How to Find the Best Independent ERP Consultant

As an organization, finding the best independent ERP consultant is always a difficult task. With so many consultants touting their expertise, it is challenging to discern who can deliver the results your company needs. This is how Ultra Consultants stands out.

As an independent enterprise software consulting firm, we’ve helped hundreds of organizations find the perfect enterprise resource planning consultant to meet their specific needs for ERP selection, ERP implementation, and beyond. This post will cover:

The differences between ERP consultants and independent ERP consultants
The benefits of teaming with independent ERP consultants
7 step checklist to finding an independent ERP software consultant

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Differences Between ERP Consultant and Independent ERP Consultants

1. True Independence

While an ERP consultant may have a certain degree of autonomy in their ERP project management, their professional services are still tied to the vendor contracts that their consulting firm has established. This means that they must promote the solutions of whatever vendors are in their preferred list (often just one!), recommend only their tools and software and follow their procedures, even during ERP implementation.

On the other hand, independent consultants have true independence in their work. They have no obligation to sell software or loyalty to any particular system or software provider such as Microsoft Dynamics, SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP among others which means they provide unbiased advice and tailor their solutions to the client’s specific needs and business objectives. Additionally, an independent consultant has typically worked with clients on many different types of systems from a variety of vendors, which allows them to gain diverse industry knowledge and experience. True independence means that an independent consultant’s professional services focus solely on the client’s goals, best interests and objectives without any conflict of interest.

2. Technological Landscape

The ERP selection process is critical in determining the effectiveness of an ERP system, making it essential to work with a consultant with a deep understanding of the industry’s various solutions and integration requirements.

An ERP software consultant typically works with a specific ERP software vendor and may have limited experience with other technologies. They are knowledgeable about the specific implementation of their chosen software, but they may be less equipped to handle complex integrations and customizations, especially from other vendors.

In contrast, an independent consultant, such as Ultra Consultants, has experience with multiple ERP systems and a broad understanding of the technological landscape. This allows the consultant to provide unbiased recommendations, analyze system capabilities and support more extensive integration and customization projects. They are not limited by a specific vendor’s technology and they provide clients with comprehensive solutions that align with their unique business needs.

Deep knowledge of the technological landscape is critical in determining the effectiveness of an ERP system, making it essential to work with an independent consultant with a thorough understanding of the industry’s various solutions and integration requirements.

3. Educational Expertise

One key difference between an ERP software consultant and an independent consultant is their level of educational expertise. While both types may have experience in the industry, independent consultants often possess a deeper level of knowledge due to their continued education and certification efforts. This educational expertise allows them to provide clients with the most up-to-date and relevant information, ensuring that solutions are not only effective but also compliant with industry standards and regulations.

Additionally, independent consultants may have a broader range of experience and specialized knowledge in niche areas that can be leveraged to meet the specific needs of a client’s business. As a result, independent ERP consultants are often seen as more valuable assets to businesses seeking efficient, effective and tailored ERP solutions.

For example, at Ultra Consultants, our team of independent software experts prioritizes ongoing education and certification to provide clients with the highest level of expertise and support possible. Our deep expertise in the field of enterprise applications brings expertise and a proven track record in assisting client teams with ERP selection and contract negotiations as we lead teams in implementing new systems and optimizing information systems. With experience in nearly every vertical of manufacturing and distribution, our field services team provides specialized guidance and support for manufacturers and distributors of all kinds.

Benefits of Teaming With an Independent ERP Consultant

1. Minimizing Risk

Analyst firm Gartner estimates that 55% to 75% of all ERP projects fail to meet their objectives.

Minimizing risk is one of the major benefits of teaming with an independent consultant during your ERP selection project or ERP implementation. Because they have no affiliation with any particular software vendor, they provide unbiased advice based on their extensive knowledge of the industry.

The best independent consultants are well-versed in the complexities of technology selection and digital transformation and provide insightful recommendations and guidance throughout the entire implementation process. They help to identify, assess and mitigate risks associated with your specific project, which reduces the likelihood of project failure. Many consultants are part of larger agencies with a consulting team that also helps to navigate any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the implementation process. Thus, partnering with independent consultants becomes a smart way to minimize the risks of a new system and ensure its success in the context of digital transformation and business process optimization.

2. Accelerating the ERP Software Selection and Implementation Process

Teaming with an independent consultant, such as Ultra Consultants, offers multiple benefits to organizations seeking efficient software selection and implementation processes. One significant advantage is the acceleration of the software selection and implementation process.

The best independent consultants work closely with your company to understand your business requirements and provide recommendations for ERP software that suits your needs. Their extensive knowledge of the market and best solutions help them quickly narrow down the software options to a manageable short list of candidates. They also have experience in implementing ERP software and guide your company through the entire process.

By working with an independent consultant, your company saves time so you can focus on your core business activities while the consultant takes care of the selection process and ERP project implementation details. With an efficient ERP selection and implementation process, your company will realize the benefits of the digital transformation faster. You will also improve your operations in a shorter amount of time, thanks to your partnership with an independent consultant.

"It was well worth our investment in Ultra, in their content and processes, for the long-term.”

Vice President, Knox Machine

3. Increasing the Success and Value of ERP

Teaming up with an independent consultant significantly increases the success and value of the ERP implementation for a business. While an ERP system provides several benefits to a company, it also involves investments in time, money and resources.

An independent consultant brings their expertise, experience and knowledge of various ERP systems available in the market to provide customized solutions that meet the specific needs of the business. They help a company assess and select the right software, implement the system seamlessly and ensure the ERP aligns with the overall goals and strategies of the organization. Such collaboration results in better utilization of resources and improved business processes, adding efficiency and productivity by eliminating manual errors, reducing wasted time and improving data accuracy during the transition to a new system.

The sooner the project is completed, the sooner your organization will benefit from a well-implemented ERP system: cutting down costs, improving quality control, streamlining processes, boosting revenue and growth, expanding the customer base and enhancing communication. By offering digital transformation services and implementation services, an ERP consultant facilitates the successful adoption and integration of the ERP system into the company’s operations, often thanks to change management strategies.

4. Industry-Specific Expertise

With our extensive experience working across various industries, the best independent consultants have the necessary knowledge and skills to tailor ERP solutions to match your specific business needs. They possess deep industry knowledge and know the ins and outs of different business sectors.

As such, they provide expert guidance on ERP software selection, including implementation and optimization based on industry-specific requirements. Regardless of the project scope or complexity, independent consultants such as those at Ultra bring a wealth of experience and expertise to help your organization achieve transformative results. They identify bottlenecks and gaps within existing systems by conducting meticulous data analysis, formulating feasible strategies, recommending appropriate solutions and collaboratively implementing them.

Partnering with an independent consultant with industry-specific expertise is an excellent way for your organization to leverage its unique capabilities to stay competitive.

5. Efficient Resource Utilization

Independent ERP consultants specialize in identifying areas where businesses should streamline their processes, eliminate redundancies and maximize their resources for optimal performance. This includes everything from analyzing procurement and inventory management to identifying opportunities for automation and improving workforce efficiency.

By working with independent consultants, businesses leverage expertise to create a roadmap for improving their operations. This not only leads to more efficient resource utilization but also reduces costs associated with waste, ensures compliance with industry standards and contributes to overall business growth.

6. Faster Time-to-Benefit

Faster time-to-benefit is a critical advantage of teaming up with an independent consultant like Ultra Consultants. Companies often experience long implementation cycles and delays, which ultimately delays the realization of benefits from the implementation. However, a skilled independent consultant helps minimize these challenges by providing a clear roadmap for implementation and ensuring that the implementation is executed effectively and in a timely manner.

The best consultants leverage their wealth of experience and expertise to optimize the project schedule and identify potential roadblocks early on. As a result, they help your company to accelerate your time-to-value, allowing you to achieve your desired return on investment sooner.

By partnering with an independent consultant, companies are assured that they’ll improve their chances of successful implementation and gain valuable business insights to drive better decisions faster. Value can be achieved across the organization, from the supply chain to factory production, to warehouse labor and accounting processes.

7. Cost Savings

Partnering with an independent ERP consultant presents a host of cost-saving opportunities for businesses. For example, our experts at Ultra Consultants advise your company on selecting and implementing the most effective ERP solution to meet your digital strategy needs, which eliminates the expense and inefficiencies associated with adopting a one-size-fits-all software solution that doesn’t quite fit your business’ needs.

Additionally, our consultants offer objective insights into ways to get the most out of your ERP software, streamline processes and implement industry best practices to maximize organizational efficiency and drive business transformation. By identifying areas where workflows can be simplified or automated, your business saves time and resources and increases your bottom line. Independent consultants also provide technical oversight and guidance on negotiating contracts with software vendors, helping your business secure the most favorable pricing and terms.

With extensive expertise in technology selection and a keen focus on cost containment, an independent consultant is a smart partner to invest in, for businesses looking to reduce expenses and increase profitability.

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7 Step Checklist to Finding an Independent ERP Software Consultant

1. ERP Experience

When it comes to finding an independent consultant for ERP implementation, professional experience should be the primary factor that businesses should consider. An experienced consultant has a proven track record of delivering successful ERP implementations, having tackled various issues that arise in the process. Thus, they have a better understanding of the risks involved at each stage of the digital transformation process and are equipped to mitigate potential problems before they arise.

Experienced ERP consultants use their knowledge gained from previous projects to provide value propositions tailored to the unique needs of the business at hand. With their knowledge of different industries’ best practices, they provide valuable insights and advice on the most suitable software solutions.

For example, Ultra Consultants boasts over 25 years of experience in ERP implementation and business process improvement. Our team of experienced ERP consultants, supported by our proven methodology, collaborates closely with business leaders to ensure a successful digital transformation journey that drives growth, efficiency and overall business success.

2. Project Deliverables

The second factor that your organization should consider in the 7 Step Checklist to find an independent ERP software consultant for business systems optimization is to identify the project deliverables. Project deliverables refer to the tangible outputs or results that are expected from the project. The project deliverables often include specifications, designs, reports, data sets and any other objects that are produced by the project.

Defining project deliverables is critical for establishing a clear understanding of what needs to be accomplished and what success looks like in terms of business process optimization and business systems enhancement. Moreover, well-defined project deliverables help establish realistic timelines and budgets while minimizing confusion and miscommunication between all parties involved, furthering change management.

For an independent consultant, identifying the project deliverables is a foundational step that should be undertaken before embarking on any project. It provides a roadmap for what will be delivered and serves as a basis for pricing, milestones and performance metrics.

“Ultra added some necessary structure to hold the vendors accountable.”

IT Director, Deschutes Brewery

3. Scope of Work

The scope of work is a critical component of the seven-step checklist to finding an independent software consultant. This outlines the consultant’s area of responsibility and what they will deliver to the client in terms of technology solutions, change management, education and more.

The scope of work should be detailed, measurable and aligned with specific business needs. The consultant will take a thorough inventory of the client’s current business processes and technology infrastructure, as well as conduct a gap analysis to assess the most appropriate ERP system needed. Once it’s determined that an ERP solution is necessary, the scope of work will define what specific modules and technology solutions will be included.

A clearly defined scope of work provides a foundation for collaboration, sets mutual expectations and provides both parties with accountability. Additionally, it ensures that all project phases are completed on time and within budget. The scope of work sets the stage for success, which is why it’s imperative to have it defined before any project starts.

At Ultra Consultants, our team of experienced consultants has a deep understanding of the importance of a well-defined scope of work as a key driver of ERP implementation success. By partnering with us, your organization can take a critical step towards achieving your business goals and realizing the full potential of its ERP investment.

5. Independence

Verifying the true independence of your consultant firm is the next crucial step when searching for an ERP software consultant. Not every consultant belongs to an independent enterprise software consulting firm.

Choosing a consultant who is not affiliated with any vendor ensures the consultant has no financial interests or obligations that may influence their recommendations. Independence provides the ERP software consultant with the flexibility to provide unbiased advice and match companies with the best ERP system for their specific needs.

With Ultra Consultants’ independent approach, we provide our clients with honest opinions on software solutions, regardless of which vendors are considered. Therefore, it is important to consider using an independent ERP software consultant to make sure you receive impartial recommendations based solely on your requirements.

5. Services

Services are also a crucial element to consider when searching for an ERP software consultant. It is important to evaluate what services the consultant firm offers and whether they align with your business’s needs and goals.

Good consultant firms offer services such as project management, software selection, implementation, customization, training, system integration, change management and ongoing support. These services greatly impact the successful adoption and utilization of ERP systems within your organization.

At Ultra Consultants, our team is committed to providing comprehensive and specialized services to ensure that our clients receive the best possible support in their ERP implementation projects. Our services cover everything from assessing the organization’s current processes for business process improvement to conducting business case development, selecting and implementing the most appropriate software solution and finishing off with value realization.

We work to establish a collaborative relationship with your organization, ensuring that our services are tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Our commitment to quality services implies that you can expect unparalleled support and expert advice throughout your ERP journey and organization’s digital transformation, resulting in successful and satisfying ERP implementations that achieve the full business value expected.

ERP Selection & Implementation

6. Reputation

Reputation is also a crucial factor to consider when searching for a software consultant and Ultra Consultants recognizes this. A good reputation indicates that the consultant has a record of delivering quality services to clients, which is essential when selecting a consultant to assist with a mission-critical business transformation project.

As an independent enterprise software consulting firm, our reputation precedes us. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, we have completed over 500 ERP projects, earning us a strong reputation as a trusted advisor in the field. In fact, we give potential clients a list of our most recent 70 clients as references. Our reputation is based on our ability to provide unbiased and practical advice to our clients. As a result, our clients trust us to deliver exceptional service and tangible business results.

When looking for an independent software consultant, be sure to consider the consultant’s reputation and past experiences. By doing so, you can ensure that your company receives reliable and results-oriented services from a reputable consultant such as Ultra Consultants.

7. Value

Value is another important factor to consider when searching for an independent software consultant. It is imperative to find a consultant who provides value-added services and offers more than just basic software implementation or upgrades.

A valuable consultant will have the knowledge and expertise to help your organization achieve specific business goals and objectives. They should be able to offer insight into industry best practices, identify opportunities for process improvements and help navigate through complex ERP software systems. Additionally, a valuable consultant can act as a project manager, providing ongoing support that is tailored to your organization’s unique needs, ensuring that you receive maximum ROI from your software investment.

At Ultra Consultants, value is a top priority. We offer a unique solution-oriented approach to our ERP consulting services, which enables us to empower our clients to identify and implement the optimal enterprise software solution for their organization. Our team of experts work tirelessly to understand each client’s unique needs, helping them identify and implement the best-fit solution—and then we work with you to ensure that lasting value is achieved as early as possible.

“With Ultra on our team, we were able to get past the bumps and avoid the potholes.”

CFO, Pacific Plumbing Supply

Industry Insight: How ERP Consultants Help Specific Sectors

Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM)

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, industrial equipment manufacturers face numerous challenges. From managing complex supply chains to optimizing production processes, staying ahead of the curve requires a strategic approach. This is where an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system and an experienced ERP consultant can make a world of difference.

Optimized Supply Chain Management:
Industrial equipment manufacturers often grapple with the complexities of managing a vast network of suppliers, distributors, and customers. An ERP consultant can assist in integrating your supply chain management processes into a unified system, enabling real-time visibility and control over inventory, procurement, and order fulfillment.
Enhanced Production Planning and Control:
Efficient production planning and control are critical for industrial equipment manufacturers to meet customer demands and maintain profitability. An ERP consultant can implement modules that optimize production scheduling, resource allocation, and capacity planning. By aligning your production processes with demand forecasts and market trends, you can minimize waste, optimize resource utilization, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality products.
Improved Data Analytics and Reporting:
Accurate and timely data analysis is crucial for making informed business decisions. An ERP consultant can assist in setting up robust reporting mechanisms, dashboards, and analytics tools that provide real-time insights into various aspects of your manufacturing operations. This enables you to spot trends, identify bottlenecks, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Food and beverage manufacturers face numerous challenges in today’s market. From managing complex supply chains to meeting stringent regulations, there is always room for improvement when it comes to streamlining operations and maximizing profits. That’s where an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) consultant comes in—an expert who can help optimize processes, enhance productivity, and drive growth.

Compliance and Traceability:
In the food and beverage industry, compliance with regulatory standards is not just a legal requirement but also a matter of consumer trust. An ERP consultant can assist manufacturers in ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, traceability requirements, and industry certifications. By implementing an ERP system with robust tracking capabilities, manufacturers can readily trace raw materials from their source to the end product, ensuring quality control and minimizing the risk of recalls. This transparency not only strengthens regulatory compliance but also enhances brand reputation and customer loyalty.
Real-Time Analytics:
In today’s fast-paced business environment, data is king. An ERP consultant can help food and beverage manufacturers harness the power of real-time analytics to make informed decisions that drive growth. By integrating data from various departments, an ERP system enables manufacturers to gain a holistic view of their operations. From sales and marketing trends to production and inventory insights, an ERP consultant can create customized reports and dashboards, providing valuable business intelligence. Armed with this information, manufacturers can identify market opportunities, optimize pricing strategies, and make proactive decisions that boost profitability.
Scalability and Flexibility:
As food and beverage manufacturers grow, their requirements evolve. An ERP consultant can ensure that the chosen ERP system is scalable and flexible enough to accommodate future needs. Whether it’s expanding production capacity or adding new product lines, an ERP consultant can help manufacturers seamlessly adapt their systems to changing business demands. By future-proofing your operations, you can minimize disruptions, maintain efficiency, and stay ahead of the competition.

Metal Forming & Fabrication

As the metal forming and fabrication industry continues to evolve, manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to enhance their productivity, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency. In a competitive market, one key solution that has been gaining traction is the expertise of an ERP consultant. These professionals possess a unique set of skills and knowledge that can revolutionize the way manufacturers operate.

Streamlining Operations:
By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the existing processes and systems, these consultants can identify areas of inefficiency and suggest improvements. Whether it’s automating manual tasks, optimizing inventory management, or enhancing production planning, they possess the expertise to streamline operations and eliminate bottlenecks.
Enhanced Visibility and Control:
ERP consultants possess the technical know-how and industry knowledge to configure these systems to the unique requirements of metal forming and fabrication manufacturers. By centralizing data and integrating various functions such as sales, inventory, finance, and production, an ERP system coupled with the guidance of a consultant can provide manufacturers with a holistic view of their operations.
Improved Supply Chain Management:
ERP consultants can optimize supply chain processes by implementing features such as demand forecasting, vendor management, and supply chain collaboration tools. With a well-integrated ERP system, manufacturers can streamline procurement, reduce lead times, and enhance communication with suppliers. This, in turn, helps businesses to minimize costs, maximize resource utilization, and achieve higher customer satisfaction levels.
Scalability and Future-Proofing:
The metal forming and fabrication industry is dynamic, with changing customer demands and technological advancements constantly influencing business operations. ERP consultants can assist manufacturers in selecting and implementing scalable ERP systems that can adapt to evolving requirements.

Distribution

From managing inventory to ensuring seamless coordination between suppliers and customers, it’s no secret that the distribution sector can be a complex web to navigate. That’s where an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) consultant comes in, armed with the expertise to elevate your business.

Assessing and Understanding Business Processes:
By understanding your unique business requirements, an ERP consultant can identify pain points, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. From warehouse management to inventory control and order processing, the consultant’s expertise can help streamline these critical aspects of your business, ultimately enhancing productivity and customer satisfaction.
Financial Reporting:
Beyond the operational benefits, ERP consultants can also help distribution companies get a grasp on their financials. By seamlessly integrating financial data with other business processes, they enable companies to generate accurate financial reports, monitor profitability, and make informed decisions based on solid numbers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best independent consultant requires thorough research and evaluation of potential candidates. By understanding the differences between an ERP consultant and an independent consultant and the benefits of teaming with the latter, you can take advantage of their expertise and experience to ensure a smoother implementation process.

To select the right independent consultant, consider factors such as experience, project deliverables, scope of work, independence, services offered, reputation and the lasting value they create for your organization.

Choosing the right independent consultant is crucial for a successful ERP implementation. Ultra Consultants offers unbiased advice and tailored solutions to meet your organization’s specific needs. Having served clients across multiple ERP systems and verticals, we provide comprehensive recommendations and support for any enterprise software-related projects. Contact Ultra’s experienced software consultants today to get started.

Questions about Finding an Independent ERP Consultant

What is an ERP consultant, and why do I need one?

An ERP consultant is an expert who specializes in implementing and optimizing ERP systems for businesses. They bring technical knowledge and industry experience to help you choose the most suitable ERP solution, tailor it to your business requirements, streamline processes, and manage change. Their role is crucial in ensuring a successful ERP implementation and maximizing its benefits for your organization.

How do I determine if I need an ERP consultant?

While it’s possible to implement an ERP system without a consultant, hiring one can significantly enhance the process. Consider working with a consultant if you lack in-house expertise, have limited resources, or want to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your operations. ERP consultants provide valuable insights and best practices to make your implementation journey more efficient.

How do I find the best ERP consultant?

Finding the best ERP consultant requires careful consideration. Start by assessing the consultant’s experience and expertise in your industry. Look for certifications and case studies related to similar projects. Reading client testimonials and reviews can also provide helpful insights. Additionally, check if the consultant has a proven track record of successful ERP implementations. Don’t forget to evaluate their communication skills and compatibility with your organization’s culture.

What questions should I ask during the selection process?

Be prepared with a list of questions to ask potential ERP consultants. Key topics to cover may include their experience with ERP systems you’re considering, project timelines and milestones, pricing structure, and ongoing support after implementation. Ask about their approach to change management and training, as these are important for user adoption. Finally, inquire about any potential risks and how they plan to mitigate them.

Is it necessary to work with a local ERP consultant?

While proximity can be advantageous, geographical location should not be the sole determinant. With modern technology, many ERP consultants can effectively work remotely, saving you time and money. The most important factor is their expertise and ability to understand your unique business needs.

How do I ensure a successful working relationship with my ERP consultant?

Open communication and mutual trust are the foundations of a successful partnership with your ERP consultant. Clearly define your goals and expectations from the beginning, and maintain regular communication throughout the project. Actively participate and provide necessary resources to support the consultant’s work. Remember, collaboration is key to achieving a smooth ERP implementation.

Call or set up a free 30 minute consultation with one of our software experts today!