After an ERP implementation, it is crucial that you start achieving the desired results with the software. This requires top quality support in all areas, including extensive back-end support. Back-end means everything the end user cannot see. Where front-end is more concerned with user interface and design issues, back-end specialists are focused on issues such as security, structure and database management. Perhaps not the most exciting topics, but essential if you want to get maximum benefit from your ERP software. So make sure your back-end support meets these requirements:
1. Knowledgeable:
In the selection of an ERP partner, you should also evaluate the qualities of the back-end support on points such as experience, knowledge, training and availability. But also the back-end support's ability to communicate well with front-end support and specialists within your organization. Have a talk with the back-end support consultants and make sure you are aware of their skills.
2. Reliable:
Once the software is implemented, it is difficult to assess how much back-end support your organization needs. To streamline business processes effectively, you need optimal support from your ERP partner as they understand the software both technically and functionally. You need to rely on the support consultants to resolve issues, provide solutions and recommendations to help you get the most out of the ERP software. You don't want to worry about things like performance, security or connections. You want to trust that to the back-end support and you need to spend your time optimizing business processes and working more efficiently.
3. Proactive:
A proactive approach is needed to ensure that the software runs smoothly. This includes fixing bugs, escalating issues to the development team in a timely manner and keeping an eye out for upgrades that can improve the operation of the software. Back-end support must be able to resolve issues quickly and effectively, but also focus on preventing problems from occurring. As technology grows exponentially, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of what the future will bring and act on it now.
Don't hesitate to ask your ERP partner about back-end support skills. This component is essential to get the maximum return on investment in your ERP software and therefore should not be underestimated.
Noor Shaikh is Marketing & Sales Executive in North America at Dysel and knows all about the ERP software challenges for equipment dealerships.
