Enterprise Resource Planning, A-Z

ERP has been around for almost as long as widespread computer use. For decades, this kind of software has been helping businesses optimize their operations and increase their productivity. Like most other technologies, it has not stopped evolving since then. What Enterprise Resource Planning software looks like, and what they can do, goes far beyond inventory control and manufacturing resource planning. Modern software handles everything from automation, payroll, legal compliance and vendor management.

The term ‘ERP’ now covers software that takes care of everything your business needs to operate. Here, we’ve included some key knowledge we’ve gathered over the years to help you fully understand the power and potential of modern solutions.

How to use this resource:

Each section below aims to help you understand the ins and outs of business management software. We’ve included resources that cover everything from commonly used terms to practical tips for planning an ERP implementation.

There are various formats for some of the assets, meaning you can choose the kind of media that you prefer. Simply click through to the relevant resource and start learning! We recommend bookmarking this page for future reference. Happy learning!

What is ERP and why does it matter?

Let’s take a dive into what exactly Enterprise Resource Planning is, how it got to where it is today and the terminology and ideas that tie into most conversations about software solutions.

What is ERP and why does it matter?

The Evolution of ERP
The Enterprise Resource Planning evolution was about more than changing technology. The software has evolved considerably over recent years and is now more advanced than ever.

A Guide to ERP Terminology
Are you constantly trying to learn about new jargon? Check out our glossary of common ERP terminology! Short and simple definitions related to business resource management software.

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Read here to learn the five main benefits of business management software and what your business can gain from adopting one.

Types of Solution

Just like people, ERPs come in all shapes and sizes. Learn more about the distinctions between each type here.

The different types of software solutions

Best-in-Class vs Full Suite Approach
To determine the best format for your business, discover the differences between best-in-class, best-of-breed, and full suite ERP.

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Learn about cloud vs on-premise solutions and decide which is right for your business.

Got questions? We've got answers.

How To Know when you’re ready for Platform

Do you already have a tech stack that’s past its prime? Is your company scaling rapidly and in need of software to help you manage operations? You’ll find all of our best information on the warning signs that you may need an ERP here.

When should you change software?

True Cost of Waiting to Make a Decision about Your ERP
When you ask businesses what’s holding them back from implementing a new platform or dating their systems, it almost always comes down to the time and cost involved.

7 Signs You’ve Outgrown your ERP
We dive into our customer success stories to find out what warning signs led them to work with The Answer Company to deploy a new software solution.

Knowing When You’ve Outgrown Your Current Software
There are tell-tale signs that your current solution is no longer working for you. In this video, our Director of Pre-Sales and Solution Design, Darren Redies, walks through them. Originally shown as part of our Propel event in 2021.

Selecting a Solution

Okay, you know you need an ERP, but there are so many options. Which is best? More importantly, which one is best for you? These resources can help you narrow the list of solutions to implement, and help you plan and carry out a full evaluation.

Which solution is best?

Why Is Discovery Important for Finding the Right ERP?
Find out what Discovery is and why it is essential you make sure your business partner does one before they recommend a software solution for your business.

Guide to Government Funding for ERP Projects in Canada
Many small businesses don’t realize the amount of Government Funding for technology projects available. Here’s a guide to help you through the process.

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So, you’ve done your own research, you’ve narrowed down the list of ERP products that you think would work for your company, and have found partners for each of those products. That said, you don’t want to just be sold to and need to figure out which product is actually right for your company. What do you do?

Implementation Project Plan Tips
ERP project planning requires lots of time and money. So how can you avoid project failure and successfully implement a new system?

How to Get the Most Out of Your Cloud Implementation
With a cloud-based ERP, organizations don’t have to make an expensive upfront investment on IT hardware and servers, freeing up valuable resources for the business. Implementation can be complicated and it is easy to make mistakes that can affect the success of your tech stack (and business) in the long run. Consider these tips to ensure that you are getting the most out of your cloud implementation.

The Problems with How Companies Buy ERP Software
The typical buyer’s journey for ERP implementation can be problematic. Here’s what you can do for a successful ERP project.

How RFP Templates Cause Problems in ERP Implementation
RFP templates push you to identify a list of features and capabilities in an ERP solution, rather than a list of goals you wish to achieve.

Preventing Scope Creep & Scope Seep in ERP Implementation
Scope creep and scope seep lead to added costs, project delays, and a messy solution. See 4 steps to preventing scope creep and scope seep.

Want to learn more? Check out upcoming webinars

Selecting an ERP Consulting Firm

Implementations work best when there’s an expert at the helm. Business technology consultancies can help you choose a solution, design a bespoke system, implement and even help you manage the solution, post-implementations. Here are some things to take into consideration when looking for a technology consulting firm.

How to Select the Best ERP Consultant: Five Tips for Making the Right Decision
How do you select a good consultant? Here are 5 tips for making the right decision on choosing an ERP consultant for your business.

Types of ERP consultants & What They Do
Business technology consultancy comprises many components. Consider these 5 types of ERP consultants for your company’s digital transformation project.

7 Benefits of Hiring an ERP Consulting Firm
While most projects can be handled internally, these 7 benefits of hiring a consulting firm are too significant to overlook.

Top 5 Ways Your Partner Can Make or Break Your ERP and Why
Choosing the right software Partner is arguably the most important step to having a successful solution. Here are the top 5 ways your Partner can make or break.

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