Sunday, June 26, 2011

Selecting the Right ERP Platform for Your Organization

Selecting the right ERP software is always a big question for decision makers. This is because of so many implementation failures due to wrong selection of ERP software.

Implementation of the ERP - Once the decision has been taken on which ERP software you are going to buy, make a proper plan of implementation of the same. Whenever there is a new addition in any company, the first obstacle comes from the workers of the company, as they are mostly layman and used to the old software which they are using for long. So you have to take them in confidence and should train them properly to use the new ERP software. Next is, whatever promise your vendor does to you, don't take them seriously; always ask for a demo version for a limited time so that you personally can understand the functionality of the ERP software. You must test the software from all possible angles, to see its working; also you should keep a tab that all the modules and the functionalities should work well.

Evaluate the benefits of the new system - You have to make sure that the new ERP software which you have chooses is giving what exactly you are looking for. Like if your motto is to reduce costs and increase revenue then you must ensure that your ERP software is giving just that to you.

Focus on more option - Though there are few ERP vendors are known for their best selling products but when you are choosing the right ERP Software platform, you can always look for option, because these days, more and more new customized ERP solutions are available by lesser known vendors but they generally give best price along with best service in order to curve a niche in the market. Some times Its better to go for the quality of the software than the brand of the company.

In Nutshell - Try to find the ERP which are high on speed, less on errors, the communicative part of the software in high. The portability and the integrity are very satisfactory, while internet support is available and E commerce facility has been taken care off. Easy to use, easy to maintain and fits in the budget of the company are the key factor while choosing the right ERP software platform.

Fore more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/Selecting-the-Right-ERP-Platform-for-Your-Organization.html

ERP System Help You Meet Strategic Objectives

Normally in all organizations, managers have to utilize large part of their time and energy in dealing with crises. This is due to someone from the staff is not having done his job in the manner it was expected to be done.

There may be many cases such as tax payment to the government is not done with accuracy, a shipment to a customer not being made on time, bills not collected, production department not meeting the deadlines etc. We are not saying that these works will be carried by an ERP system once it is implemented. As always, people have to do all of the above, but the advantage of an ERP system is that it will enable them to do all this, in a timely, planned and process driven manner.

An efficient ERP system frees up various levels of management form a very large number of operational problems. The managers will get enough time to look at what is going on, without the information seeking becoming an end in itself.

Also when the CEO of a company wants to know the top strategic objectives for the next year from the Function Head, he can actually get down to defining what those objectives are, and how they will be measured. Again, the defining of the objectives cannot be done by the ERP system, but will help in measuring the parameters associated with the strategic objectives.

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/ERP-System-Help-You-Meet-Strategic-Objectives.html

ERP Data Migration Strategies for Successful Implementation

To make an ERP implementation successful data migration is the key factor. When a data can migrate effectively that proves that the ERP system is just appropriate for them. And this projection builds their confidence in the system and which in n turn becomes the key factor of the success of ERP implementation.

Though while implementing an ERP the main focus is on the modules attached with it and how popular it is, but what they lack is the focus in the operation of the system, that is real time data migration, which cannot be determined till the ERP is started working full fledged with all real time data, and when some one find out that the data is not migrating efficiently and effectively then the ERP implementation is becomes a failure.

The real problem lies in the fact that data migration is the last activity we do, because real time data can only migrate when the system is about to working live, so the real problem area starts after that.

Strategy of Data Migration

There are few strategies that need to be followed while migration of data -

1. Data identification for migration.
2. Determine the time for data migration.
3. Generation of the data templates.
4. Data migration tools need to free zed.

The data Identification for migration

The Identification of the need to be migrated to any applications consists of four groups of data. A particular order need to be followed while entering the data as, all data is interdependent.

The order is like

A. Configuration Data - These data are for one time feeding into system that's required for set up.
B. Sub master Data - These data are mainly related to any transaction procedures.
C. Master Data - These are the data which are being regular updated. It relates from sales module to purchase modules to stocks and inventory.
D: Transaction Data - These are the data which are entered at the end of all these above data entry order. It consists of balance sheets, reports, and other end results.

Data load timing

1. As we discussed above the timing should starts from set up data and it will end at transaction data. But as set up data can be entered just one time so exception caution should be taken while entering it.
2. And same rule goes for the case of sub master's data entry.
3. And for Master data and transaction data, both are continuous process so loads on tools need to be taken care.

Templates

These are sharable components mostly for various users, between different countries or continents so it should be created and modified keeping the exact purpose of sharing.

Tools to be used

There are four different tools can be used to load data into the database.

1. Desktop Integration - This tool is used for one window based process.
2. SQL Loader - These tools accept data from databases.
3. Oracle Standard APIs - This tool is meant for oracle database.
4. Custom Built Interfaces - These are custom's verified data for loading into database.

Conclusion

Data migration is very important activity in establishing the success of an ERP implementation. An accurately migrated data is a reflection to the stakeholders that the ERP system is perfect and gives clear indication of their current organization. This increases their level of confidence in the system and in turn is a key factor in the ultimate success of ERP implementation

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/ERP-Data-Migration-Strategies-for-Successful-Implementation.html

Critical Success Factors for ERP Implementation in India

Since early 1990s, many firms around the world have shifted their information technology (IT) strategy from developing information systems in-house to purchasing application software such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

As more and more enterprises move from functional to process-based IT infrastructure, ERP system becomes one of today's most widely used IT solutions in many large enterprises. IT managers responsible for managing their organization's ERP implementation view their ERP systems as their organizations' most strategic computing platform. In spite of the widely used IT solutions, many ERP implementations are not successful. It takes longer time and costs more money than expected. Given the large investment that an ERP project requires and the potential benefits it can offer if successfully implemented, it is important to understand what is needed to ensure a successful ERP Implementation , during a whole process of ERP implementation, i.e.: pre implementation phase, implementation phase and post-implementation phase.

Serving as a company's central nervous system, ERP systems orchestrate many functions, including order management, materials planning, warehouse management, payables, receivables, and general ledger. Because these systems touch so many aspects of a company's internal and external operations their successful deployment and use are critical to organizational performance and survival. In reality, ERP implementation is costly and complex. In many cases, ERP is the largest single investment in any corporate-wide project. The software is expensive, and the consulting costs even more.

Here is what works and what you need to do to reap the benefits of a fully integrated business.

A critical success factor is something that the organization must do well to succeed. In terms of information system projects, a critical success factor is what a system must do to accomplish what it was designed to do. Three factors consistently appear as critical success factors for information systems projects: top management support, client consultation (user involvement), and clear project objectives.

The critical success factors can be categorized as strategic factors, tactical factors, and operational factors.

Strategic factors:

Top management support – In any ERP implementation a top-down decision, approach needs to be taken for ERP adoption .The commitment of top management should be emphasized throughout an organization. In particular, no more important factor than the support of the management is critical in the project's life. The roles of top management in IT implementation include developing an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of IT, establishing reasonable goals for IT systems, exhibiting strong commitment to the successful introduction of IT, and communicating the corporate IT strategy to all employees Senior management must be involved, including the required people and appropriate time to finish and allocate valuable resources to the implementation effort.

Tactical factors:

Effective project management – in order to successfully accomplish the decision to implement an ERP system, the effective project management comes into play to plan, coordinate and control such an intricate project. In order for the ERP system to progress it is critical to clarify the ERP project's and every participators' scope and ensure consideration of all the required work.

Re-engineering business processes –To gain full benefit of ERP systems, it is imperative that business processes are aligned with the ERP systems, It is a proven fact that the ERP itself can not improve the firm's performance unless the firm reengineers the business process per ERP systems. Modification of the software causes problems, such as code errors and difficulty upgrading to new versions. Each company needs customized software, but the organization must keep customization to a minimum, since any modification will lead to higher related cost . It is very important to consider the extent to which the company needs to re-engineer its current business processes in order to be compatible with the ERP software.

Suitability of software and hardware – management must make a careful choice of an ERP package that best matches the legacy systems, e.g. the hardware platform, databases and operating systems.

Operational factors:

Education and training – when the ERP system is up and running it is very important that the users be capable to use it, hence they should be aware of the ERP logic and concepts and should be familiar with the system's features. ERP systems involve big change for people, and the system will not do you any good if people do not understand how to use it effectively. Therefore, spending time on money on training, change management, job design, etc. is crucial to any ERP project.

User involvement – participating in the system development and implementation, the users go through a transition period that gives them time to better understand the project's consequences.

By ensuring these critical success factors in place, your organization will be much more likely to maximize the business benefits of ERP

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/Critical-Success-Factors-for-ERP-Implementation-in-India.html

Apparel ERP With Best Features

Software companies design and develop innovative and professional software programs that provide integrated and cost effective solutions. These efficiently enhance flawless production of products across different industry verticals. Designed and developed using latest technologies, these software solutions bear modular and totally integrated features.

Enhancing new business growth and strategies bundle ticket solution is beneficial for garment production. It facilitates in the custom creation of bundle tickets and enhances best business strategies and growth. Its attractive feature includes WIP tracking and can be integrated with ERP software. Also ideal for operating as stand alone software, it facilitates in analyzing production efficiency. Realistic loading plan is included in its feedback loop that supports various improvement actions. Offering shorter lead time for report management, its WIP status offers better quality control of products.

Apparel erp, a multi-featured software reduces lead time and costs and increase production efficiency in apparel industries. It helps in attaining real business value and improves manufacturing and distribution strategy. Developed using sophisticated technologies this credible and feature-rich software offers better business process management. Widely used in tracking and monitoring SKUs of products, this software bears merchandizing module for easy creation of styles and orders. It accelerates the bulk production of apparel and facilitates in the timely delivery of consignments. The user friendly software is easy to use and implement and remains effective in analyzing production efficiency thereby enhancing in-house communications in apparel industries.

Besides, Apparel Wholesale Software implements designs and manages style sketches and images for apparels. It is flexible enough and is basically a web-based system. Rendering complete software solution for pre-production, production and post-production phases in the apparel industry, this modular software package streamlines the entire apparel manufacturing process cycle. Its sample management screen, order placement screen as well as supplier access screen yield credible results in less time.

Use of such cutting edge software ensures success of various businesses and enhances business profits. This helps in strengthening company's rapport in the market.

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/Apparel-ERP-With-Best-Features.html

Wireless Technology Advancement in ERP Software

Enterprising Resource Planning or ERP is going places these days. It has become an integral part of almost all business. So like the Wireless Technology, its effectiveness has been proved beyond doubt. Advancement of Wireless Technology in ERP has given a double advantage to the companies which are using ERP for a long time. As Wireless technology has its reach beyond any geographic location and also its communication and data transfer process is much faster. So it has become the eye candy of every organization.

Today every offices use WIFI connections which are free from the hassles of wired connections, has been proved as the boon to the ERP users. Like in any manufacturing company where head office is in different location whereas warehouse, sales office, manufacturing unit are in different location. They are now always connected through WIFI and can keep all updated information about stocks, product delivery sales process, workers time schedules and also the profit margin. Previously they all had to maintain piles of files and also engage more people for the maintenance of those files. But now they are saved from those tortures. Now only a laptop is all they require with super fast data communication process and they are sorted from every problem.

With the advancement of wireless technology in ERP, the company policies and sales volume has increased. Now the sales team can gather any data, any information about their target, all figures and numbers are now with them always due to super fast data transfer and they can just take any crucial decision at any point of time just by getting right facts and figures in order. The increase of sales target, or widening the profit margin can be easily calculated and therefore can make a difference to the sales force. Also any distribution companies can maintain E-commerce feature with wireless technology and that too for 24X7.

Maintenance of customers who are the key aspect of any business has now become much easier than before. It's just a matter of clicking of mouse. When there is a need to contact any customer for better business, how far he is, but he is always within reach through emails, chats, and video conferencing. And from the point of view of the customers, the self service systems make them more comfortable for any service or complain or suggestions, without wasting time in front office for the same. It can save a day for the better work in a productive way.

All large companies these days do have global headquarter, and business locations are in different place.

So whenever there is a major decision making issue like revenue generation, or may be product supply or manufacturing problems or machinery issues, they can take it with all the relevant data available to them with all updated information, no matter where they are located. Wireless technology has crossed all geographical barriers.

But there is a flip side to the story. Like all other technologies wireless technology has also come under threat of piracy. As this is a very high competitive world so it has become almost impossible to avoid piracy when the real data has been published.

But reaserches are going on to make the system more secure and private, alternative measures of transferring data and communication should be approached. But in spite of these threats the advancement of wireless technology in ERP has taken a huge leap in the way of business process.

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/Wireless-Technology-Advancement-in-ERP-Software.html

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Why is Enterprise Resource Planning Widely Used

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is now an integral part of any business unit. The benefits of ERP is widely known and accepted in all domain industries because it provides easy access to business data and analytics by integrating multiple function areas.

1.Finance

Companies can expect to find all information regarding finance - purchases and expenditures in a common data store, sothat critical finance information can be effectively controlled by appropriate data owners. This also helps in assessing company performance and planning for long term financial stability and growth.

2.Operations

Effective collaboration between Marketing, Sales, Quality Control and Product Development can be established using ERP solutions. The logical flow of information aids in process definition and implementation.Business processes can be further integrated with supplier and customer databases in the long run (CRM- Customer Relationship Management) to maintain customer loyalty and good-will.

ERP solutions can be effectively used to merge processes of multiple business units as well. This is largely due to standardizing of business processes such as manufacturing, quality checks etc. This in turn largely increases productivity for the company as a whole.

3.Human Resources

In many companies, HRD finds it difficult to maintain employee records. Some of them may also have to guard critical employee information, when the business units are remotely located. ERP packages come in handy by bringing together multiple HR systems and constantly maintaining updated employee and customer data.

ERP Solutions

Enterprise Resource Planning solutions are widely implemented across the globe (commonly used packages are retail solutions and manufacturing software solution). Companies can access data related to multiple functions like finance, human resources, procurement, accounting etc. from one place; which helps managers to take informed decisions at the right time.

Enterprise solutions that aim to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) delivered through a superior understanding of product, established processes and an integrated approach to leveraging technology is vital for the growth of any business unit. An Enterprise Resource Planning solution that canefficiently handle a company's core and support business functionalities can make a large difference in improving its ROI as well.

For more please visit http://www.erppandit.com/Why-is-Enterprise-Resource-Planning-Widely-Used.html