The truth about ERP bolt-ons reveals mixed results depending on the path you choose. In this post, we’ll discuss the good, the bad and the ugly risk associated with ERP bolt-on extensions, so you can make the right decision for your business.
Sometimes, key benefits a company wants from an ERP are not part of the purchased ERP package you selected to implement. A business can get missing capabilities and extend the value of their ERP with an additional application or module, fondly referred to as a “bolt-on.”
ERP bolt-ons provide very specific functionality or technology to complement ERP systems. CRM, advanced supply chain management, vendor relationship management and HR modules are typical examples of bolt-ons.
There are a few basic concepts to understand about ERP bolt-on extensions:
There are basically four ways to add specific functionality with an ERP bolt-on, but each has its own level of benefits and risks. Understanding the makeup of good, bad, and potentially ugly risks for each will make your road ahead much smoother.
ERP Bolt-ons can be life-saving, efficiency-boosting technologies—if implemented correctly. Ample due diligence during your evaluation period can help you avoid encountering ugly headaches later.
Today’s ERP solutions run so well, many companies view them as set-and-forget systems. But just as your ERP technology regularly changes, so too do your business’ needs and requirements. That means almost every company can benefit from an ERP jump start now and again. We talked with our ERP experts, and they gathered four easy ways to improve ERP performance and efficiency—for little to no cost.