the mid Market and I love what I do.  My client lists include Power Plants to Fast Food restaurants, from Manufacturing to Distribution and last but not least Service Companies.

Stay tuned! More to come!