Many companies avoid an ERP upgrade like they would a plague especially if it involved redoing any customizations, which could break on the upgrade and will require retesting. But unfortunately, there will come a time when you have no choice when the vendor no longer supports your version of the software. What do you do?
One option would be to replace the existing system, but that’s drastic and would only be justified if:
- The vendor is not investing in the software and you’re not able to take advantage of newer technology such as a web interface, multi-tenant architecture and AI.
- The vendor will no longer support the system as it is being replaced by a different system.
- The cost of the upgrade is so substantial that the replacement cost is in the same ballpark.
- The people supporting the software are not doing a good job looking after you.
- Your business has changed, and the software no longer meets your needs.
- Your business has grown, and performance is no longer acceptable even if the system was to be upgraded.
- The software requires support by ageing people close to retirement.
- You don’t have confidence in the security of your software.
- You no longer want to use your own IT infrastructure and the vendors do not offer hosting.
If you decide to upgrade your software, you are likely going to have a project management problem. The project manager for the initial implementation may no longer be available and an upgrade does require similar controls to the initial implementation. The ERP vendors may offer project management, but it’s typically focused on their own people and deliverables. One option is to bring in a 3rd partly like 180 Systems that offer ERP Upgrade services.
Please contact us if you want to talk about it by clicking here, calling us at 416-485-2200 or by email at info@180systems.com.