MRP Software For Small Manufacturer ERP Options

Len,

Just a suggestion: factor in the ability of staffers who hold the key roles in your client's operations before making a recommendation. For example, if there's a low level of cross functional collaboration/understanding, it may be helpful to have a package like Quickbooks Enterprise ("QBE") for MRP software implementation with a third-party MRP/Logistics add-on versus, for example, MS Dynamics NAV. Granted, Dynamics NAV is a package that will grow with the company's needs into the future, but you may give the board and management sticker-shock with the cost of implementation and TCO. Also, the staff may not be ready to be involved in the implementation/configuration of a package such as NAV. The advantage of a low-end midrange package such as QBE is the hand-holding that is built into the package. Also, this can be framed as a growth step towards the day that a full ERP package such as NAV will be implemented. Set the parameters that would prompt board and management to trigger the transition step to a more robust system (complexity of production, revenue, number of facilities, expertise of staff with existing system, etc). You can frame it as "you have to learn to walk before you can run."

Above all, be prepared to stress the need to select a seasoned VAR who has a track record of success in your client's industry, manufacturing. Whether you choose MAS 500, QBE or Dynamics, that will be a critical factor in whether this project is considered a success or an abysmal failure. It will be a major component of cost so choose wisely.

Finally, target the implementation to be valid past the selected transition point so that your client's system takes into account the growth of the company. If you do this, you will be able to show how the current system will support the company's operations into the replacement system's transition so that there is continuity of functionality.

Regards,
JHS