6 steps to selecting erp for rubber and plastic manufacturing

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6 Steps for Selecting Rubber and Plastic Manufacturing ERP Software


Are you considering implementing ERP for rubber and plastic manufacturing?


ERP can truly help you take your business to the next level, save money, and improve customer service. But remember that ERP system selection and implementation is a tedious and important process that should never be rushed through.


When selecting rubber and plastic manufacturing ERP software, many steps need to be taken to ensure you don’t wind up going over budget or stuck with a system that won’t help you reach your goals.


Figuring out how to go about such a big job can be tricky, and there are many risks involved.

However…..


We’ve outlined six steps to take during the ERP software selection process to help you ensure you’re getting off on the right foot with your project to avoid mistakes and any unnecessary expense.


Step 1: Think Long-Term• Long-term planning will most likely avoid

a costly mistake.

• Select a system that meets your needs now, but also has the flexibility and scalability to grow and change with you in the future as needs change.


Step 2: Seek Executive InputFor any important business decision, it is always important to consult company executives and seek their input. If they get on board with the project in the very beginning they will be there to support it throughout.

Company executives can provide a long-term vision of the company that will be vital for making a final decision on an ERP system.

Getting executives behind an ERP project also helps get others in the company behind it as well, as company adoption rates will increase rapidly.


Step 3: Create a List of Company RequirementsWould you purchase a house without first deciding what characteristics you require for it? Probably not..

You likely have a list of things you need to make it a good investment that will suit your family’s needs and budget now and into the future, such as:

• Number of bedrooms/bathrooms• Size of the yard• Size of the garage• Location• etc.


The same theory holds true when it comes to selecting and investing in an ERP system.


Meet with the selection and implementation team to create an extensive checklist to help guide you in your search for the best-fit system. Be sure you get input from EVERY area of your business, just to be sure all requirements are being met.

You can use this list to rule out systems that obviously wont work based on your needs and compile a short-list for those that seem to have what you need.


Step 4: Look for Manufacturing-Specific FunctionalityThis may seem obvious, but some rubber and plastic manufacturers make the mistake of failing to ensure the ERP system they choose has the correct manufacturing functionality.

Are you a discrete, process, or mixed mode manufacturer? This is crucial as each type will have different needs and different software options.


Here are some of the important features you may want to keep in mind as you create your list.

Shipment tracking Traceability Work center scheduling Audit management Plant maintenance Inventory management Production scheduling Analysis and reporting Shop floor data collection

Financial modules more


Step 5: Consider Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)As you evaluate systems and think about your budget, it’s important to think about more than just the cost of the software. Here are a few other factors to take into consideration:

• Maintenance• Customization • Cost of software• Training• Per user license costs• IT personnel • Cost of facilities• Internal costs• Support

• Upgrades• Additional modules• System enhancement• Consultant fees• Firewall software


Step 6: Narrow The List & Schedule a DemoAfter you narrow down your top 3 ERP systems, be sure to set up a demo with each vendor. A software demo is THE BEST way to fully understand the way the software works, the way the vendor works, and whether or not its going to be a good fit for your business. Usually, there are three types of demo options available: • Video demo • Fee trial• Vendor guided

Each option has its own pros and cons, so be sure to know which one will benefit your company the most. Read more about that here. (or copy this link into your browser: http://blog.e2benterprise.com/erp-evaluation-best-practice-know-your-demo-options/)

http://blog.e2benterprise.com/erp-evaluation-best-practice-know-your-demo-options/


Doing More Research?This was a high-level overview of how to select the right ERP system for your business. There is a lot more to talk about. We have much more in our ERP resource library including white papers, videos, ERP evaluation templates, and more. Click below or visit www.e2benterprise.com to learn more.

http://www.e2benterprise.com/

http://blog.e2benterprise.com/how-erp-solves-the-top-challenges-of-rubber-and-plastics-manufacturers/

http://blog.e2benterprise.com/how-to-avoid-implementation-sins/

http://blog.e2benterprise.com/erp-for-plastic-rubber-manufacturers/


Have Questions?We can help! We are ERP software

resellers & developers with a team of consultants standing by to answer any

questions you may have.www.e2benterprise.com

440.352.4700

http://www.e2benterprise.com/

6 steps to selecting erp for rubber and plastic manufacturing

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