How Often Should You Upgrade Your ERP Software
The modern world moves forward with one rule that is “Change is inevitable,” and no matter how much one denies this, the change is vital to surviving in the cut-throat market the one is competing in.
From off-the-shelf
solutions to a must to have administrative service, ERP has come a long way
from its small beginning. The rise in demand for ERP in the past decade speaks
of it has established itself as a necessity and a bearer of efficiency in the
business world. But even the most powerful tools need sharpening from time to
time and ERP is no exception. As upgrading ERP software implementation requires
a hefty sum of money, no organization want to upgrade more than necessary which
leads to the question-
How long does an ERP system last?
To start
off, there is not a specific standard time or hard and fast rule when it comes
to upgrading your ERP system. Instead, it depends on several factors such as
software, technology, vendor, business processes, and how you have maintained
the system throughout the year. However, most systems start to give worn-out
signs in 5 to 10 years so, it is the best time to take ERP implementation consulting
services to proceed with the upgrade.
Why should I upgrade my ERP?
The ERP
upgrade has always remained a grey area in the business world, not to mention
the monetary contribution and time that makes many organizations resisting the
upgrade for good. Yet, learning about reasons to replace system applications
will make it easier to make relevant decisions. Here is why you should upgrade
the ERP system:
Your business is growing
With time
your business has outgrown the present ERP system. New strategies, products,
services, and increasing demand for what you offer are part of the ongoing
growth that can put more pressure on your current ERP and may require new
applications and functions. If your IT professionals are stuck with an outdated
system, spending the majority of time putting down the fire then, your company
will never be able to plan for the future.
You are missing out on new functionalities
Newer versions
always bring new features on the table that further leads to higher efficiency.
New versions are more and more compatible with the latest technologies, making
it easier to break down the traditional barrier of working in an office only.
Bug fixes and added enhancements are what drive organizations toward the change
and ERP update.
ERP support is not there
If the ERP
system you are currently using is a few versions behind the latest version
then, you may no longer be able to acquire the support you need during
technical emergencies. While your ERP partner can keep running the system, you
will miss out on all the significant updates and patches. Hence, it is
recommended to take the Business Process consulting service to learn what else you are missing out on.
High Maintenance cost
In the last
decade, you may have spent countless time and money on the maintenance of the
older version of the ERP system. As there are new versions around the corner,
you are stuck with “revision prison,” which leads to longer downtime, and
unsatisfied customers, neither of which goes with your long-term goals.
What happens if I don't upgrade software?
While every
company is different and unique, there is no such thing as “one size fits all,”
but if you don’t upgrade your system with time, then your business will start
experiencing that:
●
There is a lack of support for your
ERP software
●
It is challenging to find the right
talent to run your legacy ERP
●
Your operating cost is all-time high
●
Your ERP system has several
performance issues
●
Your ERP is failing to support your
business growth
●
Your staff taking forever to
generate reports with ERP
●
Your organization is using multiple
software to get the work done
Not
upgrading your ERP implementation system will not push you back in productivity
but leave too many gaps in functionality.
Summing it up
Waiting for
a long time to upgrade your ERP solution can turn out to be costlier and
time-consuming. There are rare businesses that can continue to achieve success
in a moving market in an absence of antiquated software. Moreover, if you are
also planning to upgrade your ERP system then, it is highly recommended to take
ERP implementation consulting service
from Merino Services- one of the most reputed ERP solution providers in the
market. Book your consultation today to find a relevant solution regarding your
ERP issue.
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